UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K/A
(AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO FORM 10-K)
(Mark One)
x | ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011
Or
¨ | TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1934 |
For the transition period from to
Commission File Number: 000-50990
Tower Group, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
| | |
Delaware | | 13-3894120 |
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
| |
120 Broadway, 31st Floor New York, New York | | 10271 |
(Address of principal executive offices) | | (Zip Code) |
(212) 655-2000
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
| | |
Title of each class | | Name of each exchange on which registered |
Common Stock, $0.0l par value per share | | NASDAQ Global Select Market |
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of Securities Act. Yes ¨ No þ
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ¨ No þ
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes þ No ¨
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
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Large accelerated filer | | þ | | Accelerated filer | | ¨ |
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Non-accelerated filer | | ¨ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) | | Smaller reporting company | | ¨ |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes ¨ No þ
The aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates on June 30, 2011 (based on the closing price on the NASDAQ Global Select Market on such date) was $892,822,000.
As of January 8, 2013, the registrant had 38,409,826 shares of common stock outstanding.
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This Amendment No. 1 (the “Amendment”) to our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011, which was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on February 29, 2012 (the “Original Annual Report”). This Amendment is being filed to revise the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income, changes in stockholders’ equity and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, and certain footnote disclosures thereto.
The need to revise these consolidated financial statements resulted from an error in the application of Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 740,Accounting for Income Taxes, related to deferred income taxes on a 2009 acquisition. Management has concluded this error is not material to our 2011, 2010 or 2009 consolidated financial statements. However, management has concluded the deferred income tax error is material to the 2012 quarterly consolidated financial statements.
The Company is restating its March 31, 2012, June 30, 2012 and September 30, 2012 Forms 10-Q. Accordingly, we are also revising the 2011, 2010 and 2009 consolidated financial statements to record this deferred income tax error in the period in which it originated. Additionally, we are also correcting for other immaterial adjustments that were initially recorded in the period they were identified. These immaterial adjustments are being recast into the periods in which they originated.
The effects of these revisions to our consolidated financial statements are described in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements. In addition, we have updated the financial statement disclosures for significant events that have occurred subsequent to the filing of the Original Annual Report. See “Note 23 - Subsequent Events” to the consolidated financial statements contained in this Amendment No. 1 for further description.
The following sections have been amended from the Original Annual Report as a result of the revisions described above:
| • | | Part II—Item 6. Selected Financial Data |
| • | | Part II—Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations |
| • | | Part II—Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data; and |
| • | | Part IV—Item 15. Exhibits |
This Amendment also includes as exhibits certifications from our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer dated as of the date of this filing.
Except as described above, no other sections have been amended from the Original Annual Report. Accordingly, this Amendment should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Original Annual Report. As used in this Amendment, references to the “Company”, “we”, “us”, or “our” refer to Tower Group, Inc. (“Tower”) and its insurance subsidiaries, managing general agencies and management companies.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART II
Item 6. | Selected Consolidated Financial Information |
The selected consolidated income statement data for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, and the balance sheet data as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 are derived from our audited financial statements included elsewhere in this document, which have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. You should read the following selected consolidated financial information along with the information contained in this document, including “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and the consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this Form 10-K/A. The financial information in these tables has been updated to reflect the revisions made to our previously issued financial statements. See Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements for more detail.
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| | Year ended December 31, | |
($ in millions, except per share amounts) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | | | 2008 | | | 2007 | |
Income Statement Data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Gross premiums written | | $ | 1,810.9 | | | $ | 1,496.4 | | | $ | 1,070.7 | | | $ | 634.8 | | | $ | 524.0 | |
Ceded premiums written | | | 172.3 | | | | 182.3 | | | | 184.5 | | | | 290.8 | | | | 264.8 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net premiums written | | | 1,638.6 | | | | 1,314.1 | | | | 886.2 | | | | 344.0 | | | | 259.2 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net premiums earned | | | 1,593.9 | | | | 1,292.7 | | | | 854.7 | | | | 314.6 | | | | 286.1 | |
Ceding commission revenue | | | 34.0 | | | | 39.3 | | | | 42.7 | | | | 79.1 | | | | 71.0 | |
Insurance services revenue | | | 1.6 | | | | 2.2 | | | | 5.1 | | | | 68.2 | | | | 33.3 | |
Policy billing fees | | | 10.5 | | | | 6.2 | | | | 3.0 | | | | 2.3 | | | | 2.0 | |
Net investment income | | | 126.4 | | | | 107.2 | | | | 74.9 | | | | 34.6 | | | | 36.7 | |
Net realized gains (losses) on investments | | | 9.4 | | | | 14.7 | | | | 0.3 | | | | (14.4 | ) | | | (17.5 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total revenues | | | 1,775.8 | | | | 1,462.3 | | | | 980.7 | | | | 484.4 | | �� | | 411.6 | |
Losses and loss adjustment expenses | | | 1,055.2 | | | | 784.0 | | | | 475.5 | | | | 162.7 | | | | 157.9 | |
Operating expenses: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Direct and ceding commission expenses | | | 309.8 | | | | 267.9 | | | | 204.7 | | | | 132.5 | | | | 101.0 | |
Other operating expenses(1) | | | 280.5 | | | | 231.4 | | | | 149.8 | | | | 94.5 | | | | 81.7 | |
Acquisition-related transaction costs | | | 0.4 | | | | 2.4 | | | | 14.0 | | | | — | | | | — | |
Interest expense | | | 34.3 | | | | 24.2 | | | | 17.6 | | | | 8.4 | | | | 9.3 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total expenses | | | 1,680.2 | | | | 1,309.9 | | | | 861.6 | | | | 398.1 | | | | 349.9 | |
Other income | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Equity in unconsolidated affiliate | | | — | | | | — | | | | (0.8 | ) | | | 0.3 | | | | 2.4 | |
Gain from issuance of common stock by unconsolidated affiliate | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 2.7 | |
Gain on investment in acquired unconsolidated affiliate | | | — | | | | — | | | | 7.4 | | | | — | | | | — | |
Gain on bargain purchase | | | — | | | | — | | | | 12.7 | | | | — | | | | — | |
Other expense | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Income before income taxes | | | 95.6 | | | | 152.4 | | | | 138.4 | | | | 86.6 | | | | 66.8 | |
Income tax expense | | | 24.1 | | | | 52.1 | | | | 43.7 | | | | 32.8 | | | | 24.3 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income | | $ | 71.5 | | | $ | 100.3 | | | $ | 94.7 | | | $ | 53.8 | | | $ | 42.5 | |
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to Noncontrolling Interests | | | 11.0 | | | | (6.1 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income attributable to Tower Group, Inc.(6) | | $ | 60.5 | | | $ | 106.4 | | | $ | 94.7 | | | $ | 53.8 | | | $ | 41.8 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Per Share Data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Basic earnings per share attributable to Tower stockholders | | $ | 1.48 | | | $ | 2.45 | | | $ | 2.41 | | | $ | 2.31 | | | $ | 1.81 | |
Diluted earnings per share attributable to Tower stockholders | | $ | 1.48 | | | $ | 2.44 | | | $ | 2.39 | | | $ | 2.29 | | | $ | 1.79 | |
Weighted average outstanding (in thousands): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Basic | | | 40,833 | | | | 43,462 | | | | 39,363 | | | | 23,291 | | | | 22,927 | |
Diluted | | | 40,931 | | | | 43,648 | | | | 39,581 | | | | 23,485 | | | | 23,128 | |
Selected Insurance Ratios | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net loss ratio(2) | | | 66.2 | % | | | 60.7 | % | | | 55.6 | % | | | 51.7 | % | | | 55.2 | % |
Net underwriting expense ratio(3) | | | 34.1 | % | | | 35.7 | % | | | 35.0 | % | | | 31.7 | % | | | 30.1 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net combined ratio(4) | | | 100.3 | % | | | 96.4 | % | | | 90.6 | % | | | 83.4 | % | | | 85.3 | % |
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| | As of December 31, | |
($ in millions, except per share amounts) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | | | 2008 | | | 2007 | |
Summary Balance Sheet Data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash and cash equivalents | | $ | 114.1 | | | $ | 140.2 | | | $ | 175.2 | | | $ | 146.6 | | | $ | 77.7 | |
Investments | | | 2,587.4 | | | | 2,474.5 | | | | 1,896.8 | | | | 541.0 | | | | 619.1 | |
Premiums receivable | | | 426.4 | | | | 407.6 | | | | 298.3 | | | | 212.7 | | | | 122.8 | |
Reinsurance recoverable | | | 343.6 | | | | 300.9 | | | | 214.5 | | | | 272.6 | | | | 207.8 | |
Deferred acquisition costs, net | | | 168.9 | | | | 164.1 | | | | 126.3 | | | | 28.4 | | | | 17.6 | |
Intangible assets | | | 114.9 | | | | 123.8 | | | | 53.4 | | | | 20.5 | | | | 21.7 | |
Goodwill | | | 245.5 | | | | 245.5 | | | | 241.5 | | | | 19.0 | | | | 13.3 | |
Total assets | | | 4,457.7 | | | | 4,188.9 | | | | 3,311.0 | | | | 1,555.2 | | | | 1,341.6 | |
Loss and loss adjustment expenses | | | 1,632.1 | | | | 1,610.4 | | | | 1,132.0 | | | | 535.0 | | | | 501.2 | |
Unearned premium | | | 893.2 | | | | 872.0 | | | | 658.9 | | | | 328.8 | | | | 272.8 | |
Debt | | | 426.9 | | | | 374.3 | | | | 235.1 | | | | 101.0 | | | | 101.0 | |
Tower Group Inc. stockholders’ equity | | | 1,033.8 | | | | 1,043.0 | | | | 1,018.7 | | | | 317.6 | | | | 295.3 | |
| | | | | |
Per Share Data: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Book value per share(5) | | $ | 26.36 | | | $ | 25.14 | | | $ | 22.65 | | | $ | 13.61 | | | $ | 12.74 | |
Dividends declared per share-common stock | | $ | 0.69 | | | $ | 0.39 | | | $ | 0.26 | | | $ | 0.20 | | | $ | 0.15 | |
(1) | Includes insurance contract acquisition expenses and other underwriting expenses (which are general administrative expenses related to underwriting operations in our insurance subsidiaries), other insurance services expenses (which are general administrative expenses related to insurance services operations) and other corporate related expenses. |
(2) | The net loss ratio is calculated by dividing net losses and loss adjustment expenses by net premiums earned. |
(3) | The net underwriting expense ratio is calculated by dividing net underwriting expenses (consisting of direct commission expenses and other underwriting expenses net of policy billing fees and ceding commission revenue) by net premiums earned. |
(4) | The net combined ratio is the sum of the net loss ratio and the net underwriting expense ratio. |
(5) | Book value per share is based on total stockholders’ equity divided by common shares outstanding at year end. |
(6) | 2007 net income attributable to Tower Group, Inc. is adjusted for dividends and excess consideration pertaining to Series A perpetual preferred stockholders. |
Item 7. | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations |
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our consolidated audited financial statements and accompanying notes which appear elsewhere in this Form 10-K/A. It contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. See “Business—Note on Forward-Looking Statements” for more information. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including those discussed below and elsewhere in this Form 10-K/A, particularly under the headings “Business—Risk Factors” and “Business—Note on Forward-Looking Statements.” particularly under the heading “Forward Looking Statements” and the Original Form 10-K under the heading “Risk Factors.”
Overview
Tower, through its subsidiaries, offers a broad range of commercial, specialty and personal property and casualty insurance products and services to businesses in various industries and to individuals throughout the United States. We provide coverage for many different market sectors, including non-standard risks that do not fit the underwriting criteria of standard risk carriers due to factors such as type of business, location and premium per policy. We provide these products on both an admitted and excess and surplus (“E&S”) basis.
Our consolidated results of operations in 2011 reflect organic growth from our Customized Solutions and Assumed Reinsurance products as well as growth from acquisitions completed in the current and prior years. Our consolidated revenues and expenses reflect the results of these acquired companies from their respective acquisition dates and this affects the comparability of our results between years.
2
Subsequent to the acquisition of OBPL on July 1, 2010, the Company changed the presentation of its business results, by allocating the personal insurance business previously reported in the Brokerage Insurance segment along with the newly acquired OBPL business to a new Personal Insurance segment and merged the commercial business previously reported in either the Brokerage Insurance or Specialty Business segments in a new Commercial Insurance segment. The Company has retained its Insurance Services segment which includes fees earned by the management companies. This change in presentation reflects the way management organizes the Company for making operating decisions and assessing profitability. In developing cost allocations between the commercial and personal lines segments, management has made significant assumptions regarding costs of reinsurance and internal services provided on behalf of such segments. As management receives additional facts which enhance its ability to apportion such costs, it may modify such allocation. If modifications are made, such adjustments will be made to all reporting periods disclosed.
Because we do not manage our invested assets by segments, our investment income is not allocated among our segments. Operating expenses incurred by each segment are recorded in such segment directly. Our home office related expenses not directly allocable to an individual segment (for example, accounting, finance and general legal costs) are allocated based upon the methodology deemed to be most appropriate which may include employee head count, policy count and premiums earned in each segment.
We offer our products and services through our insurance subsidiaries, managing general agencies and management companies. Results for our insurance subsidiaries are reported in our Commercial and Personal Insurance segments. Results for our managing general agencies and management companies are reported in our Insurance Services segment.
Our commercial lines products include commercial multiple-peril (provides both property and liability insurance), monoline general liability (insures bodily injury or property damage liability), commercial umbrella, monoline property (insures buildings, contents or business income), workers’ compensation, fire and allied lines, inland marine, commercial automobile policies and assumed reinsurance. Our personal lines products consist of homeowners, personal automobile and umbrella policies.
In our Insurance Services segment, we generate management fees primarily from the services provided by management companies to the Reciprocal Exchanges and other fees generated by the managing general agencies.
Acquisitions
See “Note 4 – Acquisitions” in the consolidated financial statements for more detail on each of the acquisitions discussed below.
NAV PAC Division of Navigators Group, Inc. (“NAV PAC”)
On January 14, 2011, Tower obtained the renewal rights to the middle market commercial package and commercial automobile business underwritten through the NAV PAC division of Navigators Group, Inc. This business will allow us to continue to expand our middle market commercial product offering into certain niche classes of business. The underwriting personnel from NAV PAC became part of our recently formed Customized Solutions business unit focused on developing customized products for our key partner agents.
One Beacon Personal Lines Division (“OBPL”)
On July 1, 2010, Tower completed the OBPL acquisition pursuant to a definitive agreement (the “Agreement”) dated February 2, 2010 by and among the Company and OneBeacon Insurance Group, LLC (“OneBeacon”). This acquisition expanded Tower’s suite of personal lines insurance products to include private passenger automobile, homeowners, umbrella, and the signature package product, OneChoice CustomPac, which provides customers with one policy for all of their homeowners, automobile and umbrella needs.
Specialty Underwriters’ Alliance, Inc (“SUA”).
On November 13, 2009, the Company completed the acquisition of SUA, a specialty property and casualty insurance company. SUA offers specialty commercial property and casualty insurance products through independent program underwriting agents that serve niche groups of insureds. The acquisition of SUA expands the Company’s Commercial Insurance segment and its regional presence in the Midwest.
Renewal Rights of AequiCap Program Administrators, Inc. (“AequiCap”)
On November 2, 2010, Tower acquired the renewal rights to the commercial automobile liability and physical damage business of AequiCap (“AequiCap II”), an underwriting agency based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The business subject to the agreement
covers both trucking and taxi risks that are consistent with Tower’s current underwriting guidelines. Most of the employees of AequiCap II involved in the servicing of this commercial liability and physical damage business became employees of the Company.
3
On October 14, 2009, the Company completed the acquisition of the renewal rights to the workers’ compensation business of AequiCap (“AequiCap I”). The acquired business primarily consists of small, low to moderate hazard workers’ compensation policies in Florida. Most of the employees of AequiCap I involved in the servicing of the workers’ compensation business became employees of the Company. The acquisition of this business expands the Company’s regional presence in the Southeast.
HIG, Inc. (“Hermitage”)
On February 27, 2009, the Company completed the acquisition of Hermitage, a property and casualty insurance holding company, pursuant to a stock purchase agreement, from a subsidiary of Brookfield Asset Management Inc. Hermitage offers both admitted and E&S lines products. This transaction further expanded the Company’s wholesale distribution system nationally and established a network of retail agents in the Southeast.
CastlePoint Holdings, Ltd. (“CastlePoint”)
On February 5, 2009 the acquisition of 100% of the issued and outstanding common stock of CastlePoint, a Bermuda exempted corporation, was completed. This transaction has expanded and diversified revenues by accessing CastlePoint’s programs and risk sharing businesses.
Principal Revenue and Expense Items
We generate revenue from four primary sources:
• | | Ceding commission revenue; |
• | | Insurance Service revenue; and |
• | | Net investment income and realized gains and losses on investments. |
We incur expenses from four primary sources:
• | | Losses and loss adjustment expenses; |
Each of these is discussed below.
Net premiums earned.Premiums written include all policies produced in an accounting period. Premiums are earned over the term of the related policy. The portion of the premium that relates to the policy term that has not yet expired is included on the balance sheet as unearned premium to be earned in subsequent accounting periods. Premiums can be assumed from or ceded to reinsurers. Direct premiums combined with assumed premiums are referred to as gross premiums and subtracting premiums ceded to reinsurers results in net premiums.
Ceding commission revenue. We earn ceding commission revenue (generally a percentage of the premiums ceded) on the gross premiums written that we cede to reinsurers under quota share reinsurance agreements. We typically do not earn ceding commission revenue on property catastrophe or excess of loss reinsurance that we purchase.
Insurance Service revenue. We earn fee income primarily from services provided to the Reciprocal Exchanges for underwriting, claims, investment management and other services. Additional commission and fee income is generated on premiums produced by the managing general agencies on behalf of third-party reinsurance companies.
Net investment income and realized gains and losses on investments. We invest our available funds in cash, cash equivalents, securities and investment partnerships. Our investment income includes interest and dividends earned on our invested assets. Realized gains and losses on invested assets are reported separately from net investment income. We earn realized gains when invested assets are sold for an amount greater than their amortized cost, in the case of fixed maturity securities, and cost, in the
case of equity securities, and we recognize realized losses when invested assets are written down or sold for an amount less than their amortized cost or actual cost, as applicable.
4
Losses and loss adjustment expenses. We establish loss and loss adjustment expense (“LAE”) reserves in an amount equal to our estimate of the ultimate liability for claims under our insurance policies and the cost of adjusting and settling those claims. Loss and LAE recorded in a period include estimates for losses incurred during the period and changes in estimates for prior periods.
Operating expenses.In our Commercial Insurance and Personal Insurance segments, we refer to the operating expenses that we incur to underwrite risks as underwriting expenses. These include direct and ceding commission expenses (payments to our producers for the premiums that they generate for us) and other underwriting expenses. In our Insurance Services segment, operating expenses consist of costs incurred to manage the Reciprocal Exchanges and other insurance service expenses.
Interest expense. We pay interest on our subordinated debentures, convertible senior notes, credit facility and on segregated assets placed in trust accounts on a “funds withheld” basis in order to collateralize reinsurance recoverables. In addition, interest expense includes amortization of debt origination costs and original issue discounts over the remaining term of our debt instruments.
Income taxes. We pay Federal, state and local income taxes and other taxes.
Measurement of Results
We use various measures to analyze the growth and profitability of our business segments. In our Commercial Insurance and Personal Insurance segments, we measure growth in terms of gross, ceded and net premiums written, and we measure underwriting profitability by examining our loss, expense and combined ratios. We also measure our gross and net written premiums to surplus ratios to measure the adequacy of capital in relation to premiums written. In the Insurance Services segment, we measure growth in terms of fee income generated from the Reciprocal Exchanges and, to a lesser extent, fee and commission revenue received. We measure profitability in terms of net income attributable to Tower Group, Inc. and return on average equity related to Tower Group, Inc..
Premiums written. We use gross premiums written to measure our sales of insurance products and, in turn, our ability to generate ceding commission revenues from premiums that we cede to reinsurers. Gross premiums written also correlates to our ability to generate net premiums earned.
Loss ratio. The loss ratio is the ratio of losses and LAE incurred to premiums earned and measures the underwriting profitability of a company’s insurance business. We measure our loss ratio on a gross (before reinsurance) and net (after reinsurance) basis. We also measure the loss ratio on the ceded portion (the difference between gross and net premiums) for our Commercial Insurance and Personal Insurance segments. We use the gross loss ratio as a measure of the overall underwriting profitability of the insurance business we write and to assess the adequacy of our pricing. We use the loss ratio on the ceded portion of our insurance business to measure the experience on the premiums that we cede to reinsurers, including the premiums ceded under our quota share treaties. In some cases, the loss ratio on such ceded business is considered in determining the ceding commission rate that we earn on ceded premiums. Our net loss ratio is meaningful in evaluating our financial results, which are net of ceded reinsurance, as reflected in our consolidated financial statements. In addition, we use accident year and calendar year loss ratios to measure our underwriting profitability. An accident year loss ratio measures losses and LAE for insured events occurring in a particular year, regardless of when they are reported, as a percentage of premiums earned during that particular accident year. A calendar year loss ratio measures losses and LAE for insured events occurring during a particular year and the changes in estimates in loss and LAE reserves from prior accident years as a percentage of premiums earned during that particular calendar year.
Underwriting expense ratio. The gross underwriting expense ratio is the ratio of direct commission expenses and other underwriting expenses less policy billing fees to gross premiums earned. The gross underwriting expense ratio measures a company’s operational efficiency in producing, underwriting and administering its insurance business. Due to our historically high levels of reinsurance, we also calculate our underwriting expense ratio after the effect of ceded reinsurance. Ceding commission revenue is applied to reduce our underwriting expenses in our insurance company operation.
Combined ratio. We use the combined ratio to measure our underwriting performance. The combined ratio is the sum of the loss ratio and the underwriting expense ratio. We analyze the combined ratio on a gross (before the effect of reinsurance) and net (after the effect of reinsurance) basis. If the combined ratio is at or above 100%, an insurance company is not underwriting profitably and may not be profitable unless investment income is sufficient to offset underwriting losses.
5
Management fee income earned by the management companies.Our management companies provide various underwriting, claims, investment management and other services to the Reciprocal Exchanges. We receive a percentage of the gross written premiums issued by the Reciprocal Exchanges.
Net income and return on average equity. We use net income to measure our profits and return on average equity to measure our effectiveness in utilizing our stockholders’ equity to generate net income on a consolidated basis. In determining return on average equity for a given year, net income is divided by the average of stockholders’ equity for that year.
Book value per share. Book value per share is calculated as Tower Group, Inc, stockholders’ equity over the number of shares outstanding. We use this as a measure of value per share of the Company independent from the market price per share.
Operating income.Operating income excludes realized gains and losses and acquisition-related transaction costs, net of tax. This is a common measurement for property and casualty insurance companies. We believe this presentation enhances the understanding of our results of operations by highlighting the underlying profitability of our insurance business. Additionally, these measures are a key internal management performance standard.
The following table provides a reconciliation of operating income to net income on a GAAP basis. The operating income is used to calculate operating earnings per share and operating return on average equity.
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| | Year Ended December 31, | |
($ in thousands) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Operating income | | $ | 56,331 | | | $ | 98,861 | | | $ | 105,975 | |
Net realized gains (losses) on investments | | | 6,980 | | | | 14,910 | | | | 331 | |
Acquisition-related transaction costs | | | (360 | ) | | | (2,369 | ) | | | (14,038 | ) |
Income tax | | | (2,470 | ) | | | (5,046 | ) | | | 2,456 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income attributable to Tower Group, Inc. | | $ | 60,481 | | | $ | 106,356 | | | $ | 94,724 | |
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Critical Accounting Estimates
In preparing our consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and the related disclosures as of the date of the financial statements. Management considers an accounting estimate to be critical if it requires assumptions to be made that involve uncertainty at the time the estimate is made and, had different assumptions been selected, the changes in the outcome could have a significant effect on our financial statements. We review our critical accounting estimates and assumptions quarterly. Actual results may differ, perhaps substantially, from the estimates.
Our most critical accounting estimates involve the reporting of reserves for losses (including losses that have occurred but had not been reported by the financial statement date) and LAE, establishing fair value of losses and LAE for acquired businesses, net earned premiums, the reporting of ceding commissions earned, the amount and recoverability of reinsurance recoverable balances, deferred acquisition costs, investment impairments and potential impairments of goodwill and intangible assets.
Loss and loss adjustment expense reserves.The reserving process for loss and LAE reserves provides our best estimate at a particular point in time of the ultimate unpaid cost of all losses and LAE incurred, including settlement and administration of losses, and is based on facts and circumstances then known and including losses that have been incurred but not yet reported. The process includes using actuarial methodologies to assist in establishing these estimates, judgments relative to estimates of future claims severity and frequency, the length of time before losses will develop to their ultimate level and the possible changes in the law and other external factors that are often beyond our control. There are various actuarial methods that are appropriate for the different lines of business, and our actuaries’ use of a particular method or weighting of methods depends in part on the maturity of each accident year by line of business, the limits of liability covered under the policies, the presence or absence of large claims in the experience, and other considerations. In general, the various actuarial methods can be grouped into three categories: loss ratio projection, loss development methods, and the B-F method. For the most recent accident year, and especially for liability lines of business, the actuarial method given the most weight is usually the loss ratio method, since the percentage of ultimate claims reported to date is expected to be low and the immature reported claims experience is not a reliable indicator of ultimate losses for that accident year. For property lines of business for the most recent accident year, the B-F method is usually given the most weight, because experience typically shows that there is a small percentage of claims reported in the subsequent period due to normal lags in reporting and processing of claims in these lines of business that can be relatively reliably estimated as a percentage of premiums, which is reflected in the B-F method. For each line of business, the actuarial reserving method usually given the most weight shifts from the loss ratio projection to the B-F method to the incurred loss projection as each accident year matures. These methods are described in “Business—Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves.”
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This process helps management set carried loss reserves based upon the actuaries’ best estimates, using estimates made by segment, product or line of business, territory, and accident year. The actuaries also separately estimate loss reserves from LAE reserves and within LAE reserves estimates are made for defense and cost containment expenses or Allocated Loss Adjustment Expenses (“ALAE”) and for other claims adjusting expenses or Unallocated Loss Adjustment Expenses (“ULAE”). The amount of loss and LAE reserves for reported claims is based primarily upon a case-by-case evaluation of coverage, liability, injury severity, and any other information considered pertinent to estimating the exposure presented by the claim. The amounts of loss and LAE reserves for unreported claims are determined using historical information by line of business as adjusted to current conditions. Since our process produces loss reserves set by management based upon the actuaries’ best estimate, there is no explicit or implicit provision for uncertainty in the carried loss reserves, except for required provisions in connection with acquisitions which are separately determined.
Due to the inherent uncertainty associated with the reserving process, the ultimate liability may differ, perhaps substantially, from the original estimate. Such estimates are regularly reviewed and updated, and any resulting adjustments are included in the current year’s results. Reserves are closely monitored and are recomputed periodically using the most recent information on reported claims and a variety of statistical techniques. Specifically, on at least a quarterly basis, we review, by line of business, existing reserves, new claims, changes to existing case reserves and paid losses with respect to the current and prior years. See “Business—Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves” for additional information regarding our loss and LAE reserves.
We segregate our data for estimating loss reserves. The property lines include Fire and Allied Lines, Homeowners-property, Commercial Multi-peril Property, Multi-Family Dwellings, Inland Marine and Automobile Physical Damage. The casualty lines include Homeowners-liability, Commercial Multi-peril Liability, Other Liability, Workers’ Compensation, Commercial Automobile Liability, and Personal Automobile Liability. Commercial Insurance segment reserves are estimated separately from Personal Insurance segment reserves. For the Commercial Insurance segment we analyze reserves by line of business and, where appropriate, we further segregate the data for analysis purposes between small, middle and large policies sizes and by state or region. We also analyze various producers’ business separately where the volume of business from those producers is considered significant and the characteristics of the business from those particular producers are perceived to be different. Within the Personal Insurance segment, we estimate loss and loss expenses reserves separately for the Reciprocal Exchanges, which we manage, and for our owned companies. We utilize line of business breakdowns and, where appropriate, analyze results separately by state.
Two key assumptions that materially impact the estimate of loss reserves are the loss ratio estimate for the current accident year and the loss development factor selections for all accident years. The loss ratio estimate for the current accident year is selected after reviewing historical accident year loss ratios adjusted for rate and price changes, trend, mix of business, and other factors. In addition, as the year matures and, depending upon the line of business, we utilize B-F methods or loss development methods for the current accident year.
In most cases, our data is sufficiently credible to determine loss development factors utilizing our own data. In some cases, we supplement our own loss development experience with industry data and utilize historical loss development experience for particular books of business, programs or treaties obtained from our sources. The loss development factors are reviewed at least annually, and whenever there is a significant change in the underlying business. Each quarter we test the loss development by analyzing actual emerging claims compared to expected development.
Because of the nature of the business historically written, the Company’s management believes that the Company has limited exposure to environmental claim liabilities.
We estimate ALAE reserves separately for claims that are defended by in-house attorneys, claims that are handled by other attorneys that are not employees, and miscellaneous ALAE costs such as investigators, witness fees and court costs.
For claims that are defended by in-house attorneys, we estimate the defense cost per claim, and we attribute to each of these claims a fixed fee for defense work. We allocate to each of these litigated claims 50% of the fixed fee when litigation on a particular claim begins and 50% of the fee when the litigation is closed. The fee is determined actuarially based upon the projected number of litigated claims and expected closing patterns at the beginning of each year as well as the projected budget for our in-house attorneys, and these amounts are calibrated to reimburse our in-house legal department for all of their costs.
ULAE for claims that are handled in-house by our claims adjusters utilize a similar process to that described above for ALAE. We determine fixed fees per claim by line of business, and assign these costs to line of business and accident year. For property lines, 50% of the fixed fee is attributed to claims when a claim is opened and 50% is attributed to claims when they are closed. For casualty lines, 75% of the fixed fee is attributed to the claim when a claim is opened and 25% is attributed to the claims when the claim is closed. The IBNR portion of ULAE for these claims is based upon 50% of the fixed fee per claims for in-house ULAE multiplied by the number of claims open and by 100% of the fixed fee multiplied by the estimated number of claims to be reported for prior accident dates.
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For some types of claims and for some programs where we utilize third-party administrators (“TPA”) to adjust claims, we pay them fees which are included in ULAE. In some cases, we arrange for fixed percentages of premiums earned to be the fee for claims administration, and in other cases we arrange for fixed fees per claim or hourly charges for ULAE services. The reserves for ULAE for these situations is estimated based upon the particular arrangement for these types of claims by product or program.
Establishing fair value of loss and LAE reserves for acquired companies. At acquisition date, loss and LAE reserves must be set to fair value. As there are no readily observable markets for these liabilities, we use a valuation model that estimates net nominal future cash flows related to the loss and LAE reserve. This valuation is adjusted for the time value of money and a risk margin to compensate the Company for bearing the risk associated with the liabilities. This adjustment is referred to as the “reserve risk premium”, which is amortized over the expected payout pattern of the claims.
Net premiums earned.Insurance policies issued or reinsured by us are short-duration contracts. Accordingly, premium revenue, including direct writings and reinsurance assumed, net of premiums ceded to reinsurers, is recognized as earned in proportion to the amount of insurance protection provided, on a pro-rata basis over the terms of the underlying policies. Unearned premiums represent premiums applicable to the unexpired portions of in-force insurance contracts at the end of each year. Prepaid reinsurance premiums represent the unexpired portion of reinsurance premiums ceded.
Ceding commissions earned.We have historically relied on quota share, excess of loss and catastrophe reinsurance to manage our regulatory capital requirements and limit our exposure to loss.
Ceding commissions under a quota share reinsurance agreement are based on the agreed-upon commission rate applied to the amount of ceded premiums written. Ceding commissions are realized as income as ceded premiums written are earned. The ultimate commission rate earned on our quota share reinsurance contracts is determined by the loss ratio on the ceded premiums earned. If the estimated loss ratio decreases from the level currently in effect, the commission rate increases and additional ceding commissions are earned in the period in which the decrease is recognized. If the estimated loss ratio increases, the commission rate decreases, which reduces ceding commissions earned. As a result, the same uncertainties associated with estimating loss and LAE reserves affect the estimates of ceding commissions earned. We monitor the ceded ultimate loss ratio on a quarterly basis to determine the effect on the commission rate of the ceded premiums earned that we accrued during prior accounting periods. The estimated ceding commission income relating to prior years recorded in 2011, 2010, and 2009 was a decrease of $0.1 million, $2.2 million and $2.7 million, respectively. These decreases are attributed to prior year reserve development that was not initially anticipated.
Reinsurance recoverables.Reinsurance recoverable balances are established for the portion of paid and unpaid loss and LAE that is assumed by reinsurers. Prepaid reinsurance premiums represent unearned premiums that are ceded to reinsurers. Reinsurance recoverables and prepaid reinsurance premiums are reported on our balance sheet separately as assets, instead of netted against the related liabilities, since reinsurance does not relieve us of our legal liability to policyholders and ceding companies. We are required to pay losses even if a reinsurer fails to meet its obligations under the applicable reinsurance agreement. Consequently, we bear credit risk with respect to our individual reinsurers and may be required to make judgments as to the ultimate recoverability of our reinsurance recoverables. Additionally, the same uncertainties associated with estimating loss and LAE reserves affect the estimates of the amount of ceded reinsurance recoverables. We continually monitor the financial condition and rating agency ratings of our reinsurers. Non-admitted reinsurers are required to collateralize their share of unearned premium and loss reserves either by placing funds in a trust account meeting the requirements of New York Regulation 114 or by providing a letter of credit. In addition, from October 2003 to December 31, 2005, we placed our quota share treaties on a “funds withheld” basis, under which we retained the ceded premiums written and placed that amount in segregated trust accounts from which we may withdraw amounts due to it from the reinsurers.
Deferred acquisition costs, net.We have retrospectively adopted updated guidance issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) on the accounting for deferred acquisition costs (“DAC”) effective January 1, 2011. Our prior period results have been restated for the impact of this accounting change. We defer certain expenses that vary with and are directly related to the successful acquisition of new and renewal insurance business, including commission expense on gross premiums written, premium taxes and certain other costs related to the acquisition of insurance contracts. These costs are capitalized and the resulting asset, DAC, is amortized and charged to expense or income in future periods as gross and ceded premiums written are earned. The method followed in computing deferred acquisition costs, net, limits the amount of such deferred amounts to its estimated realizable value. The ultimate recoverability of deferred acquisition costs is dependent on the continued profitability of our insurance underwriting. We also consider anticipated invested income in determining the recoverability of these costs. If our insurance underwriting becomes unprofitable, we may have to write off a portion of our deferred acquisition costs, resulting in a further charge to income in the period in which the underwriting losses are recognized. The value of business acquired (“VOBA”) is an intangible asset relating to the estimated fair value of the unexpired insurance policies acquired in a business combination. VOBA is determined at the time of a business combination and is reported on the consolidated balance sheet with DAC and is amortized in proportion to the timing of the estimated underwriting profit associated with the in force policies acquired. The cash flow or interest component of VOBA is amortized in proportion to the expected pattern of future cash flows. The Company considers anticipated investment income in determining the recoverability of these costs and believes they are fully recoverable.
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Impairment of invested assets.Impairment of investment securities results in a charge to operations when a market decline below cost is deemed to be other-than-temporary. We regularly review our fixed-maturity and equity securities portfolios to evaluate the necessity of recording impairment losses for other-than-temporary declines in the fair value of investments. In evaluating potential impairment, we consider, among other criteria:
• | | the overall financial condition of the issuer; |
• | | the current fair value compared to amortized cost or cost, as appropriate; |
• | | the length of time the security’s fair value has been below amortized cost or cost; |
• | | specific credit issues related to the issuer such as changes in credit rating, reduction or elimination of dividends or non-payment of scheduled interest payments; |
• | | whether management intends to sell the security and, if not, whether it is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis; |
• | | specific cash flow estimations for fixed-income securities; and |
• | | current economic conditions. |
If an other-than-temporary-impairment (“OTTI”) loss is determined for a fixed-maturity security (for which we do not have the intent to sell or it is not more likely than not we would be required to sell), the credit portion is recorded in the income statement as realized investment losses and the non-credit portion is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income. The credit portion results in a permanent reduction in the cost basis of the underlying investment. For all other fixed-maturity security and equity security impairments, the entire impairment is reflected as a realized investment loss and reduces the cost basis of the security. The determination of OTTI is a subjective process and different judgments and assumptions could affect the timing of loss realization. We recorded OTTI losses on our fixed maturity and equity securities in the amounts of $3.5 million, $14.9 million and $45.4 million in 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively, of which $3.2 million, $3.0 million and $24.7 million were recorded in earnings in 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively.
Since total unrealized losses are a component of stockholders’ equity, the recognition of OTTI losses have no effect on our comprehensive income or stockholders’ equity.
See “Business-Investments” and “Note 6 – Investments” in the notes to consolidated financial statements for additional detail regarding our investment portfolio at December 31, 2011, including disclosures regarding OTTI.
Goodwill and intangible assets and potential impairment.The costs associated with a group of assets acquired in a transaction are allocated to the individual assets, including identifiable intangible assets, based on their relative fair values. Purchase consideration in excess of the fair value of tangible and intangible assets is recorded as goodwill.
Identifiable intangible assets with a finite useful life are amortized over the period in which the asset is expected to contribute directly or indirectly to our future cash flows. Identifiable intangible assets with finite useful lives are tested for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that a carrying amount may not be recoverable. Identifiable intangible assets with indefinite useful lives and goodwill are not amortized. Rather, they are tested for recoverability at least annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that a carrying amount may not be recoverable.
An impairment loss is recognized if the carrying value of an intangible asset or goodwill is not recoverable and its carrying amount exceeds its fair value. No impairment losses were recognized in 2011, 2010 and 2009. Significant changes in the factors we consider when evaluating our intangible assets and goodwill for impairment losses could result in a significant charge for impairment losses reported in our consolidated financial statements. See “Note 8 – Goodwill and Intangible Assets” in the notes to consolidated financial statements.
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Consolidated Results of Operations
Our results of operations are discussed below in two parts, consolidated results of operations and the results of each of our three segments. The comparison between quarters is affected by the acquisitions described above.
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| | Year Ended December 31, | |
($ in millions) | | 2011 | | | Change | | | Percent | | | 2010 | | | Change | | | Percent | | | 2009 | |
Commercial insurance segment underwriting profit | | $ | 8.6 | | | $ | (31.6 | ) | | | -79 | % | | $ | 40.2 | | | $ | (42.1 | ) | | | -51 | % | | $ | 82.3 | |
Personal insurance segment underwriting profit (loss)(1) | | | (14.3 | ) | | | (21.2 | ) | | | -307 | % | | | 6.9 | | | | 10.8 | | | | -277 | % | | | (3.9 | ) |
Insurance services segment pretax income(2) | | | 11.5 | | | | (2.7 | ) | | | -19 | % | | | 14.2 | | | | 13.3 | | | | NM | | | | 0.9 | |
Net investment income | | | 126.5 | | | | 19.2 | | | | 18 | % | | | 107.3 | | | | 32.4 | | | | 43 | % | | | 74.9 | |
Net realized gains on investments, including other-than-temporary impairments | | | 9.4 | | | | (5.3 | ) | | | -36 | % | | | 14.7 | | | | 14.4 | | | | NM | | | | 0.3 | |
Corporate expenses | | | (11.5 | ) | | | (7.4 | ) | | | 172 | % | | | (4.3 | ) | | | (0.5 | ) | | | 13 | % | | | (3.8 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | -83 | % | | | | |
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Acquisition-related transaction costs | | | (0.3 | ) | | | 2.1 | | | | -88 | % | | | (2.4 | ) | | | 11.6 | | | | -83 | % | | | (14.0 | ) |
Interest expense | | | (34.3 | ) | | | (10.1 | ) | | | 42 | % | | | (24.2 | ) | | | (6.6 | ) | | | 38 | % | | | (17.6 | ) |
Other income (expense) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 0 | % | | | — | | | | (19.3 | ) | | | -100 | % | | | 19.3 | |
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Income before income taxes | | | 95.6 | | | | (56.8 | ) | | | -37 | % | | | 152.4 | | | | 14.0 | | | | 10 | % | | | 138.4 | |
Income tax expense | | | 24.1 | | | | (28.0 | ) | | | 53 | % | | | 52.1 | | | | 9.8 | | | | 22 | % | | | 43.7 | |
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Net income | | $ | 71.5 | | | $ | (28.8 | ) | | | 89 | % | | $ | 100.3 | | | $ | 4.2 | | | | 4 | % | | $ | 94.7 | |
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Less net income (loss) attributable to Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 11.0 | | | | 17.1 | | | | NM | | | | (6.1 | ) | | | (7.4 | ) | | | — | | | | — | |
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Net income attributable to Tower Group, Inc. | | $ | 60.5 | | | $ | 45.9 | | | | 43.1 | % | | $ | 106.4 | | | $ | 11.6 | | | | 12 | % | | $ | 94.7 | |
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NM is shown where percentage change exceeds 500% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Key Measures | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Gross premiums written and produced: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Written by Commercial and Personal Insurance segments | | $ | 1,810.9 | | | $ | 314.5 | | | | 21 | % | | $ | 1,496.4 | | | $ | 425.7 | | | | 40 | % | | $ | 1,070.7 | |
Produced by Insurance Services segment | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (11.7 | ) | | | -100 | % | | | 11.7 | |
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Total | | $ | 1,810.9 | | | $ | 314.5 | | | | 21 | % | | $ | 1,496.4 | | | $ | 413.9 | | | | -60 | % | | $ | 1,082.4 | |
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| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Percent of total revenues: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net premiums earned | | | 89.8 | % | | | 88.4 | % | | | 87.2 | % |
Commission and fee income (3) | | | 2.6 | % | | | 3.3 | % | | | 5.2 | % |
Net investment income | | | 7.1 | % | | | 7.3 | % | | | 7.6 | % |
Net realized investment gains (losses) | | | 0.5 | % | | | 1.0 | % | | | 0.0 | % |
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Underwriting Ratios for Commercial and Personal Insurance Segments Combined | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net Calendar Year Loss Ratios | | | 66.2 | % | | | 60.7 | % | | | 55.6 | % |
Net Underwriting Expense Ratios (4) | | | 34.1 | % | | | 35.7 | % | | | 35.2 | % |
Net Combined Ratios | | | 100.3 | % | | | 96.4 | % | | | 90.8 | % |
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Return on average equity (5) | | | 5.8 | % | | | 10.3 | % | | | 12.4 | % |
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(1) | Personal Insurance segment underwriting profit includes underwriting results of the Reciprocal Exchanges for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010. |
(2) | Insurance Services segment pretax income for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 includes results related to Tower’s management services agreements with the Reciprocal Exchanges. |
(3) | Commission and fee income for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 excludes management fee income earned by Tower from the Reciprocal Exchanges. These amounts are eliminated in reporting consolidated net income. |
(4) | The net underwriting expense ratios include fees paid by the Reciprocal Exchanges to Tower in excess of Tower’s direct costs to service the management services agreement. These fees increased the gross and net expense ratios by 0.6% and 1.0%, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010. |
(5) | For the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, the after-tax impact of net realized investment gains offset by acquisition-related transaction costs, increased (lowered) return on average equity by 0.4%, 0.7% and (1.4)%, respectively. |
Consolidated Results of Operations 2011 Compared to 2010
Total revenues.Total revenues increased by 21.4% for the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to 2010, primarily due to increased net premiums earned, net investment income and policy billing fees resulting from the acquisition of OBPL which was acquired on July 1, 2010 and was reflected in Tower’s consolidated results for twelve months in 2011 as compared to six months in 2010.
Premiums earned.Gross premiums earned for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 were $1,789.8 million and $1,519.6 million, respectively, for an increase of 17.8%. This increase is primarily a result of OBPL and to a lesser extent the AequiCap II and Navigators renewal rights transactions and the customized solutions and assumed reinsurance initiatives. Ceded premiums earned declined $31.1 million to $195.9 million in 2011 from $227.0 million in 2010. Ceded premiums earned declined as Tower elected to cancel its liability quota share reinsurance treaty in 2011. This decrease was somewhat offset by the Company’s quota share reinsurance on the OBPL homeowners business, which was in effect for twelve months in 2011 as compared to six months in 2010.
Overall, the Company’s net earned premiums increased $301.2 million, or 23.3%, to $1,593.9 million in 2011 from $1,292.7 million in 2010.
Commission and fee income. Commission and fee income decreased by $1.7 million in the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2010. This decrease is primarily attributed to the decline in ceding commission revenue on a liability quota share reinsurance treaty that was effective only in 2010, offset by an increase in policy billing fees and ceding commission revenues associated with the OBPL acquired business.
Net investment income and net realized gains (losses). Net investment income increased 17.9% in the year ended December 31, 2011 compared to 2010. The increase in net investment income resulted from an increase in average cash and invested assets for the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to 2010. The increase in average cash and invested assets resulted primarily from $365.1 million of invested assets from the OBPL acquisition (reduced by cash to finance such acquisition) and from operating cash flows of $85.0 million generated in 2011. The positive cash flow from operations was the result of an increase in premiums collected from a growing book of business. The tax equivalent investment yield of our fixed maturity portfolio at amortized cost was 4.8 % and 4.7% at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Operating cash invested in fixed income securities in 2011 and in 2010 has been affected by a low yield environment. We increased investments in high-yield securities and dividend paying equity securities to reduce the impact of this low interest rate environment.
The Company had net realized investment gains of $9.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 compared to gains of $14.7 million in 2010. OTTI losses recorded in earnings for the year ended December 31, 2011 were $3.2 million, a decline from $3.0 million of OTTI losses recorded for 2010.
Loss and loss adjustment expenses. The consolidated net loss ratio, which includes the Reciprocal Exchanges, was 66.2% and 60.7% for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges, the net loss ratio was 67.6% and 60.2% for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The Reciprocal Exchanges’ net loss ratio was 55.8% and 66.3% for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
Excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges, the 2011 net loss and loss adjustment expenses included $74.3 million from claims related to severe weather related events, including first quarter of 2011 claims relating to heavy snow, Hurricane Irene in August 2011, and other severe winter storms and tornados that resulted in an unusual number of claims. Excluding these severe weather related events, the net loss ratio for Tower, excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges, would have been 62.3% for the year ended December 31, 2011.
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Excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges, there was net adverse loss development of $17.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 comprised of favorable development in Personal Insurance of $29.1 million and unfavorable development in Commercial Insurance of $46.1 million.
The net unfavorable development in Commercial Insurance included $26.4 million for other liability, $30.5 million for workers compensation, and $7.9 million for commercial automobile. This was offset in part by favorable development on commercial packages and monoline property totaling $6.4 million, by favorable development in CPRE of $10.4 million, and $1.9 million for amortization of reserves risk premium that was established in 2009 as part of fair value accounting for the acquisitions made that year. The favorable development in Personal Insurance, was comprised primarily of $22.2 million for private passenger automobile liability, $13.1 million for homeowners and $1.9 million for amortization of reserves risk premium, principally relating to reserves acquired in the OBPL transaction developing more favorably than anticipated at the time of the acquisition, offset by unfavorable development of $4.2 million in discontinued personal lines business, $3.1 million in involuntary plans and $0.8 million in other lines.
For the Reciprocal Exchanges, the favorable development was $37.8 million, comprised of favorable development of $29.0 million for private passenger automobile liability, $7.6 million for homeowners and other lines, and $1.2 million for amortization of reserves risk premium.
Operating expenses. Operating expenses, which include direct and ceding commission expenses and other operating expenses, were $590.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, an increase of 18.3% over the prior year, primarily as a result of the OBPL acquisition, which was not included in the Company’s results for the first six months of 2010. In addition, the Company amortized the value of business acquired (“VOBA”) asset recorded on July 1, 2010 in connection with the OBPL purchase accounting. This resulted in $10.2 million of expense recorded in 2011 and exceeded the amount of acquisition costs that were capitalized in 2011as DAC. The VOBA was fully amortized as of June 30, 2011. In addition, the Company incurred $23.9 million in 2011 compared to $13.3 million in 2010, under the transition services agreements with OneBeacon. The net underwriting expense ratio improved to 34.1% in 2011 from 35.7% in 2010.
The consolidated gross underwriting expense ratio improved slightly to 32.3% in 2011 from 32.9% in 2010. The commission portion of the gross underwriting expense ratio was 17.4% and 17.6% for years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The improvement in the commission ratio reflects the impact of lower commission rates in the Reciprocal Exchanges. The gross other underwriting expense (“OUE”) ratio, which includes boards, bureaus and taxes (“BB&T”), improved to 14.9% in 2011 from 15.3% in 2010.
Acquisition-related transaction costs.Acquisition-related transaction costs for the year ended December 31, 2010 were $2.4 million and relate to the acquisition of OBPL. These costs were negligible in 2011.
Interest expense. Interest expense increased by $10.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 compared to 2010. Interest expense increased mainly due to the issuance of $150 million of convertible senior notes in September 2010 and increased borrowings under the credit facility in 2011. Interest on funds withheld was $3.6 million in 2011 as compared to $2.7 million in 2010.
Income tax expense. Income tax expense decreased in 2011 compared to 2010 due to the decrease in pre-tax income. The effective income tax rate (including state and local taxes) was 25.2% for the year ended December 31, 2011, compared to 34.2% for the same period in 2010. The effective rate is lower than the statutory rate due to, among other things, our tax exempt municipal investment and dividends received deductions related to our equity securities portfolio, as well as the release of a valuation allowance at the Reciprocal Exchanges.
The decline in the effective tax rate from 2010 to 2011 is primarily attributed to (i) the increase in tax exempt interest income and dividend received deductions of $7.2 million in 2011 as compared to $4.9 million in 2010, (ii) the decline in pre-tax income from 2010 to 2011, and (iii) the release of the Reciprocal Exchange valuation allowance in 2011.
Net income and return on average equity. Net income and annualized return on average equity attributable to Tower Group, Inc. were $60.5 million and 5.8% for the year ended December 31, 2011 compared to $106.4 million and 10.3% for the year ended December 31, 2010. The return on average equity is calculated by dividing net income by average stockholders’ equity. Average stockholders’ equity was $1,041.1 million and $1,036.9 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
The decrease in the net income and annualized return on equity in 2011 is primarily due to an increase of $48.3 million in after-tax losses from severe weather related events in 2011. These losses were partially offset by increased net income attributed to the acquisition of OBPL.
12
Consolidated Results of Operations 2010 Compared to 2009
Total revenues.Total revenues increased by 49.1% for the year ended December 31, 2010 as compared to 2009, primarily due to increased net premiums earned and net investment income resulting from the acquisition of OBPL at the beginning of the third quarter of 2010 and the full year results of SUA in 2010 compared to only one month of results in 2009. The following table shows the effects of the various acquisitions on our gross premiums written in 2010:
| | | | | | | | |
($ in millions) | | Amount | | | % Change | |
Gross premiums written for the year ended December 31, 2009 | | $ | 1,070.7 | | | | | |
Gross premiums written from acquired companies | | | 397.7 | | | | 37 | % |
Organic growth during year | | | 28.0 | | | | 3 | % |
| | | | | | | | |
Gross premiums written for the year ended December 31, 2010 | | $ | 1,496.4 | | | | 40 | % |
| | | | | | | | |
Premiums earned. Gross premiums earned in the year ended December 31, 2010 increased 45.2% compared to the prior year, primarily as a result of the aforementioned acquisitions. Ceded premiums earned increased by a lower percentage than the gross growth percentage as we retained a larger percentage of our gross premiums because of our increased capital base. Accordingly, net premiums earned in the year ended December 31, 2010 increased by $438.0 million compared to 2009.
Commission and fee income. Commission and fee income decreased by $3.1 million in the year ended December 31, 2010. This decrease is due to our decision to use less quota share reinsurance in 2010 compared to 2009 leading to reduced ceding commission revenue. Insurance services revenue declined for the year ended December 31, 2010 compared to 2009 caused by our managing general agency ceasing to produce business on behalf of CastlePoint’s insurance companies subsequent to the CastlePoint acquisition in 2009. Partially offsetting these decreases was a $3.3 million increase in policy billing fees generated in connection with the OBPL business for the last six months of 2010.
Net investment income and net realized gains (losses). Net investment income increased 43.3% in the year ended December 31, 2010 compared to 2009. The increase in net investment income resulted from an increase in average cash and invested assets for the year ended December 31, 2010 that resulted primarily from invested assets acquired from OBPL and SUA. The tax equivalent investment yield at amortized cost was 4.7% at December 31, 2010 compared to 5.5% for 2009. Operating cash invested in 2009 and in 2010 has been affected by a low yield environment, as asset classes other than US Treasuries have experienced tightening spreads, the result of investors reaching for yield in a low interest rate environment. We have increased our investment in high-yield securities to partially reduce the impact of this low rate environment and in the fourth quarter of 2010. We made investments in dividend paying common equities starting in the fourth quarter of 2010, as a further strategy to mitigate the current low interest rate environment.
Net realized investment gains were $14.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2010 compared to gains of $0.3 million in the same period last year. This increase is due in part to a $19.3 million decline in OTTI losses recognized in earnings from $23.5 million in 2009 to $4.2 million in 2010, offset by a $7.3 decline in capital realized gains from sales of securities from $25.0 million in 2009 to $17.7 million in 2010.
Loss and loss adjustment expenses. For the year ended December 31, 2010 the net loss ratio increased 5.1 percentage points due to the impact of changing business mix, price competition and losses from the storms in the northeastern U.S. occurring in March 2010 which increased the loss ratio by 1.2 points. These impacts were partially offset during the second half of the year by lower property losses.
The amortization of the reserves risk premium, which was established in connection with the acquisitions completed in 2010 and 2009, reduced consolidated losses by $7.1 million, comprised of $6.3 million excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges and $0.8 million for the Reciprocal Exchanges. The amortization of reserves risk premium lowered the loss ratio, excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges by 0.5 loss ratio points for the year ended December 31, 2010 as compared to 0.6 loss points for 2009.
We had favorable loss development related to prior years of $12.3 million, comprised of unfavorable development of $19.8 million in the Commercial Insurance segment and favorable development of $32.1 million in the Personal Insurance segment, of which $9.9 million related to the Reciprocal Exchanges.
LAE improved during the year by approximately $10 million as a result of bringing in-house the defense of a large portion of our third-party liability claims, and by approximately $14 million as a result of a revised study of the costs of settling claims. The improvement in litigation loss adjustment expenses favorably impacted our Commercial Insurance segment. See “Commercial Insurance Segment Results of Operations” for more details.
13
Operating expenses. Operating expenses were $499.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, an increase of 40.7% over the prior year, primarily as a result of the aforementioned acquisitions. Also contributing to the increase were investments in technology and restructuring, primarily in our Commercial Insurance segment, following the various acquisitions over the past eighteen months.
Acquisition-related transaction costs.Acquisition-related transaction costs for the year ended December 31, 2010 were $2.4 million and relate to the acquisition of OBPL. In the prior year, we recorded acquisition related transaction costs of $14.0 million, primarily related to the CastlePoint and SUA acquisitions.
Interest expense. Interest expense increased by $6.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2010 compared to 2009. Interest expense increased mainly due to the issuance of $150 million of convertible senior notes in September 2010, interest expense on subordinated debentures which were assumed as a result of the merger with CastlePoint, and, to a much lesser extent, interest of $0.1 million on the $56.0 million draw-down under our credit facility entered into on May 24, 2010. The credit facility draw-down was repaid in September 2010. Interest on funds withheld was $2.7 million in 2010 as compared to $0.7 million in 2009.
Other income (expense). Other income for the year ended 2009 was $19.3 million whereas in 2010, we recorded no other income and other expenses. The other income in 2009 consisted of $12.7 million gain on bargain purchase related to the acquisition of SUA in the fourth quarter of 2009 and a gain of $7.4 million on the revaluation of the shares owned in CastlePoint at the time of the acquisition offset by the Company’s $0.8 million equity in the net loss of CastlePoint prior to its acquisition on February 5, 2009.
Income tax expense. Income tax expense increased by $8.5 million in 2010 compared to 2009. The increase in the income tax expense is attributable to the higher income before taxes in the current year. The effective income tax rate (including state and local taxes) was 34.2% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 31.5% for the same period in 2009. The gain on bargain purchase of SUA in 2009 decreased the effective tax rate in that year as this gain was not subject to tax.
Net income and return on average equity. Net income and annualized return on average equity were $ 106.3 million and 10.3% for the year ended December 31, 2010 compared to $94.7 million and 12.4% for the 2009. The decline in the annualized return on equity in 2010 is primarily due to the reduced earnings resulting from higher incurred loss and LAE, including the $17.5 million pre-tax charge for the northeast U.S. Storm occurring during March 13 to March 15, 2010. The return on average equity is calculated by dividing net income by average stockholders’ equity. Average stockholders’ equity was $1,036.9 million and $764.7 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
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Commercial Insurance Segment Results of Operations
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
($ in millions) | | 2011 | | | Change | | | Percent | | | 2010 | | | Change | | | Percent | | | 2009 | |
Net premiums written | | $ | 1,152.3 | | | $ | 165.0 | | | | 16.7 | % | | $ | 987.3 | | | $ | 256.4 | | | | 35.1 | % | | $ | 730.9 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Revenues | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net premiums earned | | $ | 1,087.9 | | | $ | 146.9 | | | | 15.6 | % | | $ | 941.0 | | | $ | 202.8 | | | | 27.5 | % | | $ | 738.2 | |
Ceding commission revenue | | | 14.8 | | | | (18.5 | ) | | | -55.6 | % | | | 33.3 | | | | (4.8 | ) | | | -12.6 | % | | | 38.1 | |
Policy billing fees | | | 4.3 | | | | 1.5 | | | | 53.6 | % | | | 2.8 | | | | 0.6 | | | | 27.3 | % | | | 2.2 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total revenue | | | 1,107.0 | | | | 129.9 | | | | 13.3 | % | | | 977.1 | | | | 198.6 | | | | 25.5 | % | | | 778.5 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expenses | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net loss and loss adjustment expenses | | | 736.5 | | | | 147.2 | | | | 25.0 | % | | | 589.3 | | | | 182.6 | | | | 44.9 | % | | | 406.7 | |
Underwriting expenses | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Direct commission expenses | | | 208.7 | | | | 16.7 | | | | 8.7 | % | | | 192.0 | | | | 17.6 | | | | 10.1 | % | | | 174.4 | |
Other underwriting expenses | | | 153.2 | | | | (2.4 | ) | | | -1.5 | % | | | 155.6 | | | | 40.5 | | | | 35.2 | % | | | 115.1 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total underwriting expenses | | | 361.9 | | | | 14.3 | | | | 4.1 | % | | | 347.6 | | | | 58.1 | | | | 20.1 | % | | | 289.5 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Underwriting profit | | $ | 8.6 | | | $ | (31.6 | ) | | | -78.6 | % | | $ | 40.2 | | | $ | (42.1 | ) | | | -51.2 | % | | $ | 82.3 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
Ratios | | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Net calendar year loss and LAE | | | 67.7 | % | | | 62.6 | % | | | 55.1 | % |
Net underwriting expenses | | | 31.5 | % | | | 33.1 | % | | | 33.8 | % |
Net combined | | | 99.2 | % | | | 95.7 | % | | | 88.9 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Commercial Insurance Segment Results of Operations 2011 Compared to 2010
Premiums.Gross premiums written for the year ended December 31, 2011 were $1,225.3 million as compared to $1,083.9 million during the same period in 2010. The increase of $141.4 million is primarily attributed to our new initiatives with customized solutions and assumed reinsurance which accounted for growth of $85.7 million and $72.8 million in 2011 compared to 2010, respectively.
Ceded premiums written for the year ended December 31, 2011 were $73.0 million compared to $96.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2010. The decrease in ceded premiums written resulted from our decision to not renew our liability quota share reinsurance treaty which was in effect in 2010. In addition, we reduced the ceded premiums for our excess of loss reinsurance by raising our retention from $1.5 million to $5.0 million on all lines of business except workers’ compensation on which our retention was raised from $1.5 million to $2.5 million. The company also purchased catastrophe reinsurance for all property lines.
The increases in net premiums written and earned are attributed to both the increase in gross written premiums and decline in ceded written premiums, as discussed above.
Renewal retention rate excluding programs was 77.1% for the year ended December 31, 2011 compared to 77.0% during the same period in 2010. Premiums on renewed commercial business, other than programs, increased 1.5%. Excluding programs, policies in-force for our commercial business remained flat as of December 31, 2011.
Ceding commission revenue.Ceding commission revenue decreased for the year ended December 31, 2011 by $18.5 million compared to 2010. The decrease was a result of the non-renewal of our liability quota share contract.
Loss and loss adjustment expenses and loss ratio.The net loss ratios were 67.7% and 62.6% for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The loss ratios increased in the current calendar year by 5.1 points in total, which is attributable to 2.9 points primarily due to severe weather related events losses and 2.2 points as a result of revised estimates of losses from prior years. The 2011 severe weather related losses, which include Hurricane Irene, were $31.5 million.
We increased reserves for prior years by approximately $46.1 million comprised of $26.4 million for other liability, $30.5 for workers compensation, and $7.9 million for commercial automobile. This was offset in part by favorable development on commercial packages and monoline property totaling $6.4 million, by favorable development in CPRE of $10.4 million, and $1.9 million for amortization of reserves risk premium that was established in 2009 as part of fair value accounting for the acquisitions made that year. Other liability unfavorable development included $8.1 million unfavorable related to excess liability coverage pertaining to one of our specialty programs. The unfavorable development in workers compensation included $8.3 million for programs and $10.3 million for transactional business.
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Underwriting expenses and underwriting expense ratio. Underwriting expenses, which include direct commissions and other underwriting expenses, increased by $14.3 million, or 4.1%, for the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to the 2010. The net underwriting expense ratio improved 1.6 percentage points from 2010 to 2011.
The gross underwriting expense ratio was 30.3% for the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to 31.4% in 2010. The commission portion of the gross underwriting expense ratio, which is expressed as a percentage of gross premiums earned, was 17.7% for the year ended December 31, 2011 compared to 17.5% for the same periods in 2010. This increase is attributable to the assumed reinsurance which has a higher commission. The OUE ratio, including BB&T, was 12.6% for the year ended December 31, 2011 compared 13.9% for the same period in 2010. The improvement in OUE in 2011 resulted from of our continued efforts to reduce expenses through integration, with many functions consolidated into one office.
Underwriting profit and combined ratio. The net combined ratios were 99.2% for the year ended December 31, 2011 and 95.7% for 2010. The increase in the combined ratio in 2011 resulted from an increase in the net loss ratio due to catastrophe losses and more competitive market conditions, partially offset by a decrease in the net expense ratios as described above.
Commercial Insurance Segment Results of Operations 2010 Compared to 2009
Premiums. Gross premium written for the year ended December 31, 2010 were $1,083.9 million compared to $884.7 million in 2009. The increase in gross premiums written was primarily the result of the acquisitions of CastlePoint and Hermitage in February 2009 and the acquisition of SUA in November 2009.
Ceded premiums written for the year ended December 31, 2010 were $96.6 million compared to $153.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. The decrease in ceded premiums written resulted from our decision to lower the ceded percentage on our liability quota share reinsurance treaty during 2010.
Catastrophe reinsurance ceded premiums were $11.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009. Catastrophe costs remained flat because there were no significant changes in commercial property exposure that we reinsure.
The change in net premiums written and earned increased in line with increases in gross premiums that were driven primarily by the acquisitions described above and the aforementioned decrease in ceded premiums.
Renewal retention, particularly for small policies, continued to offset a challenging market environment for new business. We restricted underwriting in some of our programs and for middle market and larger accounts, which resulted in a decline in premiums from these customer types. Excluding programs, the renewal retention rate was 77% for the year ended December 31, 2010. Premiums on renewed commercial business, other than programs, increased 0.6%. Excluding programs, policies in-force for our commercial business increased by 0.2% as of December 31, 2010.
Ceding commission revenue. Ceding commission revenue decreased for the year ended December 31, 2010 by $4.8 million compared to 2009. The decrease was a result of a lower ceded commission rate on our liability quota share treaty earned in 2010 compared to the ceded commission rate on our multi-line quota share which was earned in 2009. Ceding commission revenue decreased by $2.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2010 as a result of increases in ceded loss ratios on prior year’s quota share treaties compared to a decrease of $1.8 million for 2009.
Loss and loss adjustment expenses and loss ratio.Our gross and net loss ratios increased by 6.7 points and 7.5 points, respectively, from 2009 to 2010. The loss ratios increased mostly as a result of more competitive market conditions and revised estimates of losses from prior years. These increases were partially offset by improvements in loss adjustment expenses impacting both ALAE and ULAE as well as by amortization of reserves risk premiums that were established in connection with fair value accounting for acquisitions made in 2009.
More competitive market conditions contributed to the increase in loss ratio despite small increases in premiums for renewed commercial business. We cancelled several of our workers’ compensation and commercial automobile programs early in the year due to poor performance, but the runoff for these cancelled programs was relatively poor. We also increased loss development factors for commercial lines which impacted reserves for prior years, described below, and also caused us to increase our loss ratio estimates for the current year.
16
We increased reserves for prior years by approximately $19.8 million comprised of $18.7 million for commercial automobile and $6.6 million for commercial multi-peril, which was offset in part by favorable development on workers’ compensation of $10.1 million and amortization of reserves risk premium of $4.6 million that was established in 2009 as part of fair value accounting for the acquisitions of CastlePoint, Hermitage, and SUA in that year. The unfavorable development in commercial automobile and commercial packages resulted from higher loss development factors based upon detailed studies of our business that we completed in the fourth quarter. The favorable development in workers’ compensation included lower estimates of incurred losses for small workers’ compensation policies as well as higher estimated ceded losses for excess of loss reinsurance that we purchase. We also had adverse development of $8.0 million in assumed reinsurance that resulted from participation on quota share business written by CastlePoint prior to its acquisition by Tower.
The adverse development was reduced as a result of lowering estimated costs for litigation defense claims in our commercial multi-peril and other liability business of approximately $10 million. Since 2009 we have been increasing the number of staff attorneys defending third-party liability claims defense in-house, which we believe results in better loss ratios as well as significantly lower ALAE. As part of our acquisition of OBPL on July 1, 2010 we hired additional defense attorneys that we were able to reassign, in part, to commercial lines.
Underwriting expenses and underwriting expense ratio. Underwriting expenses, which include direct commissions and other underwriting expenses, increased $58.1 million from 2009 to 2010. The increase in underwriting expenses resulted from the increase in gross premiums earned, which was primarily due to the acquisitions discussed above. The gross underwriting expense ratio was 31.4% for the year ended December 31, 2010 as compared to 32.4% for 2009. The net expense ratio was 33.1% for the year ended December 31, 2010 as compared to 33.8% for 2009.
The other underwriting expense (“OUE”) ratio, including BB&T, was 13.9% for the year ended December 31, 2010 compared to 12.7% for 2009. This increase is attributed to: (i) the increase in gross premiums written which impact our BB&T; (ii) our investment in technology and overall integration efforts have increased due to the previously mentioned acquisitions over the past eighteen months that were mainly commercial lines focused; and (iii) compensation-related costs of $2.9 million were incurred in connection with staff reductions related to ongoing restructuring and closing of certain offices associated with acquired businesses.
The commission portion of the gross underwriting expense ratio, which is expressed as a percentage of gross premiums earned, was17.5% for the year ended December 31, 2010 compared to 19.7% for 2009. The decrease in commission rate for 2010 resulted from significantly higher amortization costs in 2009 for the value of business acquired (“VOBA”) of CastlePoint.
Underwriting profit and combined ratio. The net combined ratios were 95.7% for the year ended December 31, 2010 and 88.9% for 2009. The increase in the combined ratio in 2010 resulted from an increase in the net loss ratio due to catastrophe losses, softer market conditions and from increases in the net expense ratios as described above.
17
Personal Insurance Segment Results of Operations
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2011 | | | | | | | | | 2010 | |
($ in millions) | | Tower | | | Reciprocal Exchanges | | | Total | | | Change | | | Percent | | | Tower | | | Reciprocal Exchanges | | | Total | |
Net premiums written | | $ | 316.9 | | | $ | 169.4 | | | $ | 486.3 | | | $ | 159.5 | | | | 48.8 | % | | $ | 223.6 | | | $ | 103.2 | | | $ | 326.8 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Revenues | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net premiums earned | | $ | 318.7 | | | $ | 187.2 | | | $ | 505.9 | | | $ | 154.2 | | | | 43.9 | % | | $ | 257.9 | | | $ | 93.8 | | | $ | 351.7 | |
Ceding commission revenue | | | 12.5 | | | | 6.7 | | | | 19.2 | | | | 13.1 | | | | 216.0 | % | | | 4.0 | | | | 2.1 | | | | 6.1 | |
Policy billing fees | | | 5.6 | | | | 0.6 | | | | 6.2 | | | | 2.8 | | | | 76.2 | % | | | 3.1 | | | | 0.3 | | | | 3.4 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total revenue | | | 336.8 | | | | 194.5 | | | | 531.3 | | | | 170.1 | | | | 47.1 | % | | | 265.0 | | | | 96.2 | | | | 361.2 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expenses | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net loss and loss adjustment expenses | | | 214.4 | | | | 104.4 | | | | 318.8 | | | | 124.1 | | | | 63.7 | % | | | 132.5 | | | | 62.2 | | | | 194.7 | |
Underwriting expenses | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Direct commission expenses | | | 68.6 | | | | 32.5 | | | | 101.1 | | | | 26.2 | | | | 35.0 | % | | | 56.5 | | | | 18.4 | | | | 74.9 | |
Other underwriting expenses | | | 73.5 | | | | 52.3 | | | | 125.8 | | | | 41.2 | | | | 48.7 | % | | | 59.8 | | | | 24.8 | | | | 84.6 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total underwriting expenses | | | 142.1 | | | | 84.8 | | | | 226.9 | | | | 67.4 | | | | 42.3 | % | | | 116.3 | | | | 43.2 | | | | 159.5 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Underwriting profit (loss) | | $ | (19.7 | ) | | $ | 5.3 | | | $ | (14.4 | ) | | $ | (21.4 | ) | | | -305.7 | % | | $ | 16.2 | | | $ | (9.2 | ) | | $ | 7.0 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | |
Ratios | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net calendar year loss and LAE | | | 67.2 | % | | | 55.8 | % | | | 63.0 | % | | | | | | | | | | | 51.4 | % | | | 66.3 | % | | | 55.4 | % |
Net underwriting expenses | | | 38.9 | % | | | 41.4 | % | | | 39.8 | % | | | | | | | | | | | 42.3 | % | | | 43.5 | % | | | 42.6 | % |
Net combined | | | 106.1 | % | | | 97.2 | % | | | 102.8 | % | | | | | | | | | | | 93.7 | % | | | 109.8 | % | | | 98.0 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2010 | | | | | | | | | | |
($ in millions) | | Tower | | | Reciprocal Exchanges | | | Total | | | Change | | | Percent | | | 2009 | |
Net premiums written | | $ | 223.6 | | | $ | 103.2 | | | $ | 326.8 | | | $ | 171.5 | | | | 110.4 | % | | $ | 155.3 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Revenues | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net premiums earned | | $ | 257.9 | | | $ | 93.8 | | | $ | 351.7 | | | $ | 235.2 | | | | 201.9 | % | | $ | 116.5 | |
Ceding commission revenue | | | 4.0 | | | | 2.1 | | | | 6.1 | | | | 1.5 | | | | 32.6 | % | | | 4.6 | |
Policy billing fees | | | 3.1 | | | | 0.3 | | | | 3.4 | | | | 2.7 | | | | 385.7 | % | | | 0.7 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total revenue | | | 265.0 | | | | 96.2 | | | | 361.2 | | | | 239.4 | | | | 196.6 | % | | | 121.8 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expenses | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net loss and loss adjustment expenses | | | 132.5 | | | | 62.2 | | | | 194.7 | | | | 125.9 | | | | 183.0 | % | | | 68.8 | |
Underwriting expenses | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Direct commission expenses | | | 56.5 | | | | 18.4 | | | | 74.9 | | | | 46.1 | | | | 160.1 | % | | | 28.8 | |
Other underwriting expenses | | | 59.8 | | | | 24.8 | | | | 84.6 | | | | 56.5 | | | | 201.1 | % | | | 28.1 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total underwriting expenses | | | 116.3 | | | | 43.2 | | | | 159.5 | | | | 102.6 | | | | 180.3 | % | | | 56.9 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Underwriting profit (loss) | | $ | 16.2 | | | $ | (9.2 | ) | | $ | 7.0 | | | $ | 10.9 | | | | -279.5 | % | | $ | (3.9 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
Ratios | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net calendar year loss and LAE | | | 51.4 | % | | | 66.3 | % | | | 55.4 | % | | | | | | | | | | | 59.1 | % |
Net underwriting expenses | | | 42.3 | % | | | 43.5 | % | | | 42.6 | % | | | | | | | | | | | 44.3 | % |
Net combined | | | 93.7 | % | | | 109.8 | % | | | 98.0 | % | | | | | | | | | | | 103.4 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Personal Insurance Segment Results of Operations 2011 Compared to 2010
Premiums.Gross premiums written for the year ended December 31, 2011 were $585.6 million as compared to $412.5 million in 2010. The increase of $173.1 million is primarily attributable to OBPL which was acquired on July 1, 2010, and was reflected in Tower’s consolidated results for twelve months in 2011 as compared to six months in 2010. Excluding the effects of OBPL, Tower’s other personal lines gross premiums written increased $7.7 million from $201.0 million in 2010 to $208.7 million in 2011 due principally to organic growth in the homeowners business.
18
Ceded premiums written for the year ended December 31, 2011 were $99.4 million, an increase of $13.7 million as compared to $85.7 million in 2010. The Company reinsures the homeowners and umbrella business obtained from OBPL through a quota share program. The Company also purchased catastrophe reinsurance for certain property business. The increase in ceded premiums written is due to the increase in gross premiums written associated with the OBPL acquisition
Net premiums written and earned increased $159.5 million and $154.2 million, respectively, in 2011 as compared to 2010. The increase in net premiums written and earned is a result of the OBPL acquisition, as discussed above. Net premiums written and earned associated with the OBPL business were $311.6 million and $335.2 million, respectively, in 2011 compared to $170.0 million and $191.8 million, respectively, in 2010.
The Company’s personal lines renewal retention was 86% and 83% for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The increase in 2011 is attributed to the change in business mix as a result of the OBPL acquisition. Premiums on renewed business increased by 2.5% and 5.0% in 2011 and 2010, respectively. Policies-in-force decreased by 2.5% as of December 31, 2011 from December 31, 2010.
Ceding commission revenue.The increase in ceding commission revenue for the year ended December 31, 2011 compared to the prior year is attributed to the commission revenue earned on the previously mentioned homeowners and umbrella quota share treaties on the OBPL acquired business.
Net loss and loss adjustment expenses. Our net loss and loss adjustment expense ratio for 2011 compared to 2010 increased by 7.6 percentage points to 63.0% and, excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges, increased by 15.8 points to 67.2%.
Excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges, the increase in the loss ratio as compared to 2010 was primarily due to winter storms and property catastrophes, the most significant of which was Hurricane Irene. These storms, together, added $42.8 million in losses and 13.4 points to the net loss ratio. Excluding these storms the loss ratio would have been 53.8% in 2011.
The favorable development in Personal Insurance, excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges, of $29.1 million was comprised primarily of $22.2 million for private passenger automobile liability, $13.1 million for homeowners and $1.9 million for amortization of reserves risk premium, principally relating to reserves acquired in the OBPL transaction developing more favorably than anticipated at the time of the acquisition, offset by unfavorable development of $4.2 million in discontinued personal lines business, $3.1 million in involuntary plans and $0.8 million in other lines.
The Reciprocal Exchanges loss ratio included $6.5 million from winter storms and property catastrophes that amounted to 3.5 loss ratio percentage points. Excluding these storms the loss ratio would have been 52.3% in 2011.
Underwriting expenses.Underwriting expenses increased by $67.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to the prior year. Nearly all of the increase is related to the OBPL acquisition. The net underwriting expense ratio improved 2.8 percentage points from 2010 to 2011.
The gross underwriting expense ratio improved to 36.1% in 2011 from 36.9% in 2010. The commission portion of the gross underwriting expense ratio was 16.5% and 17.7% for years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The improvement in the commission ratio reflects the impact of lower commission rates in the Reciprocal Exchanges. The gross OUE ratio, which includes BB&T, was 19.6% and 19.2% for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The costs of the transition services agreements with OneBeacon have the effect of increasing the gross OUE ratios.
Underwriting profit and combined ratio. The increase in Personal Insurance segment underwriting loss and combined ratio for the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to the underwriting profit and combined ratio in 2010 are due primarily to the catastrophe and severe storms that affected the northeastern United States in 2011, partially offset by favorable prior year loss development of $48.3 million in 2011.Of this amount, $10.5 million of the favorable loss development related to Tower, excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges. The Reciprocal Exchanges’ favorable loss development in 2011 was $37.8 million.
Personal Insurance Segment Results of Operations 2010 Compared to 2009
Premiums.Gross premiums written for the year ended December 31, 2010 were $412.5 million, an increase of $226.5 million over the 2009 gross premiums written of $186.0 million. The acquisition of OBPL accounted for $224.3 million of the increase. The remaining growth from the existing business was predominately from our California homeowners book. Immediately following the OBPL acquisition, actions were taken to shed unprofitable business and to reduce coastal exposures.
19
Ceded premiums written for 2010 were $85.7 million as compared to $30.7 million in 2009. The increase in ceded premiums is principally due to the acquisition of OBPL which generated $41.5 million in ceded premiums. The Company reinsures the homeowners and umbrella business obtained from OBPL through a quota share program. The Company also purchases catastrophe reinsurance for all property business.
Net premiums written for the year ended December 31, 2010 was $326.8 million, an increase of $171.5 million over 2009. The acquisition of OBPL accounted for $167.8 million of the increase.
Ceding commission revenue.Ceding commission revenue for 2010 was $6.1 million, an increase of $1.5 million over 2009. The increase was primarily attributable to the commission revenue associated with the previously mentioned homeowner and umbrella quota share treaties.
Loss and loss adjustment expenses. Our gross and net loss ratios for 2010 decreased by 0.8 and of 3.7 percentage points, respectively, compared to 2009. The net loss ratio excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges was 51.4%. The improvement in loss ratio resulted from lower than expected losses in 2010 and favorable reserve development, which was offset in part by winter storm losses that occurred in March 2010. Winter storm losses were $15.5 million in 2010, which represented 4.4 loss ratio points overall. Third and fourth quarter 2010 homeowners losses were better than expected for the current accident year due to relatively mild winter weather even considering the snow storm that occurred in the Northeast on December 26, 2010.
Prior year losses developed favorably by $32.1 million, comprised of $22.3 million favorable development in our stock companies and $9.9 million favorable development in the Reciprocal Exchanges. For the OBPL business we recorded favorable development that we experienced relative to expected patterns only for the third and fourth quarters of 2010 after our acquisition of this business.
Underwriting expenses.Underwriting expenses increased by $102.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2010 as compared to 2009. This increase is related predominantly to the OBPL acquisition. The net underwriting expense ratio improved 1.7 percentage points from 44.3% in 2009 to 42.6% in 2010.
The gross underwriting expense ratio for 2010 was 36.9%, as compared to 35.4% in 2009. The commission portion of the gross underwriting expense ratio was 17.7%, compared to 18.1% for the prior year. The improvement in the commission ratio reflects the impact of lower commission rates in the Reciprocal Exchanges. The gross OUE ratio, including BB&T, was 19.2% compared with 17.3% in 2009. The increase in the OUE expense ratio relates primarily to increases in expenses attributed to OBPL, including the transition services agreements Tower entered into with OneBeacon whereby OneBeacon will provide certain information technology and operation support to Tower.
Underwriting profit and combined ratio. The net combined ratio for the Personal Insurance segment was 98.0% in 2010, 5.4 points better than prior year. Underwriting income of $7.0 million was $10.9 million better than 2009 and was largely driven by the addition of the OBPL business. Changes in combined ratio reflect the changes in the loss ratio and the expense ratio for reasons described above.
20
Insurance Services Segment Results of Operations
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
($ in millions) | | 2011 | | | Change | | | Percent | | | 2010 | | | Change | | | Percent | | | 2009 | |
Revenue | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Management fee income | | $ | 29.3 | | | $ | 11.5 | | | | 64.6 | % | | $ | 17.8 | | | $ | 17.8 | | | | — | | | $ | — | |
Other revenue | | | 1.6 | | | | (0.5 | ) | | | -23.8 | % | | | 2.1 | | | | (3.0 | ) | | | -57.7 | % | | | 5.1 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total revenue | | | 30.9 | | | | 11.0 | | | | 55.0 | % | | | 19.9 | | | | 14.8 | | | | 284.6 | % | | | 5.1 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expenses | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Other expenses | | | 19.4 | | | | 13.7 | | | | 240.4 | % | | | 5.7 | | | | 1.5 | | | | 32.1 | % | | | 4.2 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total expenses | | | 19.4 | | | | 13.7 | | | | 240.4 | % | | | 5.7 | | | | 1.5 | | | | 32.1 | % | | | 4.2 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Insurance services pre-tax income | | $ | 11.5 | | | $ | (2.7 | ) | | | -19.0 | % | | $ | 14.2 | | | $ | 13.3 | | | | NM | | | $ | 0.9 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Premiums produced on behalf of issuing companies | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | (11.7 | ) | | | -100.0 | % | | $ | 11.7 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
NM is shown where percentage change exceeds 500%
Insurance Services Segment Results of Operations 2011 Compared to 2010
Total revenue. The increase in total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2011 compared to 2010 was primarily due to the management fee income earned by Tower for underwriting, claims, investment management and other services provided to the Reciprocal Exchanges pursuant to management services agreements with the Reciprocal Exchanges. The management fee income is calculated as a percentage of the Reciprocal Exchanges’ gross written premiums of $209.3 million and $126.8 million in 2011 and 2010, respectively. The effects of these management services agreements between Tower and the Reciprocal Exchanges are eliminated in consolidation to derive consolidated net income. However, the management fee income is reported in net income attributable to Tower Group, Inc. and included in basic and diluted earnings per share. We had no premiums managed by our managing general agencies in 2011 and 2010.
Total expenses. The increase in total expenses for the year ended December 31, 2011 compared to 2010 was primarily due to the costs incurred under the management services agreement between Tower and the Reciprocal Exchanges, which were in place for the twelve months in 2011 as compared to six months in 2010.
Insurance Services Segment Results of Operations 2010 Compared to 2009
Total revenue. The increase in total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2010 compared to 2009 was primarily due to the management fee income earned by Tower for underwriting, claims, investment management and other services provided to the Reciprocal Exchanges pursuant to a management services agreement with the Reciprocal Exchanges. The management fee income is calculated as a percentage of the Reciprocal Exchanges’ gross written premiums of $126.8 million in 2010. The increase in management fee income was offset by modest declines in revenue generated from our managing general agencies.
Total expenses. The increase in total expenses for the year ended December 31, 2010 compared to 2009 was primarily due to the costs incurred under the management services agreements between Tower and the Reciprocal Exchanges.
21
Investments
Portfolio Summary
The following table presents a breakdown of the amortized cost, aggregate fair value and unrealized gains and losses by investment type as of December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Cost or | | | Gross | | | Gross Unrealized Losses | | | | | | % of | |
| | Amortized | | | Unrealized | | | Less than 12 | | | More than 12 | | | Fair | | | Fair | |
($ in thousands) | | Cost | | | Gains | | | Months | | | Months | | | Value | | | Value | |
December 31, 2011 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | | $ | 154,430 | | | $ | 1,725 | | | $ | (13 | ) | | $ | — | | | $ | 156,142 | | | | 6.1 | % |
U.S. Agency securities | | | 114,411 | | | | 2,779 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 117,190 | | | | 4.6 | % |
Municipal bonds | | | 688,192 | | | | 48,777 | | | | (255 | ) | | | — | | | | 736,714 | | | | 29.0 | % |
Corporate and other bonds | | | 750,220 | | | | 34,466 | | | | (6,813 | ) | | | (150 | ) | | | 777,723 | | | | 30.6 | % |
Commercial, residential and asset-backed securities | | | 627,859 | | | | 42,167 | | | | (3,529 | ) | | | (592 | ) | | | 665,905 | | | | 26.2 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total fixed-maturity securities | | | 2,335,112 | | | | 129,914 | | | | (10,610 | ) | | | (742 | ) | | | 2,453,674 | | | | 96.5 | % |
Equity securities | | | 93,034 | | | | 1,395 | | | | (4,838 | ) | | | (246 | ) | | | 89,345 | | | | 3.5 | % |
Short-term investments | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 0.0 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2011 | | $ | 2,428,146 | | | $ | 131,309 | | | $ | (15,448 | ) | | $ | (988 | ) | | $ | 2,543,019 | | | | 100.0 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower | | $ | 2,138,001 | | | $ | 118,173 | | | $ | (14,160 | ) | | $ | (915 | ) | | $ | 2,241,099 | | | | | |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 290,145 | | | | 13,136 | | | | (1,288 | ) | | | (73 | ) | | | 301,920 | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2011 | | $ | 2,428,146 | | | $ | 131,309 | | | $ | (15,448 | ) | | $ | (988 | ) | | $ | 2,543,019 | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2010 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | | $ | 177,060 | | | $ | 1,258 | | | $ | (64 | ) | | $ | — | | | $ | 178,254 | | | | 7.2 | % |
U.S. Agency securities | | | 26,504 | | | | 758 | | | | (34 | ) | | | — | | | | 27,228 | | | | 1.1 | % |
Municipal bonds | | | 544,019 | | | | 14,357 | | | | (4,635 | ) | | | (35 | ) | | | 553,706 | | | | 22.4 | % |
Corporate and other bonds | | | 853,154 | | | | 35,192 | | | | (4,766 | ) | | | (10 | ) | | | 883,570 | | | | 35.7 | % |
Commercial, residential and | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 0.0 | % |
asset-backed securities | | | 707,294 | | | | 37,665 | | | | (3,986 | ) | | | (1,120 | ) | | | 739,853 | | | | 29.9 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total fixed-maturity securities | | | 2,308,031 | | | | 89,230 | | | | (13,485 | ) | | | (1,165 | ) | | | 2,382,611 | | | | 96.3 | % |
Equity securities | | | 91,218 | | | | 2,487 | | | | (3,192 | ) | | | (196 | ) | | | 90,317 | | | | 3.6 | % |
Short-term investments | | | 1,560 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 1,560 | | | | 0.1 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 2,400,809 | | | $ | 91,717 | | | $ | (16,677 | ) | | $ | (1,361 | ) | | $ | 2,474,488 | | | | 100.0 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower | | $ | 2,062,315 | | | $ | 87,012 | | | $ | (14,532 | ) | | $ | (1,361 | ) | | $ | 2,133,434 | | | | | |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 338,494 | | | | 4,705 | | | | (2,145 | ) | | | — | | | | 341,054 | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2010 | | $ | 2,400,809 | | | $ | 91,717 | | | $ | (16,677 | ) | | $ | (1,361 | ) | | $ | 2,474,488 | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
22
Credit Rating of Fixed-Maturity Securities
The average credit rating of our fixed-maturity securities, using ratings assigned to securities by Standard & Poor’s, was A+ at December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010. The following table shows the ratings distribution of our fixed-maturity portfolio:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Tower | | | Reciprocal Exchanges | |
| | | | | Percentage | | | | | | Percentage | |
| | | | | of Fair | | | | | | of Fair | |
($ in thousands) | | Fair Value | | | Value | | | Fair Value | | | Value | |
December 31, 2011 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Rating | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | | $ | 151,621 | | | | 7.0 | % | | $ | 4,521 | | | | 1.5 | % |
AAA | | | 189,431 | | | | 8.8 | % | | | 49,316 | | | | 16.4 | % |
AA | | | 930,436 | | | | 43.3 | % | | | 98,017 | | | | 32.8 | % |
A | | | 459,353 | | | | 21.3 | % | | | 105,696 | | | | 35.2 | % |
BBB | | | 208,552 | | | | 9.7 | % | | | 12,728 | | | | 4.2 | % |
Below BBB | | | 214,227 | | | | 9.9 | % | | | 29,776 | | | | 9.9 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 2,153,620 | | | | 100.0 | % | | $ | 300,054 | | | | 100.0 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2010 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Rating | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | | $ | 148,018 | | | | 7.3 | % | | $ | 30,236 | | | | 8.9 | % |
AAA | | | 620,281 | | | | 30.4 | % | | | 100,566 | | | | 29.5 | % |
AA | | | 412,414 | | | | 20.2 | % | | | 46,015 | | | | 13.5 | % |
A | | | 445,498 | | | | 21.8 | % | | | 111,064 | | | | 32.6 | % |
BBB | | | 161,474 | | | | 7.9 | % | | | 32,932 | | | | 9.7 | % |
Below BBB | | | 253,872 | | | | 12.4 | % | | | 20,241 | | | | 5.8 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 2,041,557 | | | | 100.0 | % | | $ | 341,054 | | | | 100.0 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Fixed Maturity Investments—Time to Maturity
The following table shows the composition of our fixed maturity portfolio by remaining time to maturity at December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010. For securities that are redeemable at the option of the issuer and have a market price that is greater than redemption value, the maturity used for the table below is the earliest redemption date. For securities that are redeemable at the option of the issuer and have a market price that is less than redemption value, the maturity used for the table below is the final maturity date:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Tower | | | Reciprocal Exchanges | | | Total | |
| | Amortized | | | Fair | | | Amortized | | | Fair | | | Amortized | | | Fair | |
($ in thousands) | | Cost | | | Value | | | Cost | | | Value | | | Cost | | | Value | |
December 31, 2011 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Remaining Time to Maturity | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Less than one year | | $ | 40,201 | | | $ | 40,529 | | | $ | 44,238 | | | $ | 44,942 | | | $ | 84,439 | | | $ | 85,471 | |
One to five years | | | 479,721 | | | | 491,904 | | | | 81,566 | | | | 83,743 | | | | 561,287 | | | | 575,647 | |
Five to ten years | | | 563,830 | | | | 593,838 | | | | 21,522 | | | | 22,797 | | | | 585,352 | | | | 616,635 | |
More than 10 years | | | 427,357 | | | | 458,536 | | | | 48,818 | | | | 51,480 | | | | 476,175 | | | | 510,016 | |
Mortgage and asset-backed securities | | | 535,823 | | | | 568,813 | | | | 92,036 | | | | 97,092 | | | | 627,859 | | | | 665,905 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 2,046,932 | | | $ | 2,153,620 | | | $ | 288,180 | | | $ | 300,054 | | | $ | 2,335,112 | | | $ | 2,453,674 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2010 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Remaining Time to Maturity | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Less than one year | | $ | 28,408 | | | $ | 28,665 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 28,408 | | | $ | 28,665 | |
One to five years | | | 512,969 | | | | 526,746 | | | | 65,993 | | | | 66,771 | | | | 578,962 | | | | 593,517 | |
Five to ten years | | | 501,324 | | | | 521,138 | | | | 110,463 | | | | 111,166 | | | | 611,787 | | | | 632,304 | |
More than 10 years | | | 351,093 | | | | 358,445 | | | | 30,487 | | | | 29,826 | | | | 381,580 | | | | 388,271 | |
Mortgage and asset-backed securities | | | 575,743 | | | | 606,563 | | | | 131,551 | | | | 133,291 | | | | 707,294 | | | | 739,854 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 1,969,537 | | | $ | 2,041,557 | | | $ | 338,494 | | | $ | 341,054 | | | $ | 2,308,031 | | | $ | 2,382,611 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
23
Fixed-Maturity Investments with Third Party Guarantees
At December 31, 2011, $237.9 million of our municipal bonds, at fair value, were guaranteed by third parties from a total of $2.5 billion, at fair value, of all fixed-maturity securities held by us. The amount of securities guaranteed by third parties along with the credit rating with and without the guarantee is as follows:
| | | | | | | | |
| | With | | | Without | |
($ in thousands) | | Guarantee | | | Guarantee | |
AA | | $ | 180,996 | | | $ | 161,584 | |
A | | | 46,722 | | | | 65,829 | |
BBB | | | 10,151 | | | | 2,203 | |
BB | | | — | | | | 3,097 | |
No underlying rating | | | — | | | | 5,156 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 237,869 | | | | 237,869 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Tower | | $ | 232,115 | | | $ | 232,115 | |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 5,754 | | | | 5,754 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 237,869 | | | $ | 237,869 | |
| | | | | | | | |
The securities guaranteed, by guarantor, are as follows:
| | | | | | | | |
| | Guaranteed | | | Percent | |
($ in thousands) | | Amount | | | of Total | |
National Public Finance Guarantee Corp | | $ | 89,129 | | | | 37.5 | % |
Assured Guaranty Municipal Corp | | | 86,828 | | | | 36.5 | % |
Ambac Financial Corp | | | 47,611 | | | | 20.0 | % |
Berkshire Hathaway Assurance Corp | | | 6,796 | | | | 2.9 | % |
FGIC Corp | | | 4,153 | | | | 1.7 | % |
Others | | | 3,352 | | | | 1.4 | % |
| | | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 237,869 | | | | 100.0 | % |
| | | | | | | | |
Tower | | $ | 232,115 | | | | 97.6 | % |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 5,754 | | | | 2.4 | % |
| | | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 237,869 | | | | 100.0 | % |
| | | | | | | | |
Municipal Bonds
As of December 31, 2011, our municipal bonds consisted of state general obligations, municipal general obligations and special revenue bonds. Municipal bonds by state at December 31, 2011 are as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | State General | | | Municipal General | | | Special | | | | |
| | Obligations | | | Obligations | | | Revenue Bonds | | | Total | |
| | Amortized | | | Fair | | | Amortized | | | Fair | | | Amortized | | | Fair | | | Amortized | | | Fair | |
($ in thousands) | | Cost | | | Value | | | Cost | | | Value | | | Cost | | | Value | | | Cost | | | Value | |
Texas | | $ | 17,326 | | | $ | 18,585 | | | $ | 4,916 | | | $ | 5,585 | | | $ | 86,424 | | | $ | 91,931 | | | $ | 108,666 | | | $ | 116,101 | |
New York | | | 12,169 | | | | 13,262 | | | | 7,206 | | | | 7,376 | | | | 42,148 | | | | 45,626 | | | | 61,523 | | | | 66,264 | |
California | | | 15,303 | | | | 16,613 | | | | 12,363 | | | | 13,593 | | | | 19,855 | | | | 21,691 | | | | 47,521 | | | | 51,897 | |
Florida | | | 7,649 | | | | 8,026 | | | | 1,802 | | | | 1,822 | | | | 36,603 | | | | 39,934 | | | | 46,054 | | | | 49,782 | |
Washington | | | 14,866 | | | | 15,688 | | | | 5,602 | | | | 5,991 | | | | 12,852 | | | | 13,615 | | | | 33,320 | | | | 35,294 | |
Indiana | | | — | | | | — | | | | 1,018 | | | | 1,036 | | | | 27,972 | | | | 30,149 | | | | 28,990 | | | | 31,185 | |
Illinois | | | 14,715 | | | | 15,513 | | | | 3,350 | | | | 3,541 | | | | 10,960 | | | | 11,745 | | | | 29,025 | | | | 30,799 | |
Arizona | | | 6,269 | | | | 7,047 | | | | 2,677 | | | | 2,676 | | | | 19,263 | | | | 20,566 | | | | 28,209 | | | | 30,289 | |
Other | | | 64,053 | | | | 68,715 | | | | 36,596 | | | | 38,667 | | | | 204,235 | | | | 217,721 | | | | 304,884 | | | | 325,103 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 152,350 | | | $ | 163,449 | | | $ | 75,530 | | | $ | 80,287 | | | $ | 460,312 | | | $ | 492,978 | | | $ | 688,192 | | | $ | 736,714 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
No one jurisdiction within “Other” in the table above exceeded 4% of the total fair value of municipal bonds. As of December 31, 2011, the special revenue bonds are supported primarily by water and sewer utilities, electric utilities, college revenues and highway tolls.
24
Fair Value Consideration
Under GAAP, fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants (an “exit price”). GAAP establishes a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between inputs based on market data from independent sources (“observable inputs”) and a reporting entity’s internal assumptions based upon the best information available when external market data are limited or unavailable (“unobservable inputs”). The fair value hierarchy in GAAP prioritizes fair value measurements into three levels based on the nature of the inputs. Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets have the highest priority (“Level 1”), followed by observable inputs other than quoted prices including prices for similar but not identical assets or liabilities (“Level 2”), and unobservable inputs, including the reporting entity’s estimates of the assumption that market participants would use, having the lowest priority (“Level 3”).
As of December 31, 2011, substantially all of the investment portfolio recorded at fair value was priced based upon quoted market prices or other observable inputs. For investments in active markets, we used the quoted market prices provided by the outside pricing services to determine fair value. In circumstances where quoted market prices were unavailable, we used fair value estimates based upon other observable inputs including matrix pricing, benchmark interest rates, market comparables and other relevant inputs. When observable inputs were adjusted to reflect management’s best estimate of fair value, such fair value measurements are considered a lower level measurement in the GAAP fair value hierarchy.
Our process to validate the market prices obtained from the outside pricing sources includes, but is not limited to, periodic evaluation of model pricing methodologies and analytical reviews of certain prices. We also periodically perform testing of the market to determine trading activity, or lack of trading activity, as well as market prices. Several securities sold during the quarter were “back-tested” (i.e., the sales price is compared to the previous month end reported market price to determine reasonableness of the reported market price).
In certain instances, we deemed it necessary to utilize Level 3 pricing over prices available through pricing services used throughout 2011 and 2010. The ability to observe stable prices and inputs may be reduced for highly-customized an illiquid instruments as currently is the case for certain non-agency residential and commercial mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities.
A number of our Level 3 investments have also been written down as a result of our impairment analysis. At December 31, 2011, two securities included in other invested assets were priced in Level 3 with a fair value of $25.0 million, which was also our cost basis.
As more fully described in Note 6 to our consolidated financial statements, “Investments—Impairment Review,” we completed a detailed review of all our securities in a continuous loss position, including but not limited to residential and commercial mortgage-backed securities, and concluded that the unrealized losses in these asset classes are the result of a decrease in value due to technical spread widening and broader market sentiment.
“Note 7 – Fair Value Measurements” to the consolidated financial statements provides a description of the valuation methodology utilized to value Level 3 assets, how the valuation methodology is validated and an analysis of the change in fair value of Level 3 assets. As of December 31, 2011, the fair value of Tower Level 3 assets as a percentage of Tower’s total assets carried at fair value was as follows (the Reciprocal Exchanges had no Level 3 assets):
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | Level 3 Assets | |
| | Assets Carried at | | | | | | as a Percentage of | |
| | Fair Value at | | | Fair Value of | | | Total Assets Carried | |
($ in thousands) | | December 31, 2011 | | | Level 3 Assets | | | at Fair Value | |
Fixed-maturity investments | | $ | 2,453,674 | | | $ | — | | | | 0 | % |
Equity investments | | | 89,345 | | | | — | | | | 0 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total investments available for sale | | $ | 2,543,019 | | | $ | — | | | | 0 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Other invested assets | | | 25,000 | | | | 25,000 | | | | 100 | % |
Cash and cash equivalents | | | 114,098 | | | | — | | | | 0 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 2,682,117 | | | $ | 25,000 | | | | 0.9 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
25
Unrealized Losses
The fair value of our fixed maturity portfolio is directly affected by changes in interest rates and credit spreads. We regularly review both our fixed-maturity and equity portfolios to evaluate the necessity of recording impairment losses for other-than temporary declines in the fair value of investments.
For those fixed-maturity investments deemed not to be in an OTTI position, we believe that the gross unrealized investment loss was primarily caused by a spread widening in the capital markets. We expect cash flows from operations to be sufficient to meet our liquidity requirements and, therefore, we do not intend to sell these fixed maturity securities and we do not believe that we will be required to sell these securities before recovering their cost basis. For equity securities not considered OTTI, we believe we have the ability to hold these investments until a recovery of fair value to our cost basis. A substantial portion of the unrealized loss relating to the mortgage-backed securities is the result of a spread widening in the market that we believe to be temporary.
The following table presents information regarding our invested assets that were in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010 by amount of time in a continuous unrealized loss position:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Less than 12 Months | | | 12 Months or Longer | | | Total | |
| | Fair | | | Unrealized | | | Fair | | | Unrealized | | | Aggregate | | | Unrealized | |
($ in thousands) | | Value | | | Losses | | | Value | | | Losses | | | Fair Value | | | Losses | |
December 31, 2011 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | | $ | 92,001 | | | $ | (13 | ) | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 92,001 | | | $ | (13 | ) |
Municipal bonds | | | 13,449 | | | | (255 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 13,449 | | | | (255 | ) |
Corporate and other bonds | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Finance | | | 138,986 | | | | (4,610 | ) | | | 251 | | | | (5 | ) | | | 139,237 | | | | (4,615 | ) |
Industrial | | | 57,357 | | | | (2,141 | ) | | | 3,519 | | | | (145 | ) | | | 60,876 | | | | (2,286 | ) |
Utilities | | | 1,902 | | | | (61 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 1,902 | | | | (61 | ) |
Commercial mortgage-backed securities | | | 26,130 | | | | (2,564 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 26,130 | | | | (2,564 | ) |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Agency backed | | | 19 | | | | (1 | ) | | | 12 | | | | — | | | | 31 | | | | (1 | ) |
Non-agency backed | | | 13,294 | | | | (318 | ) | | | 4,609 | | | | (583 | ) | | | 17,903 | | | | (901 | ) |
Asset-backed securities | | | 29,624 | | | | (647 | ) | | | 610 | | | | (9 | ) | | | 30,234 | | | | (656 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total fixed-maturity securities | | | 372,762 | | | | (10,610 | ) | | | 9,001 | | | | (742 | ) | | | 381,763 | | | | (11,352 | ) |
Preferred stocks | | | 17,773 | | | | (644 | ) | | | 1,303 | | | | (246 | ) | | | 19,076 | | | | (890 | ) |
Common stocks | | | 44,132 | | | | (4,194 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 44,132 | | | | (4,194 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2011 | | $ | 434,667 | | | $ | (15,448 | ) | | $ | 10,304 | | | $ | (988 | ) | | $ | 444,971 | | | $ | (16,436 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower | | $ | 398,989 | | | $ | (14,160 | ) | | $ | 8,264 | | | $ | (915 | ) | | $ | 407,253 | | | $ | (15,075 | ) |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 35,678 | | | | (1,288 | ) | | | 2,040 | | | | (73 | ) | | | 37,718 | | | | (1,361 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2011 | | $ | 434,667 | | | $ | (15,448 | ) | | $ | 10,304 | | | $ | (988 | ) | | $ | 444,971 | | | $ | (16,436 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2010 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | | $ | 2,641 | | | $ | (64 | ) | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 2,641 | | | $ | (64 | ) |
U.S. Agency securities | | | 4,643 | | | | (34 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 4,643 | | | | (34 | ) |
Municipal bonds | | | 146,947 | | | | (4,635 | ) | | | 215 | | | | (35 | ) | | | 147,162 | | | | (4,670 | ) |
Corporate and other bonds | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Finance | | | 45,542 | | | | (618 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 45,542 | | | | (618 | ) |
Industrial | | | 172,305 | | | | (3,526 | ) | | | 241 | | | | (9 | ) | | | 172,546 | | | | (3,535 | ) |
Utilities | | | 24,567 | | | | (622 | ) | | | 243 | | | | (1 | ) | | | 24,810 | | | | (623 | ) |
Commercial mortgage-backed securities | | | 35,362 | | | | (892 | ) | | | 2,315 | | | | (658 | ) | | | 37,677 | | | | (1,550 | ) |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Agency backed | | | 210,770 | | | | (2,750 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 210,770 | | | | (2,750 | ) |
Non-agency backed | | | 2,416 | | | | (209 | ) | | | 8,112 | | | | (462 | ) | | | 10,528 | | | | (671 | ) |
Asset-backed securities | | | 9,958 | | | | (135 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 9,958 | | | | (135 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total fixed-maturity securities | | | 655,151 | | | | (13,485 | ) | | | 11,126 | | | | (1,165 | ) | | | 666,277 | | | | (14,650 | ) |
Preferred stocks | | | 9,507 | | | | (72 | ) | | | 5,356 | | | | (196 | ) | | | 14,863 | | | | (268 | ) |
Common stocks | | | 38,516 | | | | (3,120 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 38,516 | | | | (3,120 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2010 | | $ | 703,174 | | | $ | (16,677 | ) | | $ | 16,482 | | | $ | (1,361 | ) | | $ | 719,656 | | | $ | (18,038 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower | | $ | 530,401 | | | $ | (14,533 | ) | | $ | 16,482 | | | $ | (1,361 | ) | | $ | 546,883 | | | $ | (15,894 | ) |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 172,773 | | | | (2,144 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 172,773 | | | | (2,144 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2010 | | $ | 703,174 | | | $ | (16,677 | ) | | $ | 16,482 | | | $ | (1,361 | ) | | $ | 719,656 | | | $ | (18,038 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
26
At December 31, 2011, the fixed-maturity securities in an unrealized loss position for twelve months or greater were primarily in our residential non-agency mortgage-backed securities.
The following table stratifies the gross unrealized losses in the portfolio at December 31, 2011, by duration in a loss position and magnitude of the loss as a percentage of the cost or amortized cost of the security:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | Total Gross | | | Decline of Investment Value | |
| | Fair | | | Unrealized | | | >15% | | | >25% | | | >50% | |
($ in thousands) | | Value | | | Losses | | | Amount | | | Amount | | | Amount | |
Unrealized loss for less than 6 months | | $ | 359,522 | | | $ | (10,035 | ) | | $ | (1,750 | ) | | $ | (65 | ) | | $ | (49 | ) |
Unrealized loss for over 6 months | | | 74,486 | | | | (5,380 | ) | | | (2,072 | ) | | | (48 | ) | | | (89 | ) |
Unrealized loss for over 12 months | | | 5,844 | | | | (288 | ) | | | (68 | ) | | | — | | | | — | |
Unrealized loss for over 18 months | | | 12 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | |
Unrealized loss for over 2 years | | | 5,107 | | | | (733 | ) | | | (418 | ) | | | (179 | ) | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total unrealized loss | | $ | 444,971 | | | $ | (16,436 | ) | | $ | (4,308 | ) | | $ | (292 | ) | | $ | (138 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower | | $ | 407,253 | | | $ | (15,075 | ) | | $ | (4,030 | ) | | $ | (285 | ) | | $ | (138 | ) |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 37,718 | | | | (1,361 | ) | | | (278 | ) | | | (7 | ) | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total unrealized loss | | $ | 444,971 | | | $ | (16,436 | ) | | $ | (4,308 | ) | | $ | (292 | ) | | $ | (138 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
The following table shows the number of securities, fair value, unrealized loss amount and percentage below amortized cost and the ratio of fair value by security rating as of December 31, 2011:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | Unrealized Loss | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | Percent of | | | Fair Value by Security Rating | |
| | | | | Fair | | | | | | Amortized | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | BB or | |
($ in thousands) | | Count | | | Value | | | Amount | | | Cost | | | AAA | | | AA | | | A | | | BBB | | | Lower | |
U.S. Treasury securities | | | 4 | | | $ | 92,001 | | | $ | (13 | ) | | | 0 | % | | | 0 | % | | | 100 | % | | | 0 | % | | | 0 | % | | | 0 | % |
Municipal bonds | | | 17 | | | | 13,449 | | | | (255 | ) | | | -2 | % | | | 6 | % | | | 55 | % | | | 27 | % | | | 9 | % | | | 3 | % |
Corporate and other bonds | | | 273 | | | | 202,015 | | | | (6,962 | ) | | | -3 | % | | | 2 | % | | | 3 | % | | | 35 | % | | | 18 | % | | | 42 | % |
Commercial mortgage-backed securities | | | 12 | | | | 26,130 | | | | (2,564 | ) | | | -9 | % | | | 17 | % | | | 2 | % | | | 48 | % | | | 14 | % | | | 19 | % |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | | | 36 | | | | 17,934 | | | | (902 | ) | | | -5 | % | | | 15 | % | | | 2 | % | | | 30 | % | | | 0 | % | | | 53 | % |
Asset-backed securities | | | 18 | | | | 30,234 | | | | (656 | ) | | | -2 | % | | | 12 | % | | | 74 | % | | | 12 | % | | | 2 | % | | | 0 | % |
Equities | | | 25 | | | | 63,208 | | | | (5,084 | ) | | | -7 | % | | | 0 | % | | | 0 | % | | | 0 | % | | | 0 | % | | | 100 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
See “Note 6—Investments” in our consolidated financial statements for further information about impairment testing and other-than-temporary impairments.
27
Corporate and other bonds
The following tables show the fair value and unrealized loss by sector and credit quality rating of our corporate and other bonds in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2011:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Fair Value | | Rating | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | BB or | | | Fair | |
($ in thousands) | | AAA | | | AA | | | A | | | BBB | | | lower | | | value | |
Sector | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Financial | | $ | 6,971 | | | $ | 70,402 | | | $ | 22,563 | | | $ | 18,201 | | | $ | 21,100 | | | $ | 139,237 | |
Industrial | | | — | | | | 1,010 | | | | 12,808 | | | | 15,591 | | | | 31,467 | | | | 60,876 | |
Utilities | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 947 | | | | 955 | | | | 1,902 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total fair value | | $ | 6,971 | | | $ | 71,412 | | | $ | 35,371 | | | $ | 34,739 | | | $ | 53,522 | | | $ | 202,015 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
% of fair value | | | 3 | % | | | 35 | % | | | 18 | % | | | 17 | % | | | 26 | % | | | 100 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | |
Unrealized Loss | | Rating | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | BB or | | | Unrealized | |
($ in thousands) | | AAA | | | AA | | | A | | | BBB | | | lower | | | Loss | |
Sector | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Financial | | $ | (71 | ) | | $ | (2,974 | ) | | $ | (422 | ) | | $ | (232 | ) | | $ | (916 | ) | | $ | (4,615 | ) |
Industrial | | | — | | | | (22 | ) | | | (545 | ) | | | (376 | ) | | | (1,343 | ) | | | (2,286 | ) |
Utilities | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (13 | ) | | | (48 | ) | | | (61 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total unrealized loss | | $ | (71 | ) | | $ | (2,996 | ) | | $ | (967 | ) | | $ | (621 | ) | | $ | (2,307 | ) | | $ | (6,962 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
% of book value | | | (1 | %) | | | (4 | %) | | | (3 | %) | | | (2 | %) | | | (4 | %) | | | (3 | %) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
The majority of our corporate bonds that are in an unrealized loss position are rated below AA. Based on our analysis of these securities and current market conditions, we expect price recovery on these over time, and we have determined that these securities are not other than temporarily impaired as of December 31, 2011.
Total securitized assets
The following tables show the fair value and unrealized loss by credit quality rating and deal origination year of our commercial mortgage-backed, non-agency residential mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2011:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Fair Value | | Rating | | | | |
($ in thousands) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | BB or | | | Fair | |
Deal Origination Year | | AAA | | | AA | | | A | | | BBB | | | Lower | | | Value | |
2001—2004 | | $ | 3,484 | | | $ | 857 | | | $ | 253 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 1,554 | | | $ | 6,148 | |
2005—2007 | | | 307 | | | | 15,735 | | | | 13,398 | | | | 4,348 | | | | 13,056 | | | | 46,844 | |
2008—2010 | | | 2,203 | | | | 948 | | | | 1,778 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 4,929 | |
2011 | | | 4,482 | | | | 5,629 | | | | 6,235 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 16,346 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total fair value | | $ | 10,476 | | | $ | 23,169 | | | $ | 21,664 | | | $ | 4,348 | | | $ | 14,610 | | | $ | 74,267 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
% of fair value | | | 14 | % | | | 31 | % | | | 29 | % | | | 6 | % | | | 20 | % | | | 100 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | |
Unrealized losses | | | | | | | | |
| | |
| | Rating | | | | |
($ in thousands) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | BB or | | | Unrealized | |
Deal Origination Year | | AAA | | | AA | | | A | | | BBB | | | Lower | | | Loss | |
1998—2004 | | $ | (140 | ) | | $ | (67 | ) | | $ | (44 | ) | | $ | — | | | $ | (341 | ) | | $ | (592 | ) |
2005—2007 | | | — | | | | (356 | ) | | | (438 | ) | | | (877 | ) | | | (704 | ) | | | (2,375 | ) |
2008—2010 | | | (110 | ) | | | (50 | ) | | | (8 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | (168 | ) |
2011 | | | (18 | ) | | | (154 | ) | | | (814 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | (986 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total unrealized loss | | $ | (268 | ) | | $ | (627 | ) | | $ | (1,304 | ) | | $ | (877 | ) | | $ | (1,045 | ) | | $ | (4,121 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
% of book value | | | (2 | %) | | | (3 | %) | | | (6 | %) | | | (17 | %) | | | (7 | %) | | | (5 | %) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
28
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Tower is organized as a holding company (the “Holding Company”) with multiple intermediate holding companies, 13 insurance subsidiaries and several management companies. The Holding Company’s principal liquidity needs include interest on debt, stockholder dividends and share repurchases under its share repurchase program. The Holding Company’s principal sources of liquidity include dividends and other permitted payments from our subsidiaries, as well as financing through borrowings and sales of securities.
Tower Insurance Company of New York (“TICNY”) is the Company’s largest insurance subsidiary. Under New York law, TICNY is limited to paying dividends to the Holding Company only from statutory earned surplus. In addition, the New York Insurance Department must approve any dividend declared or paid by TICNY that, together with all dividends declared or distributed by TICNY during the preceding twelve months, exceeds the lesser of (1) 10% of TICNY’s policyholders’ surplus as shown on its latest annual statutory financial statement filed with the New York State Insurance Department or (2) 100% of adjusted net investment income during the preceding twelve months. TICNY declared $15.0 million, $4.7 million and $2.0 million in dividends to the Holding Company in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
CastlePoint Re is another of Tower’s significant insurance subsidiaries. Under the Insurance Act 1978 of Bermuda, as amended (the “Insurance Act”), CastlePoint Re is required to maintain a specified solvency margin and a minimum liquidity ratio and is prohibited from declaring or paying any dividends if doing so would cause CastlePoint Re to fail to meet its solvency margin and its minimum liquidity ratio. Under the Insurance Act, CastlePoint Re is prohibited from declaring or paying dividends without the approval of the Bermuda Monetary Authority (“BMA”), if CastlePoint Re failed to meet its solvency margin and minimum liquidity ratio on the last day of the previous fiscal year. Under the Insurance Act, CastlePoint Re is prohibited, without the approval of the BMA, from reducing by 15% or more its total statutory capital as set forth on its audited statutory financial statements for the previous year.
CastlePoint Re is also subject to dividend limitations imposed by Bermuda. Under the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda, as amended (the “Companies Act”), we may declare or pay a dividend out of distributable reserves only if we have reasonable grounds for believing that we are, or would after the payment, be able to pay our liabilities as they become due and if the realizable value of our assets would thereby not be less than the aggregate of our liabilities and issued share capital and share premium accounts.
The other insurance subsidiaries are subject to similar restrictions, usually related to policyholders’ surplus, unassigned surplus or net income and notice requirements of their domiciliary state. As of December 31, 2011, the amount of distributions that our insurance subsidiaries could pay to Tower without approval of their domiciliary Insurance Departments was $29.3 million. In addition, we can return capital of $61.0 million from CastlePoint Re without permission from the Bermuda Monetary Authority.
The management companies are not subject to any statutory limitations on their dividends to the Holding Company. The management companies declared dividends of $19.9 million, $7.5 million and $ 6.0 million in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
Pursuant to a tax allocation agreement, we compute and pay Federal income taxes on a consolidated basis. At the end of each consolidated return year, each entity must compute and pay to the Holding Company its share of the Federal income tax liability primarily based on separate return calculations. The tax allocation agreement allows the Holding Company to make certain Code elections in the consolidated Federal tax return. In the event such Code elections are made, any benefit or liability is accrued or paid by each entity. If a unitary or combined state income tax return is filed, each entity’s share of the liability is based on the methodology required or established by state income tax law or, if none, the percentage equal to each entity’s separate income or tax divided by the total separate income or tax reported on the return.
We believe that the cash flow generated by the operating activities of our subsidiaries, combined with other available capital sources, will provide sufficient funds for us to meet our liquidity needs over the next twelve months. Beyond the next twelve months, cash flow available to us may be influenced by a variety of factors, including general economic conditions and conditions in the insurance and reinsurance markets, as well as fluctuations from year-to-year in claims experience.
We have the intent and ability to hold any temporarily impaired fixed maturity securities until the anticipated date that these temporary impairments are recovered.
29
Commitments
The following table summarizes information about contractual obligations and commercial commitments. The minimum payments under these agreements as of December 31, 2011 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Payments due by period | |
($ in millions) | | Total | | | Less than 1 Year | | | 1-3 Years | | | 4-5 Years | | | After 5 Years | |
Subordinated Debentures | | $ | 235.1 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 235.1 | |
Interest on subordinated debentures and interest rate swaps | | | 405.1 | | | | 16.4 | | | | 32.9 | | | | 32.9 | | | | 322.9 | |
Convertible senior notes | | | 150.0 | | | | — | | | | 150.0 | | | | — | | | | — | |
Interest on convertible senior notes | | | 30.0 | | | | 7.5 | | | | 15.0 | | | | 7.5 | | | | — | |
Credit facility | | | 50.0 | | | | 50.0 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | |
Operating lease obligations | | | 68.6 | | | | 9.5 | | | | 17.0 | | | | 14.4 | | | | 27.7 | |
Capital lease obligation | | | 39.9 | | | | 7.8 | | | | 17.7 | | | | 14.4 | | | | — | |
Gross loss reserves | | | 1,635.7 | | | | 666.0 | | | | 589.3 | | | | 242.7 | | | | 137.7 | |
Limited partnership funding commitments | | | 14.7 | | | | 14.7 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total contractual obligations | | $ | 2,629.1 | | | $ | 771.9 | | | $ | 821.9 | | | $ | 311.9 | | | $ | 723.4 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
At various times over the past nine years we have issued trust preferred securities through wholly-owned Delaware statutory business trusts. The trusts used the proceeds of the sale of the trust preferred securities to third-party investors and common trust securities to Tower to purchase junior subordinated debentures from the Company. The terms of the junior subordinated debentures match the terms of the trust preferred securities. Interest on the junior subordinated debentures and the trust preferred securities is payable quarterly. In some cases, the interest rate is fixed for an initial period of five years after issuance and then floats with changes in the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”). In other cases the interest rate floats with LIBOR without any initial fixed-rate period. See “Note 12 – Debt” for the principal terms of the subordinated debentures. The interest on the subordinated debentures is calculated using interest rates in effect at December 31, 2011 for variable rate debentures.
We do not consolidate the statutory business trusts for which we hold 100% of the common trust securities because we are not the primary beneficiary of the trusts. Our investments in common trust securities of the statutory business trusts are reported in Other Assets. We report as a liability the outstanding subordinated debentures issued to the statutory business trusts.
Under the terms for all of the trust preferred securities, an event of default may occur upon:
| • | | non-payment of interest on the trust preferred securities, unless such non-payment is due to a valid extension of an interest payment period; |
| • | | non-payment of all or any part of the principal of the trust preferred securities; |
| • | | our failure to comply with the covenants or other provisions of the indentures or the trust preferred securities; or |
| • | | bankruptcy or liquidation of us or the trusts. |
If an event of default occurs and is continuing, the entire principal and the interest accrued on the affected trust preferred securities and junior subordinated debentures may be declared to be due and payable immediately.
Pursuant to the terms of our subordinated debentures, we and our subsidiaries cannot declare or pay any dividends if we are in default or have elected to defer payments of interest on the subordinated debentures.
In October 2010, the Company effected interest rate swap contracts with $190 million notional on the subordinated debentures. Certain of these subordinated debentures are currently paying a variable interest rate and other subordinated debentures will convert to variable rates over the next year. The interest rate swaps will fix the variable interest payments on the subordinated debentures to rates from 5.1% to 5.9%. The interest rate swaps mature in 2015.
In September 2010, the Company issued $150 million principal amount of 5.0% convertible senior notes (the “Notes”) due September 2014. Interest is being paid semi-annually commencing March 2011. Holders may convert their Notes into cash or common shares, at the Company’s option, at any time on or after March 15, 2014 or earlier under certain circumstances determined by: (i) the market price of the Company’s stock, (ii) the trading price of the Notes, or (iii) the occurrence of specified corporate transactions. Upon conversion, the Company intends to settle its obligation either entirely or partially in cash. The Company has been adjusting the conversion rate quarterly as the Company pays its quarterly dividend. At December 31, 2011 the conversion rate is 36.6865 shares of common stock per $1,000 principal amount of the Notes (equivalent to a conversion price of $27.26 per share), subject to further adjustment upon the occurrence of certain events, including future dividend payments. Additionally, in the event of a fundamental change, the holders may require the Company to repurchase the Notes for a cash price equal to 100% of the principal plus any accrued and unpaid interest.
30
In May 2010, the Company entered into a $125.0 million credit facility agreement. The credit facility is a revolving credit facility with a letter of credit sublimit of $25.0 million. The credit facility is being used for general corporate purposes. The Company may request that the facility be increased by an amount not to exceed $50.0 million, and the facility expires May 2013. The Company has $50.0 million outstanding under the credit facility as of December 31, 2011. The Company had no balance outstanding under the credit facility as of December 31, 2010.
On February 15, 2012, the Company amended its $125.0 million credit facility by increasing borrowing capacity up to $150 million, extending the maturity out to February 2016, and resetting borrowing fees to more favorable current market terms.
The gross loss reserve payments due by period in the table above are based upon the loss and loss expense reserves estimates as of December 31, 2011 and actuarial estimates of expected payout patterns by line of business. As a result, our calculation of loss reserve payments due by period is subject to the same uncertainties associated with determining the level of reserves and to the additional uncertainties arising from the difficulty of predicting when claims (including claims that have not yet been reported to us) will be paid. The projected gross loss payments presented do not include the estimated amounts recoverable from reinsurers that amounted to $319.7 million, which are estimated to be recovered as follows: less than one year, $130.2 million; one to three years, $115.2 million; four to five years, $47.4 million; and after five years, $26.9 million. The interest on the subordinated debentures is calculated using interest rates in effect at December 31, 2011 for variable rate debentures.
For a discussion of our loss and LAE reserving process, see “Critical Accounting Policies—Loss and LAE Reserves.” Actual payments of losses and loss adjustment expenses by period will vary, perhaps materially, from the above table to the extent that current estimates of loss reserves vary from actual ultimate claims amounts and as a result of variations between expected and actual payout patterns. See “Risk Factors-Risks Related to Our Business—If our actual loss and loss adjustment expense reserves exceed our loss and loss adjustment expense reserves, our financial condition and results of operations could be significantly adversely affected,” for a discussion of the uncertainties associated with estimating loss and LAE expense reserves. The estimated ceded reserves recoverable referred to above also assumes timely reimbursement from our reinsurers. If our reinsurers do not meet their contractual obligations on a timely basis, the payment assumptions presented above could vary materially.
Capital
Our capital resources consist of funds deployed or available to be deployed to support our business operations. At December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, our capital resources were as follows:
| | | | | | | | |
| | December 31, | |
($ in thousands) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | |
Outstanding under credit facility | | $ | 50,000 | | | $ | — | |
Subordinated debentures | | | 235,058 | | | | 235,058 | |
Convertible Senior Notes | | | 141,843 | | | | 139,208 | |
Tower Group, Inc. stockholders’ equity | | | 1,033,799 | | | | 1,042,962 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Total capitalization | | $ | 1,460,700 | | | $ | 1,417,228 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Ratio of debt to total capitalization | | | 29.2 | % | | | 26.4 | % |
| | | | | | | | |
We monitor our capital adequacy to support our business on a regular basis. The future capital requirements of our business will depend on many factors, including our ability to write new business successfully and to establish premium rates and reserves at levels sufficient to cover losses. Our ability to underwrite is largely dependent upon the quality of our claims paying and financial strength ratings as evaluated by independent rating agencies. In particular, we require (1) sufficient capital to maintain our financial strength ratings, at a level considered necessary by management to enable our insurance subsidiaries to compete, and (2) sufficient capital to enable our insurance subsidiaries to meet the capital adequacy tests performed by statutory agencies in the United States and Bermuda.
As part of Tower’s capital management strategy, the Board of Directors of Tower approved a $100 million share repurchase program on March 3, 2011. This authorization is in addition to the $100 million share repurchase program approved on February 26, 2010. Purchases under both programs can be made from time to time in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. The new share repurchase program will expire on March 4, 2013. The timing and amount of purchases under the programs depend on a variety of factors, including the trading price of the stock, market conditions and corporate and regulatory considerations. For the year ended December 31, 2011, 2.9 million shares of common stock were purchased under this program at an aggregate consideration of $64.6 million. In the year ended December 31, 2010, 4.0 million shares were purchased under this program at an aggregate consideration of $88.0 million. As of December 31, 2011, $47.4 million remained available for future share repurchases under the new program.
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We may seek to raise additional capital or may seek to return additional capital to our stockholders through share repurchases, cash dividends or other methods (or a combination of such methods). Any such determination will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors and will be dependent upon our profits, financial requirements and other factors, including legal restrictions, rating agency requirements, credit facility limitations and such other factors as our Board of Directors deems relevant.
Cash Flows
The primary sources of consolidated cash flows are from the insurance subsidiaries’ gross premiums collected, ceding commissions from quota share reinsurers, loss payments by reinsurers, investment income and proceeds from the sale or maturity of investments. Funds are used by the insurance subsidiaries for loss payments and loss adjustment expenses. The insurance subsidiaries also use funds for ceded premium payments to reinsurers, which are paid on a net basis after subtracting losses paid on reinsured claims and reinsurance commissions on our net business, commissions to producers, salaries and other underwriting expenses as well as to purchase investments, fixed assets and to pay dividends to the Holding Company. The management companies’ primary sources of cash are management fees for acting as the attorneys-in-fact for the Reciprocal Exchanges.
The reconciliation of net income to cash provided from operations is generally influenced by the collection of premiums in advance of paid losses, the timing of reinsurance, issuing company settlements and loss payments.
Cash flow and liquidity are categorized into three sources: (1) operating activities; (2) investing activities; and (3) financing activities, which are shown in the following table:
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
($ in thousands) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Cash provided by (used in): | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Operating activities | | $ | 82,754 | | | $ | 197,025 | | | $ | 214,711 | |
Investing activities | | | (104,950 | ) | | | (260,115 | ) | | | (175,216 | ) |
Financing activities | | | (3,927 | ) | | | 28,087 | | | | (10,866 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents | | | (26,123 | ) | | | (35,003 | ) | | | 28,629 | |
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year | | | 140,221 | | | | 175,224 | | | | 146,595 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period | | $ | 114,098 | | | $ | 140,221 | | | $ | 175,224 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Comparison of Years Ended December 31, 2011 and 2010
The Company continues to direct excess cash balances to higher yielding investments to maximize investment income. Accordingly, Tower’s cash balances declined from December 31, 2010 to 2011.
For the year ended December 31, 2011, net cash provided by operating activities was $82.8 million as compared to $197.0 million for 2010. The decrease in cash flow for the year ended December 31, 2011 primarily resulted from a $66.2 million cash transfer to provide collateral support for business written on our behalf, claims payments on third quarter 2011 catastrophes and severe storms, tornado losses in the second quarter of 2011 and winter storms in late December 2010. These were partially offset by the receipt of a $22.0 million Federal income tax refund in 2011.
Net cash flows used in investing activities were $105.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 compared to $260.1 million used for the year ended December 31, 2010. The year ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 included an increase to fixed assets of $53.6 million and $36.9 million, respectively, primarily related to the build out of new systems. The additional cash outflows in 2010 related to the purchase of OBPL on July 1, 2010. The remaining cash flows in both years relates to purchases and sales of fixed-maturity and equity securities.
The net cash flows used in financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2011 are primarily the result of uses of cash for the repurchase of common stock for $64.6 million and dividends of $27.9 million offset by cash inflows from a $50.0 million drawdown of our line of credit and $39.8 million from capital lease financings related to the aforementioned systems costs, and other fixtures and equipment. In 2010, the Company had uses of cash for the repurchase of common stock and dividend payments of $88.0 million and $16.6 million, respectively, offset by net cash inflows of $134.1 million for the issuance of the senior convertible notes, senior convertible noted hedge, and warrants.
Cash flow needs at the holding company level are primarily for dividends to our stockholders, interest and principal payments on our outstanding debt and payments under the credit facility.
32
Comparison of Years Ended December 31, 2010 and 2009
For the year ended December 31, 2010, net cash provided by operating activities was $197.0 million as compared to $214.7 million for 2009. The decrease in cash flow for the year ended December 31, 2010 primarily resulted from increased claims payments offset by reductions in cash paid for income taxes attributed to 2009 tax overpayments and increased tax deductions in 2010 relating to capital losses from the sale of certain fixed income securities.
Net cash flows used in investing activities were $260.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2010 compared to $175.2 million used for the year ended December 31, 2009. The year ended December 31, 2009 included net cash acquired of $226.7 million with the acquisitions of CastlePoint and Hermitage whereas for the year ended December 31, 2010 we used $171.9 million net cash to acquire OBPL and AequiCap. The remaining cash flows in both years primarily related to purchases and sales of fixed-maturity securities and preferred stock.
The net cash flows provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2010 primarily result from net cash inflows of $134.1 million for the issuance of the senior convertible notes, senior convertible noted hedge, and warrants offset by uses of cash for the repurchase of common stock and dividend payments of $88.0 million and $16.6 million, respectively.
Cash flow needs at the holding company level are primarily for dividends to our stockholders and interest payments on our outstanding debt.
Insurance Subsidiaries
The insurance subsidiaries maintain sufficient liquidity to pay claims, operating expenses and meet other obligations. We held $114.1 million and $140.2 million of cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. We monitor the expected claims payment needs and maintain a sufficient portion of our invested assets in cash and cash equivalents to enable us to fund the claims payments without having to sell longer-duration investments. As necessary, we adjust the holdings of short-term investments and cash and cash equivalents to provide sufficient liquidity to respond to changes in the anticipated pattern of claims payments. See “Business—Investments.”
As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, Tower’s insurance subsidiaries had $340.8 million and $261.1 million, respectively, of cash and investment balances held as collateral with counterparties or in New York Regulation 114 type compliant trust accounts to support letters of credit issued on behalf of the insurance subsidiaries, other reinsurance payable amounts and certain lease obligations. In addition, $226.8 million and $188.5 million of investment balances were on deposit with various states to comply with insurance laws of the states in which the Company’s insurance subsidiaries are licensed.
In 2011 and 2010, the Holding Company made no capital contributions to the insurance subsidiaries. In 2009, the Holding Company contributed $6.6 million to two separate insurance subsidiaries.
The insurance subsidiaries are required by law to maintain a certain minimum level of policyholders’ surplus on a statutory basis. Policyholders’ surplus is calculated by subtracting total liabilities from total assets. The NAIC maintains risk-based capital (“RBC”) requirements for property and casualty insurance companies. RBC is a formula that attempts to evaluate the adequacy of statutory capital and surplus in relation to investments and insurance risks. The formula is designed to allow the state Insurance Departments to identify potential weakly capitalized companies. Under the formula, a company determines its risk-based capital by taking into account certain risks related to the insurer’s assets (including risks related to its investment portfolio and ceded reinsurance) and the insurer’s liabilities (including underwriting risks related to the nature and experience of its insurance business). Applying the RBC requirements as of December 31, 2011, the insurance subsidiaries’ risk-based capital exceeded the minimum level that would trigger regulatory attention.
Inflation
Property and casualty loss and loss adjustment expense reserves are established before we know the amount of losses and loss adjustment expenses or the extent to which inflation may affect such amounts. We attempt to anticipate the potential impact of inflation in establishing our loss and LAE reserves. Inflation in excess of the levels we have assumed could cause loss and LAE expenses to be higher than we anticipated.
Substantial future increases in inflation could also result in future increases in interest rates, which in turn are likely to result in a decline in the market value of the investment portfolio and cause unrealized losses or reductions in stockholders’ equity.
Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements
For a discussion of accounting standards, see “Note 3 – Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation” of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
33
Item 8. | Financial Statements and Supplementary Data |
Index to Consolidated Financial Statements
| | | | |
| | Page | |
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firms | | | F-2 | |
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 | | | F-4 | |
Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009 | | | F-5 | |
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009 | | | F-6 | |
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009 | | | F-7 | |
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements | | | F-9 | |
F-1
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Tower Group, Inc.,
In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 and the related consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2011 present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Tower Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) at December 31, 2011 and 2010, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2011 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedules listed in the index appearing on page S-1 present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein at December 31, 2011 and 2010, and for each of the years in the two year period ended December 31, 2011 when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2011, based on criteria established inInternal Control – Integrated Frameworkissued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for these financial statements and financial statement schedules, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements, on the financial statement schedules, and on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our integrated audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
As discussed in Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed the manner in which it accounts for the costs associated with acquiring or renewing insurance contracts in 2011.
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of Financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
New York, New York
February 29, 2012, except for the revision discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements as for which the date is January 16, 2013
F-2
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
The Board of Directors and Shareholders
Tower Group, Inc.
We have audited the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2009 of Tower Group, Inc. (“the Company”). Our audit also included the financial statement schedules for the year ended December 31, 2009 listed in the Index at Item 15. These financial statements and schedules are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements and schedules based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated results of operations and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2009 of Tower Group, Inc., in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedules for the year ended December 31, 2009, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein.
As discussed in Note 2, the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2009 have been amended to reflect certain identified errors and previously uncorrected misstatements. Furthermore, as discussed in Note 3, the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2009 have been restated to reflect the Company’s retrospective adoption in 2011 of the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s accounting standard related to accounting for costs associated with acquiring or renewing insurance contracts.
/s/ Johnson Lambert LLP
Falls Church, Virginia
March 1, 2010, except for Note 21, as to which the date is March 1, 2011, Note 3, as to which the date is February 29, 2012 and Note 2, as to which the date is January 16, 2013
F-3
Part I—FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements
Tower Group, Inc.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
| | | | | | | | |
| | December 31, | |
($ in thousands, except par value and share amounts) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | |
Assets | | | | | | | | |
Investments - Tower | | | | | | | | |
Available-for-sale investments, at fair value: | | | | | | | | |
Fixed-maturity securities (amortized cost of $2,046,932 and $1,969,537) | | $ | 2,153,620 | | | $ | 2,041,557 | |
Equity securities (cost of $91,069 and $91,218) | | | 87,479 | | | | 90,317 | |
Short-term investments (cost of $0 and $1,560) | | | — | | | | 1,560 | |
Other invested assets | | | 44,347 | | | | — | |
Investments—Reciprocal Exchanges | | | | | | | | |
Available-for-sale investments, at fair value: | | | | | | | | |
Fixed-maturity securities (amortized cost of $288,180 and $338,494) | | | 300,054 | | | | 341,054 | |
Equity securities (cost of $1,965 and $0) | | | 1,866 | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | |
Total investments | | | 2,587,366 | | | | 2,474,488 | |
Cash and cash equivalents (includes $666 and $2,796 relating to Reciprocal Exchanges) | | | 114,098 | | | | 140,221 | |
Investment income receivable (includes $2,978 and $3,021 relating to Reciprocal Exchanges) | | | 26,782 | | | | 23,870 | |
Premiums receivable (includes $44,171 and $53,953 relating to Reciprocal Exchanges) | | | 426,432 | | | | 407,556 | |
Reinsurance recoverable on paid losses (includes $5,670 and $2,167 relating to Reciprocal Exchanges) | | | 23,903 | | | | 18,214 | |
Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses (includes $11,253 and $11,384 relating to Reciprocal Exchanges) | | | 319,664 | | | | 282,682 | |
Prepaid reinsurance premiums (includes $14,685 and $17,919 relating to Reciprocal Exchanges) | | | 54,037 | | | | 77,627 | |
Deferred acquisition costs, net (includes $11,866 and $18,206 relating to Reciprocal Exchanges) | | | 168,858 | | | | 164,123 | |
Intangible assets (includes $4,839 and $5,504 relating to Reciprocal Exchanges) | | | 114,920 | | | | 123,820 | |
Goodwill | | | 245,548 | | | | 245,548 | |
Other assets (includes $2,685 and $5,808 relating to Reciprocal Exchanges) | | | 376,050 | | | | 230,761 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Total assets | | $ | 4,457,658 | | | $ | 4,188,910 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Liabilities | | | | | | | | |
Loss and loss adjustment expenses (includes $136,274 and $171,315 relating to Reciprocal Exchanges) | | $ | 1,632,113 | | | $ | 1,610,421 | |
Unearned premium (includes $102,991 and $123,949 relating to Reciprocal Exchanges) | | | 893,176 | | | | 872,026 | |
Reinsurance balances payable (includes $3,466 and $3,402 relating to Reciprocal Exchanges) | | | 20,794 | | | | 35,037 | |
Funds held under reinsurance agreements | | | 96,726 | | | | 93,153 | |
Other liabilities (includes $10,035 and $9,384 relating to Reciprocal Exchanges) | | | 289,394 | | | | 143,785 | |
Deferred income taxes (includes $18,907 and $17,575 relating to Reciprocal Exchanges) | | | 37,375 | | | | 13,070 | |
Debt | | | 426,901 | | | | 374,266 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Total liabilities | | | 3,396,479 | | | | 3,141,758 | |
Contingencies (Note 17) | | | — | | | | — | |
Stockholders’ equity | | | | | | | | |
Common stock ($0.01 par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized, 46,448,341 and 45,742,342 shares issued, and 39,221,102 and 41,485,678 shares outstanding) | | | 465 | | | | 457 | |
Treasury stock (7,227,239 and 4,256,664 shares) | | | (158,185 | ) | | | (91,779 | ) |
Paid-in-capital | | | 772,938 | | | | 763,064 | |
Accumulated other comprehensive income | | | 63,053 | | | | 48,279 | |
Retained earnings | | | 355,528 | | | | 322,941 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Tower Group, Inc. stockholders’ equity | | | 1,033,799 | | | | 1,042,962 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Noncontrolling interests | | | 27,380 | | | | 4,190 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Total stockholders’ equity | | | 1,061,179 | | | | 1,047,152 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity | | $ | 4,457,658 | | | $ | 4,188,910 | |
| | | | | | | | |
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
F-4
Tower Group, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
(in thousands, except per share amounts) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Revenues | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net premiums earned | | $ | 1,593,850 | | | $ | 1,292,669 | | | $ | 854,711 | |
Ceding commission revenue | | | 33,968 | | | | 39,303 | | | | 42,702 | |
Insurance services revenue | | | 1,570 | | | | 2,169 | | | | 5,123 | |
Policy billing fees | | | 10,534 | | | | 6,255 | | | | 2,965 | |
Net investment income | | | 126,474 | | | | 107,265 | | | | 74,866 | |
Net realized investment gains (losses): | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Other-than-temporary impairments | | | (3,509 | ) | | | (14,930 | ) | | | (45,380 | ) |
Portion of loss recognized in other comprehensive income | | | 264 | | | | 11,909 | | | | 20,722 | |
Other net realized investment gains | | | 12,639 | | | | 17,674 | | | | 24,989 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total net realized investment gains (losses) | | | 9,394 | | | | 14,653 | | | | 331 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total revenues | | | 1,775,790 | | | | 1,462,314 | | | | 980,698 | |
Expenses | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Loss and loss adjustment expenses | | | 1,055,249 | | | | 784,023 | | | | 475,497 | |
Direct and ceding commission expense | | | 309,826 | | | | 267,872 | | | | 204,704 | |
Other operating expenses | | | 280,447 | | | | 231,381 | | | | 149,775 | |
Acquisition-related transaction costs | | | 360 | | | | 2,369 | | | | 14,038 | |
Interest expense | | | 34,290 | | | | 24,223 | | | | 17,631 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total expenses | | | 1,680,172 | | | | 1,309,868 | | | | 861,645 | |
Other income (expense) | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Equity in income (loss) of unconsolidated affiliate | | | — | | | | — | | | | (777 | ) |
Gain on investment in acquired unconsolidated affiliate | | | — | | | | — | | | | 7,388 | |
Gain on bargain purchase | | | — | | | | — | | | | 12,720 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Income before income taxes | | | 95,618 | | | | 152,446 | | | | 138,384 | |
Income tax expense | | | 24,142 | | | | 52,168 | | | | 43,660 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income | | $ | 71,476 | | | $ | 100,278 | | | $ | 94,724 | |
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to Noncontrolling interests | | | 10,995 | | | | (6,078 | ) | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income attributable to Tower Group, Inc. | | $ | 60,481 | | | $ | 106,356 | | | $ | 94,724 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income | | $ | 71,476 | | | $ | 100,278 | | | $ | 94,724 | |
Cumulative effect of adjustment resulting from adoption of new accounting guidance | | | — | | | | — | | | | (2,497 | ) |
Gross unrealized investment holding gains (losses) arising during periods | | | 50,587 | | | | 34,003 | | | | 108,879 | |
Gross unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swaps | | | (10,541 | ) | | | 3,223 | | | | — | |
Equity in net unrealized gains on investment in unconsolidated affiliate’s investment portfolio | | | — | | | | — | | | | 3,124 | |
Less: Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income | | | (9,394 | ) | | | (14,653 | ) | | | (331 | ) |
Income tax benefit (expense) related to items of other comprehensive income | | | (5,684 | ) | | | (6,923 | ) | | | (37,566 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Comprehensive income | | $ | 96,444 | | | $ | 115,928 | | | $ | 166,333 | |
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Noncontrolling interests | | | 21,189 | | | | (3,432 | ) | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Comprehensive income attributable to Tower Group, Inc. | | | 75,255 | | | | 119,360 | | | | 166,333 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Earnings per share attributable to Tower Group, Inc. stockholders: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Basic | | $ | 1.48 | | | $ | 2.45 | | | $ | 2.41 | |
Diluted | | $ | 1.48 | | | $ | 2.44 | | | $ | 2.39 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Weighted average common shares outstanding: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Basic | | | 40,833 | | | | 43,462 | | | | 39,363 | |
Diluted | | | 40,931 | | | | 43,648 | | | | 39,581 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Dividends declared and paid per common share | | $ | 0.69 | | | $ | 0.39 | | | $ | 0.26 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
F-5
Tower Group, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | Accumulated Other | | | | | | | | | Total | |
| | Common Stock | | | Treasury | | | Paid-in | | | Comprehensive | | | Retained | | | Noncontrolling | | | Stockholders’ | |
(in thousands) | | Shares | | | Amount | | | Stock | | | Capital | | | Income (loss) | | | Earnings | | | Interests | | | Equity | |
Balance at December 31, 2008, as previously reported | | | 23,408 | | | $ | 234 | | | $ | (1,026 | ) | | $ | 208,094 | | | $ | (37,208 | ) | | $ | 163,573 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 333,667 | |
Cumulative effect of adjustment resulting from adoption of new accounting guidance, net of income tax | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | | | | | (16,044 | ) | | | — | | | | (16,044 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Adjusted balance at December 31, 2008 | | | 23,408 | | | | 234 | | | | (1,026 | ) | | | 208,094 | | | | (37,208 | ) | | | 147,529 | | | | — | | | | 317,623 | |
Cumulative effect of adjustment resulting from adoption of new accounting guidance, net of income tax | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (1,623 | ) | | | 1,623 | | | | — | | | | — | |
Dividends declared | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (10,740 | ) | | | — | | | | (10,740 | ) |
Stock based compensation | | | 346 | | | | 3 | | | | (1,059 | ) | | | 6,664 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 5,608 | |
Issuance of common stock | | | 21,338 | | | | 214 | | | | — | | | | 527,292 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 527,506 | |
Fair value of outstanding CastlePoint and SUA stock options | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 9,918 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 9,918 | |
Warrant exercise | | | — | | | | — | | | | 90 | | | | (90 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | |
Net income | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 94,724 | | | | — | | | | 94,724 | |
Net unrealized appreciation on securities available for sale, net of income tax | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 74,106 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 74,106 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance at December 31, 2009 | | | 45,092 | | | $ | 451 | | | $ | (1,995 | ) | | $ | 751,878 | | | $ | 35,275 | | | $ | 233,136 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 1,018,745 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Dividends declared | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (16,551 | ) | | | — | | | | (16,551 | ) |
Stock based compensation | | | 650 | | | | 6 | | | | (1,750 | ) | | | 10,276 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 8,532 | |
Repurchase of common stock | | | — | | | | — | | | | (88,034 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (88,034 | ) |
Reciprocal Exchanges’ equity on July 1, | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
2010, date of consolidation | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 7,622 | | | | 7,622 | |
Equity component of convertible senior notes issuance, net of income tax and issue costs | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 7,055 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 7,055 | |
Convertible senior notes hedge transactions, net of tax | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (9,945 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (9,945 | ) |
Warrants issued related to convertible senior notes issuance | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 3,800 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 3,800 | |
Unrealized gain on interest rate swaps, net of income tax | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 2,113 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 2,113 | |
Net income | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 106,356 | | | | (6,078 | ) | | | 100,278 | |
Net unrealized appreciation on securities available for sale, net of income tax | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 10,891 | | | | — | | | | 2,646 | | | | 13,537 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance at December 31, 2010 | | | 45,742 | | | $ | 457 | | | $ | (91,779 | ) | | $ | 763,064 | | | $ | 48,279 | | | $ | 322,941 | | | $ | 4,190 | | | $ | 1,047,152 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Dividends declared | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (27,894 | ) | | | — | | | | (27,894 | ) |
Stock based compensation | | | 706 | | | | 8 | | | | (1,834 | ) | | | 10,657 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 8,831 | |
Deferred taxes on stock option activity | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (783 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (783 | ) |
Repurchase of common stock | | | — | | | | — | | | | (64,572 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (64,572 | ) |
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swap, net of tax | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (6,837 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | (6,837 | ) |
Net income | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 60,481 | | | | 10,995 | | | | 71,476 | |
Net unrealized appreciation on securities available for sale, net of income tax | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 21,611 | | | | — | | | | 10,194 | | | | 31,805 | |
Noncontrolling interest in acquired consolidated partnership | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 2,001 | | | | 2,001 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance at December 31, 2011 | | | 46,448 | | | $ | 465 | | | $ | (158,185 | ) | | $ | 772,938 | | | $ | 63,053 | | | $ | 355,528 | | | $ | 27,380 | | | $ | 1,061,179 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
F-6
Tower Group, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
($ in thousands) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income | | $ | 71,476 | | | $ | 100,278 | | | $ | 94,724 | |
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operations: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Gain on investment in acquired unconsolidated affiliate | | | — | | | | — | | | | (7,388 | ) |
Gain on bargain purchase | | | — | | | | — | | | | (12,720 | ) |
Acquisition-related transaction costs | | | — | | | | 2,369 | | | | 14,038 | |
Net realized investment (gains) losses | | | (9,394 | ) | | | (14,653 | ) | | | (331 | ) |
Depreciation and amortization | | | 30,940 | | | | 21,634 | | | | 19,344 | |
Amortization of bond premium or discount | | | 9,239 | | | | 2,237 | | | | 100 | |
Amortization of restricted stock | | | 10,292 | | | | 8,694 | | | | 5,608 | |
Deferred income taxes | | | 8,653 | | | | 59,556 | | | | (2,753 | ) |
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investment income receivable | | | (2,912 | ) | | | (3,598 | ) | | | (5,785 | ) |
Premiums receivable | | | (20,232 | ) | | | 13,574 | | | | 164,382 | |
Reinsurance recoverable | | | (42,671 | ) | | | (30,621 | ) | | | 147,547 | |
Prepaid reinsurance premiums | | | 23,590 | | | | 45,024 | | | | 89,571 | |
Deferred acquisition costs, net | | | (4,735 | ) | | | 3,359 | | | | (7,477 | ) |
Other assets | | | (45,592 | ) | | | (64,594 | ) | | | 6,731 | |
Loss and loss adjustment expenses | | | 21,692 | | | | 76,166 | | | | (94,258 | ) |
Unearned premium | | | 21,150 | | | | (23,269 | ) | | | (54,390 | ) |
Reinsurance balances payable | | | (14,243 | ) | | | (61,249 | ) | | | (102,340 | ) |
Funds held under reinsurance agreements | | | 3,573 | | | | 79,416 | | | | (21,628 | ) |
Other liabilities | | | 21,928 | | | | (17,298 | ) | | | (18,264 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net cash flows provided by operations | | | 82,754 | | | | 197,025 | | | | 214,711 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net cash (used in) acquired from acquisitions | | | 2,274 | | | | (171,907 | ) | | | 226,729 | |
Purchase of fixed assets | | | (53,568 | ) | | | (36,905 | ) | | | (26,299 | ) |
Purchase—fixed-maturity securities | | | (2,019,603 | ) | | | (2,024,965 | ) | | | (1,244,713 | ) |
Purchase—equity securities | | | (819,180 | ) | | | (96,439 | ) | | | (85,777 | ) |
Short-term investments, net | | | 1,560 | | | | 561,827 | | | | (31,766 | ) |
Purchase of other invested assets | | | (42,346 | ) | | | — | | | | — | |
Sale or maturity—fixed-maturity securities | | | 2,032,027 | | | | 1,427,528 | | | | 936,028 | |
Sale—equity securities | | | 793,886 | | | | 80,746 | | | | 50,582 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities | | | (104,950 | ) | | | (260,115 | ) | | | (175,216 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Proceeds from credit facility borrowings | | | 67,000 | | | | 56,000 | | | | — | |
Repayment of credit facility borrowings | | | (17,000 | ) | | | (56,000 | ) | | | — | |
Proceeds from capital lease financing | | | 39,839 | | | | — | | | | — | |
Proceeds from convertible senior notes | | | — | | | | 145,634 | | | | — | |
Payments for convertible senior notes hedge | | | — | | | | (15,300 | ) | | | — | |
Proceeds from issuance of warrants | | | — | | | | 3,800 | | | | — | |
Exercise of stock options and warrants | | | 373 | | | | 1,590 | | | | 742 | |
Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements | | | 161 | | | | (1,302 | ) | | | 191 | |
Treasury stock acquired-net employee share-based compensation | | | (1,834 | ) | | | (1,750 | ) | | | (1,059 | ) |
Repurchase of Common Stock | | | (64,572 | ) | | | (88,034 | ) | | | — | |
Dividends paid | | | (27,894 | ) | | | (16,551 | ) | | | (10,740 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities | | | (3,927 | ) | | | 28,087 | | | | (10,866 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents | | | (26,123 | ) | | | (35,003 | ) | | | 28,629 | |
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period | | | 140,221 | | | | 175,224 | | | | 146,595 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period | | $ | 114,098 | | | $ | 140,221 | | | $ | 175,224 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
F-7
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash paid for income taxes | | $ | 3,000 | | | $ | 29,000 | | | $ | 61,521 | |
Cash paid for interest | | | 25,880 | | | | 19,834 | | | | 18,053 | |
Schedule of non-cash investing and financing activities: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Issuance of common stock in connection with acquisitions | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 527,505 | |
Value of stock options at date of acquisitions | | | — | | | | — | | | | 9,918 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
F-8
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1—Nature of Business
Tower Group, Inc. (the “Company” or “Tower”) offers a broad range of commercial, specialty and personal specialty property and casualty insurance products and services through its subsidiaries to businesses in various industries and to individuals. The Company’s common stock is publicly traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “TWGP”.
On July 1, 2010, the Company completed its acquisition of the Personal Lines Division of OneBeacon Insurance Group, Ltd. (“OBPL”). Subsequent to this acquisition, the Company changed the presentation of its business results, beginning July 1, 2010, by allocating the personal insurance business previously reported in the Brokerage Insurance segment along with the newly acquired OBPL business to a new Personal Insurance segment and merged the commercial business previously reported in the Brokerage Insurance and Specialty Business segments in a new Commercial Insurance segment. The Company’s Insurance Services segment also includes fees earned by the management companies acquired as a part of the OBPL transaction. This change in presentation reflects the way management organizes the Company for making operating decisions and assessing profitability.
The Company operates three business segments as follows:
• | | Commercial Insurance (“Commercial”) Segment offers a broad range of commercial lines property and casualty insurance products to businesses distributed through a network of retail and wholesale agents and program underwriting agents on both an admitted and non-admitted basis. This segment also includes assumed reinsurance; |
• | | Personal Insurance (“Personal”) Segment offers a broad range of personal lines property and casualty insurance products to individuals distributed through a network of retail and wholesale agents; and |
• | | Insurance Services (“Services”) Segment provides underwriting, claims and reinsurance brokerage services to insurance companies. |
Note 2—Revision of Previously Issued Financial Statements
In the three month period ended March 31, 2012, the Company recorded an adjustment to correct its deferred tax liabilities at December 31, 2011, as reported and disclosed in its Forms 10-Q for the three month, six month and nine month periods ended March 31, 2012, June 30, 2012 and September 30, 2012, respectively. This adjustment pertained to deferred income tax accounting associated with certain 2009 and 2010 acquisitions. Management concluded this adjustment was not material to the 2011, 2010 and 2009 consolidated financial statements. However, management has concluded its 2012 Forms 10-Q need to be restated.
Accordingly, management is revising and amending its previously issued financial statements for 2011, 2010 and 2009 to correct for these tax items by recording them in the periods in which they arose. The Company is also revising its consolidated financial statements to correct for other immaterial errors, individually and in the aggregate, which the Company originally recorded in the periods they were identified.
These corrections relate primarily to the following areas:
Deferred income tax liabilities: A summary of the adjustments to deferred income taxes is as follows:
| | | | | | | | |
| | As of December 31, | |
(in millions) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | |
CastlePoint acquisition | | $ | (3.1 | ) | | $ | (3.1 | ) |
Reciprocal Exchanges – valuation allowance | | | (4.6 | ) | | | (4.6 | ) |
Reciprocal Exchanges – surplus note | | | 18.7 | | | | 18.7 | |
Other | | | (3.0 | ) | | | 4.3 | |
| | | | | | | | |
| | $ | 8.0 | | | $ | 15.3 | |
| | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2011 and 2010 deferred income tax liabilities were reduced by $3.1 million due to changes in the initial estimate of deferred taxes associated with the 2009 CastlePoint Holding, Ltd. (“CastlePoint”) acquisition. The correction of this error resulted in a reduction to goodwill.
As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, deferred income tax liabilities were reduced $4.6 million due to a correction in the Reciprocal Exchanges’ deferred tax valuation allowance. The Company should have released $4.6 million of the valuation allowance in 2010 when the related deferred tax asset was reduced. This deferred tax asset and related valuation allowance were recorded in connection with the initial consolidation of the Reciprocal Exchanges on July 1, 2010. This correction increases 2010 consolidated net income, but has no impact on net income attributable to Tower Group, Inc.
Also, as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company did not record a deferred income tax liability associated with the Reciprocal Exchanges’ surplus notes obligations (see “Note 4 – Acquisitions” for discussion on the Reciprocal Exchanges and the surplus notes). On consolidation of the Reciprocal Exchanges, the Company should have accounted for the book basis versus tax basis differences on surplus note obligations in its deferred taxes. This correction decreases noncontrolling interests’ equity, but has no effect on stockholders’ equity attributable to Tower Group, Inc. as of December 31, 2011 and 2010.
Other corrections made to deferred income tax liabilities resulted from reclassification adjustments between current income tax receivables (reported within other assets), correcting the deferred taxes on the investment unrealized gains (losses), and the deferred income tax effect of recording certain immaterial adjustments to the statement of income.
Goodwill: As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, goodwill was overstated by $4.5 million. $3.1 million is attributed to the deferred tax liability corrections discussed in“Deferred income taxes”above relating to the CastlePoint acquisition in 2009. The Company also reduced goodwill by $1.4 million attributed to other fair value and purchase price adjustments on 2009 and 2010 acquisitions.
Premiums receivables:As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company reclassified $17.8 million and $20.0 million, respectively, of certain commission expense payables to other liabilities. These amounts had historically been netted against premiums receivables.
Other Assets and other liabilities:Other assets were adjusted primarily for the correction of current tax receivables, the offset of which are either recorded as a reclassification to deferred income tax asset / liabilities. In addition, the current income tax expense relating to certain of the income statement corrections are also reported as an adjustment within other assets. Other liabilities were adjusted primarily for the reclassification of certain commission expense payables from premiums receivables as well as certain other reclassifications with other assets.
F-9
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The effect of the revisions on the balance sheet is shown in the table below:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | As of December 31, 2011 | | | As of December 31, 2010 | |
($ in thousands, except par value and share amounts) | | As Previously Filed | | | Revised | | | Effect of Adjustments | | | As Previously Filed | | | Revised | | | Effect of Adjustments | |
Assets | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total investments | | $ | 2,587,366 | | | $ | 2,587,366 | | | | — | | | $ | 2,474,488 | | | $ | 2,474,488 | | | $ | — | |
Cash and cash equivalents | | | 114,098 | | | | 114,098 | | | | — | | | | 140,221 | | | | 140,221 | | | | — | |
Investment income receivable | | | 26,782 | | | | 26,782 | | | | — | | | | 23,562 | | | | 23,870 | | | | 308 | |
Premiums receivable | | | 408,626 | | | | 426,432 | | | | 17,806 | | | | 387,584 | | | | 407,556 | | | | 19,972 | |
Reinsurance recoverable on paid losses | | | 23,903 | | | | 23,903 | | | | — | | | | 18,214 | | | | 18,214 | | | | — | |
Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses | | | 319,664 | | | | 319,664 | | | | — | | | | 282,682 | | | | 282,682 | | | | — | |
Prepaid reinsurance premiums | | | 54,037 | | | | 54,037 | | | | — | | | | 77,627 | | | | 77,627 | | | | — | |
Deferred acquisition costs, net | | | 168,858 | | | | 168,858 | | | | — | | | | 164,123 | | | | 164,123 | | | | — | |
Intangible assets | | | 114,920 | | | | 114,920 | | | | — | | | | 123,820 | | | | 123,820 | | | | — | |
Goodwill | | | 250,103 | | | | 245,548 | | | | (4,555 | ) | | | 250,103 | | | | 245,548 | | | | (4,555 | ) |
Other assets | | | 373,838 | | | | 376,050 | | | | 2,212 | | | | 230,405 | | | | 230,761 | | | | 356 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total assets | | $ | 4,442,195 | | | $ | 4,457,658 | | | $ | 15,463 | | | $ | 4,172,829 | | | $ | 4,188,910 | | | $ | 16,081 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Liabilities | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Loss and loss adjustment expenses | | $ | 1,632,113 | | | $ | 1,632,113 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 1,610,421 | | | $ | 1,610,421 | | | $ | — | |
Unearned premium | | | 893,176 | | | | 893,176 | | | | — | | | | 872,026 | | | | 872,026 | | | | — | |
Reinsurance balances payable | | | 20,794 | | | | 20,794 | | | | — | | | | 35,037 | | | | 35,037 | | | | — | |
Funds held under reinsurance agreements | | | 96,726 | | | | 96,726 | | | | — | | | | 93,153 | | | | 93,153 | | | | — | |
Other liabilities | | | 266,155 | | | | 289,394 | | | | 23,239 | | | | 122,333 | | | | 143,785 | | | | 21,452 | |
Deferred income taxes | | | 29,337 | | | | 37,375 | | | | 8,038 | | | | (2,245 | ) | | | 13,070 | | | | 15,315 | |
Debt | | | 426,901 | | | | 426,901 | | | | — | | | | 374,266 | | | | 374,266 | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total liabilities | | | 3,365,202 | | | | 3,396,479 | | | | 31,277 | | | | 3,104,991 | | | | 3,141,758 | | | | 36,767 | |
Stockholders’ equity | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Common stock | | | 465 | | | | 465 | | | | — | | | | 457 | | | | 457 | | | | — | |
Treasury stock | | | (158,185 | ) | | | (158,185 | ) | | | — | | | | (91,779 | ) | | | (91,779 | ) | | | — | |
Paid-in-capital | | | 772,938 | | | | 772,938 | | | | — | | | | 763,064 | | | | 763,064 | | | | — | |
Accumulated other comprehensive income | | | 62,244 | | | | 63,053 | | | | 809 | | | | 48,883 | | | | 48,279 | | | | (604 | ) |
Retained earnings | | | 356,680 | | | | 355,528 | | | | (1,152 | ) | | | 324,376 | | | | 322,941 | | | | (1,435 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower Group, Inc. stockholders’ equity | | | 1,034,142 | | | | 1,033,799 | | | | (343 | ) | | | 1,045,001 | | | | 1,042,962 | | | | (2,039 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Noncontrolling interests | | | 42,851 | | | | 27,380 | | | | (15,471 | ) | | | 22,837 | | | | 4,190 | | | | (18,647 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total stockholders’ equity | | | 1,076,993 | | | | 1,061,179 | | | | (15,814 | ) | | | 1,067,838 | | | | 1,047,152 | | | | (20,686 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity | | $ | 4,442,195 | | | $ | 4,457,658 | | | $ | 15,463 | | | $ | 4,172,829 | | | $ | 4,188,910 | | | $ | 16,081 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
The effect of the revision on the components of stockholders’ equity as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 is as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | As of December 31, 2009 | | | As of December 31, 2008 | |
(in thousands) | | As Previously Filed | | | Revised | | | Effect of Adjustments | | | As Previously Filed | | | Revised | | | Effect of Adjustments | |
Stockholders equity: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Common stock | | $ | 451 | | | $ | 451 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 234 | | | $ | 234 | | | $ | — | |
Treasury stock | | | (1,995 | ) | | | (1,995 | ) | | | — | | | | (1,026 | ) | | | (1,026 | ) | | | — | |
Paid-in-capital | | | 751,878 | | | | 751,878 | | | | — | | | | 208,094 | | | | 208,094 | | | | — | |
| | | | | | |
Accumulated other comprehensive income | | | 34,554 | | | | 35,275 | | | | 721 | | | | (37,498 | ) | | | (37,208 | ) | | | 290 | |
Retained earnings | | | 237,037 | | | | 233,136 | | | | (3,901 | ) | | | 149,356 | | | | 147,529 | | | | (1,827 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower Group, Inc. stockholders’ equity | | $ | 1,021,925 | | | $ | 1,018,745 | | | $ | (3,180 | ) | | $ | 319,160 | | | $ | 317,623 | | | $ | (1,537 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
F-10
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The effect of the revision on the consolidated statements of operations is shown in the table below:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, 2011 | | | Year Ended December 31, 2010 | | | Year Ended December 31, 2009 | |
($ in thousands) | | As Previously Filed | | | Revised | | | Effect of Adjustments | | | As Previously Filed | | | Revised | | | Effect of Adjustments | | | As Previously Filed | | | Revised | | | Effect of Adjustments | |
Revenues | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net premiums earned | | $ | 1,593,850 | | | $ | 1,593,850 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 1,292,669 | | | $ | 1,292,669 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 854,711 | | | $ | 854,711 | | | $ | — | |
Ceding commission revenue | | | 33,968 | | | | 33,968 | | | | — | | | | 38,068 | | | | 39,303 | | | | 1,235 | | | | 43,937 | | | | 42,702 | | | | (1,235 | ) |
Insurance services revenue | | | 1,570 | | | | 1,570 | | | | — | | | | 2,169 | | | | 2,169 | | | | — | | | | 5,123 | | | | 5,123 | | | | — | |
Policy billing fees | | | 10,534 | | | | 10,534 | | | | — | | | | 6,255 | | | | 6,255 | | | | — | | | | 2,965 | | | | 2,965 | | | | — | |
Net investment income | | | 127,649 | | | | 126,474 | | | | (1,175 | ) | | | 106,090 | | | | 107,265 | | | | 1,175 | | | | 74,866 | | | | 74,866 | | | | — | |
Net realized investment gains (losses): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Other-than-temporary impairments | | | (3,509 | ) | | | (3,509 | ) | | | — | | | | (16,100 | ) | | | (14,930 | ) | | | 1,170 | | | | (44,210 | ) | | | (45,380 | ) | | | (1,170 | ) |
Portion of loss recognized in other comprehensive income | | | 264 | | | | 264 | | | | — | | | | 11,909 | | | | 11,909 | | | | — | | | | 20,722 | | | | 20,722 | | | | — | |
Other net realized investment gains | | | 12,639 | | | | 12,639 | | | | — | | | | 17,674 | | | | 17,674 | | | | — | | | | 24,989 | | | | 24,989 | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total net realized investment gains (losses) | | | 9,394 | | | | 9,394 | | | | — | | | | 13,483 | | | | 14,653 | | | | 1,170 | | | | 1,501 | | | | 331 | | | | (1,170 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total revenues | | | 1,776,965 | | | | 1,775,790 | | | | (1,175 | ) | | | 1,458,734 | | | | 1,462,314 | | | | 3,580 | | | | 983,103 | | | | 980,698 | | | | (2,405 | ) |
Expenses | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Loss and loss adjustment expenses | | | 1,055,249 | | | | 1,055,249 | | | | — | | | | 784,023 | | | | 784,023 | | | | — | | | | 475,497 | | | | 475,497 | | | | — | |
Direct and ceding commission expense | | | 311,328 | | | | 309,826 | | | | (1,502 | ) | | | 267,209 | | | | 267,872 | | | | 663 | | | | 204,565 | | | | 204,704 | | | | 139 | |
Other operating expenses | | | 278,275 | | | | 280,447 | | | | 2,172 | | | | 230,489 | | | | 231,381 | | | | 892 | | | | 149,127 | | | | 149,775 | | | | 648 | |
Acquisition-related transaction costs | | | 360 | | | | 360 | | | | — | | | | 2,369 | | | | 2,369 | | | | — | | | | 14,038 | | | | 14,038 | | | | — | |
Interest expense | | | 34,462 | | | | 34,290 | | | | (172 | ) | | | 24,594 | | | | 24,223 | | | | (371 | ) | | | 18,122 | | | | 17,631 | | | | (491 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total expenses | | | 1,679,674 | | | | 1,680,172 | | | | 498 | | | | 1,308,684 | | | | 1,309,868 | | | | 1,184 | | | | 861,349 | | | | 861,645 | | | | 296 | |
Other income (expense) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Equity in income (loss) of unconsolidated affiliate | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (777 | ) | | | (777 | ) | | | — | |
Gain on investment in acquired unconsolidated affiliate | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 7,388 | | | | 7,388 | | | | — | |
Gain on bargain purchase | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 13,186 | | | | 12,720 | | | | (466 | ) |
Other | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (466 | ) | | | — | | | | 466 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Income before income taxes | | | 97,291 | | | | 95,618 | | | | (1,673 | ) | | | 149,584 | | | | 152,446 | | | | 2,862 | | | | 141,551 | | | | 138,384 | | | | (3,167 | ) |
Income tax expense | | | 25,186 | | | | 24,142 | | | | (1,044 | ) | | | 50,373 | | | | 52,168 | | | | 1,795 | | | | 44,753 | | | | 43,660 | | | | (1,093 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income | | $ | 72,105 | | | $ | 71,476 | | | $ | (629 | ) | | $ | 99,211 | | | $ | 100,278 | | | $ | 1,067 | | | $ | 96,798 | | | $ | 94,724 | | | $ | (2,074 | ) |
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to Noncontrolling interests | | | 11,907 | | | | 10,995 | | | | (912 | ) | | | (4,679 | ) | | | (6,078 | ) | | | (1,399 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income attributable to Tower Group, Inc. | | $ | 60,198 | | | $ | 60,481 | | | $ | 283 | | | $ | 103,890 | | | $ | 106,356 | | | $ | 2,466 | | | $ | 96,798 | | | $ | 94,724 | | | $ | (2,074 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Comprehensive income | | | 91,572 | | | | 96,444 | | | | 4,872 | | | | 115,207 | | | | 115,928 | | | | 721 | | | | 167,103 | | | | 166,333 | | | | (770 | ) |
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Noncontrolling interests | | | 18,013 | | | | 21,189 | | | | 3,176 | | | | (3,014 | ) | | | (3,432 | ) | | | (418 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Comprehensive income attributable to Tower Group, Inc. | | | 73,559 | | | $ | 75,255 | | | $ | 1,696 | | | | 118,221 | | | | 119,360 | | | | 1,139 | | | | 167,103 | | | | 166,333 | | | | (770 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Earnings per share attributable to Tower Group, Inc. stockholders: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Basic | | $ | 1.47 | | | $ | 1.48 | | | $ | .01 | | | $ | 2.39 | | | | 2.45 | | | | 0.06 | | | | 2.46 | | | | 2.41 | | | | (0.05 | ) |
Diluted | | $ | 1.47 | | | $ | 1.48 | | | $ | .01 | | | $ | 2.38 | | | | 2.44 | | | | 0.06 | | | | 2.45 | | | | 2.39 | | | | (0.06 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
F-11
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The effect of the revision on the consolidated statement of cash flows is shown in the table below:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, 2011 | | | Year Ended December 31, 2010 | | | Year Ended December 31, 2009 | |
($ in thousands) | | As Previously Filed | | | Revised | | | Effect of Adjustments (a) | | | As Previously Filed | | | Revised | | | Effect of Adjustments | | | As Previously Filed | | | Revised | | | Effect of Adjustments | |
Cash provided by (used in): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Operating activities | | $ | 85,028 | | | $ | 82,754 | | | $ | (2,274 | ) | | $ | 197,025 | | | $ | 197,025 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 214,711 | | | $ | 214,711 | | | $ | — | |
Investing activities | | | (107,224 | ) | | | (104,950 | ) | | | 2,274 | | | | (260,115 | ) | | | (260,115 | ) | | | — | | | | (175,216 | ) | | | (175,216 | ) | | | — | |
Financing activities | | | (3,927 | ) | | | (3,927 | ) | | | — | | | | 28,087 | | | | 28,087 | | | | — | | | | (10,866 | ) | | | (10,866 | ) | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents | | | (26,123 | ) | | | (26,123 | ) | | | — | | | | (35,003 | ) | | | (35,003 | ) | | | — | | | | 28,629 | | | | 28,629 | | | | — | |
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year | | | 140,221 | | | | 140,221 | | | | — | | | | 175,224 | | | | 175,224 | | | | — | | | | 146,595 | | | | 146,595 | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period | | $ | 114,098 | | | $ | 114,098 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 140,221 | | | $ | 140,221 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 175,224 | | | $ | 175,224 | | | $ | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(a) | Amount relates to finalization of fair value and purchase price adjustments on 2010 acquisitions. |
F-12
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 3—Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Tower and its insurance subsidiaries, managing general agencies and management companies. The consolidated financial statements also include the accounts of Adirondack Insurance Exchange, a New York reciprocal insurer, and New Jersey Skylands Insurance Association, a New Jersey reciprocal insurer (together, the “Reciprocal Exchanges”). The Company does not own the Reciprocal Exchanges but manages them through its management companies.
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). All inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Effective January 1, 2011, the Company adopted new accounting guidance concerning the accounting for costs associated with acquiring or renewing insurance contracts. This guidance was adopted retrospectively and has been applied to all prior period financial information contained in these consolidated financial statements.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Reclassifications and Revisions
Certain reclassifications have been made to prior years’ financial information to conform to the current year presentation.
Cash amounts presented on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2010 and the consolidated statements of cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2010 have been revised to present book overdrafts representing outstanding checks in excess of funds on deposit with individual financial institutions within other liabilities. These balances have previously been reported in cash and cash equivalents. This revision increased cash and cash equivalents and other liabilities by $37.3 million as of December 31, 2010 and net cash flows provided by operations by $27.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2010. These reclassifications were recorded in the originally filed Form 10-K on February 29, 2012.
F-13
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Accounting Policies
Net Premiums Earned
The insurance policies issued or reinsured by the Company are short-duration contracts. Accordingly, premium revenue, including direct business and reinsurance assumed, net of business ceded to reinsurers, is recognized on a pro-rata basis over the terms of the underlying policies. Unearned premiums represent premium applicable to the unexpired risk of in-force insurance contracts at each balance sheet date. Prepaid reinsurance premiums represent the unexpired portion of reinsurance premiums on risks ceded and are earned consistent with premiums.
Ceding Commission Revenue
Commissions on reinsurance premiums ceded are earned in a manner consistent with the recognition of the costs to acquire the underlying policies, generally on a pro-rata basis over the terms of the policies reinsured. Certain reinsurance agreements contain provisions whereby the ceding commission rates vary based on the loss experience of the policies covered by the agreements. The Company records ceding commission revenue based on its current estimate of losses on the reinsured policies subject to variable commission rates. The Company records adjustments to the ceding commission revenue in the period that changes in the estimated losses are determined.
Insurance Services Revenue
Direct commission revenue from the Company’s managing general underwriting services is recognized and earned as insurance policies are placed with the issuing companies of its managing general agencies. Fees relating to the provision of reinsurance intermediary services are earned when the Company’s insurance subsidiaries or the issuing companies of its managing general agencies cede premiums to reinsurers. Management fees earned by the management companies for services provided to the Reciprocal Exchanges are reported as management fee income within the segment but are eliminated in consolidation.
Policy Billing Fees
Policy billing fees are earned on a pro-rata basis over the terms of the underlying policies. These fees include installment and other fees related to billing and collections.
Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses (“LAE”)
The liability for loss and LAE represents management’s best estimate of the ultimate cost and expense of all reported and unreported losses that are unpaid as of the balance sheet date. The liability for loss and LAE is recorded net of a tabular reserve discount for workers’ compensation and excess workers’ compensation claims in the amount of $3.7 million and $3.7 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The 2011 discount relates to $271.3 million portion of reserves for workers’ compensation. The projection of future claims payments and reporting is based on an analysis of the Company’s historical experience, supplemented by analyses of industry loss data. Management believes that the liability for loss and LAE is adequate to cover the ultimate cost of losses and claims to date; however, because of the uncertainty from various sources, including changes in reporting patterns, claims settlement patterns, judicial decisions, legislation, and economic conditions, actual loss experience may not conform to the assumptions used in determining the estimated amounts for such liability at the balance sheet date. As adjustments to these estimates become necessary, such adjustments are reflected in expense for the period in which the estimates are changed.
Tower estimates reserves separately for losses, allocated loss adjustment expenses, and unallocated loss adjustment expenses. Allocated loss adjustment expenses (“ALAE”) refers to costs of attorneys as well as miscellaneous costs such as investigators, witness fees and court costs attributable to specific claims that generally are in various stages of litigation. Unallocated loss adjustment expenses (“ULAE”) refers to costs for administering claims that are not related to attorney fees and miscellaneous costs associated with litigated claims. Tower estimates the ALAE liability separately for claims that are defended by in-house attorneys, claims that are handled by other attorneys that are not employees, and miscellaneous ALAE costs such as witness fees and court costs. Similarly, Tower estimates the ULAE liability separately for claims which are handled internally by our employees and for claims which are handled by third party administrators.
F-14
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The Company determines a fixed fee per in-house litigated claim for ALAE stemming from defense by in-house attorneys and allocates to each of these litigated claims 50% of this fixed fee when litigation on a particular claim begins and 50% of the fee when the litigation is closed. The fee is determined actuarially based upon the projected number of litigated claims and expected closing patterns at the beginning of each year as well as the projected budget for the Company’s in-house attorneys, and these amounts are subject to adjustment each quarter based upon actual experience.
The Company determines a standard cost per claim for ULAE for each line of business that represents the ultimate average cost to administer that claim. For property lines, 50% of this standard cost is recorded as paid ULAE when a claim is opened, and 50% of this standard cost is recorded as paid ULAE when a claim is closed. For casualty lines, 75% of this standard cost is recorded as paid ULAE when a claim is opened, and 25% is recorded as paid ULAE when a claim is closed. The standard costs are determined actuarially and subject to adjustment each quarter. Calendar period costs for the claims function is recorded as paid ULAE each quarter.
Reinsurance
The Company uses reinsurance to limit its exposure to certain risks. Management has evaluated its reinsurance arrangements and determined that significant insurance risk is transferred to the reinsurers. Reinsurance agreements have been determined to be short-duration prospective contracts and, accordingly, the costs of reinsurance are recognized over the life of the contracts in a manner consistent with the earning of premiums on the underlying policies subject to the reinsurance contract.
Reinsurance recoverable represents management’s best estimate of paid and unpaid loss and LAE recoverable from reinsurers. Ceded losses recoverable are estimated using techniques and assumptions consistent with those used in estimating the liability for loss and LAE. These techniques and assumptions are continually reviewed and updated with any resulting adjustments recorded in current earnings. Loss and LAE incurred as presented in the consolidated statement of income and comprehensive net income are net of reinsurance recoveries.
Management estimates uncollectible amounts receivable from reinsurers based on an assessment of a number of factors. The Company recorded no allowance for uncollectible reinsurance at December 31, 2011 or 2010. The Company did not write-off balances from reinsurers during the three year period ended December 31, 2011.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash consists of cash in banks, generally in operating accounts. The Company maintains its cash balances at several financial institutions. Management monitors balances and believes they do not represent a significant credit risk to the Company.
The Company considers all highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents are presented at cost, which approximates fair value.
Investments
The Company’s fixed-maturity and equity securities are classified as available-for-sale and carried at fair value. The Company may sell its available-for-sale securities in response to changes in interest rates, risk/reward characteristics, liquidity needs or other factors.
Fair value for fixed-maturity securities and equity securities is primarily based on quoted market prices or a matrix pricing using observable inputs, with limited exceptions as discussed in “Note 7 – Fair Value Measurements”. Changes in unrealized gains and losses, net of tax effects, are reported as a separate component of other comprehensive income while cumulative unrealized gains and losses are reported net of tax effects within accumulated other comprehensive income in stockholders’ equity. Realized gains and losses are determined on the specific identification method. Investment income is recorded when earned and includes the amortization of premium and discount on investments.
The Company, along with its outside portfolio managers, regularly reviews its fixed-maturity and equity security portfolios to evaluate the necessity of recording impairment losses for other-than-temporary declines in the fair value of investments. In evaluating potential impairment, management considers, among other criteria: (i) the overall financial condition of the issuer, (ii) the current fair value compared to amortized cost or cost, as appropriate; (iii) the length of time the security’s fair value has been below amortized cost or cost; (iv) specific credit issues related to the issuer such as changes in credit rating, reduction or elimination of dividends or non-payment of scheduled interest payments; (v) whether management intends to sell the security and, if not, whether it is not more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the security before recovery of its cost or amortized cost basis; (vi) specific cash flow estimations for fixed-maturity securities and (vii) current economic conditions. If an other-than-temporary-impairment (“OTTI”) loss is determined for a fixed-maturity security (and management does not intend to sell the security or it is not more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the security), the credit portion is recorded in the statement of income as net realized losses on investments and the non-credit portion is recorded in accumulated
F-15
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
other comprehensive income. The credit portion results in a permanent reduction of the cost basis of the underlying investment. OTTI losses on fixed-maturity securities management has the intent to sell or it is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell and on equity securities are reported in realized losses for the entire impairment.
The Company’s other invested assets consist of investments in limited partnerships accounted for using the equity method of accounting, real estate and certain securities for which the Company has elected the fair value option. In accounting for the partnerships, management uses the financial information provided by the general partners, which is on a three-month lag. As of December 31, 2011, the Company had future funding commitments of $14.7 million to these limited partnerships. For securities in which the Company has elected the fair value option, interest and dividends are reported in net investment income with the remaining change in overall fair value reported in other net realized investment gains (losses).
Fair Value
GAAP establishes a three-level hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) followed by similar but not identical assets or liabilities (Level 2) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). If the inputs used to measure the assets or liabilities fall within different levels of the hierarchy, the classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement of the asset or liability. Classification of assets and liabilities within the hierarchy considers the markets in which the assets and liabilities are traded, including during periods of market disruption, and the reliability and transparency of the assumptions used to determine fair value. The hierarchy requires the use of observable market data when available.
The Company primarily uses outside pricing services to assist in determining fair values. For investments in active markets, the Company uses the quoted market prices provided by the outside pricing services to determine fair value. In circumstances where quoted market prices are unavailable, the pricing services utilize fair value estimates based upon other observable inputs including matrix pricing, benchmark interest rates, market comparables and other relevant inputs.
The Company’s process to validate the market prices obtained from the outside pricing sources include, but are not limited to, periodic evaluation of model pricing methodologies and analytical reviews of certain prices. The Company also periodically performs back-testing of selected sales activity to determine whether there are any significant differences between the market price used to value the security prior to sale and the actual sale price.
Premiums Receivable
Premiums receivable represent amounts due from insureds and reinsureds for insurance coverage and are presented net of an allowance for doubtful accounts of $2.5 million and $2.1 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The allowance for uncollectible amounts is based on an analysis of amounts receivable giving consideration to historical loss experience and current economic conditions and reflects an amount that, in management’s judgment, is adequate. Uncollectible premiums receivable of $5.2 million, $1.8 million and $0.9 million were written off in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
Deferred Acquisition Costs
The Company retrospectively adopted new accounting guidance for deferred acquisition costs effective January 1, 2011 as described in more detail under “Accounting Guidance Adopted in 2011” below. Acquisition costs represent the costs of writing business that vary with, and are primarily related to, the successful production of insurance business (principally commissions, premium taxes and certain underwriting costs). Policy acquisition costs are deferred and recognized as expense as related premiums are earned. Deferred acquisition costs (“DAC”) presented in the balance sheet are net of deferred ceding commission revenue.
The value of business acquired (“VOBA”) is an intangible asset relating to the estimated fair value of the unexpired insurance policies acquired in a business combination. VOBA is determined at the time of a business combination and is reported on the consolidated balance sheet with DAC and is amortized in proportion to the timing of the estimated underwriting profit associated with the in force policies acquired. The Company considers anticipated investment income in determining the recoverability of these costs and believes they are fully recoverable. See “Note 9 – Deferred Acquisition Costs” for additional information regarding deferred acquisition costs.
F-16
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
In business combinations, including the acquisition of a group of assets, the Company allocates the purchase price to the net tangible and intangible assets acquired based on their relative fair values. Any portion of the purchase price in excess of this
amount results in goodwill. Identifiable intangible assets with a finite useful life are amortized over the period that the asset is expected to contribute directly or indirectly to the future cash flows of the Company. Intangible assets with an indefinite life and goodwill are not amortized and are subject to annual impairment testing. The Company conducted the required annual goodwill and intangible asset impairment testing as of September 30 for 2011. Additionally, identifiable intangible assets and goodwill are tested for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that a carrying amount may not be recoverable. No impairment losses were recognized in 2011, 2010 or 2009.
Fixed Assets
Furniture, leasehold improvements, computer equipment, and software, including internally developed software, are reported at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Gross fixed assets were $176.4 million and $174.4 million as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Capitalized leases of $41.0 million were included in this amount as at December 31, 2011. Accumulated depreciation and amortization of $56.5 million and $86.0 million were recorded as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Depreciation and amortization is provided using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. The Company estimates the useful life for computer equipment to be three years, computer software, three to seven years, furniture and other equipment seven years and leasehold improvements is the term of the lease. Depreciation and amortization expense of $22.0 million, $15.4 million and $12.9 million were recorded for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Fixed assets are recorded in Other Assets on the balance sheet.
Variable Interest Entities
The Company consolidates the Reciprocal Exchanges as it has determined that these are variable interest entities and that the Company is the primary beneficiary. See “Note 5 – Variable Interest Entities” for more details.
Income Taxes
Pursuant to a written tax agreement (the “Tax Sharing Agreement”), each of the Tower’s subsidiaries is required to make payments to Tower for federal income tax imposed on its taxable income in a manner consistent with filing a separate federal income tax return (but subject to certain limitations that are applied to the Tower consolidated group as a whole). The Reciprocal Exchanges are not subject to the Tax Sharing Agreement but file separate tax returns annually.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis and for operating loss and tax credit carry forwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that all or some portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.
Treasury Stock
The Company accounts for the treasury stock at the repurchase price as a reduction to stockholders’ equity as it does not currently intend to retire the treasury stock held at December 31, 2011.
Stock-based Compensation
The Company accounts for restricted stock shares and options awarded at fair value at the date awarded and compensation expense is recorded over the requisite service period that has not been rendered. The Company amortizes awards with graded vesting on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period.
Assessments
Insurance related assessments are accrued in the period in which they have been incurred. The Company is subject to a variety of assessments. Among such assessments are state guaranty funds and workers’ compensation second injury funds. State guaranty fund assessments are used by state insurance oversight boards to cover losses of policyholders of insolvent insurance companies and for the operating expenses of such agencies. The Company uses estimates derived from state regulators and/or NAIC Tax and Assessments Guidelines.
F-17
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Earnings per Share
The Company measures earnings per share at two levels: basic earnings per share and diluted earnings per share. Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income attributable to Tower common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year. This weighted average number of shares includes unvested share-based awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents whether paid or unpaid (“participating securities”). Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income attributable to Tower common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year, as adjusted for the potentially dilutive effects of stock options, warrants, unvested restricted stock and/or preferred stock that are not participating securities, unless such items are not dilutive.
Statutory Accounting Principles
The Company’s insurance subsidiaries are required to prepare statutory basis financial statements in accordance with practices prescribed or permitted by the state or country in which they are domiciled. See “Note 18 – Statutory Financial Information and Accounting Policies” for more details.
Concentration and Credit Risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentration and credit risk are primarily cash and cash equivalents, investments, interest rate swaps, premiums receivable and reinsurance recoverables. Investments are diversified through many industries and geographic regions through the use of money managers who employ different investment strategies. The Company limits the amount of credit exposure with any one financial institution and believes that no significant concentration of credit risk exists with respect to cash and investments. The interest rate swap contracts contain credit support annex agreements with collateral posting provisions which reduces counterparty non-performance risk. The premiums receivable balances are generally diversified due to the number of entities comprising the Company’s distribution network and its customer base, which is largely concentrated in the Northeast, Florida, Texas and California. To reduce credit risk, the Company performs ongoing evaluations of its distribution network’s and customers’ financial condition. The Company also has receivables from its reinsurers. Reinsurance contracts do not relieve the Company from its obligations to policyholders. Failure of reinsurers to honor their obligations could result in losses to the Company. The Company periodically evaluates the financial condition of its reinsurers and, in certain cases, requires collateral from its reinsurers to minimize its exposure to significant losses from reinsurer insolvencies. As at December 31, 2011, the largest uncollateralized reinsurance recoverable balance from any one reinsurer was $49.4 million representing 14% of the Company’s total reinsurance recoverable balance. Management’s policy is to review all outstanding receivables at period end as well as the bad debt write-offs experienced in the past and establish an allowance for doubtful accounts, if deemed necessary.
Our largest agent accounted for 10%, 12% and 4%, respectively, of the insurance subsidiaries’ premiums receivable balances at December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009. Our largest agent accounted for 7%, 4% and 10% of the insurance subsidiaries’ direct premiums written in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
Accounting Pronouncements
Accounting guidance adopted in 2011
Guidance issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) in January 2010 requires additional disclosure about the gross activity within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy within GAAP as opposed to the net disclosure previously required. This disclosure is included in “Note 7 – Fair Value Measurements”.
In October 2010, the FASB issued new guidance concerning the accounting for costs associated with acquiring or renewing insurance contracts. Under the new guidance, only direct incremental costs associated with successful insurance contract acquisitions or renewals are deferrable. The Company adopted this guidance retrospectively effective January 1, 2011 and has adjusted its previously issued financial information.
F-18
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Adoption of this guidance affected the carrying value of the categories of acquisition costs included within the 2010 caption “Deferred acquisition costs, net” as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | December 31, 2010 | |
($ in thousands) | | As Originally Reported (1) | | | Effect of Change | | | As Currently Reported (2) | |
Commissions | | $ | 140,940 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 140,940 | |
Taxes and assessments | | | 27,947 | | | | — | | | | 27,947 | |
Other deferred acquisition expenses | | | 93,788 | | | | (78,701 | ) | | | 15,087 | |
Deferred ceding commission revenue | | | (19,851 | ) | | | — | | | | (19,851 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Deferred acquisition costs, net | | $ | 242,824 | | | $ | (78,701 | ) | | $ | 164,123 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
1 - “As Originally Reported” amounts have been adjusted for the effects of the revisions described in “Note 2—Revision of previously published financial information”
2 - “As Currently Reported” amounts represent the amounts reported after the effects of the revisions described in “Note 2—Revision of previously published financial information.”
The effect of adoption of this new guidance on the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2010 and on stockholders’ equity as of December 31, 2009 was as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
($ in thousands) | | As Originally Reported (1) | | | Effect of Change | | | As Currently Reported (2) | |
December 31, 2010 | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Deferred acquisition costs, net | | $ | 242,824 | | | $ | (78,701 | ) | | $ | 164,123 | |
Deferred income tax (liability) asset | | | (40,484 | ) | | | 27,414 | | | | (13,070 | ) |
Retained earnings | | | 365,578 | | | | (42,637 | ) | | | 322,941 | |
Tower Group, Inc. stockholders’ equity | | | 1,085,599 | | | | (42,637 | ) | | | 1,042,962 | |
Noncontrolling interests—Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 12,840 | | | | (8,650 | ) | | | 4,190 | |
Total stockholders’ equity | | | 1,098,439 | | | | (51,287 | ) | | | 1,047,152 | |
| | | |
December 31, 2009 | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Retained earnings | | | 261,712 | | | | (28,576 | ) | | | 233,136 | |
Tower Group, Inc. stockholders’ equity | | | 1,047,321 | | | | (28,576 | ) | | | 1,018,745 | |
| | | |
December 31, 2008 | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Retained earnings | | | 163,573 | | | | (16,044 | ) | | | 147,529 | |
Tower Group, Inc. stockholders’ equity | | | 333,667 | | | | (16,044 | ) | | | 317,623 | |
1 - “As Originally Reported” amounts have been adjusted for the effects of the revisions described in “Note 2—Revision of previously published financial information”
2 - “As Currently Reported” amounts represent the amounts reported after the effects of the revisions described in “Note 2—Revision of previously published financial information.”
The effect of adoption of this new guidance on the consolidated income statement for the year ended December 31, 2010 was as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, 2010 | |
($ in thousands, except per share amounts) | | As Originally Reported (1) | | | Effect of Change | | | As Currently Reported (2) | |
Other operating expenses | | $ | 196,653 | | | $ | 34,738 | | | $ | 231,381 | |
Income tax expense | | | 64,195 | | | | (12,027 | ) | | | 52,168 | |
Net income attributable to Tower Group, Inc. | | | 120,417 | | | | (14,061 | ) | | | 106,356 | |
Earnings per share attributable to Tower Group, Inc. | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Basic | | $ | 2.77 | | | $ | (0.32 | ) | | $ | 2.45 | |
Diluted | | $ | 2.76 | | | $ | (0.32 | ) | | $ | 2.44 | |
1 - “As Originally Reported” amounts have been adjusted for the effects of the revisions described in “Note 2—Revision of previously published financial information”
2 - “As Currently Reported” amounts represent the amounts reported after the effects of the revisions described in “Note 2—Revision of previously published financial information.”
F-19
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The effect of adoption of this new guidance on the consolidated income statement for the year ended December 31, 2009 was as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, 2009 | |
($ in thousands, except per share amounts) | | As Originally Reported (1) | | | Effect of Change | | | As Currently Reported (2) | |
Other operating expenses | | $ | 130,494 | | | $ | 19,281 | | | $ | 149,775 | |
Income tax expense | | | 50,409 | | | | (6,749 | ) | | | 43,660 | |
Net income attributable to Tower Group, Inc. | | | 107,256 | | | | (12,532 | ) | | | 94,724 | |
Earnings per share attributable to Tower Group, Inc. | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Basic | | $ | 2.73 | | | $ | (0.32 | ) | | $ | 2.41 | |
Diluted | | $ | 2.70 | | | $ | (0.31 | ) | | $ | 2.39 | |
1 - “As Originally Reported” amounts as adjusted for the effects of the revisions described in “Note 2—Revision of previously published financial information”
2 - “As Currently Reported” amounts represent amounts reported after the effects of the revisions described in “Note 2—Revision of previously published financial information.”
Guidance issued by the FASB in July 2010 clarified whether a modification or restructuring of a loan or receivable is considered to be troubled debt restructuring. This guidance requires additional disclosure on the income statement impact of any such troubled debt restructurings. This guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after June 15, 2011. The Company adopted this guidance with no impact on its financial statements as of September 30, 2011.
Accounting guidance not yet effective
In May 2011, the FASB issued new guidance concerning fair value measurement and disclosure. This guidance will be effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2011. The Company is currently analyzing the effect this accounting guidance will have on its financial statements.
In June 2011 (and as amended in December 2011), the FASB issued new guidance concerning the presentation of comprehensive income. This guidance will be effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2011. The Company is currently assessing how it will present comprehensive income under the new guidance.
In September 2011, the FASB issued amended guidance on testing goodwill for impairment. This guidance will be effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011 and is intended to reduce the cost and complexity of the annual goodwill impairment test by allowing an entity to utilize more qualitative factors. This guidance will not affect the Company’s financial position, result of operations or cash flows.
Note 4—Acquisitions
NAV PAC Division of Navigators Group, Inc. (“NAV PAC”)
On January 14, 2011, Tower obtained the renewal rights to the middle market commercial package and commercial automobile business underwritten through the NAV PAC division of Navigators Group, Inc. This business will allow us to continue to expand our middle market commercial product offering into certain niche classes of business. The underwriting personnel from Navigators became part of our recently formed Customized Solutions business unit focused on developing customized products for our key partner agents.
Acquisition of the Renewal Rights of AequiCap Program Administrators Inc. (“AequiCap”)
On November 2, 2010, Tower acquired the renewal rights to the commercial automobile liability and physical damage business of AequiCap for $12 million (“AequiCap II”). The business subject to the agreement covers both trucking and taxi risks that are consistent with Tower’s current underwriting guidelines. Most of the employees of AequiCap II involved in the servicing of this commercial liability and physical damage business became employees of the Company. The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination under GAAP. The distribution network was the only identifiable asset acquired and had a fair value of $11.3 million. No liabilities were assumed. $0.7 million of goodwill was recorded as a result of this transaction.
F-20
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Acquisition of the OneBeacon Personal Lines Division
On July 1, 2010, Tower completed the OBPL acquisition pursuant to a definitive agreement (the “Agreement”) dated February 2, 2010 by and among the Company and OneBeacon Insurance Group (“OneBeacon”). This acquisition expanded Tower’s suite of personal lines insurance products to include private passenger automobile, homeowners, umbrella, and the signature package product, OneChoice CustomPac, which provides customers with one policy for all of their homeowners, auto and umbrella needs.
Under the terms of the Agreement, the Company acquired Massachusetts Homeland Insurance Company (“MHIC”), York Insurance Company of Maine (“York”) and two management companies (collectively the “Stock Companies”). The management companies are the attorneys-in-fact for the Reciprocal Exchanges. Tower purchased $102 million principal of surplus notes issued by the Reciprocal Exchanges (the “surplus notes”). In addition, Tower also reinsured the personal lines business written by other subsidiaries of OneBeacon not acquired by Tower. The total consideration paid for OBPL was 164.8 million.
Effective July 1, 2010, Tower entered into transition service agreements with OneBeacon whereby OneBeacon will provide certain information technology and operational support to Tower until such time that these processes are migrated to Tower. Expenses incurred under such transition service agreements were $23.9 million and $13.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
Tower has consolidated OBPL as of July 1, 2010 and the purchase consideration has been allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, including separately identified intangible assets, based on their fair values as of the close of the acquisition, with the amounts exceeding the fair value recorded as goodwill. The goodwill consists largely of the synergies and economies of scale expected from combining the operations of the Company and OBPL.
Direct costs of the acquisition are accounted for separately from the business combination and are expensed as incurred.
The following presents assets acquired and liabilities assumed from the OBPL acquisition, including the assets and liabilities of the Reciprocal Exchanges, based on their fair values as of July 1, 2010. See “Note 5 – Variable Interest Entities (“VIEs”)” for a description of accounting for the Reciprocal Exchanges.
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
($ in thousands) | | Stock Companies and Surplus Notes | | | Reciprocal Exchanges | | | Total | |
Assets | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments | | $ | 238,846 | | | $ | 292,773 | | | $ | 531,619 | |
Surplus notes | | | 77,200 | | | | — | | | | 77,200 | |
Cash and cash equivalents | | | 7 | | | | 9,023 | | | | 9,030 | |
Receivables | | | 47,266 | | | | 44,758 | | | | 92,024 | |
Prepaid reinsurance premiums | | | 13,330 | | | | 14,503 | | | | 27,833 | |
Reinsurance recoverable on paid losses | | | — | | | | 5,634 | | | | 5,634 | |
Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses | | | 37,292 | | | | 12,843 | | | | 50,135 | |
Deferred acquisition costs / VOBA | | | 23,492 | | | | 17,301 | | | | 40,793 | |
Deferred income taxes | | | 10,370 | | | | — | | | | 10,370 | |
Intangibles | | | 59,900 | | | | 5,900 | | | | 65,800 | |
Other assets | | | 12,291 | | | | 3,597 | | | | 15,888 | |
Liabilities | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Loss and loss adjustment expenses | | | (230,775 | ) | | | (171,495 | ) | | | (402,270 | ) |
Unearned premium | | | (125,205 | ) | | | (111,150 | ) | | | (236,355 | ) |
Deferred income taxes | | | — | | | | (18,333 | ) | | | (18,333 | ) |
Surplus notes | | | — | | | | (77,200 | ) | | | (77,200 | ) |
Other liabilities | | | (3,970 | ) | | | (20,532 | ) | | | (24,502 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net assets acquired | | $ | 160,044 | | | $ | 7,622 | | | | 167,666 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Purchase consideration | | | 164,294 | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Goodwill | | $ | 4,250 | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
All goodwill associated with the OBPL acquisition has been allocated to the Personal Insurance segment.
F-21
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Acquisition of Specialty Underwriters’ Alliance, Inc. (“SUA”)
SUA, a specialty property and casualty insurance company, was acquired in 2009 for $106.7 million. The acquisition strengthened Tower’s regional presence in the Midwest.
The acquisition was accounted for using the purchase method in accordance with GAAP guidance on business combinations effective in 2009. The purchase consideration consists primarily of 4,460,092 shares of Tower common stock with an aggregate value of $105.9 million issued to SUA shareholders at a ratio of 0.28 shares of Tower common stock for each share of SUA common stock. Additionally, $0.7 million related to the replacement of SUA employee stock options with Tower common stock options was included in the purchase consideration. The Company issued 201,058 employee stock options to replace the SUA employee stock options as of the acquisition date and 92,276 shares for deferred restricted stock awards.
The following table presents the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of November 13, 2009, the closing date of the acquisition:
| | | | |
($ in thousands) | | Total | |
Assets | | | | |
Investments | | $ | 246,249 | |
Cash and cash equivalents | | | 54,377 | |
Receivables | | | 62,039 | |
Prepaid reinsurance premiums | | | 1,930 | |
Reinsurance recoverable | | | 73,888 | |
Deferred acquisition costs/VOBA | | | 17,149 | |
Deferred income taxes | | | 10,984 | |
Intangibles | | | 11,930 | |
Other assets | | | 21,133 | |
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity | | | | |
Loss and loss adjustment expenses | | | (252,905 | ) |
Unearned premium | | | (98,577 | ) |
Other liabilities | | | (28,814 | ) |
| | | | |
Net assets acquired | | $ | 119,383 | |
| | | | |
Total purchase consideration | | | 106,663 | |
| | | | |
Gain on bargain purchase | | $ | (12,720 | ) |
| | | | |
The Company began consolidating the financial results of SUA as of the date of acquisition. As the fair value of net assets acquired was in excess of the total purchase consideration, the gain on bargain purchase of $12.7 million shown in the schedule above has been recognized in other income for the year ended December 31, 2009.
Acquisition of the Workers’ Compensation Renewal Rights of AequiCap
On October 14, 2009, the acquisition of the renewal rights to the workers’ compensation business of AequiCap was completed (“AequiCap I”). The acquired business primarily consists of small, low to moderate hazard workers’ compensation policies in Florida. Most of the employees of AequiCap I involved in the servicing of the workers’ compensation business became employees of the Company. The acquisition of this business strengthened the regional presence in the Southeast.
The acquisition was accounted for using the purchase method in accordance with GAAP guidance on business combinations. Under the terms of the Agreement, the Company acquired AequiCap I for $5.5 million in cash. The distribution network was the only identifiable intangible asset acquired. The fair value the distribution network was $5.3 million and the fair value of other assets acquired was $0.1 million resulting in $0.1 million of goodwill.
Acquisition of HIG, Inc. (“Hermitage”)
Hermitage, a property and casualty insurance holding company, was acquired in 2009 for $130.1 million in cash. This transaction further expanded the wholesale distribution system nationally and established a network of retail agents in the Southeast.
The Company began consolidating the Hermitage financial statements as of the closing date. The purchase consideration has been allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, including separately identified intangible assets, based on their fair values as of the close of the acquisition, with the amounts exceeding the fair value recorded as goodwill. The goodwill consists largely of the synergies and economies of scale expected from combining the operations of the Company and Hermitage.
F-22
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The following table presents assets acquired and liabilities assumed with the acquisition of Hermitage, based on their fair values as of February 27, 2009, the closing date of this acquisition:
| | | | |
($ in thousands) | | Total | |
Assets | | | | |
Investments | | $ | 101,447 | |
Cash and cash equivalents | | | 88,167 | |
Receivables | | | 11,761 | |
Prepaid reinsurance premiums | | | 7,329 | |
Reinsurance recoverable | | | 16,460 | |
Deferred acquisition costs/VOBA | | | 11,319 | |
Deferred income taxes | | | 6,423 | |
Intangibles | | | 9,760 | |
Other assets | | | 2,077 | |
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity | | | | |
Loss and loss adjustment expenses | | | (101,297 | ) |
Unearned premium | | | (45,485 | ) |
Other liabilities | | | (13,166 | ) |
| | | | |
Net assets acquired | | | 94,795 | |
| | | | |
Purchase consideration | | | 130,115 | |
| | | | |
Goodwill | | $ | 35,320 | |
| | | | |
Acquisition of CastlePoint Holding, Ltd. (“CastlePoint”)
CastlePoint, a Bermuda exempted corporation, was acquired in 2009. The consideration for this acquisition was $491.4 million consisting of 16.9 million shares of Tower common stock with an aggregate value of $421.7 million, $4.4 million related to the fair value of unexercised warrants, and $65.3 million of cash. The Company issued 1.1 million employee stock options to replace the CastlePoint employee and director stock options as of the acquisition date. The value of the Company’s stock options attributed to the services rendered by the CastlePoint employees as of the acquisition date totaled $9.1 million and was included in the purchase consideration. This transaction has expanded and diversified revenues by accessing CastlePoint’s programs and risk sharing businesses.
In connection with recording the acquisition, the previous investment in CastlePoint was revalued resulting in a gain of $7.4 million, before income taxes. This gain was included in the Consolidated Statements of Income in the first quarter of 2009. There were $11.4 million of transaction costs, including legal, accounting, investment advisory and other costs directly related to the acquisition incurred, which were expensed in the first quarter of 2009.
Also, the fair value of the CastlePoint acquisition included the fair value of the Company’s previously held interest in CastlePoint and is presented as follows:
| | | | |
($ in thousands) | | | |
Purchase consideration | | $ | 491,366 | |
Fair value of outstanding CastlePoint stock options | | | 9,138 | |
| | | | |
Total purchase consideration | | | 500,504 | |
Fair value of previously held investment in CastlePoint | | | 34,673 | |
| | | | |
Fair value of CastlePoint at acquisition | | $ | 535,177 | |
| | | | |
The Company began consolidating CastlePoint’s financial statements as of the closing date. The purchase consideration has been allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, including separately identified intangible assets, based on their fair values as of the close of the acquisition, with the amounts exceeding the fair value recorded as goodwill. The goodwill consists largely of the synergies and economies of scale expected from combining the operations of the Company and CastlePoint.
F-23
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The following presents assets acquired and liabilities assumed with the acquisition of CastlePoint, based on their fair values as of February 5, 2009, the closing date of this acquisition:
| | | | |
($ in thousands) | | Total | |
Assets | | | | |
Investments | | $ | 486,034 | |
Cash and cash equivalents | | | 307,632 | |
Receivables | | | 211,464 | |
Prepaid reinsurance premiums | | | 23,424 | |
Reinsurance recoverable | | | 8,249 | |
Deferred acquisition costs / VOBA | | | 68,231 | |
Deferred income taxes | | | 24,522 | |
Intangibles | | | 9,100 | |
Other assets | | | 7,448 | |
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity | | | | |
Loss and loss adjustment expenses | | | (291,076 | ) |
Unearned premium | | | (242,365 | ) |
Other liabilities | | | (130,623 | ) |
Subordinated debt | | | (134,022 | ) |
| | | | |
Net assets acquired | | $ | 348,018 | |
| | | | |
Purchase consideration | | | 535,177 | |
| | | | |
Goodwill | | $ | 187,159 | |
| | | | |
Note 5–Variable Interest Entities (“VIEs”)
Through its management companies, Tower is the attorney-in-fact for the Reciprocal Exchanges and has the ability to direct their activities. The Reciprocal Exchanges are policyholder-owned insurance carriers organized as unincorporated associations. Each policyholder insured by the Reciprocal Exchanges shares risk with the other policyholders.
In the event of dissolution, policyholders would share any residual unassigned surplus in the same proportion as the amount of insurance purchased but are not subject to assessment for any deficit in unassigned surplus of the Reciprocal Exchanges. Tower receives management fee income for the services provided to the Reciprocal Exchanges. The assets of the Reciprocal Exchanges can be used only to settle the obligations of the Reciprocal Exchanges and general creditors to their liabilities have no recourse to Tower as the primary beneficiary.
In addition, Tower holds the surplus notes issued by the Reciprocal Exchanges when they were originally capitalized. The obligation to repay principal and interest on the surplus notes is subordinated to the Reciprocal Exchanges’ other liabilities including obligations to policyholders and claimants for benefits under insurance policies. Principal and interest on the surplus notes are payable only with regulatory approval. The Company has no ownership interest in the Reciprocal Exchanges.
The Company determined that each of the Reciprocal Exchanges qualifies as a VIE and that the Company is the primary beneficiary as it has both the power to direct the activities of the Reciprocal Exchanges that most significantly impact their economic performance and the risk of economic loss through its ownership of the surplus notes. Accordingly, the Company consolidates these Reciprocal Exchanges and eliminates all intercompany balances and transactions with Tower.
F-24
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
For the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Reciprocal Exchanges results of operations were as follows:
| | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
($ in thousands) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | |
Underwriting revenues | | $ | 194,509 | | | $ | 96,142 | |
Investment income | | | 12,846 | | | | 5,118 | |
Net realized investment gains | | | 2,414 | | | | (257 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
Total revenues | | | 209,769 | | | | 101,003 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Losses and underwriting expenses | | | 189,137 | | | | 105,186 | |
Interest expense | | | 6,455 | | | | 3,358 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Total expenses | | | 195,592 | | | | 108,544 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Income tax expense (benefit) | | | 3,182 | | | | (1,463 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
Net income (loss) | | $ | 10,995 | | | $ | (6,078 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
F-25
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 6—Investments
The cost or amortized cost and fair value of the Company’s investments in fixed maturity and equity securities, gross unrealized gains and losses, and other-than-temporary impairment losses as of December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010 are summarized as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Cost or | | | Gross | | | Gross | | | | | | Unrealized | |
| | Amortized | | | Unrealized | | | Unrealized | | | Fair | | | OTTI | |
($ in thousands) | | Cost | | | Gains | | | Losses | | | Value | | | Losses (1) | |
December 31, 2011 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | | $ | 154,430 | | | $ | 1,725 | | | $ | (13 | ) | | $ | 156,142 | | | $ | — | |
U.S. Agency securities | | | 114,411 | | | | 2,779 | | | | — | | | | 117,190 | | | | — | |
Municipal bonds | | | 688,192 | | | | 48,777 | | | | (255 | ) | | | 736,714 | | | | — | |
Corporate and other bonds | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Finance | | | 331,917 | | | | 9,201 | | | | (4,615 | ) | | | 336,503 | | | | — | |
Industrial | | | 388,139 | | | | 22,198 | | | | (2,287 | ) | | | 408,050 | | | | — | |
Utilities | | | 30,164 | | | | 3,067 | | | | (61 | ) | | | 33,170 | | | | — | |
Commercial mortgage-backed securities | | | 232,877 | | | | 22,854 | | | | (2,564 | ) | | | 253,167 | | | | (483 | ) |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Agency backed securities | | | 304,876 | | | | 15,401 | | | | (1 | ) | | | 320,276 | | | | — | |
Non-agency backed securities | | | 29,907 | | | | 2,603 | | | | (901 | ) | | | 31,609 | | | | (695 | ) |
Asset-backed securities | | | 60,199 | | | | 1,309 | | | | (655 | ) | | | 60,853 | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total fixed-maturity securities | | | 2,335,112 | | | | 129,914 | | | | (11,352 | ) | | | 2,453,674 | | | | (1,178 | ) |
Preferred stocks, principally financial sector | | | 24,083 | | | | 317 | | | | (890 | ) | | | 23,510 | | | | — | |
Common stocks, principally financial and industrial sectors | | | 68,951 | | | | 1,078 | | | | (4,194 | ) | | | 65,835 | | | | — | |
Short-term investments | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2011 | | $ | 2,428,146 | | | $ | 131,309 | | | $ | (16,436 | ) | | $ | 2,543,019 | | | $ | (1,178 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower | | $ | 2,138,001 | | | $ | 118,173 | | | $ | (15,075 | ) | | $ | 2,241,099 | | | $ | (1,178 | ) |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 290,145 | | | | 13,136 | | | | (1,361 | ) | | | 301,920 | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2011 | | $ | 2,428,146 | | | $ | 131,309 | | | $ | (16,436 | ) | | $ | 2,543,019 | | | $ | (1,178 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2010 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | | $ | 177,060 | | | $ | 1,258 | | | $ | (64 | ) | | $ | 178,254 | | | $ | — | |
U.S. Agency securities | | | 26,504 | | | | 758 | | | | (34 | ) | | | 27,228 | | | | — | |
Municipal bonds | | | 544,019 | | | | 14,357 | | | | (4,670 | ) | | | 553,706 | | | | — | |
Corporate and other bonds | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Finance | | | 260,843 | | | | 13,912 | | | | (618 | ) | | | 274,137 | | | | — | |
Industrial | | | 536,054 | | | | 18,284 | | | | (3,535 | ) | | | 550,803 | | | | — | |
Utilities | | | 56,257 | | | | 2,996 | | | | (623 | ) | | | 58,630 | | | | — | |
Commercial mortgage-backed securities | | | 243,593 | | | | 27,247 | | | | (1,550 | ) | | | 269,290 | | | | (1,065 | ) |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Agency backed securities | | | 364,622 | | | | 4,155 | | | | (2,750 | ) | | | 366,027 | | | | — | |
Non-agency backed securities | | | 88,986 | | | | 6,263 | | | | (671 | ) | | | 94,578 | | | | (498 | ) |
Asset-backed securities | | | 10,093 | | | | — | | | | (135 | ) | | | 9,958 | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total fixed-maturity securities | | | 2,308,031 | | | | 89,230 | | | | (14,650 | ) | | | 2,382,611 | | | | (1,563 | ) |
Preferred stocks, principally financial sector | | | 36,489 | | | | 2,034 | | | | (268 | ) | | | 38,255 | | | | — | |
Common stocks, principally industrial and financial sectors | | | 54,729 | | | | 453 | | | | (3,120 | ) | | | 52,062 | | | | — | |
Short-term investments | | | 1,560 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 1,560 | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2010 | | $ | 2,400,809 | | | $ | 91,717 | | | $ | (18,038 | ) | | $ | 2,474,488 | | | $ | (1,563 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower | | $ | 2,062,315 | | | $ | 87,012 | | | $ | (15,893 | ) | | $ | 2,133,434 | | | $ | (1,563 | ) |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 338,494 | | | | 4,705 | | | | (2,145 | ) | | | 341,054 | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2010 | | $ | 2,400,809 | | | $ | 91,717 | | | $ | (18,038 | ) | | $ | 2,474,488 | | | $ | (1,563 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(1) | Represents the gross unrealized loss on other-than-temporarily impaired securities recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). |
As at December 31, 2011 and 2010, U.S. Treasury Notes and other securities with carrying values of $226.8 million and $188.5 million, respectively, were on deposit with various states to comply with the insurance laws in which the Company is licensed.
F-26
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
In addition, the Company had $340.8 million and $261.1 million of investments as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, held by counterparties as collateral or in trusts to support letter of credit issued on Tower’s behalf, reinsurance liabilities on certain assumed reinsurance treaties, and collateral posted for certain leases.
Major categories of net investment income are summarized as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
($ in thousands) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Income | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Fixed-maturity securities | | $ | 105,533 | | | $ | 103,921 | | | $ | 72,619 | |
Equity securities | | | 24,576 | | | | 7,225 | | | | 3,600 | |
Cash and cash equivalents | | | 817 | | | | 732 | | | | 1,103 | |
Other | | | 795 | | | | 539 | | | | 559 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | | 131,721 | | | | 112,417 | | | | 77,881 | |
Expenses | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investment expenses | | | (5,247 | ) | | | (5,152 | ) | | | (3,015 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | $ | 126,474 | | | $ | 107,265 | | | $ | 74,866 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower | | | 113,628 | | | | 102,147 | | | | 74,866 | |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 12,846 | | | | 5,118 | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | $ | 126,474 | | | $ | 107,265 | | | $ | 74,866 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Proceeds from the sale of fixed-maturity securities were $2.0 billion, $1.4 billion and $936.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Proceeds from the sale of equity securities were $793.9 million, $80.7 million and $50.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
Gross realized gains, losses and impairment write-downs on investments are summarized as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
($ in thousands) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Fixed-maturity securities | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Gross realized gains | | $ | 44,550 | | | $ | 31,587 | | | $ | 25,131 | |
Gross realized losses | | | (11,101 | ) | | | (11,388 | ) | | | (574 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | 33,449 | | | | 20,199 | | | | 24,557 | |
Equity securities | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Gross realized gains | | | 8,328 | | | | 482 | | | | 528 | |
Gross realized losses | | | (29,138 | ) | | | (3,007 | ) | | | (96 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | (20,810 | ) | | | (2,525 | ) | | | 432 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net realized gains on investments | | | 12,639 | | | | 17,674 | | | | 24,989 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Other-than-temporary impairment losses: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Fixed-maturity securities | | | (580 | ) | | | (3,021 | ) | | | (24,658 | ) |
Equity securities | | | (2,665 | ) | | | — | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total other-than-temporary impairment losses recognized in earnings | | | (3,245 | ) | | | (3,021 | ) | | | (24,658 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total net realized investment gains (losses) | | $ | 9,394 | | | $ | 14,653 | | | $ | 331 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower | | $ | 6,980 | | | $ | 14,910 | | | $ | 331 | |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 2,414 | | | | (257 | ) | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total net realized investment gains (losses) | | $ | 9,394 | | | $ | 14,653 | | | $ | 331 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Management may dispose of a particular security due to changes in facts and circumstances related to the invested asset that have arisen since the last analysis supporting management’s determination whether or not it intended to sell the security, and if not, whether it is more likely than not that the Company would be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis.
F-27
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Impairment Review
Management regularly reviews the Company’s fixed-maturity and equity security portfolios in accordance with its impairment policy to evaluate the necessity of recording impairment losses for OTTI. The determination of OTTI is a subjective process and different judgments and assumptions could affect the timing of loss realization.
Management, in conjunction with its outside portfolio managers, analyzes its non-agency residential mortgage-backed securities (“RMBS”) using default loss models based on the performance of the underlying loans. Performance metrics include delinquencies, defaults, foreclosures, anticipated cash flow prepayments and cumulative losses incurred. The expected losses for a mortgage pool are compared to the break-even loss, which represents the point at which the Company’s tranche begins to experience losses.
The commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”) holdings are evaluated using analytical techniques and various metrics including the level of subordination, debt-service-coverage ratios, loan-to-value ratios, delinquencies, defaults and foreclosures.
For the non-structured fixed-maturity securities (U.S. Treasury and Agency securities, municipal bonds, and certain corporate debt), unrealized losses are reviewed to determine whether full recovery of principal and interest will be received. The estimate of expected cash flows is determined by projecting a recovery value and a recovery time frame and assessing whether further principal and interest will be received. The determination of recovery value incorporates an issuer valuation assumption utilizing one or a combination of valuation methods as deemed appropriate by management. The present value of the cash flows is determined by applying the effective yield of the security at the date of acquisition (or the most recent implied rate used to accrete the security if the implied rate has changed as a result of a previous impairment) and an estimated recovery time frame. For securities for which the issuer is financially troubled but not in bankruptcy, that time frame is generally longer. Included in the present value calculation are expected principal and interest payments; however, for securities for which the issuer is classified as bankrupt or in default, the present value calculation assumes no interest payments and a single recovery amount. In situations for which a present value of cash flows cannot be estimated, a write-down to fair value is recorded.
In estimating the recovery value, significant judgment is involved in the development of assumptions relating to a number of factors related to the issuer including, but not limited to, revenue, margin and earnings projections, the likely market or liquidation values of assets, potential additional debt to be incurred pre- or post- bankruptcy/restructuring, the ability to shift existing or new debt to different priority layers, the amount of restructuring/bankruptcy expenses, the size and priority of unfunded pension obligations, litigation or other contingent claims, the treatment of intercompany claims and the likely outcome with respect to inter-creditor conflicts.
The evaluation of equity securities includes management’s intent and ability to hold the security to recovery. Management will record OTTI in those situations where it does not intend to hold the security to recovery or if the security is not expected to recover in value.
The following table shows the amount of fixed-maturity and equity securities that were OTTI for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009. This resulted in recording impairment write-downs included in net realized investment gains (losses), and reduced the unrealized loss in other comprehensive net income:
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
($ in thousands) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Corporate and other bonds | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | (1,851 | ) |
Commercial mortgage-backed securities | | | (219 | ) | | | (6,987 | ) | | | (26,399 | ) |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | | | (235 | ) | | | (6,164 | ) | | | (12,479 | ) |
Asset-backed securities | | | (391 | ) | | | (1,779 | ) | | | (4,651 | ) |
Equities | | | (2,664 | ) | | | — | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Other-than-temporary-impairments | | | (3,509 | ) | | | (14,930 | ) | | | (45,380 | ) |
Portion of loss recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | | | 264 | | | | 11,909 | | | | 20,722 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Impairment losses recognized in earnings | | $ | (3,245 | ) | | $ | (3,021 | ) | | $ | (24,658 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower | | $ | (3,245 | ) | | $ | (3,021 | ) | | $ | (24,658 | ) |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Impairment losses recognized in earnings | | $ | (3,245 | ) | | $ | (3,021 | ) | | $ | (24,658 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
F-28
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The following table provides a rollforward of the cumulative amount of OTTI for securities still held showing the amounts that have been included in earnings on a pretax basis for the years ended 2011 and 2010 (none of such OTTI was included within the Reciprocal Exchanges):
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
($ in thousands) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Balance, January 1, | | $ | 18,075 | | | $ | 40,734 | | | $ | 24,638 | |
Cumulative effect of adjustment upon adoption of 2009 GAAP guidance on OTTI | | | — | | | | — | | | | (2,497 | ) |
Additional credit losses recognized during the period, related to securities for which: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
No OTTI has been previously recognized | | | 44 | | | | 707 | | | | 16,076 | |
OTTI has been previously recognized | | | 537 | | | | 2,314 | | | | 8,582 | |
Reductions due to: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Securities sold during the period (realized) | | | (5,990 | ) | | | (26,850 | ) | | | (4,895 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance, December 31, | | $ | 12,666 | | | $ | 16,905 | | | $ | 41,904 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Unrealized Losses
There are 385 securities at December 31, 2011, including fixed maturities and equity securities, which account for the gross unrealized loss, none of which is deemed by management to be OTTI. Temporary losses on corporate and other bonds result from purchases made in a lower interest rate environment or lower yield spread environment. In addition, there have been some ratings downgrades on certain of these securities. After analyzing the credit quality, balance sheet strength and company outlook, management believes these securities will recover in value. The structured securities that had significant unrealized losses resulted primarily from declines in both residential and commercial real estate prices. To the extent projected cash flows on structured securities change adversely, they would be considered OTTI, and an impairment loss would be recognized in the current period. Management considered all relevant factors, including expected recoverability of cash flows, in assessing whether a loss was other-than-temporary. The Company does not intend to sell these fixed maturity securities, and it is not more likely than not that these securities will be sold before recovering their cost basis.
For all fixed-maturity securities in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2011, the Company has received all contractual interest payments (and principal if applicable). Based on the continuing receipt of cash flow and the foregoing analyses, management expects continued timely payments of principal and interest and considers the losses to be temporary.
The unrealized loss position associated with the fixed-maturity portfolio was $11.4 million as of December 31, 2011, consisting primarily of corporate bonds and mortgage-backed securities of $10.4 million. The total fixed-maturity portfolio of gross unrealized losses included 360 securities which were, in aggregate, approximately 2.9% below amortized cost. Of the 360 fixed maturity investments identified, 22 have been in an unrealized loss position for more than 12 months. The total unrealized loss on these investments at December 31, 2011 was $0.7 million. Management does not consider these investments to be other-than-temporarily impaired.
For common stocks, there were 18 securities in a loss position at December 31, 2011 totaling $4.2 million. Management evaluated the financial condition of the common stock issuers, the severity and duration of the impairment, and our ability and intent to hold to recovery and determined these securities are not OTTI. The evaluation consisted of a detailed review, including but not limited to some or all of the following factors for each security: the current S&P rating, analysts’ reports, past earnings trends and analysts’ earnings expectations for the next 12 months, liquidity, near-term financing risk, and whether the company was currently paying dividends on its equity securities. Management does not consider these investments to be other-than-temporarily impaired.
F-29
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The following table presents information regarding invested assets that were in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010 by amount of time in a continuous unrealized loss position:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Less than 12 Months | | | 12 Months or Longer | | | Total | |
| | Fair | | | Unrealized | | | Fair | | | Unrealized | | | Aggregate | | | Unrealized | |
($ in thousands) | | Value | | | Losses | | | Value | | | Losses | | | Fair Value | | | Losses | |
December 31, 2011 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | | $ | 92,001 | | | $ | (13 | ) | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 92,001 | | | $ | (13 | ) |
Municipal bonds | | | 13,449 | | | | (255 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 13,449 | | | | (255 | ) |
Corporate and other bonds | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Finance | | | 138,986 | | | | (4,610 | ) | | | 251 | | | | (5 | ) | | | 139,237 | | | | (4,615 | ) |
Industrial | | | 57,357 | | | | (2,141 | ) | | | 3,519 | | | | (146 | ) | | | 60,876 | | | | (2,287 | ) |
Utilities | | | 1,902 | | | | (61 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 1,902 | | | | (61 | ) |
Commercial mortgage-backed securities | | | 26,130 | | | | (2,564 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 26,130 | | | | (2,564 | ) |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Agency backed | | | 19 | | | | (1 | ) | | | 12 | | | | — | | | | 31 | | | | (1 | ) |
Non-agency backed | | | 13,294 | | | | (318 | ) | | | 4,609 | | | | (583 | ) | | | 17,903 | | | | (901 | ) |
Asset-backed securities | | | 29,624 | | | | (647 | ) | | | 610 | | | | (8 | ) | | | 30,234 | | | | (655 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total fixed-maturity securities | | | 372,762 | | | | (10,610 | ) | | | 9,001 | | | | (742 | ) | | | 381,763 | | | | (11,352 | ) |
Preferred stocks | | | 17,773 | | | | (644 | ) | | | 1,303 | | | | (246 | ) | | | 19,076 | | | | (890 | ) |
Common stocks | | | 44,132 | | | | (4,194 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 44,132 | | | | (4,194 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2011 | | $ | 434,667 | | | $ | (15,448 | ) | | $ | 10,304 | | | $ | (988 | ) | | $ | 444,971 | | | $ | (16,436 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower | | $ | 398,989 | | | $ | (14,160 | ) | | $ | 8,264 | | | $ | (915 | ) | | $ | 407,253 | | | $ | (15,075 | ) |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 35,678 | | | | (1,288 | ) | | | 2,040 | | | | (73 | ) | | | 37,718 | | | | (1,361 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2011 | | $ | 434,667 | | | $ | (15,448 | ) | | $ | 10,304 | | | $ | (988 | ) | | $ | 444,971 | | | $ | (16,436 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2010 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | | $ | 2,641 | | | $ | (64 | ) | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 2,641 | | | $ | (64 | ) |
U.S. Agency securities | | | 4,643 | | | | (34 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 4,643 | | | | (34 | ) |
Municipal bonds | | | 146,947 | | | | (4,635 | ) | | | 215 | | | | (35 | ) | | | 147,162 | | | | (4,670 | ) |
Corporate and other bonds | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Finance | | | 45,542 | | | | (618 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 45,542 | | | | (618 | ) |
Industrial | | | 172,305 | | | | (3,526 | ) | | | 241 | | | | (9 | ) | | | 172,546 | | | | (3,535 | ) |
Utilities | | | 24,567 | | | | (622 | ) | | | 243 | | | | (1 | ) | | | 24,810 | | | | (623 | ) |
Commercial mortgage-backed securities | | | 35,362 | | | | (892 | ) | | | 2,315 | | | | (658 | ) | | | 37,677 | | | | (1,550 | ) |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Agency backed | | | 210,770 | | | | (2,750 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 210,770 | | | | (2,750 | ) |
Non-agency backed | | | 2,416 | | | | (209 | ) | | | 8,112 | | | | (462 | ) | | | 10,528 | | | | (671 | ) |
Asset-backed securities | | | 9,958 | | | | (135 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 9,958 | | | | (135 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total fixed-maturity securities | | | 655,151 | | | | (13,485 | ) | | | 11,126 | | | | (1,165 | ) | | | 666,277 | | | | (14,650 | ) |
Preferred stocks | | | 9,507 | | | | (72 | ) | | | 5,356 | | | | (196 | ) | | | 14,863 | | | | (268 | ) |
Common stocks | | | 38,516 | | | | (3,120 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 38,516 | | | | (3,120 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2010 | | $ | 703,174 | | | $ | (16,677 | ) | | $ | 16,482 | | | $ | (1,361 | ) | | $ | 719,656 | | | $ | (18,038 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower | | $ | 530,401 | | | $ | (14,533 | ) | | $ | 16,482 | | | $ | (1,361 | ) | | $ | 546,883 | | | $ | (15,894 | ) |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 172,773 | | | | (2,144 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 172,773 | | | | (2,144 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2010 | | $ | 703,174 | | | $ | (16,677 | ) | | $ | 16,482 | | | $ | (1,361 | ) | | $ | 719,656 | | | $ | (18,038 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Management evaluated the severity of the impairment in relation to the carrying values for the securities referred to above and considered all relevant factors in assessing whether the loss was other-than-temporary. Management does not intend to sell its fixed-maturity securities, and it is not more likely than not that fixed maturity and equity securities will be sold until there is a recovery of fair value to the original cost basis, which may be at maturity.
F-30
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Fixed-Maturity Investment—Time to Maturity
The following table shows the composition of the fixed-maturity portfolio by remaining time to maturity at December 31, 2011 and 2010. For securities that are redeemable at the option of the issuer and have a market price that is greater than par value, the maturity used for the table below is the earliest redemption date. For securities that are redeemable at the option of the issuer and have a market price that is less than par value, the maturity used for the table below is the final maturity date.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Tower | | | Reciprocal Exchanges | | | Total | |
| | Amortized | | | Fair | | | Amortized | | | Fair | | | Amortized | | | Fair | |
($ in thousands) | | Cost | | | Value | | | Cost | | | Value | | | Cost | | | Value | |
December 31, 2011 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Remaining Time to Maturity | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Less than one year | | $ | 40,201 | | | $ | 40,529 | | | $ | 44,238 | | | $ | 44,942 | | | $ | 84,439 | | | $ | 85,471 | |
One to five years | | | 479,721 | | | | 491,904 | | | | 81,566 | | | | 83,743 | | | | 561,287 | | | | 575,647 | |
Five to ten years | | | 563,830 | | | | 593,838 | | | | 21,522 | | | | 22,797 | | | | 585,352 | | | | 616,635 | |
More than 10 years | | | 427,357 | | | | 458,536 | | | | 48,818 | | | | 51,480 | | | | 476,175 | | | | 510,016 | |
Mortgage and asset-backed securities | | | 535,823 | | | | 568,813 | | | | 92,036 | | | | 97,092 | | | | 627,859 | | | | 665,905 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 2,046,932 | | | $ | 2,153,620 | | | $ | 288,180 | | | $ | 300,054 | | | $ | 2,335,112 | | | $ | 2,453,674 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2010 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Remaining Time to Maturity | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Less than one year | | $ | 28,408 | | | $ | 28,665 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 28,408 | | | $ | 28,665 | |
One to five years | | | 512,969 | | | | 526,746 | | | | 65,993 | | | | 66,771 | | | | 578,962 | | | | 593,517 | |
Five to ten years | | | 501,324 | | | | 521,138 | | | | 110,463 | | | | 111,166 | | | | 611,787 | | | | 632,304 | |
More than 10 years | | | 351,093 | | | | 358,445 | | | | 30,487 | | | | 29,826 | | | | 381,580 | | | | 388,271 | |
Mortgage and asset-backed securities | | | 575,743 | | | | 606,563 | | | | 131,551 | | | | 133,291 | | | | 707,294 | | | | 739,854 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 1,969,537 | | | $ | 2,041,557 | | | $ | 338,494 | | | $ | 341,054 | | | $ | 2,308,031 | | | $ | 2,382,611 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Other Invested Assets
The following table shows the composition of the other invested assets as of December 31, 2011 (the Company had no other invested assets in 2010):
| | | | |
($ in thousands) | | | |
December 31, 2011 | | | | |
Limited partnerships, equity method | | $ | 12,459 | |
Real estate, amortized cost | | | 6,888 | |
Securities reported under the fair value option | | | 25,000 | |
| | | | |
Total | | $ | 44,347 | |
| | | | |
In December 2011, the Company purchased two securities for which it elected the fair value option. This election was made to simplify the accounting for these instruments which contain embedded derivatives and other features.
Note 7—Fair Value Measurements
GAAP establishes a three-level hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). If the inputs used to measure the assets or liabilities fall within different levels of the hierarchy, the classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement of the asset or liability. Classification of assets and liabilities within the hierarchy considers the markets in which the assets and liabilities are traded, including during periods of market disruption, and the reliability and transparency of the assumptions used to determine fair value. The hierarchy requires the use of observable market data when available. The levels of the hierarchy are as follows:
Level 1— Inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities traded in active markets. Included are those equity securities that are traded on active exchanges, such as the NASDAQ Global Select Market.
F-31
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Level 2— Inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability and market-corroborated inputs. Included are investments in U.S. Treasury and Agency securities and, together with municipal bonds, corporate debt securities, commercial mortgages, residential mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities. Additionally, interest-rate swap contracts utilize Level 2 inputs in deriving fair values.
Level 3— Inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable in the market for the asset or liability and are significant to the fair value measurement. Material assumptions and factors considered in pricing investment securities may include projected cash flows, collateral performance including delinquencies, defaults and recoveries, and any market clearing activity or liquidity circumstances in the security or similar securities that may have occurred since the prior pricing period. Generally included in this valuation methodology are investments in certain mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities and securities the Company is reporting under the fair value option.
The availability of observable inputs varies and is affected by a wide variety of factors. When the valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires significantly more judgment. The degree of judgment exercised by management in determining fair value is greatest for investments categorized as Level 3. For investments in this category, management considers prices and inputs that are current as of the measurement date. In periods of market dislocation, as characterized by current market conditions, the ability to observe stable prices and inputs may be reduced for many instruments. This condition could cause a security to be reclassified between levels.
F-32
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
As at December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company’s financial instruments carried at fair value are allocated among levels as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
($ in thousands) | | Level 1 | | | Level 2 | | | Level 3 | | | Total | |
December 31, 2011 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Fixed-maturity securities | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | | $ | — | | | $ | 156,142 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 156,142 | |
U.S. Agency securities | | | — | | | | 117,190 | | | | — | | | | 117,190 | |
Municipal bonds | | | — | | | | 736,714 | | | | — | | | | 736,714 | |
Corporate and other bonds | | | — | | | | 777,723 | | | | — | | | | 777,723 | |
Commercial mortgage-backed securities | | | — | | | | 253,167 | | | | — | | | | 253,167 | |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Agency | | | — | | | | 320,276 | | | | — | | | | 320,276 | |
Non-agency | | | — | | | | 31,609 | | | | — | | | | 31,609 | |
Asset-backed securities | | | — | | | | 60,853 | | | | — | | | | 60,853 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total fixed-maturities | | | — | | | | 2,453,674 | | | | — | | | | 2,453,674 | |
Equity securities | | | 89,345 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 89,345 | |
Short-term investments | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total investments at fair value | | | 89,345 | | | | 2,453,674 | | | | — | | | | 2,543,019 | |
Other invested assets (1) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 25,000 | | | | 25,000 | |
Other liabilities | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Interest rate swap contracts | | | — | | | | (7,384 | ) | | | — | | | | (7,384 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2011 | | $ | 89,345 | | | $ | 2,446,290 | | | $ | 25,000 | | | $ | 2,560,635 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower | | $ | 87,479 | | | $ | 2,146,236 | | | $ | 25,000 | | | $ | 2,258,715 | |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 1,866 | | | | 300,054 | | | | — | | | | 301,920 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2011 | | $ | 89,345 | | | $ | 2,446,290 | | | $ | 25,000 | | | $ | 2,560,635 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2010 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Fixed-maturity securities | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | | $ | — | | | $ | 178,254 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 178,254 | |
U.S. Agency securities | | | — | | | | 27,228 | | | | — | | | | 27,228 | |
Municipal bonds | | | — | | | | 553,706 | | | | — | | | | 553,706 | |
Corporate and other bonds | | | — | | | | 883,570 | | | | — | | | | 883,570 | |
Commercial mortgage-backed securities | | | — | | | | 269,290 | | | | — | | | | 269,290 | |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Agency | | | — | | | | 366,027 | | | | — | | | | 366,027 | |
Non-agency | | | — | | | | 92,520 | | | | 2,058 | | | | 94,578 | |
Asset-backed securities | | | — | | | | 9,958 | | | | — | | | | 9,958 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total fixed-maturities | | | — | | | | 2,380,553 | | | | 2,058 | | | | 2,382,611 | |
Equity securities | | | 90,003 | | | | 314 | | | | — | | | | 90,317 | |
Short-term investments | | | — | | | | 1,560 | | | | — | | | | 1,560 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total investments | | | 90,003 | | | | 2,382,427 | | | | 2,058 | | | | 2,474,488 | |
Other assets | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Interest rate swap contracts | | | — | | | | 3,223 | | | | — | | | | 3,223 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2010 | | $ | 90,003 | | | $ | 2,385,650 | | | $ | 2,058 | | | $ | 2,477,711 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower | | $ | 90,003 | | | $ | 2,044,596 | | | $ | 2,058 | | | $ | 2,136,657 | |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | — | | | | 341,054 | | | | — | | | | 341,054 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2010 | | $ | 90,003 | | | $ | 2,385,650 | | | $ | 2,058 | | | $ | 2,477,711 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(1) | $25,000 of the Other invested assets balance is reported at fair value. $19,347 of Other invested assets is reported under the equity method of accounting or at amortized cost. |
The fair values of the fixed-maturity, equity securities and short-term investments are determined by management after taking into consideration available sources of data. Various factors are considered that may indicate an inactive market, including levels of activity, source and timeliness of quotes, abnormal liquidity risk premiums, unusually wide bid-ask spreads, and lack of correlation between fair value of assets and relevant indices. If management believes that the price provided from the pricing source is distressed, management will use a valuation method that reflects an orderly transaction between market participants, generally a discounted cash flow method that incorporates relevant interest rate, risk and liquidity factors.
F-33
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Substantially all of the portfolio valuations at December 31, 2011 classified as Level 1 or Level 2 in the above table is priced by utilizing the services of several independent pricing services that provide the Company with a price quote for each security. There were no adjustments made to the prices obtained from the independent pricing sources and dealers on securities classified as Level 1 or Level 2.
In 2011, there were no transfers of investments between Level 1 and Level 2. Approximately $1.0 million of securities were transferred from Level 3 to Level 2 when quoted market prices for similar securities that were considered reliable and could be validated against an alternative source became available in 2011.
The fair values of the interest rate swaps were derived by using an industry standard swap valuation model with market based inputs for swaps having similar characteristics.
In December 2011, the Company purchased two securities, classified in other invested assets. For the fair value measurement, Management believes that its purchase price in December is a reasonable expectation of a price it would receive from a third-party market participant. Accordingly, this purchase price is used as the fair value estimate.
Management has reviewed the pricing techniques and methodologies of the independent pricing sources and believes that their policies adequately consider market activity, either based on specific transactions for the issue valued or based on modeling of securities with similar credit quality, duration, yield and structure that were recently traded. Management monitors security-specific valuation trends and discusses material changes or the absence of expected changes with the portfolio managers to understand the underlying factors and inputs and to validate the reasonableness of pricing. Management also back-tests the prices on numerous sales of securities during the year to validate the previous pricing provided as well as utilizes other pricing sources to validate the pricing provided by our primary provider of the majority of the non-U.S. Treasury securities and non-agency securities included in Level 2.
The following table summarizes changes in Level 3 assets measured at fair value for the year ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 for Tower (the Reciprocal Exchanges have no Level 3 assets):
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
($ in thousands) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Beginning balance, January 1 | | $ | 2,058 | | | $ | 13,595 | | | $ | 18,085 | |
Total gains (losses)-realized / unrealized | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Included in net income | | | (1,067 | ) | | | (32 | ) | | | (11,321 | ) |
Included in other comprehensive income (loss) | | | — | | | | (6,229 | ) | | | 1,818 | |
Purchases, issuances and settlements | | | 25,000 | | | | — | | | | 3,512 | |
Net transfers into (out of) Level 3 | | | (991 | ) | | | (5,276 | ) | | | 1,501 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Ending balance, December 31, | | $ | 25,000 | | | $ | 2,058 | | | $ | 13,595 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
F-34
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 8—Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill
Goodwill is calculated as the excess of purchase price over the net fair value of assets acquired. See Note 4 – “Acquisitions” for information regarding the calculation of goodwill related to the recent acquisitions. The following is a summary of goodwill by reporting units:
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Commercial | | | Personal | | | | |
($ in thousands) | | Insurance | | | Insurance | | | Total | |
Balance, January 1, 2010 | | $ | 188,422 | | | $ | 52,177 | | | $ | 240,599 | |
Additions (a) | | | 699 | | | | 4,250 | | | | 4,949 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance, January 1, 2011 | | | 189,121 | | | | 56,427 | | | | 245,548 | |
Additions | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2011 | | $ | 189,121 | | | $ | 56,427 | | | $ | 245,548 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
(a) | Primarily relates to the acquisitions of OBPL and AequiCap II in 2010. |
The Company determined that none of the goodwill related to the acquisition of OBPL and AequiCap II is deductible for tax purposes.
The Company performs an analysis annually to identify potential goodwill impairment and measures the amount of any goodwill impairment loss that may need to be recognized. Goodwill impairment testing requires an evaluation of the estimated fair value of each reporting unit to its carrying value, including the goodwill. An impairment charge could be recorded if the estimated fair value is less than the carrying amount of the reporting unit. No impairments have been identified.
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets consist of finite and indefinite life assets. Finite life intangible assets include customer relationships and trademarks. Insurance company licenses and management contracts are considered indefinite life intangible assets subject to annual impairment testing.
The components of intangible assets and their useful lives, accumulated amortization, and net carrying value as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 are as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Useful | | | December 31, 2011 | | | December 31, 2010 | |
($ in thousands) | | Life (in-yrs) | | | Gross Carrying Amount | | | Accumulated Amortization | | | Net Carrying Amount | | | Gross Carrying Amount | | | Accumulated Amortization | | | Net Carrying Amount | |
Insurance licenses | | | — | | | $ | 19,003 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 19,003 | | | $ | 19,003 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 19,003 | |
Management contracts | | | — | | | | 54,600 | | | | — | | | | 54,600 | | | | 54,600 | | | | — | | | | 54,600 | |
Customer relationships | | | 10-25 | | | | 57,890 | | | | (19,427 | ) | | | 38,463 | | | | 57,890 | | | | (11,398 | ) | | | 46,492 | |
Trademarks | | | 5 | | | | 5,290 | | | | (2,436 | ) | | | 2,854 | | | | 5,290 | | | | (1,565 | ) | | | 3,725 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | | | | | $ | 136,783 | | | $ | (21,863 | ) | | $ | 114,920 | | | $ | 136,783 | | | $ | (12,963 | ) | | $ | 123,820 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower | | | | | | $ | 130,883 | | | $ | (20,802 | ) | | $ | 110,081 | | | $ | 130,883 | | | $ | (12,567 | ) | | $ | 118,316 | |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | | | | | 5,900 | | | | (1,061 | ) | | | 4,839 | | | | 5,900 | | | | (396 | ) | | | 5,504 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | | | | | $ | 136,783 | | | $ | (21,863 | ) | | $ | 114,920 | | | $ | 136,783 | | | $ | (12,963 | ) | | $ | 123,820 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
F-35
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The activity in the components of intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 consisted of intangible assets acquired from business combinations and amortization expense as shown in the table below:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Insurance | | | Management | | | Customer | | | | | | | |
($ in thousands) | | Licenses | | | Contracts | | | Relationships | | | Trademarks | | | Total | |
Balance, January 1, 2010 | | $ | 17,703 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 33,432 | | | $ | 2,215 | | | $ | 53,350 | |
Additions (a) | | | 1,300 | | | | 54,600 | | | | 18,600 | | | | 2,600 | | | | 77,100 | |
Deductions (b) | | | — | | | | — | | | | (5,540 | ) | | | (1,090 | ) | | | (6,630 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance, December 31, 2010 | | $ | 19,003 | | | $ | 54,600 | | | $ | 46,492 | | | $ | 3,725 | | | $ | 123,820 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower | | $ | 18,603 | | | $ | 54,600 | | | $ | 43,228 | | | $ | 1,885 | | | $ | 118,316 | |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 400 | | | | — | | | | 3,264 | | | | 1,840 | | | | 5,504 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2010 | | $ | 19,003 | | | $ | 54,600 | | | $ | 46,492 | | | $ | 3,725 | | | $ | 123,820 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Additions | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | |
Deductions (b) | | | — | | | | — | | | | (8,029 | ) | | | (871 | ) | | | (8,900 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance, December 31, 2011 | | $ | 19,003 | | | $ | 54,600 | | | $ | 38,463 | | | $ | 2,854 | | | $ | 114,920 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower | | $ | 18,603 | | | $ | 54,600 | | | $ | 35,594 | | | $ | 1,284 | | | $ | 110,081 | |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 400 | | | | — | | | | 2,869 | | | | 1,570 | | | | 4,839 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2011 | | $ | 19,003 | | | $ | 54,600 | | | $ | 38,463 | | | $ | 2,854 | | | $ | 114,920 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(a) | Relates to the acquisition of OBPL and AequiCap II in 2010. |
The Company recorded amortization expense related to intangibles of $8.9 million, $6.6 million and $3.2 million in the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The estimated amortization expense for each of the next five years is:
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Tower | | | Reciprocal | | | | |
($ in thousands) | | Tower | | | Exchanges | | | Total | |
2012 | | $ | 7,566 | | | $ | 585 | | | $ | 8,151 | |
2013 | | | 6,791 | | | | 517 | | | | 7,308 | |
2014 | | | 2,804 | | | | 466 | | | | 3,270 | |
2015 | | | 2,253 | | | | 405 | | | | 2,658 | |
2016 | | | 1,932 | | | | 354 | | | | 2,286 | |
Note 9—Deferred Acquisition Costs (“DAC”)
As disclosed in “Note 3 – Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation”, the Company adopted new guidance concerning the accounting for the costs associated with acquiring or renewing insurance contracts. This guidance was adopted retrospectively effective January 1, 2011 and the Company has adjusted its previously issued financial information.
F-36
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Acquisition costs incurred and policy-related ceding commission revenue are deferred and amortized to income on property and casualty business for the year ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | | |
| | | | | Reciprocal | | | | | | | | | Reciprocal | | | | | | | |
($ in thousands) | | Tower | | | Exchanges | | | Total | | | Tower | | | Exchanges | | | Total | | | 2009 | |
Deferred acquisition costs, net, January 1 | | $ | 145,917 | | | $ | 18,206 | | | $ | 164,123 | | | $ | 126,307 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 126,307 | | | $ | 28,398 | |
Acquisition date value of business acquired (“VOBA”) of acquired entities | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 23,492 | | | | 17,301 | | | | 40,793 | | | | 96,700 | |
Cost incurred and deferred: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Commissions and brokerage | | | 279,699 | | | | 31,837 | | | | 311,536 | | | | 240,428 | | | | 20,465 | | | | 260,893 | | | | 212,096 | |
Other underwriting and acquisition costs | | | 64,416 | | | | 5,896 | | | | 70,312 | | | | 87,715 | | | | 13,500 | | | | 101,215 | | | | 90,062 | |
Ceding commission revenue | | | (20,082 | ) | | | (11,446 | ) | | | (31,528 | ) | | | (32,526 | ) | | | (7,232 | ) | | | (39,758 | ) | | | (37,852 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net costs incurred and deferred | | | 324,033 | | | | 26,287 | | | | 350,320 | | | | 295,617 | | | | 26,733 | | | | 322,350 | | | | 264,306 | |
Amortization | | | (312,958 | ) | | | (32,627 | ) | | | (345,585 | ) | | | (299,499 | ) | | | (25,828 | ) | | | (325,327 | ) | | | (263,097 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Deferred acquisition costs, net, December 31, | | $ | 156,992 | | | $ | 11,866 | | | $ | 168,858 | | | $ | 145,917 | | | $ | 18,206 | | | $ | 164,123 | | | $ | 126,307 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Note 10—Reinsurance
The Company utilizes various excess of loss, quota share and catastrophe reinsurance programs to limit its exposure to a maximum loss on any one risk.
Under the terms of the excess of loss programs in 2011, Tower was at risk of loss for the first $5.0 million on property, $2.5 million on workers’ compensation and $2.5 million on umbrella. The Company then had reinsurance coverage up to $30 million for property, $50 million for workers’ compensation, $5 million for umbrella. In addition, the Company also had “clash coverage” in effect for 2011 for a limit of $5 million in excess of $5 million which applies to the aggregate liability for liability losses from multiple insureds involved in the same occurrence.
Tower’s 2011 quota share reinsurance cedes 30% of the homeowners business written by the companies obtained in the OBPL transaction. This coverage has a $340 million per occurrence cap.
The Company also purchases property catastrophe reinsurance on an excess of loss basis above a specified retention to protect itself from an accumulation of losses resulting from a catastrophic event. At the July 1, 2011 renewal of its property catastrophe program, the Company maintained a retention of $75 million per catastrophe, had 60% catastrophe protection for the next $50 million of loss above the $75 million, and 100% percent catastrophe protection for the next $775 million of loss in excess of $125 million.
In 2010, Tower had reinsurance coverage, on a per policy basis, of $30 million for property risks, $1.5 million for liability coverage, $50 million for workers’ compensation risk, $5 million for umbrella coverage and $100 million for equipment breakdown. “Clash coverage” for 2010 was for coverage of $5 million in excess of $5 million. The 2010 quota share treaties included a liability quota share ceding certain liability coverage written by Tower and the homeowners quota share treaty ceding 30% of the homeowners business written by the companies obtained in the OBPL transaction. The property catastrophe program renewed on July 1, 2010 had a retention of $75 million per catastrophe, had 50% catastrophe protection for the next $50 million of loss above the $75 million, and 100% percent catastrophe protection for the next $650 million of loss in excess of $125 million.
The Company maintains funds held liabilities under the liability quota share reinsurance agreements written in 2010 and prior years and is required to credit interest to the reinsurers with annual effective yields ranging from 2.5% to 4.0% on the monthly balance in the funds held liability accounts. The amounts credited for 2011, 2010 and 2009 were $3.6 million, $2.7 million and $0.7 million, respectively, and have been recorded as interest expense.
The Reciprocal Exchanges are not party to the reinsurance agreements discussed above, except for the homeowners quota share treaty whereby they cede 30% of homeowners business written. The Reciprocal Exchanges were covered under this treaty in both 2011 and 2010. The Reciprocal Exchanges are also protected under a property catastrophe reinsurance cover placed on an excess of loss basis. In 2011 and 2010, this coverage was for 100% of $150 million in excess of a $10 million retention.
F-37
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Impact of Reinsurance on Premiums
The table below shows direct, assumed and ceded premiums for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
($ in thousands) | | Direct | | | Assumed | | | Ceded | | | Net | |
2011 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Premiums written | | $ | 1,692,282 | | | $ | 118,642 | | | $ | 172,333 | | | $ | 1,638,591 | |
Change in unearned premiums | | | (8,262 | ) | | | (12,890 | ) | | | 23,589 | | | | (44,741 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Premiums earned | | $ | 1,684,020 | | | $ | 105,752 | | | $ | 195,922 | | | $ | 1,593,850 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
2010 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Premiums written | | $ | 1,432,177 | | | $ | 64,194 | | | $ | 182,307 | | | $ | 1,314,064 | |
Change in unearned premiums | | | (2,927 | ) | | | 26,195 | | | | 44,663 | | | | (21,395 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Premiums earned | | $ | 1,429,250 | | | $ | 90,389 | | | $ | 226,970 | | | $ | 1,292,669 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
2009 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Premiums written | | $ | 989,771 | | | $ | 80,946 | | | $ | 184,528 | | | $ | 886,189 | |
Change in unearned premiums | | | (52,554 | ) | | | 28,097 | | | | 7,021 | | | | (31,478 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Premiums earned | | $ | 937,217 | | | $ | 109,043 | | | $ | 191,549 | | | $ | 854,711 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Reinsurance Balances
As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company had $314.0 million and $291.5 million, respectively, of reinsurance recoverables with reinsurers rated A- or higher by A.M. Best. These represented 91% and 97%, respectively, of the Company’s total reinsurance recoverables as of those dates. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the largest reinsurance recoverable balance with any one reinsurer was approximately 4.8% and 6.6% of the Company’s stockholders’ equity.
The Company did not record any modifications of its reinsurance recoverables on paid or unpaid losses in the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 or 2009. The Company recorded no allowance for credit losses on its reinsurance recoverables on paid or unpaid losses as of December 31, 2011 or 2010. The Company did not consider that any of its undisputed reinsurance recoverables on paid or unpaid losses as of years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 to be past due. As discussed in “Note 17 – Contingencies”, certain reinsurance agreements are subject to legal proceedings.
Under certain reinsurance agreements, collateral and letters of credit (“collateral”) are held to secure performance of reinsurers in meeting their obligations. The amount of such collateral was $161.9 million and $153.6 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The collateral we hold does not apply to our entire outstanding reinsurance recoverable. Rather, collateral is provided on an individual basis. For each individual reinsurer, the collateral held may exceed or fall below the total outstanding recoverable from that individual reinsurer.
Ceding Commissions
The Company earns ceding commissions under certain quota share reinsurance agreements based on a sliding scale of commission rates and ultimate treaty year loss ratios on the policies reinsured under each of these agreements. The sliding scale includes minimum and maximum commission rates in relation to specified ultimate loss ratios. The commission rate and ceding commissions earned increase when the estimated ultimate loss ratio decreases, and conversely, the commission rate and ceding commissions earned decrease when the estimated ultimate loss ratio increases.
As of December 31, 2011, the Company’s estimated ultimate loss ratios attributable to these contracts are lower than the contractual ultimate loss ratios at which the minimum amount of ceding commissions can be earned. Accordingly, the Company has recorded ceding commissions earned that are greater than the minimum commissions.
The estimated ultimate loss ratios are the Company’s best estimate based on facts and circumstances known at the end of each period that losses are estimated. The estimation process is complex and involves the use of informed estimates, judgments and actuarial methodologies relative to future claims severity and frequency, the length of time for losses to develop to their ultimate level, possible changes in law and other external factors. The same uncertainties associated with estimating loss adjustment expense reserves affect the estimates of ceding commissions earned. The Company monitors and adjusts the ultimate loss ratio on a quarterly basis to determine the effect on the commission rate and ceding commissions earned. The increase (decrease) in estimated ceding commission income relating to prior years recorded in 2011, 2010 and 2009 was $(0.1) million, ($2.2) million and ($2.7) million, respectively.
F-38
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 11—Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense
The components of the liability for loss and LAE expenses and related reinsurance recoverables for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 are as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Tower | | | Reciprocal Exchanges | | | Total | |
| | Gross | | | Reinsurance | | | Gross | | | Reinsurance | | | Gross | | | Reinsurance | |
($ in thousands) | | Liability | | | Recoverable | | | Liability | | | Recoverable | | | Liability | | | Recoverable | |
December 31, 2011 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Case-basis reserves | | $ | 766,275 | | | $ | 135,686 | | | $ | 82,203 | | | $ | 7,916 | | | $ | 848,478 | | | $ | 143,602 | |
IBNR reserves | | | 729,564 | | | | 172,725 | | | | 54,071 | | | | 3,337 | | | | 783,635 | | | | 176,062 | |
Recoverable on paid losses | | | — | | | | 18,233 | | | | — | | | | 5,670 | | | | — | | | | 23,903 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2011 | | $ | 1,495,839 | | | $ | 326,644 | | | $ | 136,274 | | | $ | 16,923 | | | $ | 1,632,113 | | | $ | 343,567 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2010 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Case-basis reserves | | $ | 804,724 | | | $ | 120,523 | | | $ | 89,113 | | | $ | 5,042 | | | $ | 893,837 | | | $ | 125,565 | |
IBNR reserves | | | 634,382 | | | | 150,775 | | | | 82,202 | | | | 6,342 | | | | 716,584 | | | | 157,117 | |
Recoverable on paid losses | | | — | | | | 16,047 | | | | — | | | | 2,167 | | | | — | | | | 18,214 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total, December 31, 2010 | | $ | 1,439,106 | | | $ | 287,345 | | | $ | 171,315 | | | $ | 13,551 | | | $ | 1,610,421 | | | $ | 300,896 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending consolidated balances for unpaid losses and LAE for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | | |
| | | | | Reciprocal | | | | | | | | | Reciprocal | | | | | | | |
($ in thousands) | | Tower | | | Exchanges | | | Total | | | Tower | | | Exchanges | | | Total | | | 2009 | |
Balance at January 1, | | $ | 1,439,106 | | | $ | 171,315 | | | $ | 1,610,421 | | | $ | 1,131,989 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 1,131,989 | | | $ | 534,991 | |
Less reinsurance recoverables on unpaid losses | | | (271,298 | ) | | | (11,384 | ) | | | (282,682 | ) | | | (199,687 | ) | | | — | | | | (199,687 | ) | | | (222,229 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | 1,167,808 | | | | 159,931 | | | | 1,327,739 | | | | 932,302 | | | | — | | | | 932,302 | | | | 312,762 | |
Net reserves, at fair value, of acquired entities | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 193,484 | | | | 158,652 | | | | 352,136 | | | | 549,978 | |
Incurred related to: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Current year | | | 933,791 | | | | 142,254 | | | | 1,076,045 | | | | 724,254 | | | | 72,059 | | | | 796,313 | | | | 477,757 | |
Prior years unfavorable/(favorable) development | | | 17,039 | | | | (37,835 | ) | | | (20,796 | ) | | | (2,433 | ) | | | (9,857 | ) | | | (12,290 | ) | | | (2,260 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total incurred | | | 950,830 | | | | 104,419 | | | | 1,055,249 | | | | 721,821 | | | | 62,202 | | | | 784,023 | | | | 475,497 | |
Paid related to: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Current year | | | 337,268 | | | | 59,078 | | | | 396,346 | | | | 278,859 | | | | 46,276 | | | | 325,135 | | | | 154,207 | |
Prior years | | | 593,942 | | | | 80,251 | | | | 674,193 | | | | 400,940 | | | | 14,647 | | | | 415,587 | | | | 251,728 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total paid | | | 931,210 | | | | 139,329 | | | | 1,070,539 | | | | 679,799 | | | | 60,923 | | | | 740,722 | | | | 405,935 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net balance at end of period | | | 1,187,428 | | | | 125,021 | | | | 1,312,449 | | | | 1,167,808 | | | | 159,931 | | | | 1,327,739 | | | | 932,302 | |
Add reinsurance recoverables on unpaid losses | | | 308,411 | | | | 11,253 | | | | 319,664 | | | | 271,298 | | | | 11,384 | | | | 282,682 | | | | 199,687 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance at December 31, | | $ | 1,495,839 | | | $ | 136,274 | | | $ | 1,632,113 | | | $ | 1,439,106 | | | $ | 171,315 | | | $ | 1,610,421 | | | $ | 1,131,989 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Incurred losses and LAE for the year ended December 31, 2011 attributable to insured events of prior years decreased by $20.8 million. Excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges the incurred losses and LAE increased by $17.0 million.
The consolidated net loss ratio, which includes the Reciprocal Exchanges, was 66.2% and 60.7% for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges, the net loss ratio was 67.6% and 60.2% for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The Reciprocal Exchanges’ net loss ratio was 55.8% and 66.3% for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
Excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges, the 2011 net loss and loss adjustment expenses included $74.3 million from claims related to severe weather related events, including first quarter 2011 claims relating to heavy snow, Hurricane Irene in August 2011, and other severe winter storms and tornados that resulted in an unusual number of claims.
F-39
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges, there was net adverse loss development of $17.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 comprised of favorable development in Personal Insurance of $29.1 million and unfavorable development in Commercial Insurance of $46.1 million.
The net unfavorable development in Commercial Insurance included $26.4 million for other liability, $30.5 million for workers compensation, and $7.9 million for commercial automobile. This was offset in part by favorable development on commercial packages and monoline property totaling $6.4 million, by favorable development in CPRE of $10.4 million, and $1.9 million for amortization of reserves risk premium that was established in 2009 as part of fair value accounting for the acquisitions made that year. The favorable development in Personal Insurance, was comprised primarily of $22.2 million for private passenger automobile liability, $13.1 million for homeowners and $1.9 million for amortization of reserves risk premium, principally relating to reserves acquired in the OBPL transaction developing more favorably than anticipated at the time of the acquisition, offset by unfavorable development of $4.2 million in discontinued personal lines business, $3.1 million in involuntary plans and $0.8 million in other lines.
For the Reciprocal Exchanges, the favorable development was $37.8 million, comprised of favorable development of $29.0 million for private passenger automobile liability, $7.6 million for homeowners and other lines, and $1.2 million for amortization of reserves risk premium.
Prior year development is based upon numerous estimates by line of business and accident year. No additional premiums or return premiums have been accrued as a result of the prior year effects, although we recorded changes in ceding commissions on reinsurance treaties that we purchase and for which the commissions depend in part on loss experience. The Company’s management continually monitors claims activity to assess the appropriateness of carried case and incurred but not reported (“IBNR”) reserves, giving consideration to Company and industry trends.
Incurred losses and LAE for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 included reductions in loss and loss expense reserves pertaining to the amortization of the reserve risk premium on loss reserves recorded in connection with the Company’s acquisitions in prior years. Excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges these reductions in loss reserves were $3.7 million and $4.3 million, respectively, for 2011 and 2010. The Reciprocal Exchanges had reductions in loss reserves of $1.2 million and $0.7 million, respectively, for 2011 and 2010.
Loss and loss adjustment expense reserves. The reserving process for loss and LAE reserves provides for the Company’s best estimate at a particular point in time of the ultimate unpaid cost of all losses and LAE incurred, including settlement and administration of losses, and is based on facts and circumstances then known and including losses that have been incurred but not yet been reported. The process includes using actuarial methodologies to assist in establishing these estimates, judgments relative to estimates of future claims severity and frequency, the length of time before losses will develop to their ultimate level and the changes in the law and other external factors that are often beyond the Company’s control. The methods used to select the estimated loss reserves include loss ratio projections, loss development projections, and Bornhuetter-Ferguson (“B-F”) method projections. The actuaries’ best estimates are the result of numerous analyses made by line of business, accident year, and for loss, ALAE and ULAE, and the actuarial analyses also consider input from underwriting and claims managements about the nature of the underlying risks, claims and other trends in the business
Management sets the carried reserves based upon the actuaries’ best estimate, and the difference between the actuaries’ best estimates of loss and LAE and reported losses is recorded in IBNR. The amount of loss and LAE reserves for reported claims is based primarily upon a case-by-case evaluation of coverage, liability, injury severity, and any other information considered pertinent to estimating the exposure presented by the claim. The amounts of loss and LAE reserves for unreported claims are determined using historical information by line of insurance as adjusted to current conditions
Included in the reserves for the loss and LAE reserves at December 31, 2011 and 2010 is $3.7 million and $3.7 million, respectively, of tabular reserve discount for workers’ compensation and excess workers’ compensation claims.
As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company had a remaining $9.7 million and $14.6 million, respectively, of reserve risk premium on loss reserves recorded in the purchase accounting for previous acquisitions. Excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges, the reserve risk premium was $7.2 million and $10.9 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively
The Company has long defended third-party liability claims utilizing attorneys who are employees of the Company. The average cost for defending third-party liability claims is significantly less when handled by attorneys who are employees of the Company. For third-party liability claims defended by employed attorneys, the Company allocates to each of these litigated claims 50% of the fixed fee when litigation on a particular claim begins and 50% of the fee when the litigation is closed. The standard fee is determined actuarially based upon the projected number of litigated claims and expected closing patterns at the beginning of each year, as well as the projected budget for the Company’s in-house attorneys, and these amounts are subject to adjustment each
F-40
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
quarter based upon actual experience. Because of the cost advantage for ALAE utilizing attorneys who are employees of the Company, we had been increasing the number of employed attorneys. Currently, we are handling over 85% of new litigated third-party claims utilizing attorneys who are employees of the Company.
Due to the inherent uncertainty associated with the reserving process, the ultimate liability may differ, perhaps substantially, from the original estimate. Such estimates are regularly reviewed and updated and any resulting adjustments are included in the current year’s results. Reserves are closely monitored and are recomputed periodically using the most recent information on reported claims and a variety of statistical techniques. Specifically, on at least a quarterly basis, the Company reviews, by line of business, existing reserves, new claims, changes to existing case reserves and paid losses with respect to the current and prior years.
The Company segregates data for estimating loss reserves. Property lines include Fire, Homeowners, CMP Property, Multi-Family Dwellings, Fire and Allied Lines, Inland Marine and Automobile Physical Damage Casualty lines include CMP Liability, Other Liability, Workers’ Compensation, Commercial Automobile Liability, and Personal Automobile Liability. The Company also analyzes and records reserves separately for Commercial Insurance and for Personal Insurance.
Two key assumptions that materially impact the estimate of loss reserves are the loss ratio estimate for the current accident year and the loss development factor selections for all accident years. The loss ratio estimate for the current accident year is selected after reviewing historical accident year loss ratios adjusted for rate changes, trend, and mix of business. As the current year matures the estimated loss and LAE is determined with more weight given to reported experience during the year by utilizing the B-F method or potentially for relatively fast developing lines of business giving more weight to loss development methods.
Note 12—Stockholders’ Equity
Authorized Shares of Common Stock
On January 28, 2009, an amendment to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, from 40,000,000 shares to 100,000,000 shares was approved at a special meeting of stockholders.
Shares of Common Stock Issued
In connection with the acquisition of SUA in 2009, 4.5 million shares were issued to the shareholders of SUA increasing Common Stock by $44,600 and Paid-in Capital by $105.8 million.
In connection with the acquisition of CastlePoint in 2009, 16.9 million shares were issued to the shareholders of CastlePoint increasing Common Stock by $169,000 and Paid-in Capital by $421.5 million.
For the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, 34,612 and 242,169 new common shares, respectively, were issued as the result of employee stock option exercises and 654,180 and 355,539 new common shares, for the same periods, respectively, were issued as the result of restricted stock grants.
For the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, 78,732 and 77,670 shares, respectively, of common stock were purchased from employees in connection with the vesting of restricted stock issued under the 2004 Long Term Equity Compensation Plan (the “Plan”). The shares were withheld at the direction of employees as permitted under the Plan in order to pay the expected amount of tax liability owed by the employees from the vesting of those shares. In addition, for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, 18,841 and 28,833 shares, respectively, of common stock were surrendered as a result of restricted stock forfeitures.
Share Repurchase Program
The Board of Directors of Tower approved a $100 million share repurchase program on March 3, 2011. This authorization is in addition to the $100 million share repurchase program approved on February 26, 2010. Purchases under both programs can be made from time to time in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. The new share repurchase program will expire on March 4, 2013. In the year ended December 31, 2011, 2.9 million shares of common stock were purchased under these programs at an aggregate consideration of $64.6 million. In the year ended December 31, 2010, 4.0 million shares were purchased under these programs at an aggregate consideration of $88.0 million. As of December 31, 2011, the original $100 million share purchase program had been fully utilized and $47.4 million remained available for future share repurchases under the new program.
F-41
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Dividends Declared
Dividends on common stock of $27.9 million, $16.6 million and $10.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively, were declared.
Note 13—Debt
The Company’s borrowings consisted of the following at December 31, 2011 and 2010:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | December 31, 2011 | | | December 31, 2010 | |
| | Carrying | | | Fair | | | Carrying | | | Fair | |
($ in thousands) | | Value | | | Value | | | Value | | | Value | |
Credit facility | | $ | 50,000 | | | $ | 50,000 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | |
Convertible senior notes | | | 141,843 | | | | 150,743 | | | | 139,208 | | | | 168,420 | |
Subordinated debentures | | | 235,058 | | | | 234,550 | | | | 235,058 | | | | 246,591 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 426,901 | | | $ | 435,293 | | | $ | 374,266 | | | $ | 415,011 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Aggregate Scheduled Maturities and Interest Expense
Aggregate scheduled maturities of the Company’s borrowings at December 31, 2011 are:
| | | | |
($ in thousands) | | | |
2012 | | $ | 50,000 | |
2014 | | | 150,000 | (a) |
2033 | | | 20,620 | |
2034 | | | 25,775 | |
2035 | | | 13,403 | |
2036 | | | 123,713 | |
2037 | | | 51,547 | |
| | | | |
| | $ | 435,058 | |
| | | | |
(a) | Amount reflected in balance sheet for convertible senior notes is net of unamortized original issue discount of $8.2 million |
Total interest expense incurred, including interest expense on the funds held liabilities disclosed in “Note 10 – Reinsurance”, was $34.3 million, $24.2 million and $17.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
Subordinated Debentures
The Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries have issued trust preferred securities through wholly-owned Delaware statutory business trusts. The trusts use the proceeds of the sale of the trust preferred securities and common securities that the Company acquired from the trusts to purchase junior subordinated debentures from the Company with terms that match the terms of the trust preferred securities. Interest on the junior subordinated debentures and the trust preferred securities is payable quarterly. In some cases, the interest rate is fixed for an initial period of five years after issuance and then floats with changes in the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) and in other cases the interest rate floats with LIBOR without any initial fixed-rate period. The principal terms, before any effects of interest rate swaps, of the outstanding trust preferred securities, including those which were assumed by the Company through acquisitions, are summarized in the following table:
F-42
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | Principal | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | Amount of | |
| | | | | | | | | | Amount of | | | Junior | |
| | | | | | | | | | Investment | | | Subordinated | |
| | | | | | | | | | in Common | | | Debenture | |
($ in millions) | | | | | | Early | | | | Securities | | | Issued to | |
Issue Date | | Issuer | | Maturity Date | | Redemption | | Interest Rate | | of Trust | | | Trust | |
May 2003 | | Tower Group Statutory Trust I | | May 2033 | | At our option at par on or after May 15, 2008 | | Three-month LIBOR plus 410 basis points | | $ | 0.3 | | | $ | 10.3 | |
September 2003 | | Tower Group Statutory Trust II | | September 2033 | | At our option at par on or after September 30, 2008 | | Three-month LIBOR plus 400 basis points | | $ | 0.3 | | | $ | 10.3 | |
May 2004 | | Preserver Capital Trust I | | May 2034 | | At our option at par on or after May 24, 2009 | | Three-month LIBOR plus 425 basis points | | $ | 0.4 | | | $ | 12.4 | |
December 2004 | | Tower Group Statutory Trust III | | December 2034 | | At our option at par on or after December 15, 2009 | | Three-month LIBOR plus 340 basis points | | $ | 0.4 | | | $ | 13.4 | |
December 2004 | | Tower Group Statutory Trust IV | | March 2035 | | At our option at par on or after March 15, 2010 | | Three-month LIBOR plus 340 basis points | | $ | 0.4 | | | $ | 13.4 | |
March 2006 | | Tower Group Statutory Trust V | | April 2036 | | At our option at par on or after April 7, 2011 | | 8.56% until April 6, 2011; three-month LIBOR plus 330 basis points thereafter. | | $ | 0.6 | | | $ | 20.6 | |
January 2007 | | Tower Group Statutory Trust VI | | March 2037 | | At our option at par on or after March 15, 2012 | | 8.16% until March 14, 2012; three-month LIBOR plus 300 basis points thereafter. | | $ | 0.6 | | | $ | 20.6 | |
September 2007 | | CastlePoint Bermuda Capital Trust I | | December 2037 | | At our option at par on or after December 15, 2012 | | 8.39% until December 14, 2012; three-month LIBOR plus 350 basis points thereafter. | | $ | 0.9 | | | $ | 30.9 | |
December 2006 | | CastlePoint Management Statutory Trust II | | December 2036 | | At our option at par on or after December 15, 2011 | | 8.55% until December 14, 2011; three-month LIBOR plus 350 basis points thereafter. | | $ | 1.6 | | | $ | 51.6 | |
December 2006 | | CastlePoint Management Statutory Trust I | | December 2036 | | At our option at par on or after December 15, 2011 | | 8.66% until December 14, 2011; three-month LIBOR plus 350 basis points thereafter | | $ | 1.6 | | | $ | 51.6 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | | | | | | | | | $ | 7.1 | | | $ | 235.1 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Interest Rate Swaps
In October 2010, the Company entered into interest rate swap contracts (the “Swaps”) with $190 million notional value to manage interest costs and cash flows associated with the floating rate subordinated debentures. The Swaps have terms of five years. The majority of the Swaps is forward starting and become effective when the respective subordinated debentures change from fixed rates to floating rates and convert the subordinated debentures’ to rates ranging from 5.1% to 5.9%. As of December 31, 2011, the Swaps had a fair value of $7.4 million in a liability position and are reported in Other Liabilities. As of December 31, 2010, the Swaps had a fair value of $3.2 million in an asset position and are reported in Other Assets.
The Company has designated and accounts for the Swaps as cash flow hedges. The Swaps are considered to have no ineffectiveness and changes in their fair values will be recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (“AOCI”), net of tax. For the year ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, $0.4 million and $18,000, respectively, was reclassified from AOCI to interest expense for the effects of the hedges. As of December 31, 2011, the Company had collateral on deposit with the counterparty amounting to $7.0 million pursuant to its Credit Support Annex.
Credit Facility
On May 14, 2010, the Company entered into a $125 million credit facility agreement. The credit facility is being used for general corporate purposes and expires on May 14, 2013
The Company may request that the facility be increased by an amount not to exceed $50 million. The credit facility contains customary covenants for facilities of this type, including restrictions on indebtedness and liens, limitations on mergers, dividends and the sale of assets, and requirements to maintain certain consolidated net worth, debt to capitalization ratios, minimum risk-based capital and minimum statutory surplus. The credit facility also provides for customary events of default, including failure to pay principal when due, failure to pay interest or fees within three days after becoming due, failure to comply with covenants, any representation or warranty made by the Company being false in any material respect, default under certain other indebtedness, certain insolvency or receivership events affecting the Company and its material subsidiaries, the occurrence of certain material judgments, or a change in control of the Company, and upon an event of default the administrative agent (subject to the consent of the requisite percentage of the lenders) may immediately terminate the obligations to make loans and to issue
F-43
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
letters of credit, declare the Company’s obligations under the credit facility to become immediately due and payable, and require the Company to deposit in a collateral account cash collateral with a value equal to the then outstanding amount of the aggregate face amount of any outstanding letters of credit. The Company was in compliance with all covenants under the credit facility at December 31, 2011.
Fees payable by the Company under the credit facility include a fee on the daily unused portion of each letter of credit, a letter of credit fronting fee with respect to each fronted letter of credit and a commitment fee.
The Company had $50.0 million outstanding as of December 31, 2011. The Company had no balance outstanding as of December 31, 2010. The weighted average interest rate on the amount outstanding as of December 31, 2011 was 3.5%.
On February 15, 2012, the Company amended its $125.0 million credit facility by increasing borrowing capacity up to $150 million, extending the maturity out to February 2016, and resetting borrowing fees to more favorable current market terms.
Convertible Senior Notes
In September 2010, the Company issued $150.0 million principal amount of 5.0% convertible senior notes (“the Notes”), which mature on September 15, 2014. Interest on the Notes is payable semi-annually in arrears on March 15 and September 15 of each year, commencing March 15, 2011. Holders may convert their Notes into cash or common shares, at the Company’s option, at any time on or after March 15, 2014 or earlier under certain circumstances determined by: (i) the market price of the Company’s stock, (ii) the trading price of the Notes, or (iii) the occurrence of specified corporate transactions. Upon conversion, the Company intends to settle its obligation either entirely or partially in cash. The conversion rate at December 31, 2011 is 36.6865 shares of common stock per $1,000 principal amount of the Notes (equivalent to a conversion price of $27.26 per share), subject to adjustment upon the occurrence of certain events. Additionally, in the event of a fundamental change, the holders may require the Company to repurchase the Notes for a cash price equal to 100% of the principal plus any accrued and unpaid interest.
The proceeds from the issuance of the Notes were allocated to the liability component and the embedded conversion option, or equity component. The equity component was reported as an adjustment to paid-in-capital, net of tax, and is reflected as an original issue discount (“OID”). The OID of $11.5 million and $5.0 million of deferred origination costs relating to the liability component are being amortized into interest expense over the term of the Notes. After considering the contractual interest payments and amortization of the original issue discount, the Notes’ effective interest rate is 7.2%. Transaction costs of $0.4 million associated with the equity component were netted with the equity component in paid-in-capital. Interest expense, including amortization of deferred origination costs, recognized on the Notes was $11.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2011.
The following table shows the amounts recorded for the Notes as of December 31, 2011:
| | | | | | | | |
| | December 31, | |
($ in thousands) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | |
Liability component | | | | | | | | |
Outstanding principal | | $ | 150,000 | | | $ | 150,000 | |
Unamortized OID | | | (8,157 | ) | | | (10,792 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
Liability component | | | 141,843 | | | | 139,208 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Equity component, net of tax | | $ | 7,469 | | | $ | 7,469 | |
| | | | | | | | |
To the extent the market value per share of the Company’s common stock exceeds the conversion price, the Company will use the “treasury stock” method in calculating the dilutive effect on earnings per share.
Convertible Senior Notes Hedge and Warrant Transactions
In connection with the offering of the Notes, the Company also entered into convertible senior notes hedge transactions (the “Note Hedges” or “purchased call options”) and warrant transactions (the “Warrants”) with respect to its common stock with financial institutions. The Note Hedges and Warrants are intended generally to reduce the potential dilution of the Company’s common stock and to offset potential cash payments in excess of the principal of the Notes upon conversion. The Note Hedges and Warrants are separate transactions, entered into by the Company with the financial institutions, and are not part of the terms of the Notes.
F-44
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
In September 2010, the Company paid $15.3 million for the Note Hedges which cover 5.5 million shares of common stock at a strike price of $27.26 per share at December 31, 2011, subject to anti-dilution provisions, and are exercisable upon conversion of the Notes. The Note Hedges have been accounted for as an adjustment to the Company’s paid-in-capital, net of deferred taxes.
In September 2010, the Company received $3.8 million for Warrants sold to the financial institutions. The Warrants provide for the acquisition of 5.5 million shares of common stock at a strike price of $33.14 per share at December 31, 2011, subject to anti-dilution adjustments. The Warrants have been accounted for as an adjustment to the Company’s paid-in-capital.
To the extent the Company’s common stock price is above $27.26 but below the Warrant strike price of $33.14, there is no dilutive effect to common stockholders’ equity because the Note Hedge offsets any shares to be issued under the Notes. If the market value per share of the Company’s common stock exceeds the strike price of the Warrants, the Warrants will have a dilutive effect on the Company’s net income per share.
Note 14—Stock Based Compensation
2004 Long-Term Equity Compensation Plan
In 2004, the Company’s Board of Directors adopted and its stockholders approved a long-term incentive plan (the “Plan”).
The plan provides for the granting of non-qualified stock options, incentive stock options (within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code), stock appreciation rights (“SARs”), restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards, performance shares and other cash or share-based awards. The maximum amount of share-based awards authorized is 2,325,446 of which 578,395 are available for future grants as of December 31, 2011.
Shares and Options Granted
The following table provides information with respect to the stock options and shares of the Company’s common stock issued (i) to the Company’s employees under the Plan and (ii) to employees and directors of companies acquired by the Company in exchange for the options and shares owned by such employees and directors in such companies at the time of acquisition.
F-45
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Granted under the Plan (excludes shares and options issued with respect to acquisitions) | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Restricted stock | | | 654,180 | | | | 355,539 | | | | 310,208 | |
Stock options, at fair value | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | 654,180 | | | | 355,539 | | | | 310,208 | |
Issued shares resulting from acquisitions | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Restricted deferred stock | | | — | | | | — | | | | 92,276 | |
Stock options, at fair value | | | — | | | | — | | | | 1,349,361 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | — | | | | — | | | | 1,441,637 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | | 654,180 | | | | 355,539 | | | | 1,751,845 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Restricted Stock
The following table provides an analysis of restricted stock activity for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
| | Number of Shares | | | Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | | | Number of Shares | | | Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | | | Number of Shares | | | Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | |
Outstanding, January 1 | | | 591,675 | | | $ | 23.10 | | | | 474,023 | | | $ | 24.64 | | | | 258,645 | | | $ | 26.05 | |
Granted | | | 654,180 | | | | 23.80 | | | | 355,539 | | | | 21.84 | | | | 310,208 | | | | 23.50 | |
Vested | | | (238,407 | ) | | | 23.55 | | | | (209,054 | ) | | | 24.44 | | | | (83,765 | ) | | | 24.58 | |
Forfeitures | | | (18,841 | ) | | | 23.61 | | | | (28,833 | ) | | | 23.20 | | | | (11,065 | ) | | | 26.04 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Outstanding, December 31, | | | 988,607 | | | $ | 23.44 | | | | 591,675 | | | $ | 23.10 | | | | 474,023 | | | $ | 24.64 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
SUA Restricted Deferred Stock Awards
On November 13, 2009, the date of acquisition, SUA non-vested restricted stock awards were converted into 92,276 shares of the Company’s common stock. These awards had a weighted grant date fair value of $23.74. No additional grants have been made under this plan since the date of acquisition. For the period from acquisition to December 31, 2009, 46,088 of these vested. For the year ended December 31, 2010, 41,820 of these vested while for the year ended December 31, 2011, 4,368 of these vested resulting in none outstanding at December 31, 2011.
Stock Options
The following table provides an analysis of stock option activity for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
| | Number of Shares | | | Average Exercise Price | | | Number of Shares | | | Average Exercise Price | | | Number of Shares | | | Average Exercise Price | |
Outstanding, January 1 | | | 917,155 | | | $ | 20.01 | | | | 1,387,019 | | | $ | 19.62 | | | | 258,530 | | | $ | 5.47 | |
Granted for acquisitions | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 1,349,361 | | | | 22.51 | |
Exercised | | | (34,612 | ) | | | 10.74 | | | | (242,169 | ) | | | 6.64 | | | | (52,310 | ) | | | 14.17 | |
Forfeitures and expirations | | �� | (27,013 | ) | | | 27.59 | | | | (227,695 | ) | | | 31.88 | | | | (168,562 | ) | | | 22.70 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Outstanding, December 31 | | | 855,530 | | | $ | 20.14 | | | | 917,155 | | | $ | 20.01 | | | | 1,387,019 | | | $ | 19.62 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Exercisable, December 31 | | | 855,530 | | | $ | 20.14 | | | | 861,941 | | | $ | 20.09 | | | | 1,197,459 | | | $ | 19.34 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
F-46
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Options outstanding and exercisable as of December 31, 2011 are shown on the following table:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Options Outstanding | | | Options Exercisable | |
Range of Exercise Prices | | Number of Shares | | | Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years) | | | Average Exercise Price | | | Number of Shares | | | Average Exercise Price | |
$10.01 - $20.00 | | | 687,410 | | | | 4.6 | | | $ | 18.50 | | | | 687,410 | | | $ | 18.50 | |
$20.01 - $30.00 | | | 166,254 | | | | 6.1 | | | | 26.78 | | | | 166,254 | | | | 26.78 | |
$30.01 - $40.00 | | | 1,866 | | | | 3.1 | | | | 34.39 | | | | 1,866 | | | | 34.39 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Options | | | 855,530 | | | | 4.9 | | | $ | 20.14 | | | | 855,530 | | | $ | 20.14 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
The options granted for acquisitions in 2009 were originally issued to employees or directors of CastlePoint on four grant dates and were converted into options to acquire shares of the Company’s common stock upon the acquisition of CastlePoint. Also included in options granted for acquisition in 2009 were stock options that were originally issued to employees of SUA on seven grant dates and were converted into options to acquire shares of the Company’s common stock upon the acquisition of SUA.
The fair value of the options granted to replace the CastlePoint options was estimated using the Black-Scholes pricing model as of February 5, 2009, the date of conversion from CastlePoint stock options to the Company’s stock options, with the following weighted average assumptions: risk free interest rate of 1.46% to 1.83%, dividend yield of 0.8%, volatility factors of the expected market price of the Company’s common stock of 43.8% to 45.3%, and a weighted-average expected life of the options of 3.3 to 5.3 years.
The fair value of the options granted to replace the SUA options was estimated using the Black-Scholes pricing model as of November 13, 2009, the date of conversion from SUA stock options to the Company’s stock options, with the following weighted average assumptions: risk free interest rate of 1.66%, dividend yield of 1.2%, volatility factors of the expected market price of the Company’s common stock of 43.8%, and a weighted-average expected life of the options of 1.4 years.
The fair value measurement objective of the relevant GAAP guidance is achieved using the Black-Scholes model as the model (a) is applied in a manner consistent with the fair value measurement objective and other requirements of GAAP, (b) is based on established principles of financial economic theory and generally applied in that field and (c) reflects all substantive characteristics of the instrument.
Stock Based Compensation Expense
The following table provides an analysis of stock based compensation expense for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009:
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
($ in thousands) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Restricted stock | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expense, net of tax | | $ | 6,126 | | | $ | 3,792 | | | $ | 2,938 | |
Value of shares vested | | | 5,622 | | | | 4,673 | | | | 1,769 | |
Value of unvested shares | | | 19,940 | | | | 15,147 | | | | 11,097 | |
Stock options | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expense, net of tax | | | 105 | | | | 293 | | | | 1,007 | |
Intrinsic value of outstanding options | | | 1,150 | | | | 5,408 | | | | 7,958 | |
Intrinsic value of vested outstanding options | | | 1,150 | | | | 5,025 | | | | 7,360 | |
Unrecognized compensation expense | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Non-vested stock options, net of tax | | | — | | | | 105 | | | | 398 | |
Unvested restricted stock, net of tax | | | 9,617 | | | | 6,097 | | | | 5,052 | |
Weighted average years expense will be recognized | | | 2.3 | | | | 3.1 | | | | 3.3 | |
Note 15—Income Taxes
The Company files a consolidated Federal income tax return. The Reciprocal Exchanges are not included in the Company’s consolidated tax return as the Company does not have an ownership interest in the Reciprocal Exchanges, and they are not a part of the consolidated tax sharing agreement.
F-47
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The provision for Federal, state and local income taxes consist of the following components for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year ended December 31, | |
| | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | | |
($ in thousands) | | Tower | | | Reciprocal Exchanges | | | Total | | | Tower | | | Reciprocal Exchanges | | | Total | | | 2009 | |
Current Federal income tax expense (benefit) | | $ | 6,744 | | | $ | 1,510 | | | $ | 8,254 | | | $ | (8,096 | ) | | $ | (2,380 | ) | | $ | (10,476 | ) | | $ | 53,926 | |
Current state income tax expense (benefit) | | | (257 | ) | | | — | | | | (257 | ) | | | 1,292 | | | | — | | | | 1,292 | | | | 2,458 | |
Deferred Federal and state income tax (benefit) | | | 14,473 | | | | 1,672 | | | | 16,145 | | | | 60,435 | | | | 917 | | | | 61,352 | | | | (12,724 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Provision for income taxes | | $ | 20,960 | | | $ | 3,182 | | | $ | 24,142 | | | $ | 53,631 | | | $ | (1,463 | ) | | $ | 52,168 | | | $ | 43,660 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
The Company’s current Federal income tax benefit for the year ended December 31, 2010 includes a refund from prior year overpayments and benefits from the acceleration of depreciation for fixed assets placed in service after September 8, 2010 as allowed by the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined using the enacted tax rates applicable to the period the temporary differences are expected to be recovered. Accordingly, the current period income tax provision can be affected by the enactment of new tax rates. The net deferred income taxes on the balance sheet reflect temporary differences between the carrying amounts of the assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and income tax purposes. Significant components of the consolidated deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | December 31, | |
| | 2011 | | | 2010 | |
| | Tower | | | Reciprocal Exchanges | | | Total | | | Tower | | | Reciprocal Exchanges | | | Total | |
Deferred tax asset: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Claims reserve discount | | | $41,058 | | | $ | 2,691 | | | $ | 43,749 | | | $ | 38,988 | | | $ | 3,431 | | | $ | 42,419 | |
Unearned premium | | | 53,337 | | | | 6,140 | | | | 59,477 | | | | 48,842 | | | | 7,351 | | | | 56,193 | |
Equity compensation plans | | | 5,806 | | | | — | | | | 5,806 | | | | 6,391 | | | | — | | | | 6,391 | |
Investment impairments | | | 3,754 | | | | 78 | | | | 3,832 | | | | 7,418 | | | | 112 | | | | 7,530 | |
Net operating loss carryforwards | | | 14,416 | | | | 2,729 | | | | 17,145 | | | | 15,338 | | | | 4,734 | | | | 20,072 | |
Convertible senior note and note hedge OID | | | 1,333 | | | | — | | | | 1,333 | | | | 1,333 | | | | — | | | | 1,333 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total gross deferred tax assets | | | 119,704 | | | | 11,638 | | | | 131,342 | | | | 118,310 | | | | 15,628 | | | | 133,938 | |
Less: valuation allowance | | | — | | | | 5,065 | | | | 5,065 | | | | — | | | | 9,928 | | | | 9,928 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total deferred tax assets | | | 119,704 | | | | 6,573 | | | | 126,277 | | | | 118,310 | | | | 5,700 | | | | 124,010 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Deferred tax liability: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Deferred acquisition costs net of deferred ceding commission revenue | | | 54,947 | | | | 4,034 | | | | 58,981 | | | | 50,793 | | | | 6,190 | | | | 56,983 | |
Depreciation and amortization | | | 42,959 | | | | 789 | | | | 43,748 | | | | 25,546 | | | | — | | | | 25,546 | |
Net unrealized appreciation of securities | | | 36,085 | | | | 4,003 | | | | 40,088 | | | | 23,982 | | | | 912 | | | | 24,894 | |
Accrual of bond discount | | | 5,537 | | | | — | | | | 5,537 | | | | 6,186 | | | | — | | | | 6,186 | |
Surplus notes | | | — | | | | 17,723 | | | | 17,723 | | | | — | | | | 18,422 | | | | 18,422 | |
Other | | | (1,356) | | | | (1,069 | ) | | | (2,425 | ) | | | 7,298 | | | | (2,249 | ) | | | 5,049 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total deferred tax liabilities | | | 138,172 | | | | 25,480 | | | | 163,652 | | | | 113,805 | | | | 23,275 | | | | 137,080 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net deferred income tax asset (liability) | | $ | (18,468 | ) | | $ | (18,907 | ) | | $ | (37,375 | ) | | $ | 4,505 | | | $ | (17,575 | ) | | $ | (13,070 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
In assessing the valuation of deferred tax assets, the Company considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible.
Preserver Group, Inc. (“PGI”), acquired by the Company in 2007 and CastlePoint , acquired in 2009, have net operating tax loss carryforwards (“NOLs”) that the Company expects will be used in the future, subject to change of ownership limitations pursuant to Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code (“Section 382”). As of December 31, 2011, the Tower NOL totaled $39.9 million related to PGI and CastlePoint as follows: $33.4 million and $6.5 million, respectively. In addition, the Reciprocal Exchanges have NOLs of $7.4 million.
F-48
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Section 382 imposes annual limitations on a corporation’s ability to utilize its NOLs if it experiences an “ownership change.” As a result of the acquisitions, PGI and CastlePoint’s NOLs are subject to annual limitations of $2.8 million and $11.1 million, respectively. Any unused annual limitation may be carried over to later years. The NOLs will expire in years 2019 through 2029.
The Company believes it is more likely than not that the results of future operations will generate sufficient taxable income to realize the deferred tax assets, including the NOLs, except for those associated with the Reciprocal Exchanges. The Company has recorded a valuation allowance of $5.1 million and $9.9 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, to reflect the amount of the Reciprocal Exchanges’ deferred taxes that may not be realized.
As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company had no material uncertain tax positions and no adjustments to liabilities or operations were required.
The Internal Revenue Service performed an audit of The Company’s 2006 and 2007 tax years and closed these audits in 2011 with no changes. Additionally, in 2011 the IRS performed an audit of CastlePoint and subsidiary’s federal income tax return for the period ended February 2009 and closed this audit with no changes. CastlePoint’s federal excise tax and protective income tax returns for the 2008 tax year and SUA’s federal income tax return for the 2007 tax year are still under IRS audit. However, the Company does not anticipate any material adjustments from these audits.
The provision for Federal income taxes incurred is different from that which would be obtained by applying the Federal income tax rate to net income before taxes. The items causing this difference at the consolidated level are as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | | |
($ in thousands) | | Tower | | | Reciprocal Exchanges | | | Total | | | Tower | | | Reciprocal Exchanges | | | Total | | | 2009 | |
Federal income tax expense at | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. statutory rate | | | $28,309 | | | | 4,820 | | | | 33,129 | | | $ | 55,763 | | | | (2,519 | ) | | | 53,432 | | | $ | 48,434 | |
Tax exempt interest | | | (6,823 | ) | | | (418 | ) | | | (7,241 | ) | | | (4,685 | ) | | | (193 | ) | | | (4,878 | ) | | | (4,159 | ) |
State income taxes net of Federal benefit | | | 488 | | | | — | | | | 488 | | | | 840 | | | | — | | | | 840 | | | | 1,597 | |
Gain on bargain purchase | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (4,452 | ) |
Acquisition-related transaction costs | | | 100 | | | | — | | | | 100 | | | | 655 | | | | — | | | | 655 | | | | 2,342 | |
Valuation Allowance | | | — | | | | (1,757 | ) | | | (1,757 | ) | | | — | | | | 1,059 | | | | 1,059 | | | | — | |
Other | | | (1,114 | ) | | | 537 | | | | (577 | ) | | | 1,058 | | | | 190 | | | | 1,060 | | | | (102 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Provision for income taxes | | $ | 20,960 | | | | 3,182 | | | | 24,142 | | | $ | 53,631 | | | | (1,463 | ) | | | 52,168 | | | $ | 43,660 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Note 16—Employee Benefit Plans
The Company maintains a defined contribution Employee Pretax Savings Plan (401(k) Plan) for its employees. The Company matches 50% of each participant’s contribution up to 8% of the participant’s eligible contribution. The Company incurred $3.2 million, $2.7 million and $1.4 million of expense in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively, related to the 401(k) Plan.
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (“SERP”)
The SERP is a non-qualified defined contribution plan effective as of January 1, 2009 that is intended to enhance retirement benefits for the Company’s most senior executives and certain other key employees. Eligibility to participate in the SERP generally requires three years of prior employment with the Company for Senior Vice Presidents and between five and 10 years of prior employment with the Company for other key employees. In 2011, all of the Named Executive Officers other than the Chief Financial Officer (who is not yet eligible), as well as certain other key executives selected at the discretion of the Compensation Committee, became eligible to participate in the SERP. Subject to the approval of the Compensation Committee, the Company may make annual contributions to the SERP on behalf of each participant. For the Chief Executive Officer, the current annual contribution level is intended to provide him with a target annual benefit equal to 60% of his annual cash compensation upon retirement after 30 years of service. The SERP is not a defined benefit plan and such target benefit level cannot be guaranteed. For other participants, the amount of the annual contribution is equal to 5.0% of their annual cash compensation. Company contributions for each participant remain unvested until such participant has completed 10 years of service with the Company, and vest in full upon completion of 10 years of service. The Compensation Committee has discretion to terminate the SERP at any time or to adjust upward or downward the level of the Company’s contribution each year.
F-49
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 17—Contingencies
Legal Proceedings
See “Note 23 - Subsequent Events—(unaudited)” for an update on legal proceedings.
Leases
The Company has various lease agreements for office space, furniture and equipment. The terms of the office space lease agreements provide for annual rental increases and certain lease incentives including initial free rent periods and cash allowances for leasehold improvements.
The Company amortizes scheduled annual rental increases and lease incentives ratably over the term of the lease. The Company’s future minimum lease payments are as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
($ in thousands) | | Operating Leases | | | Capital Leases | | | Total | |
2012 | | $ | 9,488 | | | $ | 7,768 | | | $ | 17,256 | |
2013 | | | 8,557 | | | | 8,113 | | | | 16,670 | |
2014 | | | 8,462 | | | | 9,580 | | | | 18,042 | |
2015 | | | 7,375 | | | | 14,378 | | | | 21,753 | |
2016 | | | 7,069 | | | | — | | | | 7,069 | |
Thereafter | | | 27,726 | | | | — | | | | 27,726 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | $ | 68,677 | | | $ | 39,839 | | | $ | 108,516 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total rental expense was $11.1 million, $10.0 million and $7.9 million in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
Assessments
Tower’s insurance subsidiaries are also required to participate in various mandatory insurance facilities or in funding mandatory pools, which are generally designed to provide insurance coverage for consumers who are unable to obtain insurance in the
F-50
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
voluntary insurance market. The insurance subsidiaries are subject to assessments in New York, California, New Jersey and other states for various purposes, including the provision of funds necessary to fund the operations of the New York Insurance Department and the New York Property/Casualty Insurance Security Fund, which pays covered claims under certain policies provided by impaired, insolvent or failed insurance companies and various funds administered by the New York Workers’ Compensation Board, which pays covered claims under certain policies provided by impaired, insolvent or failed insurance companies.
The Company paid $5.1 million, $4.8 million and $4.0 million in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively, for its proportional share of the operating expenses of the New York Insurance Department. Property casualty insurance company insolvencies or failures may result in additional security fund assessments to the Company at some future date. At this time the Company is unable to estimate the possible amounts, if any, of such assessments. Accordingly, the Company is unable to determine the impact, if any; such assessments may have on financial position or results of operations of the Company. The Company is permitted to assess premium surcharges on workers’ compensation policies that are based on statutorily enacted rates. Actual assessments have resulted in differences to the original estimates based on permitted surcharges of $1.1 million, $4.1 million and $2.2 million in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The Company estimates its liability for future assessments based on actual written premiums and historical rates and available information. As of December 31, 2011, the liability for the various workers’ compensation funds, which includes amounts assessed on workers’ compensation policies, was $8.2 million. This amount is expected to be paid over an eighteen month period ending June 30, 2013. As of December 31, 2010, the liability for the various workers’ compensation funds was $4.3 million.
Note 18—Statutory Financial Information and Accounting Policies
United States
For regulatory purposes, the Company’s insurance subsidiaries, excluding CastlePoint Reinsurance Company, Ltd. (“CastlePoint Re”) which, as discussed below, is Bermuda domiciled, prepare their statutory basis financial statements in accordance with practices prescribed or permitted by the state they are domiciled in (“statutory basis” or “SAP”). The more significant SAP variances from GAAP are as follows:
• | | Policy acquisition costs are charged to operations in the year such costs are incurred, rather than being deferred and amortized as premiums are earned over the terms of the policies. |
• | | Ceding commission revenues are earned when ceded premiums are written except for ceding commission revenues in excess of anticipated acquisition costs, which are deferred and amortized as ceded premiums are earned. GAAP requires that all ceding commission revenues be earned as the underlying ceded premiums are earned over the term of the reinsurance agreements. |
• | | Certain assets including certain receivables, a portion of the net deferred tax asset, prepaid expenses and furniture and equipment are not admitted. |
• | | Investments in fixed-maturity securities are valued at NAIC value for statutory financial purposes, which is primarily amortized cost. GAAP requires investments in fixed-maturity securities classified as available for sale, to be reported at fair value. |
• | | Loss and LAE reserves are reported net of ceded reinsurance within the statutory basis financial statements. GAAP requires the reserve and reinsurance amounts to be shown gross. |
• | | For SAP purposes, changes in deferred income taxes relating to temporary differences between net income for financial reporting purposes and taxable income are recognized as a separate component of gains and losses in surplus rather than included in income tax expense or benefit as required under GAAP. |
State insurance laws restrict the ability of our insurance subsidiaries to declare dividends. State insurance regulators require insurance companies to maintain specified levels of statutory capital and surplus. Generally, dividends may only be paid out of earned surplus, and the amount of an insurer’s surplus following payment of any dividends must be reasonable in relation to the insurer’s outstanding liabilities and adequate to meet its financial needs. Further, prior approval of the insurance department of its state of domicile is required before any of our insurance subsidiaries can declare and pay an “extraordinary dividend” to the Company.
For the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, the Company’s insurance subsidiaries had SAP net income of $46.7 million, $76.0 million and $30.6 million, respectively. At December 31, 2011 and 2010 the Company’s insurance subsidiaries had reported SAP surplus as regards policyholders of $686.8 million and $643.1 million, respectively, as filed with the insurance regulators.
F-51
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The Company’s insurance subsidiaries paid $35.0 million, $4.7 million and $15.0 million in dividends and or return of capital to Tower in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. As of December 31, 2011, the maximum distribution that Tower’s insurance subsidiaries could pay without prior regulatory approval was $29.3 million and the maximum return of capital available from CastlePoint Re without Bermuda regulatory permission was $61.0 million.
Bermuda
CastlePoint Re is registered as a Class 3 reinsurer under The Insurance Act 1978 (Bermuda), amendments thereto and related regulations (the “Insurance Act”). Under the Insurance Act, CastlePoint Re is required to prepare Statutory Financial Statements and to file a Statutory Financial Return. The Insurance Act also requires CastlePoint Re to maintain minimum share capital and surplus, and it has met these requirements as of December 31, 2011.
CastlePoint Re is also subject to dividend limitations imposed by Bermuda. Under the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda, as amended (the “Companies Act”), we may declare or pay a dividend out of distributable reserves only if we have reasonable grounds for believing that we are, or would after the payment, be able to pay our liabilities as they become due and if the realizable value of our assets would thereby not be less than the aggregate of our liabilities and issued share capital and share premium accounts.
For the year ended December 31, 2011, CastlePoint Re had statutory net income of $32.7 million and at December 31, 2011, had statutory surplus of $295.0 million.
For Bermuda registered companies, there are some differences between financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP and those prepared on a statutory basis. Certain assets are non-admitted under Bermuda regulations. Accordingly, for Bermuda statutory reporting, deferred policy acquisition costs have been fully expensed to income and prepaid expenses and fixed assets have been removed from the statutory balance sheet.
Note 19—Fair Value of Financial Instruments
GAAP guidance requires all entities to disclose the fair value of financial instruments, both assets and liabilities recognized and not recognized in the balance sheet, for which it is practicable to estimate fair value. The Company uses the following methods and assumptions in estimating its fair value disclosures for financial instruments:
Fixed maturity and equity securities: Fair value disclosures for investments are included in “Note 7—Fair Value Measurements.”
Other invested assets: The fair value of securities which are reported under the fair value option are included in “Note 7—Fair Value Measurements.” The fair value of limited partnerships approximates their carrying value under the equity method of accounting which was $12.5 million at December 31, 2011.
Premiums receivable and reinsurance recoverable: The carrying values reported in the accompanying balance sheets for these financial instruments approximate their fair values.
Debt:Fair value disclosures for debt are included in “Note 13—Debt.” The Company uses a discounted cash flow model to fair value the subordinated debentures. Market quotes are used to fair value the senior convertible notes.
Reinsurance balances payable and funds held under reinsurance contracts: The carrying value reported in the balance sheet for these financial instruments approximates fair value.
Note 20—Earnings per Share
In accordance with the two-class method, undistributed net earnings (net income less dividends declared during the period) are allocated to both common stock and unvested share-based payment awards (“unvested restricted stock”). Because the common shareholders and unvested restricted stock holders share in dividends on a 1:1 basis, the earnings per share on undistributed earnings is equivalent. Undistributed earnings are allocated to all outstanding share-based payment awards, including those for which the requisite service period is not expected to be rendered.
F-52
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The following table shows the computation of the earnings per share pursuant to the two-class method:
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Numerator | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income attributable to Tower Group, Inc. | | $ | 60,481 | | | $ | 106,356 | | | $ | 94,724 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Denominator | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Weighted average common shares outstanding | | | 40,833 | | | | 43,462 | | | | 39,363 | |
Effect of dilutive securities: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Stock options | | | 94 | | | | 174 | | | | 205 | |
Other | | | 4 | | | | 12 | | | | 13 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Weighted average common and potential dilutive shares outstanding | | | 40,931 | | | | 43,648 | | | | 39,581 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Earnings per share attributable to Tower stockholders—basic | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Common stock: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Distributed earnings | | $ | 0.69 | | | $ | 0.39 | | | $ | 0.26 | |
Undistributed earnings | | | 0.79 | | | | 2.06 | | | | 2.15 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | | 1.48 | | | | 2.45 | | | | 2.41 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Earnings per share attributable to Tower stockholders—diluted | | $ | 1.48 | | | $ | 2.44 | | | $ | 2.39 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
The computation of diluted earnings per share excludes outstanding options and other common stock equivalents in periods where inclusion of such potential common stock instruments would be anti-dilutive. For the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, 166,700, 193,000 and 401,700, respectively, options and other common stock equivalents to purchase Tower shares were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because the exercise price of the options was greater than the average market price.
Note 21—Segment Information
The Personal Insurance segment includes revenues and expenses associated with the Reciprocal Exchanges, including fees paid to Tower for underwriting, claims, investment management and other services provided pursuant to management services agreements with the Reciprocal Exchanges. The Insurance Services segment reports revenues earned by Tower from the Reciprocal Exchanges as management fee income, which is calculated as a percentage of the Reciprocal Exchanges’ gross written premiums. The effects of these management services agreements between Tower and the Reciprocal Exchanges are eliminated in consolidation to derive consolidated net income. However, the management fee income is reported in net income attributable to Tower Group, Inc. and included in basic and diluted earnings per share.
Segment performance is evaluated based on segment profit, which excludes investment income, realized gains and losses, interest expense, income taxes and incidental corporate expenses. Assets, other than intangibles and goodwill, are not allocated to segments because investments and assets other than intangibles and goodwill are considered in total by management for decision-making purposes.
F-53
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Business segments results are as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
($ in thousands) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Commercial Insurance Segment | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Revenues | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Premiums earned | | $ | 1,087,911 | | | $ | 941,015 | | | $ | 738,217 | |
Ceding commission revenue | | | 14,786 | | | | 33,247 | | | | 38,106 | |
Policy billing fees | | | 4,345 | | | | 2,742 | | | | 2,215 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total revenues | | | 1,107,042 | | | | 977,004 | | | | 778,538 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expenses | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Loss and loss adjustment expenses | | | 736,474 | | | | 589,322 | | | | 406,728 | |
Underwriting expenses | | | 361,890 | | | | 347,497 | | | | 289,478 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total expenses | | | 1,098,364 | | | | 936,819 | | | | 696,206 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Underwriting profit | | $ | 8,678 | | | $ | 40,185 | | | $ | 82,332 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Personal Insurance Segment | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Revenues | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Premiums earned | | $ | 505,939 | | | $ | 351,654 | | | $ | 116,494 | |
Ceding commission revenue | | | 19,182 | | | | 6,056 | | | | 4,596 | |
Policy billing fees | | | 6,189 | | | | 3,513 | | | | 729 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total revenues | | | 531,310 | | | | 361,223 | | | | 121,819 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expenses | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Loss and loss adjustment expenses | | | 318,775 | | | | 194,701 | | | | 68,769 | |
Underwriting expenses | | | 226,836 | | | | 159,573 | | | | 56,916 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total expenses | | | 545,611 | | | | 354,274 | | | | 125,685 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Underwriting profit (loss) | | $ | (14,301 | ) | | $ | 6,949 | | | $ | (3,866 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tower | | $ | (19,681 | ) | | $ | 16,177 | | | $ | (3,866 | ) |
Reciprocal Exchanges | | | 5,380 | | | | (9,228 | ) | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total underwriting profit (loss) | | $ | (14,301 | ) | | $ | 6,949 | | | $ | (3,866 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Insurance Services Segment | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Revenues | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Management fee income | | $ | 29,303 | | | $ | 17,752 | | | $ | — | |
Other revenue | | | 1,570 | | | | 2,171 | | | | 5,144 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total revenues | | | 30,873 | | | | 19,923 | | | | 5,144 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expenses | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Other expenses | | | 19,331 | | | | 5,760 | | | | 4,283 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total expenses | | | 19,331 | | | | 5,760 | | | | 4,283 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Insurance services pretax income | | $ | 11,542 | | | $ | 14,163 | | | $ | 861 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
F-54
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The following table reconciles revenue by segment to consolidated revenues:
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
($ in thousands) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Commercial insurance segment | | $ | 1,107,042 | | | $ | 977,004 | | | $ | 778,538 | |
Personal insurance segment | | | 531,310 | | | | 361,223 | | | | 121,819 | |
Insurance services segment | | | 30,873 | | | | 19,923 | | | | 5,144 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total segment revenues | | | 1,669,225 | | | | 1,358,150 | | | | 905,501 | |
Elimination of management fee income | | | (29,303 | ) | | | (17,754 | ) | | | — | |
Net investment income | | | 126,474 | | | | 107,265 | | | | 74,866 | |
Net realized gains (losses) on investments, including | | | | | | | | | | | | |
other-than-temporary impairments | | | 9,394 | | | | 14,653 | | | | 331 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Consolidated revenues | | $ | 1,775,790 | | | $ | 1,462,314 | | | $ | 980,698 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
The following table reconciles the results of the Company’s individual segments to consolidated income before income taxes:
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
($ in thousands) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Commercial insurance segment underwriting profit | | $ | 8,678 | | | $ | 40,185 | | | $ | 82,332 | |
Personal insurance segment underwriting profit (loss) | | | (14,301 | ) | | | 6,949 | | | | (3,866 | ) |
Insurance services segment pretax income | | | 11,542 | | | | 14,163 | | | | 861 | |
Net investment income | | | 126,474 | | | | 107,265 | | | | 74,866 | |
Net realized gains on investments, including | | | | | | | | | | | | |
other-than-temporary impairments | | | 9,394 | | | | 14,653 | | | | 331 | |
Corporate expenses | | | (11,519 | ) | | | (4,177 | ) | | | (3,802 | ) |
Acquisition-related transaction costs | | | (360 | ) | | | (2,369 | ) | | | (14,038 | ) |
Interest expense | | | (34,290 | ) | | | (24,223 | ) | | | (17,631 | ) |
Other income (expense) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 19,331 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Income before income taxes | | $ | 95,618 | | | $ | 152,446 | | | $ | 138,384 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Note 22—Unaudited Quarterly Financial Information
The following table presents the unaudited quarterly financial information for the Company, as reflected after the revisions discussed in Note 2:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | 2011 – revised | |
($ in thousands, except per share amounts) | | First | | | Second | | | Third | | | Fourth | | | Total | |
Revenues | | $ | 430,719 | | | $ | 434,855 | | | $ | 455,295 | | | $ | 454,921 | | | $ | 1,775,790 | |
Net Income (loss) attributable to Tower Group, Inc. | | | 26,521 | | | | 24,407 | | | | (15,733 | ) | | | 25,286 | | | | 60,481 | |
Net income (loss) per share attributable to Tower stockholders: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Basic (1) | | $ | 0.63 | | | $ | 0.59 | | | $ | (0.39 | ) | | $ | 0.64 | | | $ | 1.48 | |
Diluted (1) | | $ | 0.63 | | | $ | 0.59 | | | $ | (0.39 | ) | | $ | 0.64 | | | $ | 1.48 | |
| |
| | 2010 – revised | |
| | First | | | Second | | | Third | | | Fourth | | | Total | |
Revenues | | $ | 305,274 | | | $ | 312,991 | | | $ | 423,545 | | | $ | 420,504 | | | $ | 1,462,314 | |
Net Income attributable to Tower Group, Inc. | | | 15,012 | | | | 26,676 | | | | 28,982 | | | | 35,686 | | | | 106,356 | |
Net income per share attributable to Tower stockholders: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Basic (1) | | $ | 0.33 | | | $ | 0.60 | | | $ | 0.68 | | | $ | 0.86 | | | $ | 2.45 | |
Diluted (1) | | $ | 0.33 | | | $ | 0.60 | | | $ | 0.67 | | | $ | 0.86 | | | $ | 2.44 | |
The following table reflects the results of the unaudited quarterly financial information for the Company, as previously reported before the effects of the revision:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | 2011 – as previously reported | |
($ in thousands, except per share amounts) | | First | | | Second | | | Third | | | Fourth | | | Total | |
Revenues | | $ | 430,494 | | | $ | 436,255 | | | $ | 455,295 | | | $ | 454,921 | | | $ | 1,776,965 | |
Net Income (loss) attributable to Tower Group, Inc. | | | 25,685 | | | | 24,121 | | | | (16,439 | ) | | | 26,831 | | | | 60,198 | |
Net income (loss) per share attributable to Tower stockholders: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Basic(1) | | $ | 0.61 | | | $ | 0.58 | | | $ | (0.40 | ) | | $ | 0.68 | | | $ | 1.47 | |
Diluted(1) | | $ | 0.61 | | | $ | 0.58 | | | $ | (0.40 | ) | | $ | 0.67 | | | $ | 1.47 | |
| |
| | 2010 – as previously reported | |
| | First | | | Second | | | Third | | | Fourth | | | Total | |
Revenues | | $ | 303,476 | | | $ | 311,777 | | | $ | 423,718 | | | $ | 419,763 | | | $ | 1,458,734 | |
Net Income attributable to Tower Group, Inc. | | | 13,052 | | | | 25,642 | | | | 28,563 | | | | 36,633 | | | | 103,890 | |
Net income per share attributable to Tower stockholders: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Basic(1) | | $ | 0.29 | | | $ | 0.58 | | | $ | 0.67 | | | $ | 0.88 | | | $ | 2.39 | |
Diluted(1) | | $ | 0.29 | | | $ | 0.58 | | | $ | 0.66 | | | $ | 0.88 | | | $ | 2.38 | |
(1) | Since the weighted-average shares for the quarters are calculated independently of the weighted-average shares for the year, quarterly earnings per share may not total to annual earnings per share. |
F-55
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 23 – Subsequent Events (unaudited)
On August 20, 2012, Tower closed on its $74.9 million acquisition of a 10.7% stake in Canopius Group Limited (“Canopius Group”), a privately owned Lloyd’s insurance holding company domiciled in Guernsey, Channel Islands. In connection with this acquisition, which was agreed to on April 25, 2012, Tower also entered into an agreement dated April 25, 2012 (the “Master Transaction Agreement”) under which Canopius Group committed to assist Tower with the establishment of a presence at Lloyd’s of London through a special purpose syndicate (“SPS Transaction Right and Acquisition Right”), subject to required approvals and granted Tower an option (the “Merger Option”) to combine with Canopius Holdings Bermuda Limited (“Canopius Bermuda”). On July 30, 2012, Tower announced that it had exercised the Merger Option and executed an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Original Merger Agreement”) with Canopius Bermuda pursuant to which a wholly-owned subsidiary of Canopius Bermuda will acquire all of Tower’s common stock. Under applicable accounting principles Tower will be regarded as the acquiring entity. Tower paid Canopius Group a fee of $1,000,000 to exercise the Merger Option. On November 8, 2012, the Original Merger Agreement was amended by Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement and Plan of Merger to reflect changes to the merger consideration to be received by Tower stockholders (the Original Merger Agreement as so amended, the “Merger Agreement”).
Under the Merger Agreement, Tower stockholders will receive, in exchange for each share of Tower’s common stock, a certain number of Canopius Bermuda common shares equal to a Stock Conversion Number (defined below). Canopius Group intends to sell its shares in Canopius Bermuda prior to the consummation of the merger in a private placement of those shares (the “Canopius Secondary Offering”) to a group of yet-to-be-identified institutional third party investors (the “Third Party Investors”). The “Stock Conversion Number” will be equal the quotient obtained by dividing (x) the price per share of Tower common stock at the market close on the date of the pricing of the Canopius Secondary Offering by (y) the Adjusted Canopius Bermuda Price Per Share (defined below).
The “Adjusted Canopius Bermuda Price Per Share” will be equal to the quotient obtained by dividing (i) the sum of (a) the Target TNAV Amount, which is the amount that Tower specifies in a written notice delivered to Canopius Group prior to the signing date of the purchase and sale agreements for the Canopius Secondary Offering, as the target amount of the tangible net asset value of Canopius Bermuda as of the closing date of the Canopius Secondary Offering, (b) the value of the retained business of Canopius Bermuda following its restructuring, (c) the aggregate amount of the placement fees received by the placement agents in connection with the Canopius Secondary Offering and (d) the aggregate amount, expressed in dollars, equal to the absolute value of the discount from the closing price of Tower’s common stock on the pricing date of the Canopius Secondary Offering, or on another reasonably current date (as agreed by Tower, Canopius Bermuda and the Third Party Investors), that Tower, Canopius Bermuda and the Third Party Investors have agreed is necessary in order to effect the Canopius Secondary Offering, by (ii) the aggregate number of Canopius Bermuda common shares sold in the Canopius Secondary Offering. Because neither the restructuring of Canopius Bermuda nor the Canopius Secondary Offering is likely to occur until the fourth quarter of this year at the earliest, no assurances can be given as to the Target TNAV Amount or the Adjusted Canopius Bermuda Price Per Share. In determining the Target TNAV Amount, Tower will principally consider the amount of capital that it believes will be required to maintain its ratings and to operate the combined business.
Although the Merger Agreement contains no conditions precedent to Tower’s obligations to consummate the merger, Tower will not proceed with the merger in the event that (1) the Canopius Secondary Offering cannot be effected, or can only be effected on terms that would make the Stock Conversion Number, and therefore the merger, unattractive to Tower, (2) the Adjusted Canopius Bermuda Price Per Share declines to a point that the Third Party Investors would own 20% or less of the merged entity’s fully diluted capital stock immediately following the closing of the merger, (3) Tower stockholders and optionholders, as well as holders of Tower’s convertible senior notes, would own less than 76% of the fully diluted capital stock of Tower Ltd. immediately following the closing of the merger, (4) the parties to the Merger Agreement fail to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals on terms acceptable to Tower, (5) Tower’s stockholders fail to adopt the Merger Agreement and approve the merger, (6) Tower’s Board of Directors determines that the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement are not favorable to Tower or its stockholders and (7) Tower has not received an opinion of a nationally recognized law firm, in form and substance satisfactory to Tower, to the effect that the merger should not cause Tower Ltd. to be treated as a domestic corporation under Section 7874(b) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
Tower accounts for its 10.7% investment in Canopius Group using the equity method of accounting on a one quarter lag. Management has concluded it exerts significant influence over Canopius Group due to the following: Tower has a board seat on Canopius Group’s Board of Directors, Tower assumes approximately 6% of premiums written by Canopius Group, and Tower has certain rights in accordance with the Merger Option and SPS Transaction Right and Acquisition Right to cause Canopius Group to assist Tower as defined in the Master Transaction Agreement.
F-56
Tower Group, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The consideration paid by Tower was allocated as follows based upon each of the acquired assets’ estimated fair values:
| | | | |
($ in thousands) | | | |
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate | | $ | 71,512 | |
Merger Option | | | 484 | |
SPS Transaction Right and Acquisition Right | | | 2,903 | |
| | | | |
Total | | $ | 74,899 | |
| | | | |
The Merger Option and SPS Transaction Right and Acquisition Right will be reported in “Other assets” in the Company’s balance sheet beginning with September 30, 2012.
On October 29, 2012, Superstorm Sandy made landfall in New Jersey and caused significant property damage. Tower has exposure to Superstorm Sandy through its direct insurance operations and its reinsurance assumed and ceded businesses. Losses from its insurance operations are covered by reinsurance after certain loss thresholds are incurred by the company. For Tower’s companies, excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges, losses incurred in excess of $75 million are ceded to Tower’s reinsurance program. Below is a table that details reinsurance amounts recoverable in the event that incurred losses exceed $75 million:
| | |
Range of Loss | | Retention |
$0—$75 million | | Retained by Tower |
$75—$150 million | | 100% reinsured |
$150—$225 million | | 70% reinsured |
$225—$400 million | | 100% reinsured |
Tower expects its direct insurance losses to be contained within the first layer of its reinsurance program based on currently available information. Excluding the Reciprocal Exchanges, the Company expects the net loss from its direct insurance business to be between $90 million and $95 million, pre-tax, including reinstatement premiums. Tower’s assumed reinsurance business expects its losses to be between $15 million and $20 million, pre-tax, based on its evaluation of currently available information. Tower also expects to recover $10 million if industry losses exceed $10 billion and an additional $10 million if industry losses exceed $15 billion through industry loss warranties that its ceded reinsurance business put in place in July 2012 to manage risk associated with its exposure in the Northeast. Tower believes that its alternative investments will not be materially affected by the losses associated with Superstorm Sandy.
In aggregate, Tower’s current estimate of loss ranges from $55.3 million to $68.3 million after-tax. Tower expects that the Reciprocal Exchanges will have a net loss between $6.2 million and $7.5 million, after-tax, but such loss will not be included in Net Income Available to Tower Shareholders.
Legal Proceedings
On May 28, 2009, Munich Reinsurance America, Inc. (“Munich”) commenced an action against Tower Insurance Company of New York (“TICNY”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tower Group, Inc., in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey seeking, inter alia, to recover $6.1 million under various retrocessional contracts pursuant to which TICNY reinsures Munich. On June 22, 2009, TICNY filed its answer, in which it, inter alia, asserted two separate counterclaims seeking to recover $2.8 million under various reinsurance contracts pursuant to which Munich reinsures TICNY. (A separate action commenced by Munich against TICNY on June 17, 2009 in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey seeking a declaratory judgment that Munich is entitled to access to TICNY’s books and records pertaining to various quota share agreements, to which TICNY filed its answer on July 7, 2009, was subsequently dismissed pursuant to the stipulation of the parties on March 17, 2010). On July 15, 2011, TICNY paid $3.3 million to Munich to resolve a portion of the dispute. On December 22, 2011, the court granted partial summary judgment with respect to certain of the claims and defenses in the litigation. On March 23, 2012, the Court ruled that Munich was entitled to approximately $168,000 from TICNY in pre-judgment interest on the amount of $3.3 million that TICNY had paid to Munich on July 15, 2011, which was expensed in the first quarter of 2012. Trial was scheduled for October 15, 2012 but during the third quarter of 2012, the parties reached a settlement of the action for $2.9 million after-tax which was included as a charge in other operating expenses in the third quarter of 2012. On October 9, 2012, the Court entered an order dismissing certain claims with prejudice and other claims without prejudice.
On May 12, 2010, Mirabilis Ventures, Inc. (“Mirabilis”) commenced an action against Specialty Underwriters’ Alliance Insurance Co. (“SUA”, now known as CastlePoint National Insurance Company (“CNIC”), a subsidiary of Tower Group, Inc.) and Universal Reinsurance Co., Ltd., an unrelated entity, in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida. The Complaint is based upon a Worker’s Compensation/Employer’s Liability policy issued by SUA to AEM, Inc. (“AEM”), to whose legal rights Mirabilis is alleged to have succeeded as a result of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy of AEM. The Complaint, which includes claims against SUA for breach of contract and breach of the duty of good faith, alleges that SUA failed to properly audit AEM’s operations to determine AEM’s worker’s compensation exposure for two policy years, in order to compute the premium owed by AEM, such that SUA owes Mirabilis the principal sum of $3.4 million for one policy year and $0.6 million for the other policy year, plus interest and costs. On July 30, 2010, CNIC answered the Complaint and asserted nine separate counterclaims, to which Mirabilis responded on September 3, 2010. Since that time, Mirabilis has filed an amended complaint that failed to add any defenses against Mirabilis, and CNIC subsequently filed a motion for summary judgment on all of Mirabilis’ claims. On March 15, 2012, Mirabilis and CNIC entered into a settlement agreement and mutual release, pursuant to which Mirabilis agreed to withdraw all of its claims against CNIC and CNIC agreed to withdraw its counterclaims against Mirabilis. Neither party was required to pay any money under the terms of the settlement. On March 20, 2012, the Court ordered dismissal of the case. On March 26, 2012, CNIC filed a stipulation of final order and the case was dismissed with prejudice and terminated.
F-57
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
(a) Disclosure Controls and Procedures
The Company’s principal executive officer and its principal financial officer, based on their evaluation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e)), concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective for the purposes set forth in the definition thereof in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e) as of December 31, 2011.
(b) Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
The management of Tower Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for Tower as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Our internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by or under the supervision of our principal executive and principal financial officers to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Our internal control over financial reporting includes policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect transactions and dispositions of assets; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and the directors of the Company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on our financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree or compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Management has assessed its internal controls over financial reporting as of December 31, 2011 in relation to criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting described in Internal Control—Integrated Framework Issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on this assessment under those criteria, Tower’s management concluded that its internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2011.
(c) Attestation report of the Company’s registered public accounting firm
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, which audited and reported on the consolidated financial statements contained in this Form 10-K/A, has issued its written attestation report on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting which appears on page F-2 of this report.
(d) Changes in internal control over financial reporting
On July 1, 2010, we completed the acquisition of OBPL. OBPL has been fully integrated into our Sarbanes-Oxley program for internal controls over financial reporting and Section 404 compliance as of December 31, 2011.
91
PART IV
Item 15. | Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules |
A. | | (1) | The financial statements and notes to financial statements are filed as part of this report in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.” |
| (2) | The financial statement schedules are listed in the Index to Consolidated Financial Statement Schedules. |
| (3) | The exhibits are listed in the Index to Exhibits |
The following entire exhibits are included:
| | | | |
| | Exhibit 21.1 | | Subsidiaries of Tower Group, Inc. |
| | |
| | Exhibit 23.1 | | Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP |
| | |
| | Exhibit 23.2 | | Consent of Johnson Lambert & Co. LLP |
| | |
| | Exhibit 31.1 | | Certification of CEO to Section 302(a) |
| | |
| | Exhibit 31.2 | | Certification of CFO to Section 302(a) |
| | |
| | Exhibit 32 | | Certification of CEO and CFO to Section 906 |
92
The following exhibits are filed electronically herewith:
| | | | |
| | EX-101 | | INSTANCE DOCUMENT |
| | |
| | EX-101 | | SCHEMA DOCUMENT |
| | |
| | EX-101 | | CALCULATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT |
| | |
| | EX-101 | | LABELS LINKBASE DOCUMENT |
| | |
| | EX-101 | | PRESENTATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT |
| | |
| | EX-101 | | DEFINITION LINKBASE DOCUMENT |
93
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
| | | | | | |
| | | | Tower Group, Inc. |
| | | | Registrant |
| | | |
Date: January 16, 2013 | | | | | | /s/ Michael H. Lee |
| | | | | | Michael H. Lee |
| | | | | | Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1934, this report has been signed by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated.
| | | | |
Signature | | Title | | Date |
| | |
/s/ MICHAEL H. LEE Michael H. Lee | | Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) | | January 16, 2013 |
| | |
/s/ WILLIAM E. HITSELBERGER William E. Hitselberger | | Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer, Principal Accounting Officer) | | January 16, 2013 |
| | |
/s/ CHARLES A. BRYAN Charles A. Bryan | | Director | | January 16, 2013 |
| | |
/s/ WILLIAM W. FOX, JR. William W. Fox, Jr. | | Director | | January 16, 2013 |
| | |
/s/ WILLIAM A. ROBBIE William A. Robbie | | Director | | January 16, 2013 |
| | |
/s/ STEVEN W. SCHUSTER Steven W. Schuster | | Director | | January 16, 2013 |
| | |
/s/ ROBERT S. SMITH Robert S. Smith | | Director | | January 16, 2013 |
| | |
/s/ JAN R. VAN GORDER Jan R. Van Gorder | | Director | | January 16, 2013 |
| | |
/s/ AUSTIN P. YOUNG, III Austin P. Young, III | | Director | | January 16, 2013 |
94
Tower Group, Inc.
Index to Financial Statement Schedules
| | | | | | |
Schedules | | | | Pages | |
I | | Summary of Investments—other than investments in related parties | | | S-2 | |
II | | Condensed Financial Information of the Registrant as of and for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 | | | S-3 | |
III | | Supplementary Insurance Information for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009 | | | S-7 | |
IV | | Reinsurance for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009 | | | S-8 | |
V | | Valuation and Qualifying Accounts for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009 | | | S-9 | |
VI | | Supplemental Information Concerning Insurance Operations for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009 | | | S-10 | |
The financial statement schedules listed above have been adjusted to reflect the revisions as described more fully in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements.
S-1
Tower Group, Inc.
Schedule I—Summary of Investments—Other Than Investments in Related Parties
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | December 31, 2011 | |
($ in thousands) | | Cost | | | Fair Value | | | Amount Reflected on Balance Sheet | |
Fixed maturities: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Available for sale: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. Government agencies | | $ | 268,841 | | | $ | 273,332 | | | $ | 273,332 | |
Corporate securities | | | 750,220 | | | | 777,723 | | | | 777,723 | |
Mortgage-backed securities | | | 627,859 | | | | 665,905 | | | | 665,905 | |
Municipal securities | | | 688,192 | | | | 736,714 | | | | 736,714 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total fixed maturities | | | 2,335,112 | | | | 2,453,674 | | | | 2,453,674 | |
Preferred stocks | | | 24,083 | | | | 23,510 | | | | 23,510 | |
Common stock: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Public utilities, industrial and other | | | 68,951 | | | | 65,835 | | | | 65,835 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total equities | | | 93,034 | | | | 89,345 | | | | 89,345 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Other invested assets | | | 44,347 | | | | 44,347 | | | | 44,347 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total investments | | $ | 2,472,493 | | | $ | 2,587,366 | | | $ | 2,587,366 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | December 31, 2010 | |
($ in thousands) | | Cost | | | Fair Value | | | Amount Reflected on Balance Sheet | |
Fixed maturities: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Available for sale: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. Government agencies | | $ | 203,564 | | | $ | 205,482 | | | $ | 205,482 | |
Corporate securities | | | 853,154 | | | | 883,570 | | | | 883,570 | |
Mortgage-backed securities | | | 707,294 | | | | 739,853 | | | | 739,853 | |
Municipal securities | | | 544,019 | | | | 553,706 | | | | 553,706 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total fixed maturities | | | 2,308,031 | | | | 2,382,611 | | | | 2,382,611 | |
Preferred stocks | | | 36,489 | | | | 38,255 | | | | 38,255 | |
Common stock: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Public utilities, industrial and other | | | 54,729 | | | | 52,062 | | | | 52,062 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total equities | | | 91,218 | | | | 90,317 | | | | 90,317 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Short-term investments | | | 1,560 | | | | 1,560 | | | | 1,560 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total investments | | $ | 2,400,809 | | | $ | 2,474,488 | | | $ | 2,474,488 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
S-2
Tower Group, Inc.
Schedule II—Condensed Financial Information of the Registrant
Condensed Balance Sheets
| | | | | | | | |
| | December 31, | |
($ in thousands) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | |
Assets | | | | | | | | |
Fixed-maturity securities, available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost of $5,938 and $23,135) | | $ | 5,937 | | | $ | 22,785 | |
Equity securities, available-for-sale, at fair value (cost of $9,649 and $0) | | | 9,960 | | | | — | |
Other invested assets | | | 10,458 | | | | — | |
Cash and cash equivalents | | | 12,882 | | | | 3,390 | |
Investment in subsidiaries | | | 1,271,266 | | | | 1,211,177 | |
Federal and state taxes recoverable | | | — | | | | 6,102 | |
Deferred income taxes | | | 1,467 | | | | — | |
Investment in statutory business trusts, equity method | | | 2,664 | | | | 2,664 | |
Due from affiliate | | | 1,231 | | | | 1,662 | |
Other assets | | | 29,701 | | | | 34,380 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Total assets | | $ | 1,345,566 | | | $ | 1,282,160 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Liabilities | | | | | | | | |
Accounts payable and accrued expenses | | $ | 16,293 | | | $ | 3,470 | |
Deferred rent liability | | | 5,071 | | | | 5,652 | |
Federal and state income taxes payable | | | 9,896 | | | | — | |
Deferred income taxes | | | — | | | | 2,204 | |
Debt | | | 280,507 | | | | 227,872 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Total liabilities | | | 311,767 | | | | 239,198 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Stockholders’ equity | | | 1,033,799 | | | | 1,042,962 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity | | $ | 1,345,566 | | | $ | 1,282,160 | |
| | | | | | | | |
The condensed financial information should be read in conjunction with the notes to the condensed financial information of the registrant and the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto.
S-3
Tower Group, Inc.
Schedule II—Condensed Financial Information of the Registrant
Condensed Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
($ in thousands) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Revenues | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net realized gains (losses) on investments | | $ | (264 | ) | | $ | 201 | | | $ | — | |
Investment income | | | 1,394 | | | | 1,000 | | | | 3,216 | |
Equity in net earnings of subsidiaries | | | 77,727 | | | | 120,675 | | | | 103,297 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total revenues | | | 78,857 | | | | 121,876 | | | | 106,513 | |
Expenses | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Other operating expenses | | | 10,067 | | | | 2,891 | | | | 2,302 | |
Interest expense | | | 17,843 | | | | 9,685 | | | | 6,112 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total expenses | | | 27,910 | | | | 12,576 | | | | 8,414 | |
Other Income | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Equity income in unconsolidated affiliate | | | — | | | | — | | | | (777 | ) |
Gain on investment in acquired unconsolidated affiliate | | | — | | | | — | | | | 7,388 | |
Acquisition related transaction costs | | | (360 | ) | | | (2,369 | ) | | | (13,989 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Income before income taxes | | | 50,587 | | | | 106,931 | | | | 90,721 | |
Provision/(benefit) for income taxes | | | (9,894 | ) | | | 575 | | | | (4,003 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income | | $ | 60,481 | | | $ | 106,356 | | | $ | 94,724 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Gross unrealized investment holding gains (losses) arising during the period | | | 50,587 | | | | 34,003 | | | | 108,879 | |
Cumulative effect of adjustment resulting from adoption of new accounting guidance | | | — | | | | — | | | | (2,497 | ) |
Gross unrealized gain on interest rate swaps | | | (10,541 | ) | | | 3,223 | | | | — | |
Equity in net unrealized gains in investment in unconsolidated affiliates’ investment portfolio | | | — | | | | — | | | | 3,124 | |
Less: reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income | | | (9,394 | ) | | | (14,653 | ) | | | (331 | ) |
Income tax (expense) benefit related to items of other comprehensive income | | | (10,621 | ) | | | (6,923 | ) | | | (37,566 | ) |
Net amount attributable to Reciprocal Exchanges | | | (5,257 | ) | | | (2,646 | ) | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Comprehensive income | | $ | 75,255 | | | $ | 119,360 | | | $ | 166,333 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
The condensed financial information should be read in conjunction with the notes to the condensed financial information of the registrant and the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto.
S-4
Tower Group, Inc.
Schedule II—Condensed Financial Information of the Registrant
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
($ in thousands) | | 2011 | | | 2010 | | | 2009 | |
Cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income | | $ | 60,481 | | | $ | 106,356 | | | $ | 94,724 | |
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used) in operations: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(Gain) loss on sale of investments | | | 264 | | | | (201 | ) | | | — | |
Dividends received from consolidated subsidiaries | | | 55,400 | | | | 12,200 | | | | 8,000 | |
Equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries | | | (78,235 | ) | | | (119,293 | ) | | | (104,377 | ) |
Depreciation and amortization | | | 3,362 | | | | 1,627 | | | | 1,018 | |
Amortization of debt issuance costs | | | 2,635 | | | | 711 | | | | — | |
Amortization of restricted stock | | | 10,292 | | | | 8,694 | | | | 5,608 | |
Deferred income tax | | | (3,836 | ) | | | 6,032 | | | | (4,652 | ) |
Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements | | | (162 | ) | | | 1,302 | | | | (191 | ) |
Change in operating assets and liabilities | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investment income receivable | | | 173 | | | | (315 | ) | | | — | |
Federal and state income tax recoverable | | | 15,998 | | | | (8,817 | ) | | | 4,674 | |
Equity loss (income) in unconsolidated affiliate | | | — | | | | — | | | | 777 | |
Other assets | | | (16,763 | ) | | | (14,482 | ) | | | (640 | ) |
Accounts payable and accrued expenses | | | 6,089 | | | | 158 | | | | 2,644 | |
Deferred rent | | | (581 | ) | | | (380 | ) | | | (380 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net cash flows provided by operations | | | 55,117 | | | | (6,408 | ) | | | 7,205 | |
Cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Acquisition of OneBeacon | | | — | | | | (2 | ) | | | — | |
Acquisition of AequiCap II | | | — | | | | (12,000 | ) | | | — | |
Sale or maturity—fixed-maturity securities | | | 58,367 | | | | 65,294 | | | | — | |
Purchase of fixed assets | | | — | | | | — | | | | (12 | ) |
Purchase—fixed-maturity securities | | | (46,848 | ) | | | (90,200 | ) | | | — | |
Purchase—equity securities | | | (4,224 | ) | | | — | | | | — | |
Purchase of other invested assets | | | (10,458 | ) | | | — | | | | — | |
Sale—equity securities | | | 1,304 | | | | — | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net cash flows used in investing activities | | | (1,859 | ) | | | (36,908 | ) | | | (12 | ) |
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Proceeds from credit facility borrowings | | | 67,000 | | | | 56,000 | | | | — | |
Repayment of credit facility borrowings | | | (17,000 | ) | | | (56,000 | ) | | | — | |
Proceeds from convertible senior notes | | | — | | | | 145,634 | | | | — | |
Payment for convertible senior notes hedge | | | — | | | | (15,300 | ) | | | — | |
Proceeds from issuance of warrants | | | — | | | | 3,800 | | | | — | |
Exercise of stock options and warrants | | | 373 | | | | 1,590 | | | | 741 | |
Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements | | | 161 | | | | (1,302 | ) | | | 191 | |
Treasury stock acquired-net employee share-based compensation | | | (1,834 | ) | | | (1,750 | ) | | | (1,057 | ) |
Repurchase of common stock | | | (64,572 | ) | | | (88,034 | ) | | | — | |
Dividends paid | | | (27,894 | ) | | | (16,551 | ) | | | (10,740 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities | | | (43,766 | ) | | | 28,087 | | | | (10,865 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents | | | 9,492 | | | | (15,229 | ) | | | (3,672 | ) |
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year | | | 3,390 | | | | 18,619 | | | | 22,291 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year | | $ | 12,882 | | | $ | 3,390 | | | $ | 18,619 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
The condensed financial information should be read in conjunction with the notes to the condensed financial information of the registrant and the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto.
S-5
Tower Group, Inc.
Schedule II—Condensed Financial Information of the Registrant
Notes to Condensed Financial Information
The accompanying condensed financial statements of Tower Group, Inc. (parent company) should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto of Tower Group, Inc.
Note 1—Debt
The information relating to debt is incorporated by reference from “Note 13 – Debt” in the consolidated financial statements.
Note 2—Income Taxes
Tower Group, Inc. files a consolidated Federal income tax return. The Reciprocal Exchanges are not included in Tower Group, Inc’s consolidated tax return as it does not have an ownership interest in the Reciprocal Exchanges, and they are not a part of the consolidated tax sharing agreement. The Federal income tax provision represents an allocation under the consolidated tax sharing agreement.
Note 3—Revision to Previously Issued Financial Statements
These condensed financial information schedules of Tower Group, Inc. have been revised for the effects of immaterial errors, individually and in the aggregate, which the Company originally recorded in the periods in which they were identified. See Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements for more detail.
S-6
Tower Group, Inc.
Schedule III—Supplementary Insurance Information
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
($ in thousands) | | Deferred Acquisition Cost, Net of Deferred Ceding Commission Revenue | | | Gross Future Policy Benefits, Losses and Loss Expenses | | | Gross Unearned Premiums | | | Net Earned Premiums | | | Benefits, Losses and Loss Expenses | | | Amortization of DAC | | | Operating Expenses | | | Net Premiums Written | |
2011 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Commercial Insurance | | $ | 120,655 | | | $ | 1,218,681 | | | $ | 588,436 | | | $ | 1,087,911 | | | $ | 736,474 | | | $ | (242,412 | ) | | $ | 153,277 | | | $ | 1,152,299 | |
Personal Insurance | | | 48,203 | | | | 413,432 | | | | 304,740 | | | | 505,939 | | | | 318,775 | | | | (103,173 | ) | | | 125,866 | | | | 486,292 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 168,858 | | | $ | 1,632,113 | | | $ | 893,176 | | | $ | 1,593,850 | | | $ | 1,055,249 | | | $ | (345,585 | ) | | $ | 279,143 | | | $ | 1,638,591 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
2010 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Commercial Insurance | | $ | 131,966 | | | $ | 1,197,065 | | | $ | 541,809 | | | $ | 941,015 | | | $ | 589,322 | | | $ | (283,949 | ) | | $ | 155,569 | | | $ | 987,260 | |
Personal Insurance | | | 32,157 | | | | 413,356 | | | | 330,217 | | | | 351,654 | | | | 194,701 | | | | (41,378 | ) | | | 84,501 | | | | 326,804 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 164,123 | | | $ | 1,610,421 | | | $ | 872,026 | | | $ | 1,292,669 | | | $ | 784,023 | | | $ | (325,327 | ) | | $ | 240,070 | | | $ | 1,314,064 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
2009 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Commercial Insurance | | $ | 105,873 | | | $ | 1,074,676 | | | $ | 557,368 | | | $ | 738,217 | | | $ | 406,727 | | | $ | (217,203 | ) | | $ | 115,346 | | | $ | 730,862 | |
Personal Insurance | | | 20,434 | | | | 57,313 | | | | 101,572 | | | | 116,494 | | | | 68,770 | | | | (45,894 | ) | | | 28,051 | | | | 155,327 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 126,307 | | | $ | 1,131,989 | | | $ | 658,940 | | | $ | 854,711 | | | $ | 475,497 | | | $ | (263,097 | ) | | $ | 143,397 | | | $ | 886,189 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
S-7
Tower Group , Inc.
Schedule IV—Reinsurance
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
($ in thousands) | | Gross Amount | | | Ceded to Other Companies | | | Assumed from Other Companies | | | Net Amount | | | Percentage of Amount Assumed to Net | |
Year ended December 31, 2011 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Premiums | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Property and casualty insurance | | $ | 1,684,020 | | | $ | 195,922 | | | $ | 105,752 | | | $ | 1,593,850 | | | | 6.6 | % |
Accident and health insurance | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Premiums | | $ | 1,684,020 | | | $ | 195,922 | | | $ | 105,752 | | | $ | 1,593,850 | | | | 6.6 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year ended December 31, 2010 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Premiums | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Property and casualty insurance | | $ | 1,429,250 | | | $ | 226,970 | | | $ | 90,389 | | | $ | 1,292,669 | | | | 7.0 | % |
Accident and health insurance | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Premiums | | $ | 1,429,250 | | | $ | 226,970 | | | $ | 90,389 | | | $ | 1,292,669 | | | | 7.0 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year ended December 31, 2009 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Premiums | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Property and casualty insurance | | $ | 937,217 | | | $ | 191,549 | | | $ | 109,043 | | | $ | 854,711 | | | | 12.8 | % |
Accident and health insurance | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Premiums | | $ | 937,217 | | | $ | 191,549 | | | $ | 109,043 | | | $ | 854,711 | | | | 12.8 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
S-8
Tower Group, Inc.
Schedule V—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
($ in thousands) | | Balance, Beginning of Period | | | Additions | | | Deletions | | | Balance, End of Period | |
Year ended December 31, 2011 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Premiums receivable | | $ | 4,019 | | | $ | 2,569 | | | $ | (4,105 | ) | | $ | 2,483 | |
Deferred income taxes, net | | | 9,928 | | | | — | | | | (4,863 | ) | | | 5,065 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year ended December 31, 2010 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Premiums receivable | | | 1,272 | | | | 4,535 | | | | (1,788 | ) | | | 4,019 | |
Deferred income taxes, net | | | — | | | | 9,928 | | | | — | | | | 9,928 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year ended December 31, 2009 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Premiums receivable | | | 550 | | | | 1,671 | | | | (949 | ) | | | 1,272 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
S-9
Tower Group, Inc.
Schedule VI—Supplemental Information Concerning Insurance Operations
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | Reserves For Unpaid Claims and Claim Adjustment Expenses | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Claims and Claims Adjustment Expenses Incurred and Related to | | | | | | | | | | |
($ in thousands) | | Deferred Acquisition Cost | | | | Discounted Reserves | | | Unearned Premium | | | Earned Premium | | | Net Investment Income | | | Current Year | | | Prior Year* Includes PXRE Commutation | | | Amortization of DAC | | | Paid Claims and Claim Adjustment Expenses | | | Net Premiums Written | |
2011 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Consolidated Insurance Subsidiaries | | $ | 168,858 | | | $ | 1,632,113 | | | $ | 3,674 | | | $ | 893,176 | | | $ | 1,593,850 | | | $ | 126,474 | | | $ | 1,076,045 | | | $ | (20,796 | ) | | $ | (345,585 | ) | | $ | 1,070,539 | | | $ | 1,638,591 | |
2010 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Consolidated Insurance Subsidiaries | | | 164,123 | | | | 1,610,421 | | | | 3,674 | | | | 872,026 | | | | 1,292,669 | | | | 107,265 | | | | 796,313 | | | | (12,290 | ) | | | (325,327 | ) | | | 740,722 | | | | 1,314,064 | |
2009 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Consolidated Insurance Subsidiaries | | | 126,307 | | | | 1,131,989 | | | | 4,518 | | | | 658,940 | | | | 854,711 | | | | 74,866 | | | | 477,757 | | | | (2,260 | ) | | | (263,097 | ) | | | 405,935 | | | | 886,189 | |
Unconsolidated affiliate (1) (2) | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 2,627 | | | | 2,098 | | | | 2,105 | | | | (20 | ) | | | 914 | | | | 967 | | | | 1,375 | |
(1) | Information relates to CastlePoint Holdings, Ltd. (“CP”) |
(2) | The Company acquired CP on February 5, 2009. These are amounts for the period ended February 5, 2009 or for the period from January 1, 2009—February 5, 2009. Subsequent to February 5, 2009, CP amounts are included with consolidated insurance subsidiaries. |
S-10
The exhibits listed below and designated with an asterisk are filed with this report. The exhibits listed below and designated with two asterisks are submitted electronically herewith. The exhibits listed below and not so designated are incorporated by reference to the documents following the descriptions of the exhibits.
| | |
Exhibit Number | | Description of Exhibits |
2.1 | | Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of August 4, 2008, by and among Tower Group, Inc., Ocean I Corporation and CastlePoint Holdings, Ltd., incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed on August 6, 2008 |
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2.2 | | Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of June 21, 2009, by and among Tower Group, Inc., Tower S.F. Merger Corporation and Specialty Underwriters’ Alliance, Inc., incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8 filed on June 22, 2009 |
| |
2.3 | | Amended and Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of June 21, 2009, by and among Tower Group, Inc., Tower S.F. Merger Corporation and Specialty Underwriters’ Alliance, Inc., incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed on July 23, 2009 |
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2.4 | | Purchase Agreement, dated as of February 2, 2010, by and among Tower Group, Inc., OneBeacon Insurance Group, Ltd., OneBeacon Insurance Group LLC, OneBeacon America Insurance Company, The Employers’ Fire Insurance Company, The Camden Fire Insurance Association, Homeland Insurance Company of New York, OneBeacon Insurance Company, OneBeacon Midwest Insurance Company, Pennsylvania General Insurance Company and The Northern Assurance Company of America, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2010 |
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3.1 | | Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Tower Group, Inc., incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Amendment No. 2) (No. 333-115310) filed on July 23, 2004 |
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3.2 | | Certificate of Amendment to Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Tower Group, Inc., incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 (No. 333-115310) filed on February 5, 2009 |
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3.3 | | Certificate of Designations of Preferred Stock, incorporated by reference to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 8, 2006 |
| |
3.4 | | Certificate of Designations of Series A-1 Preferred Stock of Tower Group, Inc. incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 12, 2007 |
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3.5 | | Amended and Restated By-laws of Tower Group, Inc. as amended November 3, 2011, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 9, 2011 |
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4.1 | | Specimen Common Stock Certificate, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Amendment No. 6) (No. 333-115310) filed on September 30, 2004 |
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4.2 | | Warrant issued to Friedman, Billings, Ramsey & Co., Inc., incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Amendment No. 3) (No. 333-115310) filed on August 25, 2004 |
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4.3 | | Indenture, dated as of September 20, 2010, between Tower Group, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association relating to the 5.00% Convertible Senior Notes due 2014, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 20, 2010 |
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4.4 | | Base Call Option Confirmation, dated as of September 14, 2010, between Bank of America, N.A. and Tower Group, Inc. relating to the 5.00% Convertible Senior Notes due 2014, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 20, 2010 |
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4.5 | | Base Call Option Confirmation, dated as of September 14, 2010, between JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, London Branch and Tower Group, Inc. relating to the 5.00% Convertible Senior Notes due 2014, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 20, 2010 |
| |
4.6 | | Additional Call Option Confirmation, dated as of September 15, 2010, between Bank of America, N.A. and Tower Group, Inc relating to the 5.00% Convertible Senior Notes due 2014, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 20, 2010 |
| |
4.7 | | Additional Call Option Confirmation, dated as of September 15, 2010, between JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, London Branch and Tower Group, Inc. relating to the 5.00% Convertible Senior Notes due 2014, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 20, 2010 |
| |
4.8 | | Base Warrant Confirmation, dated as of September 14, 2010, between Bank of America, N.A. and Tower Group, Inc. relating to the 5.00% Convertible Senior Notes due 2014, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 20, 2010 |
| |
4.9 | | Base Warrant Confirmation, dated as of September 14, 2010, between JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, London Branch and Tower Group, Inc. relating to the 5.00% Convertible Senior Notes due 2014, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 20, 2010 |
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4.10 | | Additional Warrant Confirmation, dated as of September 15, 2010, between Bank of America, N.A. and Tower Group, Inc relating to the 5.00% Convertible Senior Notes due 2014, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 20, 2010 |
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Exhibit Number | | Description of Exhibits |
4.11 | | Additional Warrant Confirmation, dated as of September 15, 2010, between JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, London Branch and Tower Group, Inc. relating to the 5.00% Convertible Senior Notes due 2014, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.9 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 20, 2010 |
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9.1 | | Voting Agreement, dated August 4, 2008, between Tower Group, Inc. and Michael H. Lee, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 5, 2008 |
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10.1 | | Employment Agreement, dated as of February 27, 2012, by and between Tower Group, Inc. and Michael H. Lee incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on February 29, 2012. |
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10.2 | | Employment agreement, dated as of October 18, 2011, by and between Tower Group, Inc, and William F. Dove, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 18, 2011 |
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10.3 | | Employment Agreement, dated as of November 19, 2009, by and between Tower Group, Inc. and William E. Hitselberger, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 19, 2009 |
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10.4 | | Employment Agreement, dated as of July 23, 2007, by and between Tower Group Inc. and Gary S. Maier, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on November 9, 2007 |
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10.5 | | 2004 Long-Term Equity Compensation Plan, as amended and restated effective May 15, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 (No. 333-115310) filed on June 20, 2008 |
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10.6 | | 2001 Stock Award Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-115310) filed on May 7, 2004 |
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10.7 | | 2000 Deferred Compensation Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Amendment No. 6) (No. 333-115310) filed on September 30, 2004 |
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10.8 | | Amended & Restated Declaration of Trust, dated as of May 15, 2003, by and between Tower Group, Inc., Tower Statutory Trust I and U.S. Bank National Association, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-115310) filed on May 7, 2004 |
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10.9 | | Indenture, dated as of May 15, 2003, by and between Tower Group, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-115310) filed on May 7, 2004 |
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10.10 | | Guarantee Agreement, dated as of May 15, 2003, by and between Tower Group, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-115310) filed on May 7, 2004 |
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10.11 | | Amended and Restated Trust Agreement, dated as of September 30, 2003, by and between Tower Group, Inc., JPMorgan Chase Bank, Chase Manhattan Bank USA, National Association and Michael H. Lee, Steven G. Fauth and Francis M. Colalucci as Administrative Trustees of Tower Group Statutory Trust II, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-115310) filed on May 7, 2004 |
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10.12 | | Junior Subordinated Indenture, dated as of September 30, 2003, by and between Tower Group, Inc. and JPMorgan Chase Bank, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-115310) filed on May 7, 2004 |
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10.13 | | Guarantee Agreement, dated as of September 30, 2003, by and between Tower Group, Inc. and JPMorgan Chase Bank, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-115310) filed on May 7, 2004 |
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10.14 | | Service and Expense Sharing Agreement, dated as of December 28, 1995, by and between Tower Insurance Company of New York and Tower Risk Management Corp., incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-115310) filed on May 7, 2004 |
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10.15 | | Real Estate Lease and amendments thereto, by and between Broadpine Realty Holding Company, Inc. and Tower Insurance Company of New York, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Amendment No. 1) (No. 333-115310) filed on June 24, 2004 |
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10.16 | | Third Amendment to Lease between Tower Insurance Company of New York and 120 Broadway Holdings, LLC executed September 1, 2005, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.01 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 26, 2005 |
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10.17 | | License and Services Agreement, dated as of June 11, 2002, by and between AgencyPort Insurance Services, Inc. and Tower Insurance Company of New York, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Amendment No. 3) (No. 333-115310) filed on August 25, 2004 |
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10.18 | | Agreement, dated as of April 17, 1996, between Morstan General Agency, Inc. and Tower Risk Management Corp., incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-115310) filed on May 7, 2004 |
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10.19 | | Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, dated December 15, 2004, by and among Wilmington Trust Company, as Institutional Trustee; Wilmington Trust Company, as Delaware Trustee; Tower Group, Inc., as Sponsor; and the Trust Administrators Michael H. Lee, Francis M. Colalucci and Steve G. Fauth, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.04 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 20, 2004 |
| | |
Exhibit Number | | Description of Exhibits |
10.20 | | Indenture between Tower Group, Inc. and Wilmington Trust Company, as Trustee, dated December 15, 2004, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.03 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 20, 2004 |
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10.21 | | Guarantee Agreement dated December 15, 2004, by and between Tower Group, Inc. and Wilmington Trust Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.02 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 20, 2004 |
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10.22 | | Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, dated December 21, 2004, by and among JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as Institutional Trustee, Chase Manhattan Bank USA, National Association, as Delaware Trustee; Tower Group, Inc., as Sponsor; and the Trust Administrators Michael H. Lee, Francis M. Colalucci and Steve G. Fauth, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.04 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 23, 2004 |
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10.23 | | Indenture between Tower Group, Inc. and JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as Trustee, dated December 21, 2004, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.03 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 23, 2004 |
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10.24 | | Guarantee Agreement dated December 21, 2004, by and between Tower Group, Inc. and JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.02 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 23, 2004 |
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10.25 | | Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, dated March 31, 2006, by and among Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Institutional Trustee; Wells Fargo Delaware Trust Company, as Delaware Trustee; Tower Group, Inc., as Sponsor; and the Trust Administrators Francis M. Colalucci and Steve G. Fauth, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.04 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 6, 2006 |
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10.26 | | Indenture between Tower Group, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee, dated March 31, 2006, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.03 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 6, 2006 |
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10.27 | | Guarantee Agreement dated March 31, 2006, by and between Tower Group, Inc. and Wells Fargo Delaware Trust Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.02 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 6, 2006 |
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10.28 | | Stock Purchase Agreement by and among Tower Group, Inc. and Preserver Group, Inc. dated November 13, 2006, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 17, 2006 |
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10.29 | | Exchange Agreement by and among Tower Group, Inc. and CastlePoint Management Corp. dated January 11, 2007 incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 12, 2007 |
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10.30 | | Master Agreement dated April 4, 2006 by and among Tower Group, Inc., Tower Insurance Company of New York, Tower National Insurance Company, CastlePoint Holdings, Ltd. and CastlePoint Management Corp. incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 22, 2007 |
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10.31 | | Addendum No. 1 to the Master Agreement by and among Tower Group, Inc. and CastlePoint Holdings, Ltd. incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 22, 2007 |
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10.32 | | Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, dated January 25, 2007, by and among Wilmington Trust, as Institutional Trustee and as Delaware Trustee; Tower Group, Inc., as Sponsor; and the Trust Administrators Michael H. Lee, Francis M. Colalucci and Stephen L. Kibblehouse, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.02 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 26, 2007 |
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10.33 | | Indenture between Tower Group, Inc. and Wilmington Trust Company, as Trustee, dated January 25, 2007, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.01 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 26, 2007 |
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10.34 | | Guarantee Agreement dated January 25, 2007, by and between Tower Group, Inc. and Wilmington Trust Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.01 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 26, 2007 |
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10.35 | | Management Agreement, dated July 1, 2007, by and between CastlePoint Insurance Company and Tower Risk Management Corp., incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on November 9, 2007 |
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10.36 | | Fourth Amendment to Lease between Tower Insurance Company of New York and 120 Broadway Holdings, LLC dated July 25, 2006, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.49 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 14, 2008 |
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10.37 | | Fifth Amendment to Lease between Tower Insurance Company of New York and 120 Broadway Holdings, LLC dated December 20, 2006, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.50 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 14, 2008 |
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10.38 | | Service Agreement dated May 1, 2007 by and among Tower Risk Management Corp. and CastlePoint Management Corp. , incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.59 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 14, 2008 |
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10.39 | | Form of Tower Group, Inc. 2004 Long Term Equity Compensation Plan Restricted Stock Award Agreement, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 18, 2008 |
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Exhibit Number | | Description of Exhibits |
10.40 | | Form of Tower Group, Inc. 2004 Long Term Equity Compensation Plan Performance Shares Award Agreement, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.50 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 16, 2009 |
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10.41 | | Form of Tower Group, Inc. 2004 Long Term Equity Compensation Plan, as amended and restated effective May 15, 2008, Restricted Stock Units Award Agreement, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.63 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 14, 2008 |
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10.42 | | Stock Purchase Agreement dated August 27, 2008 between CastlePoint Reinsurance Company, Ltd., HIG, Inc. and Brookfield US Corporation, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to CastlePoint Holdings, Ltd.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 2, 2008 |
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10.43 | | Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of August 26, 2008, by and among CastlePoint Reinsurance Company, Ltd., Tower Insurance Company of New York, Tower National Insurance Company, Preserver Insurance Company, Mountain Valley Insurance Company, North East Insurance Company and Tower Risk Management Corp., incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 27, 2008 |
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10.44 | | Limited Waiver Agreement, dated as of August 26, 2008, by and among Tower Group, Inc., Ocean I Corporation and CastlePoint Holdings, Ltd., incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 27, 2008 |
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10.45 | | Parent Guarantee Agreement, dated as of December 1, 2006, between CastlePoint Holdings, Ltd. and Wilmington Trust Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.32 to CastlePoint Holdings Ltd.’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-139939) filed on January 11, 2007 |
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10.46 | | Guarantee Agreement, dated as of December 1, 2006, between CastlePoint Management Corp. and Wilmington Trust Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.33 to CastlePoint Holdings Ltd.’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-139939) filed on January 11, 2007 |
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10.47 | | Indenture, dated as of December 1, 2006, between CastlePoint Management Corp. and Wilmington Trust Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.34 to CastlePoint Holdings Ltd.’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-139939) filed on January 11, 2007 |
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10.48 | | Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, dated as of December 1, 2006, among Wilmington Trust Company as Institutional Trustee, Wilmington Trust Company, as Delaware Trustee, CastlePoint Management Corp., as Sponsor, and Joel Weiner, James Dulligan and Roger Brown, as Administrators, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.35 to CastlePoint Holdings Ltd.’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-139939) filed on January 11, 2007 |
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10.49 | | Parent Guarantee Agreement, dated as of December 14, 2006, between CastlePoint Holdings, Ltd. and Wilmington Trust Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.36 to CastlePoint Holdings Ltd.’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-139939) filed on January 11, 2007 |
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10.50 | | Guarantee Agreement of CastlePoint Management Corp., dated as of December 14, 2006, between CastlePoint Management Corp. and Wilmington Trust Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.37 to CastlePoint Holdings Ltd.’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-139939) filed on January 11, 2007 |
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10.51 | | Indenture, dated as of December 14, 2006, between CastlePoint Management Corp. and Wilmington Trust Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.38 to CastlePoint Holdings Ltd.’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-139939) filed on January 11, 2007 |
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10.52 | | Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, dated as of December 14, 2006, among Wilmington Trust Company as Institutional Trustee, Wilmington Trust Company, as Delaware Trustee, CastlePoint Management Corp., as Sponsor, and Joel Weiner, James Dulligan and Roger Brown, as Administrators, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.39 to CastlePoint Holdings Ltd.’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-139939) filed on January 11, 2007 |
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10.53 | | CastlePoint Holdings, Ltd. 2006 Long-Term Equity Compensation Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to CastlePoint Holdings Ltd.’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-134628) filed on June 1, 2006 |
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10.54 | | Amendment No. 1 to CastlePoint Holdings, Ltd. 2006 Long-Term Equity Compensation Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to CastlePoint Holdings Ltd.’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-134628) filed on December 5, 2007 |
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10.55 | | Form of Stock Option Agreement for Executive Employee Recipients of Options under 2006 Long-Term Equity Compensation Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to CastlePoint Holdings Ltd.’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-134628) filed on June 1, 2006 |
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10.56 | | Form of Stock Option Agreement for Non-Employee Director Recipients of Options under 2006 Long-Term Equity Compensation Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to CastlePoint Holdings Ltd.’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-134628) filed on June 1, 2006 |
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10.57 | | Indenture between CastlePoint Bermuda Holdings, Ltd. and Wilmington Trust Company, as Trustee, dated September 27, 2007, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to CastlePoint Holdings Ltd.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 1, 2007 |
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10.58 | | Guarantee Agreement dated September 27, 2007 by and between CastlePoint Bermuda Holdings, Ltd. and Wilmington Trust Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to CastlePoint Holdings Ltd.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 1, 2007 |
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Exhibit Number | | Description of Exhibits |
10.59 | | Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, dated September 27, 2007, by Wilmington Trust, as Institutional Trustee and as Delaware Trustee; CastlePoint Bermuda Holdings, Ltd. as Sponsor, and Trust Administrators Roger A. Brown, Joel S. Weiner and James Dulligan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to CastlePoint Holdings Ltd.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 1, 2007 |
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10.60 | | Fixed/Floating Rate Junior Subordinated Deferrable Interest Debenture, dated September 27, 2007 by CastlePoint Bermuda Holdings, Ltd. in favor of Wilmington Trust Company as institutional trustee, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to CastlePoint Holdings Ltd.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 1, 2007 |
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10.61 | | Supplemental Guarantee, dated as of February 5, 2009, by and among Ocean I Corporation, CastlePoint Holdings, Ltd. and Wilmington Trust Company (related to that certain Parent Guarantee Agreement, dated as of December 1, 2006, between CastlePoint Holdings, Ltd. and Wilmington Trust Company), incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.71 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 16, 2009 |
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10.62 | | Supplemental Guarantee, dated as of February 5, 2009, by and among Ocean I Corporation, CastlePoint Holdings, Ltd. and Wilmington Trust Company (related to that certain Parent Guarantee Agreement, dated as of December 14, 2006, between CastlePoint Holdings, Ltd. and Wilmington Trust Company), incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.72 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 16, 2009 |
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10.63 | | Supplemental Guarantee, dated as of February 5, 2009, by and among Ocean I Corporation, CastlePoint Holdings, Ltd. and Wilmington Trust Company (related to that certain Parent Guarantee Agreement, dated as of November 8, 2007, between CastlePoint Holdings, Ltd. and Wilmington Trust Company), incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.73 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 16, 2009 |
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10.64 | | Separation Agreement, dated as of February 27, 2009, by and between Tower Group, Inc. and Patrick J. Haveron, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.75 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 16, 2009 |
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10.65 | | Consulting Agreement, dated as of February 27, 2009, by and between Tower Group, Inc. and Patrick J. Haveron, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.76 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 16, 2009 |
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10.66 | | Letter of Amendment dated February 23, 2009 to Stock Purchase Agreement dated August 27, 2008 between CastlePoint Reinsurance Company, Ltd., HIG, Inc. and Brookfield US Corporation, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.77 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 16, 2009 |
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10.67 | | Credit Agreement dated as of May 14, 2010 by and among Tower Group, Inc., Bank of America, N.A., JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., KeyBank National Association, PNC Bank, National Association, J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and Banc of America Securities LLC, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 17, 2010 |
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16 | | Letter from Johnson, Lambert & Co. LLP regarding change in certifying accountant, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 16.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 5, 2010 |
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21.1 | | Subsidiaries of the registrant* |
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23.1 | | Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP* |
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23.2 | | Consent of Johnson Lambert & Co LLP* |
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31.1 | | Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 by Michael H. Lee* |
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31.2 | | Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 by William E. Hitselberger* |
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32 | | Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002* |
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EX-101 | | INSTANCE DOCUMENT** |
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EX-101 | | SCHEMA DOCUMENT** |
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EX-101 | | CALCULATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT** |
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EX-101 | | LABELS LINKBASE DOCUMENT** |
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EX-101 | | PRESENTATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT** |
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EX-101 | | DEFINITION LINKBASE DOCUMENT** |