UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON, D. C. 20549 | ||
___________________ FORM 10-K | ||
ý Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 | ||
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005 | ||
or | ||
o Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 | ||
For the transition period from ____________ to ____________ | ||
Commission File Number 001-11339 | ||
PROTECTIVE LIFE CORPORATION | ||
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) | ||
DELAWARE (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | 95-2492236 (IRS Employer Identification Number) | |
2801 HIGHWAY 280 SOUTH BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA 35223 (Address of principal executive offices and zip code) | ||
Registrant's telephone number, including area code (205) 268-1000 | ||
_______________________ | ||
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: | ||
Title of each class | Name of each exchange on which registered | |
Common Stock, $0.50 Par Value | New York Stock Exchange | |
PLC Capital Trust III 7.5% Trust Originated Preferred Securities, including the Guarantee of Protective Life Corporation | New York Stock Exchange | |
PLC Capital Trust IV 7.25% Trust Originated Preferred Securities, including the Guarantee of Protective Life Corporation | New York Stock Exchange | |
PLC Capital Trust V 6.125% Trust Originated Preferred Securities, including the Guarantee of Protective Life Corporation | New York Stock Exchange | |
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 the Securities Act. Yes ý No o Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act. Yes o No ý Note - Checking the box above will not relieve any registrant required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act from their obligations under those Sections. Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ý No o 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 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. 0; o Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one): Large accelerated filer ý Accelerated Filer o Non-accelerated filer o Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes o No ý | ||
Aggregate market value of the registrant’s voting common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 30, 2005: $2,864,128,382 | ||
Number of shares of Common Stock, $0.50 Par Value, outstanding as of March 3, 2006: 69,910,031 | ||
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE Portions of the Registrant’s Proxy Statement prepared for the 2006 annual meeting of share owners, pursuant to Regulation 14A, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Report. |
PROTECTIVE LIFE CORPORATION ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2005 TABLE OF CONTENTS PART I | |
Page | |
Item 1.Business | |
Item 1A. Risk Factors and Cautionary Factors that may Affect Future Results | |
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments | |
Item 2.Properties | |
Item 3.Legal Proceedings | |
Item 4.Submission of Matters to a Vote of Share-Owners | |
PART II | |
Item 5.Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity and Related Share-Owner Matters | |
Item 6.Selected Financial Data | |
Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations | |
Item 7A.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk | |
Item 8.Financial Statements and Supplemental Data | |
Item 9.Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure | |
Item 9A.Controls and Procedures | |
Item 9B.Other Information | |
PART III | |
Item 10.Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant | |
Item 11.Executive Compensation | |
Item 12.Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Share-Owner Matters | |
Item 13.Certain Relationships and Related Transactions | |
Item 14.Principal Accountant Fees and Services | |
PART IV | |
Item 15.Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules | |
PART I
Item 1. Business
Protective Life Corporation (the “Company”) is a holding company whose subsidiaries provide financial services through the production, distribution, and administration of insurance and investment products. Founded in 1907, Protective Life Insurance Company is the Company's largest operating subsidiary. Unless the context otherwise requires, the Company refers to the consolidated group of Protective Life Corporation and its subsidiaries.
Copies of the Company’s Proxy Statement and 2005 Annual Report to Share-Owners will be furnished to anyone who requests such documents from the Company. Requests for copies should be directed to: Share-Owner Relations, Protective Life Corporation, P. O. Box 2606, Birmingham, Alabama 35202, Telephone (205) 268-3573, FAX (205) 268-5547. Copies may also be requested through the Internet from the Company’s worldwide website (www.protective.com). The Company makes periodic and current reports available free of charge on its website as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC. The information incorporated herein by reference is also electronically accessible through the Internet from the “EDGAR Database of Corporate Information” on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s worldwide website (www.sec.gov).
The Company operates several business segments each having a strategic focus. An operating segment is generally distinguished by products and/or channels of distribution. The Company’s operating segments are Life Marketing, Acquisitions, Annuities, Stable Value Products, and Asset Protection. The Company has an additional segment referred to as Corporate and Other which consists of net investment income on unallocated capital, interest on debt, earnings from various investment-related transactions, and the operations of several small non-strategic lines of business. The Company periodically evaluates its operating segments in light of the segment reporting requirements prescribed by Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 131, “Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information,” and makes adjustments to its segment reporting as needed.
Additional information concerning the Company's business segments may be found in "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and Note 9 to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein.
In the following paragraphs, the Company reports sales and new capital invested. These statistics are used by the Company to measure the relative progress of its marketing and acquisition efforts. These statistics are derived from the Company’s various sales tracking and administrative systems and are not derived from the Company’s financial reporting systems or financial statements. These statistics attempt to measure some of the many factors that may affect future profitability, and therefore are not intended to be predictive of future profitability.
Life Marketing
The Life Marketing segment markets traditional life insurance products, including level premium term and term-like insurance and universal life (“UL”) insurance. The segment also markets variable universal life and bank owned life insurance (“BOLI”) products. All of these products are marketed on a national basis. The segment uses several methods of distribution for its products. One distribution system is comprised of brokerage general agencies who recruit a network of independent life agents. The segment also distributes insurance products through a network of experienced independent personal producing general agents who are recruited by regional sales managers. Also, the Company markets BOLI through independent marketing organizations that specialize in the BOLI market. The segment also distributes life insurance products through stockbrokers and banks, and through worksite arrangements.
The following table shows the Life Marketing segment’s sales measured by new premium.
Year Ended December 31 | Sales | |||
(dollars in millions) | ||||
2001 | $ | 163.5 | ||
2002 | 224.1 | |||
2003 | 289.6 | |||
2004 | 261.7 | |||
2005 | 294.7 |
Acquisitions
The Acquisitions segment focuses on acquiring, converting, and servicing policies acquired from other companies. The segment’s primary focus is on life insurance policies sold to individuals. These acquisitions may be accomplished through acquisitions of companies or through the reinsurance of blocks of policies from other insurers. Forty-three transactions have been closed by the segment since 1970, including 16 since 1989. Policies acquired through the segment are usually administered as “closed” blocks; i.e., no new policies are being marketed. Therefore, the amount of insurance in force for a particular acquisition is expected to decline with time due to lapses and deaths of the insureds.
Most acquisitions closed by the Acquisitions segment do not include the acquisition of an active sales force. In transactions where some marketing activity was included, the Company generally either ceased future marketing efforts or redirected those efforts to another segment of the Company. However, in the case of the acquisition of West Coast Life Insurance Company (“West Coast”) which was closed by the Acquisitions segment in 1997, the Company elected to continue the marketing of new policies and operate West Coast as a component of the Company’s Life Marketing segment.
The Company believes that its focused and disciplined approach to the acquisition process and its experience in the assimilation, conservation, and servicing of acquired policies provides a significant competitive advantage over many other companies that attempt to make similar acquisitions. The Company expects acquisition opportunities to continue to be available as the life insurance industry continues to consolidate; however, management believes that the Company may face increased competition for future acquisitions.
Total revenues and income before income tax from the Acquisitions segment are expected to decline with time unless new acquisitions are made. Therefore, the segment’s revenues and earnings may fluctuate from year to year depending upon the level of acquisition activity.
The following table shows the number of transactions closed by the Acquisitions segment and the approximate amount of (statutory) capital invested for each year in which an acquisition was made.
Year Ended December 31 | Number of Transactions | Capital Invested | |||||
(dollars in millions) | |||||||
2001 | 2 | $ | 247.8 | ||||
2002 | 1 | 60.0 |
In 2001, the Company coinsured a block of individual life policies from Standard Insurance Company, and acquired the stock of Inter-State Assurance Company (“Inter-State”) and First Variable Life Insurance Company (“First Variable”) from ILona Financial Group, Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of Irish Life & Permanent plc of Dublin, Ireland. In 2002, the Company coinsured a block of traditional life and interest-sensitive life insurance policies from Conseco Variable Insurance Company. Although acquisition opportunities were investigated, no transactions were completed in 2003, 2004, or 2005.
On February 7, 2006, the Company signed a definitive agreement to acquire from JPMorgan Chase & Co. the stock of five life insurance companies that manufacture and distribute traditional life insurance and annuities (the “Chase Insurance Group”) and the stock of four related non-insurance companies for a cash purchase price of approximately $1.2 billion, which will be a combination of a cash payment from the Company and a return of capital. Subject to regulatory and third party approval, the Company expects to enter into a series of reinsurance agreements with third parties for the variable annuity business and up to approximately one-half of the value of the remaining business. The acquisition and related agreements are subject to various regulatory approvals (including regulatory approvals that must be obtained by one reinsurer group) and other customary conditions to closing, which is expected to occur during the third quarter of 2006. The Chase Insurance Group is headquartered in Elgin, IL, and offers primarily level premium term and other traditional life products as well as fixed and variable annuity products. The Chase Insurance Group has approximately 1.2 million life insurance and annuity policies in-force and statutory reserves of approximately $8.7 billion (including approximately $2.0 billion assumed under a modified coinsurance arrangement).
From time to time other of the Company’s business segments have acquired companies and blocks of policies which are included in their respective results.
Annuities
The Annuities segment manufactures, sells, and supports fixed and variable annuity products. These products are primarily sold through stockbrokers, but are also sold through financial institutions and independent agents and brokers.
The Company’s fixed annuities are primarily modified guaranteed annuities which guarantee an interest rate for a fixed period. Because contract values are "market-value adjusted" upon surrender prior to maturity, these products afford the Company a measure of protection from the effects of changes in interest rates. The Company’s fixed annuities also include book value and equity indexed annuities which the Company began marketing during 2005. The Company’s variable annuities offer the policyholder the opportunity to invest in various investment accounts.
The following table shows fixed and variable annuity sales. The demand for annuity products is related to the general level of interest rates and performance of the equity markets.
Year Ended December 31 | Fixed Annuities | Variable Annuities | Total Annuities | |||||||
(dollars in millions) | ||||||||||
2001 | $ | 689 | $ | 263 | $ | 952 | ||||
2002 | 628 | 325 | 953 | |||||||
2003 | 164 | 350 | 514 | |||||||
2004 | 443 | 283 | 726 | |||||||
2005 | 275 | 312 | 587 |
Stable Value Products
The Stable Value Products segment sells guaranteed funding agreements (“GFAs”) to special purpose entities that in turn issue notes or certificates in smaller, transferable denominations. The segment also markets fixed and floating rate funding agreements directly to the trustees of municipal bond proceeds, institutional investors, bank trust departments and money market funds. During 2003, the Company registered a funding agreement-backed notes program with the SEC. Through this program, the Company is able to offer notes to both institutional and retail investors. As a result of the strong sales of these notes since their introduction in 2003, the amount available under this program was increased $4 billion in 2005 through a second registration. The segment's funding agreement-backed notes complement the Company’s overall asset-liability management in that the terms of the funding agreements may be tailored to the needs of Protective Life Insurance Company as the seller of the funding agreements, as opposed to solely meeting the needs of the buyer.
Additionally, the segment markets guaranteed investment contracts (“GICs”) to 401(k) and other qualified retirement savings plans. GICs are generally contracts which specify a return on deposits for a specified period and often provide flexibility for withdrawals at book value in keeping with the benefits provided by the plan. The demand for GICs is related to the relative attractiveness of the “fixed rate” investment option in a 401(k) plan compared to the equity-based investment options available to plan participants.
The Company’s emphasis is on a consistent and disciplined approach to product pricing and asset/liability management, careful underwriting of early withdrawal risks and maintaining low distribution and administration costs. Most GIC contracts and funding agreements written by the Company have maturities of three to ten years.
The following table shows the stable value products sales.
Year Ended December 31 | GICs | Funding Agreements | Total | |||||||
(dollars in millions) |
2001 | $ | 409 | $ | 637 | $ | 1,046 | ||||
2002 | 267 | 888 | 1,155 | |||||||
2003 | 275 | 1,333 | 1,608 | |||||||
2004 | 59 | 1,524 | 1,583 | |||||||
2005 | 96 | 1,316 | 1,412 |
The rate of growth in account balances is affected by the amount of maturing contracts relative to the amount of new sales.
Asset Protection
The Asset Protection segment primarily markets extended service contracts and credit life and disability insurance to protect consumers’ investments in automobiles and watercraft. In addition, the segment markets an inventory protection product and a guaranteed asset protection (“GAP”) product. The segment’s products are primarily marketed through a national network of 2,500 automobile and marine dealers. The Asset Protection segment has also offered credit insurance through banks and consumer finance companies.
The Company is the fifth largest independent writer of credit insurance in the United States according to industry surveys. These policies cover consumer loans made by financial institutions located primarily in the southeastern United States and automobile dealers throughout the United States. The Company’s ranking with respect to the writing of credit insurance may decline in 2006 and beyond as the segment discontinues marketing these products through financial institutions.
The following table shows the insurance and related product sales measured by new premium.
Year Ended December 31 | Sales | |||
(dollars in millions) | ||||
2001 | $ | 500.1 | ||
2002 | 467.8 | |||
2003 | 472.4 | |||
2004 | 460.3 | |||
2005 | 488.8 |
In 2005, approximately 59% of the segment’s sales were through the automobile dealer distribution channel, and approximately 47% of the segment’s sales were extended service contracts. A portion of the sales and resulting premium are reinsured with producer-affiliated reinsurers.
The Company is currently pursuing a small acquisition of a service contract provider.
Corporate and Other
The Company has an additional segment referred to as Corporate and Other. The Corporate and Other segment primarily consists of net investment income and expenses not attributable to the other business segments described above (including net investment income on unallocated capital and interest on debt). This segment also includes earnings from several small non-strategic lines of business (primarily cancer insurance, residual value insurance, surety insurance, and group annuities), various investment-related transactions, and the operations of several small subsidiaries. The earnings of this segment may fluctuate from year to year.
Investments
The types of assets in which the Company may invest are influenced by various state laws which prescribe qualified investment assets. Within the parameters of these laws, the Company invests its assets giving consideration to such factors as liquidity needs, investment quality, investment return, matching of assets and liabilities, and the overall composition of the investment portfolio by asset type and credit exposure. For further information regarding the Company's investments, the maturity of and the concentration of risk among the Company's invested assets, derivative financial instruments, and liquidity, see Notes 1 and 2 to Consolidated Financial Statements, and Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
A significant portion of the Company's bond portfolio is invested in mortgage-backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities are constructed from pools of residential mortgages and may have cash flow volatility as a result of changes in the rate at which prepayments of principal occur with respect to the underlying loans. Prepayments of principal on the underlying residential loans can be expected to accelerate with decreases in interest rates and diminish with increases in interest rates. The Company has not invested in the higher risk tranches of mortgage-backed securities (except mortgage-backed securities issued in securitization transactions sponsored by the Company). In addition, the Company has entered into derivatives to offset the volatility in the market value of its mortgage-backed securities.
The table below shows a breakdown of the Company’s mortgage-backed securities portfolio by type at December 31, 2005. Planned amortization class securities (“PACs”) pay down according to a schedule. Accretion directed securities have a stated maturity but may repay more quickly. Sequentials receive payments in order until each class is paid off. Pass through securities receive principal as principal of the underlying mortgages is received. The CMBS are commercial mortgage-backed securities issued in securitization transactions sponsored by the Company, in which the Company securitized portions of its mortgage loan portfolio.
Type | Percentage of Mortgage-Backed Securities | |||
Sequential | 47.3 | % | ||
PAC | 31.7 | |||
Pass Through | 9.3 | |||
Accretion Directed | 4.7 | |||
CMBS | 3.9 | |||
Other | 3.1 | |||
100.0 | % |
The Company obtains ratings of its fixed maturities from Moody's Investors Service, Inc. (“Moody's”), Standard & Poor's Corporation (“S&P”) and Fitch Ratings (“Fitch”). If a bond is not rated by Moody's, S&P, or Fitch, the Company uses ratings from the Securities Valuation Office of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”), or the Company rates the bond based upon a comparison of the unrated issue to rated issues of the same issuer or rated issues of other issuers with similar risk characteristics. At December 31, 2005, over 99% of bonds were rated by Moody's, S&P, Fitch, or the NAIC.
The approximate percentage distribution of the Company’s fixed maturity investments by quality rating at December 31, 2005, is as follows:
Rating | Percentage of Fixed Maturity Investments | |||
AAA | 44.7 | % | ||
AA | 3.6 | |||
A | 15.0 | |||
BBB | 29.6 | |||
BB or less | 7.1 | |||
100.0 | % |
At December 31, 2005, approximately $14.4 billion of the Company's $15.5 billion bond portfolio was invested in U.S. Government or agency-backed securities or investment grade bonds and approximately $1.1 billion of its fixed maturities portfolio was rated less than investment grade, of which $415.0 million were bank loan participations and $61.6 million were securities issued in Company-sponsored commercial mortgage loan securitizations. The Company has increased its investment in bank loan participations over the last four years to take advantage of market conditions.
Risks associated with investments in less than investment grade debt obligations may be significantly higher than risks associated with investments in debt securities rated investment grade. Risk of loss upon default by the borrower is significantly greater with respect to such debt obligations than with other debt securities because these obligations may be unsecured or subordinated to other creditors. Additionally, there is often a thinly traded market for such securities and current market quotations are frequently not available for some of these securities. Issuers of less than investment grade debt obligations usually have higher levels of indebtedness and are more sensitive to adverse economic conditions, such as recession or increasing interest rates, than investment-grade issuers.
The Company also invests a significant portion of its portfolio in mortgage loans. Results for these investments have been excellent due to careful management and a focus on a specialized segment of the market. The Company generally does not lend on speculative properties and has specialized in making loans on either credit-oriented commercial properties or credit-anchored strip shopping centers. The average size of loans made during 2005 was $3.4 million. The average size mortgage loan in the Company's portfolio is approximately $2.4 million. The largest single loan amount is $22.8 million.
The following table shows a breakdown of the Company’s mortgage loan portfolio by property type at December 31, 2005:
Property Type | Percentage of Mortgage Loans on Real Estate | |||
Retail | 68.3 | % | ||
Apartments | 11.9 | |||
Office Buildings | 10.3 | |||
Warehouses | 8.1 | |||
Other | 1.4 | |||
100.0 | % |
Retail loans are generally on strip shopping centers anchored by one or more regional or national retail stores. The anchor tenants enter into long-term leases with the Company's borrowers. These centers provide the basic necessities of life, such as food, pharmaceuticals, and clothing, and have been relatively insensitive to changes in economic conditions. The following are the largest anchor tenants (measured by the Company's exposure) at December 31, 2005:
Anchor Tenants | Percentage of Mortgage Loans on Real Estate | |||
Walgreen Corporation | 2.3 | % | ||
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. | 2.1 | |||
Food Lion, Inc. | 1.9 | |||
Lone Star Funds | 1.9 | |||
CVS Drugs, Inc. | 1.4 |
The Company's mortgage lending criteria generally require that the loan-to-value ratio on each mortgage be at or less than 75% at the time of origination. Projected rental payments from credit anchors (i.e., excluding rental payments from smaller local tenants) generally exceed 70% of the property's projected operating expenses and debt service. The Company also offers a commercial loan product under which the Company will permit a loan-to-value ratio of up to 85% in exchange for a participating interest in the cash flows from the underlying real estate. Approximately $434.9 million of the Company’s mortgage loans have this participation feature.
Many of the Company's mortgage loans have call or interest rate reset provisions between 3 and 10 years. However, if interest rates were to significantly increase, the Company may be unable to call the loans or increase the interest rates on its existing mortgage loans commensurate with the significantly increased market rates.
At December 31, 2005, $22.3 million or 0.7% of the mortgage loan portfolio was nonperforming. It is the Company’s policy to cease to carry accrued interest on loans that are over 90 days delinquent. For loans less than 90 days delinquent, interest is accrued unless it is determined that the accrued interest is not collectible. If a loan becomes over 90 days delinquent, it is the Company’s general policy to initiate foreclosure proceedings unless a workout arrangement to bring the loan current is in place.
In 1996, the Company sold approximately $554 million of its mortgage loans in a securitization transaction. In 1997, the Company sold approximately $445 million of its loans in a second securitization transaction. In 1998, the Company securitized $146 million of its mortgage loans and in 1999 the Company securitized $263 million. The securitizations’ senior tranches were sold, and the Company retained the junior tranches. The Company continues to service the securitized mortgage loans. At December 31, 2005, the Company had investments related to retained beneficial interests of mortgage loan securitizations of $225.6 million.
As a general rule, the Company does not invest directly in real estate. The investment real estate held by the Company consists largely of properties obtained through foreclosures or the acquisition of other insurance companies. In the Company's experience, the appraised value of a foreclosed property often approximates the mortgage loan balance on the property plus costs of foreclosure. Also, foreclosed properties often generate a positive cash flow enabling the Company to hold and manage the property until the property can be profitably sold.
The following table shows the investment results from continuing operations of the Company:
Realized Investment Gains (Losses) | ||||||||||||||||
Year Ended December 31 | Cash, Accrued Investment Income, and Investments at December 31 | Net Investment Income | Percentage Earned on Average of Cash and Investments | Derivative Financial Instruments | All Other Investments | |||||||||||
(dollars in thousands) | ||||||||||||||||
2001 | $ | 13,604,102 | $ | 880,141 | 7.3 | % | $ | (1,114 | ) | $ | (8,740 | ) | ||||
2002 | 15,765,420 | 1,022,953 | 7.0 | 28,308 | 910 | |||||||||||
2003 | 17,752,081 | 1,030,752 | 6.4 | 12,550 | 58,064 | |||||||||||
2004 | 19,712,244 | 1,084,217 | 6.1 | 19,591 | 28,305 | |||||||||||
2005 | 20,741,423 | 1,180,502 | 5.8 | (30,881 | ) | 49,393 |
Life Insurance in Force
The following table shows life insurance sales by face amount and life insurance in force.
Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | ||||||||||||
(dollars in thousands) | ||||||||||||||||
New Business Written | ||||||||||||||||
Life Marketing | $ | 60,435,133 | $ | 77,917,553 | $ | 102,154,269 | $ | 67,827,198 | $ | 40,538,738 | ||||||
Group Products(1) | 67,405 | 44,567 | 123,062 | |||||||||||||
Asset Protection | 3,770,783 | 5,702,146 | 6,655,790 | 4,516,350 | 5,917,047 | |||||||||||
Total | $ | 64,205,916 | $ | 83,619,699 | $ | 108,877,464 | $ | 72,388,115 | $ | 46,578,847 | ||||||
Business Acquired | ||||||||||||||||
Acquisitions | $ | 3,859,788 | $ | 19,992,424 | ||||||||||||
Insurance in Force at End of Year(2) | ||||||||||||||||
Life Marketing | $ | 435,430,943 | $ | 372,395,267 | $ | 305,939,864 | $ | 225,667,767 | $ | 159,485,393 | ||||||
Acquisitions | 26,861,772 | 29,135,715 | 30,755,635 | 27,372,622 | 36,856,042 | |||||||||||
Group Products(1) | 710,358 | 5,015,636 | 5,821,744 | |||||||||||||
Asset Protection | 5,496,543 | 6,807,494 | 9,088,963 | 12,461,564 | 12,094,947 | |||||||||||
Total | $ | 467,789,258 | $ | 408,338,476 | $ | 346,494,820 | $ | 270,517,589 | $ | 214,258,126 | ||||||
(1) On December 31, 2001, the Company completed the sale of substantially all of its Dental Division, with which the group products are associated. (2) Reinsurance assumed has been included; reinsurance ceded (2005 - $393,605,152; 2004 - $354,015,938; 2003 - $292,740,795; 2002 - $219,025,215; 2001-$171,449,182) has not been deducted. |
The ratio of voluntary terminations of individual life insurance to mean individual life insurance in force, which is determined by dividing the amount of insurance terminated due to lapses during the year by the mean of the insurance in force at the beginning and end of the year, adjusted for the timing of major acquisitions was:
Year Ended December 31 | Ratio of Voluntary Terminations | |||
2001 | 7.4 | % | ||
2002 | 4.7 | |||
2003 | 4.1 | |||
2004 | 4.6 | |||
2005 | 4.2 |
The amount of investment products in force is measured by account balances. The following table shows stable value product and annuity account balances. Most of the variable annuity account balances are reported in the Company’s financial statements as liabilities related to separate accounts.
Year Ended December 31 | Stable Value Products | Modified Guaranteed Annuities | Fixed Annuities | Variable Annuities | |||||||||
(dollars in thousands) | |||||||||||||
2001 | $ | 3,716,530 | $ | 1,883,998 | $ | 1,143,394 | $ | 2,131,476 | |||||
2002 | 4,018,552 | 2,390,440 | 955,886 | 1,864,993 | |||||||||
2003 | 4,676,531 | 2,286,417 | 851,165 | 2,388,033 | |||||||||
2004 | 5,562,997 | 2,406,426 | 753,832 | 2,612,077 | |||||||||
2005 | 6,057,721 | 2,348,037 | 777,422 | 2,639,670 |
Underwriting
The underwriting policies of the Company's insurance subsidiaries are established by management. With respect to individual insurance, the subsidiaries use information from the application and, in some cases, inspection reports, attending physician statements, or medical examinations to determine whether a policy should be issued as applied for, other than applied for, or rejected. Medical examinations of applicants are required for individual life insurance in excess of certain prescribed amounts (which vary based on the type of insurance) and for most individual insurance applied for by applicants over age 50. In the case of "simplified issue" policies, which are issued primarily through the Asset Protection segment and the Life Marketing segment in the payroll deduction market, coverage is rejected if the responses to certain health questions contained in the application indicate adverse health of the applicant. For other than "simplified issue" policies, medical examinations are requested of any applicant, regardless of age and amount of requested coverage, if an examination is deemed necessary to underwrite the risk. Substandard risks may be referred to reinsurers for evaluation of the substandard risk.
The Company's insurance subsidiaries generally require blood samples to be drawn with individual insurance applications above certain face amounts based on the applicant’s age, except in the worksite and BOLI markets where limited blood testing is required. Blood samples are tested for a wide range of chemical values and are screened for antibodies to the HIV virus. Applications also contain questions permitted by law regarding the HIV virus which must be answered by the proposed insureds.
Reinsurance Ceded
The Company's insurance subsidiaries cede insurance to other insurance companies. The ceding insurance company remains liable with respect to ceded insurance should any reinsurer fail to meet the obligations assumed by it. The Company also has used reinsurance to reinsure guaranteed minimum death benefit (“GMDB”) claims in its variable annuity contracts.
During 2005, the life reinsurance market continued the process of consolidation and tightening, resulting in a higher net cost of reinsurance for much of the Company’s life insurance business. The Company has also been challenged by changes in the reinsurance market which have impacted management of capital, particularly in the Company’s term life business which is required to hold reserves pursuant to the Valuation of Life Insurance Policies Regulation (“Regulation XXX”). In response to these challenges, in 2005 the Company reduced its overall reliance on reinsurance by changing from coinsurance to yearly renewable term reinsurance arrangements for certain newly issued traditional life products. Additionally in 2005, for certain newly issued traditional life products, the Company increased from $500,000 to $1,000,000 the amount of insurance it will retain on any one life. The Company issued $125.0 million of non-recourse funding obligations to fund the additional statutory reserves required as a result of these changes in the Company’s reinsurance arrangements.
At December 31, 2005, the Company had insurance in force of $467.8 billion of which approximately $393.6 billion was ceded to reinsurers. See Note 11 to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to the Company’s use of reinsurance.
Policy Liabilities and Accruals
The applicable insurance laws under which the Company's insurance subsidiaries operate require that each insurance company report policy liabilities to meet future obligations on the outstanding policies. These liabilities are the amounts which, with the additional premiums to be received and interest thereon compounded annually at certain assumed rates, are calculated in accordance with applicable law to be sufficient to meet the various policy and contract obligations as they mature. These laws specify that the liabilities shall not be less than liabilities calculated using certain named mortality tables and interest rates.
The policy liabilities and accruals carried in the Company's financial reports presented on the basis of accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) differ from those specified by the laws of the various states and carried in the insurance subsidiaries' statutory financial statements (presented on the basis of statutory accounting principles mandated by state insurance regulations). For policy liabilities other than those for universal life policies, annuity contracts, GICs, and funding agreements, these differences arise from the use of mortality and morbidity tables and interest rate assumptions which are deemed to be more appropriate for financial reporting purposes than those required for statutory accounting purposes; from the introduction of lapse assumptions into the calculation; and from the use of the net level premium method on all business. Policy liabilities for universal life policies, annuity contracts, GICs, and funding agreements are generally carried in the Company's financial reports at the account value of the policy or contract plus accrued interest.
Federal Income Tax Consequences
Existing federal laws and regulations affect the taxation of the Company’s products. Income tax payable by policyholders on investment earnings is deferred during the accumulation period of certain life insurance and annuity products. This favorable tax treatment may give certain of the Company’s products a competitive advantage over other non-insurance products. To the extent that the Code is revised to reduce the tax-deferred status of life insurance and annuity products, or to increase the tax-deferred status of competing products, all life insurance companies, including the Company and its subsidiaries, would be adversely affected with respect to their ability to sell such products, and, depending upon grandfathering provisions, would be affected by the surrenders of existing annuity contracts and life insurance policies.
Additionally, changes in tax law based on proposals to establish new tax advantaged retirement and life savings plans, if enacted, could reduce the tax advantage of investing in certain life insurance or annuity products. For example, President Bush’s Fiscal Year 2006 Budget proposal includes changes that would create new and expanded vehicles for tax-exempt savings, including expanded “Retirement Savings Accounts” and “Lifetime Savings Accounts” which would permit higher contributions and tax-free build-up.
In addition, life insurance products are often used to fund estate tax obligations. Legislation has been enacted that would, over time, reduce and eventually eliminate the federal estate tax. Under the legislation that has been enacted, the estate tax will be reinstated, in its entirety, in 2011 and thereafter. President Bush and members of Congress have expressed a desire to modify the existing legislation, which modification could result in faster or more complete reduction or repeal of the estate tax. If the estate tax is significantly reduced or eliminated, the demand for certain life insurance products could be adversely affected.
Additionally, the Company is subject to the federal corporation income tax. President Bush has also formed a President’s Advisory Panel, which has been instructed to develop proposals for fundamental reform of the federal tax system. Such proposals could include substantial changes to the federal income tax laws currently in effect. The Company cannot predict what changes to tax law or interpretations of existing tax law may ultimately be enacted or adopted or whether such changes could adversely affect the Company.
The Company's insurance subsidiaries are taxed by the federal government in a manner similar to companies in other industries. However, certain restrictions on consolidating recently acquired life insurance companies and on consolidating life insurance company income with non-insurance income are applicable to the Company. The Company is able to consolidate all of its subsidiaries for federal income tax purposes in 2004 and 2005, but the pending acquisition, if completed, will result in the inability to consolidate certain subsidiaries for federal income tax purposes in 2006.
Under pre-1984 tax law, certain income of the Company was not taxed currently, but was accumulated in a memorandum account designated as "Policyholders' Surplus" to be taxed only when such income was distributed to share owners or when certain limits on accumulated amounts were exceeded. Consistent with current tax law, amounts accumulated in Policyholders' Surplus have been carried forward, although no accumulated income may be added to these accounts. As of December 31, 2005, the aggregate accumulation in the Policyholders' Surplus account was $70.5 million. Under current income tax laws, the Company does not anticipate paying income tax on amounts in the Policyholders’ Surplus accounts. Legislation was enacted in 2004 which suspends application of this provision for tax years 2005 and 2006 in certain limited situations.
Competition
Life and health insurance is a mature and highly competitive industry. In recent years, the industry has experienced little growth in life insurance sales, though the aging population has increased the demand for retirement savings products. The Company encounters significant competition in all lines of business from other insurance companies, many of which have greater financial resources than the Company, as well as competition from other providers of financial services. Competition could result in, among other things, lower sales or higher lapses of existing products.
The insurance industry is consolidating, with larger, potentially more efficient organizations emerging from consolidation. Participants in certain of the Company’s independent distribution channels are also consolidating into larger organizations. Some mutual insurance companies have converted to stock ownership which will give them greater access to capital markets. The ability of banks to increase their securities-related business or to affiliate with insurance companies may materially and adversely affect sales of all of the Company’s products by increasing the number and financial strength of potential competitors.
The Company’s ability to compete is dependent upon, among other things, its ability to attract and retain distribution channels to market its insurance and investment products, its ability to develop competitive and profitable products, its ability to maintain low unit costs, and its maintenance of strong ratings from rating agencies.
As technology evolves, comparison of a particular product of any company for a particular customer with competing products for that customer is more readily available, which could lead to increased competition as well as customer behavior, including persistency, that differs from past customer behavior.
The purchase of life insurance products is limited by state insurable interest laws, which generally require that the purchaser of life insurance have some interest in the sustained life of the insured. To some extent, the insurable interest laws present a barrier to the life settlement, or “stranger-owned” industry, in which a financial entity acquires an interest in life insurance proceeds, and efforts have been made in some states to liberalize the insurable interest laws.
Regulation
The Company and its subsidiaries are subject to government regulation in each of the states in which they conduct business. Such regulation is vested in state agencies having broad administrative power dealing with many aspects of the Company’s business, which may include, among other things, premium rates, reserve requirements, marketing practices, advertising, privacy, policy forms, reinsurance reserve requirements, and capital adequacy, and is concerned primarily with the protection of policyholders and other customers rather than share owners.
A life insurance company's statutory capital is computed according to rules prescribed by the NAIC as modified by state law. Generally speaking, other states in which a company does business defer to the interpretation of the domiciliary state with respect to NAIC rules, unless inconsistent with the other state’s law. Statutory accounting rules are different from GAAP and are intended to reflect a more conservative view by, for example, requiring immediate expensing of policy acquisition costs and use of more conservative computations of policy liabilities. The NAIC's risk-based capital requirements require insurance companies to calculate and report information under a risk-based capital formula. These requirements are intended to allow insurance regulators to identify inadequately capitalized insurance companies based upon the types and mixtures of risks inherent in the insurer's operations. The formula includes components for asset risk, liability risk, interest rate exposure, and other factors. Based upon the December 31, 2005 statutory financial reports, the Company's insurance subsidiaries are adequately capitalized under the formula.
The Company's insurance subsidiaries are required to file detailed annual reports with the supervisory agencies in each of the jurisdictions in which they do business and their business and accounts are subject to examination by such agencies at any time. Under the rules of the NAIC, insurance companies are examined periodically (generally every three to five years) by one or more of the supervisory agencies on behalf of the states in which they do business. To date, no such insurance department examinations have produced any significant adverse findings regarding any insurance company subsidiary of the Company.
Under insurance guaranty fund laws in most states, insurance companies doing business in such a state can be assessed up to prescribed limits for policyholder losses incurred by insolvent or failed insurance companies. Although the Company cannot predict the amount of any future assessments, most insurance guaranty fund laws currently provide that an assessment may be excused or deferred if it would threaten an insurer's financial strength. The Company's insurance subsidiaries were assessed immaterial amounts in 2005, which will be partially offset by credits against future state premium taxes.
In addition, many states, including the states in which the Company's insurance subsidiaries are domiciled, have enacted legislation or adopted regulations regarding insurance holding company systems. These laws require registration of and periodic reporting by insurance companies domiciled within the jurisdiction which control or are controlled by other corporations or persons so as to constitute an insurance holding company system. These laws also affect the acquisition of control of insurance companies as well as transactions between insurance companies and companies controlling them. Most states, including Tennessee where Protective Life Insurance Company (“Protective Life”) is domiciled, require administrative approval of the acquisition of control of an insurance company domiciled in the state or the acquisition of control of an insurance holding company whose insurance subsidiary is incorporated in the state. In Tennessee, the acquisition of 10% of the voting securities of an entity is generally deemed to be the acquisition of control for the purpose of the insurance holding company statute and requires not only the filing of detailed information concerning the acquiring parties and the plan of acquisition, but also administrative approval prior to the acquisition.
The Company's insurance subsidiaries are subject to various state statutory and regulatory restrictions on the insurance subsidiaries’ ability to pay dividends to Protective Life Corporation. In general, dividends up to specified levels are considered ordinary and may be paid without prior approval. Dividends in larger amounts are subject to approval by the insurance commissioner of the state of domicile. The maximum amount that would qualify as ordinary dividends to Protective Life Corporation by its insurance subsidiaries in 2006 is estimated to be $137.5 million. No assurance can be given that more stringent restrictions will not be adopted from time to time by states in which the Company's insurance subsidiaries are domiciled; such restrictions could have the effect, under certain circumstances, of significantly reducing dividends or other amounts payable to the Company by such subsidiaries without affirmative prior approval by state regulatory authorities.
The Company’s insurance subsidiaries may be subject to regulation by the United States Department of Labor when providing a variety of products and services to employee benefit plans governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (“ERISA”). Severe penalties are imposed for breach of duties under ERISA.
Certain policies, contracts and annuities offered by the Company’s subsidiaries are subject to regulation under the federal securities laws administered by the Securities and Exchange Commission. The federal securities laws contain regulatory restrictions and criminal, administrative and private remedial provisions.
Additional issues related to regulation of the Company and its insurance subsidiaries are discussed in "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" included herein.
Employees
At December 31, 2005 the Company had 2,192 employees, including 1,218 employees in Birmingham, Alabama. We believe our relations with our employees are satisfactory. Most employees are covered by contributory major medical, dental, group life, and long-term disability insurance plans. The cost of these benefits to the Company in 2005 was approximately $8.8 million. In addition, substantially all of the employees are covered by a defined benefit pension plan. The Company also matches employee contributions to its 401(k) Plan and makes discretionary profit sharing contributions for employees not otherwise covered by a bonus or sales incentive plan. See Note 11 to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Executive Officers
The executive officers of the Company as of March 15, 2006 are as follows:
Name | Age | Position |
John D. Johns | 54 | Chairman of the Board, President, Chief Executive Officer, and a Director |
R. Stephen Briggs | 56 | Executive Vice President, Life and Annuity |
Allen W. Ritchie | 48 | Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |
Richard J. Bielen | 45 | Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer and Treasurer |
Brent E. Griggs | 50 | Senior Vice President, Asset Protection |
J. William Hamer, Jr. | 61 | Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer |
T. Davis Keyes | 52 | Senior Vice President, Information Services |
Carolyn King | 55 | Senior Vice President, Acquisitions |
Deborah J. Long | 52 | Senior Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel |
Wayne E. Stuenkel | 52 | Senior Vice President and Chief Actuary |
Carl S. Thigpen | 49 | Senior Vice President and Chief Mortgage and Real Estate Officer |
Steven G. Walker | 46 | Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer |
Judy Wilson | 48 | Senior Vice President, Stable Value Products |
Douglas K. Adam | 55 | President, Empire General Life Assurance Corporation; President, West Coast Life Insurance Company |
All executive officers are elected annually and serve at the pleasure of the Board of Directors. None of the executive officers are related to any director of the Company or to any other executive officer.
Mr. Johns has been Chairman of the Board of the Company since January 2003, and President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company since December 2001. He has been a Director of the Company since May 1997. He was President and Chief Operating Officer of the Company from August 1996 until December 2001. Mr. Johns has been employed by the Company and its subsidiaries since 1993.
Mr. Briggs has been Executive Vice President, Life and Annuity, of the Company since January 2003 and has responsibility for the Life and Annuity Division. From October 1993 to January 2003, he served as Executive Vice President, Individual Life Division. Mr. Briggs has been associated with the Company and its subsidiaries since 1971.
Mr. Ritchie has been Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company since August 2001. From July 1998 until 2000, Mr. Ritchie was President, Chief Executive Officer and a Director of Per-Se Technologies, Inc.
Mr. Bielen has been Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer and Treasurer since January 2002. From August 1996 until January 2002, he was Senior Vice President, Investments of the Company. Mr. Bielen has been employed by the Company and its subsidiaries since 1991.
Mr. Griggs has been Senior Vice President, Asset Protection, of the Company since February 2003. He served as Vice President, Operations of the Asset Protection Division of Protective Life Insurance Company from January 1998 to February 2003. Mr. Griggs has been employed by the Company and its subsidiaries since 1997.
Mr. Hamer has been Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer of the Company since March 2001. He served as Vice President, Human Resources of the Company from May 1982 to March 2001. Mr. Hamer has been employed by the Company and its subsidiaries since 1981.
Mr. Keyes has been Senior Vice President, Information Services, of the Company since April 1999. Mr. Keyes was Vice President, Information Services of the Company from May 1993 to April 1999. Mr. Keyes has been employed by the Company and its subsidiaries since 1982.
Ms. King has been Senior Vice President, Acquisitions of the Company since December 2003. Ms. King served as Senior Vice President, Life and Annuity Division of the Company from January 2003 until December 2003. From April 1995 to January 2003, she served as Senior Vice President, Investment Products Division.
Ms. Long has been Senior Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel of the Company since November 1996. From February 1994 to November 1996, she was Senior Vice President and General Counsel.
Mr. Stuenkel has been Senior Vice President and Chief Actuary of the Company since March 1987. Mr. Stuenkel is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries and has been employed by the Company and its subsidiaries since 1978.
Mr. Thigpen has been Senior Vice President and Chief Mortgage and Real Estate Officer of the Company since January 2002. From March 2001 to January 2002, he was Senior Vice President, Investments. From May 1996 to March 2001, he was Vice President, Investments for the Company. Mr. Thigpen has been employed by the Company and its subsidiaries since 1984.
Mr. Walker has been Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer of the Company since March 2004. From September 2003 through March 2004, he served as Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer of the Company. From August 2002 to September 2003, he served as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Asset Protection Division of the Company. From November 1998 through July 2002, Mr. Walker served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Aon Integramark.
Ms. Wilson has been Senior Vice President, Stable Value Products of the Company since January 1995. Ms. Wilson has been employed by the Company and its subsidiaries since 1991.
Mr. Adam has been President of Empire General Life Assurance Corporation since April 1999 and President of West Coast Life Insurance Company since February 2005. Mr. Adam has been employed by the Company and its subsidiaries since 1991.
Certain of these executive officers also serve as executive officers and/or directors of various other Company subsidiaries.
Item 1A. Risk Factors and Cautionary Factors that may Affect Future Results
The operating results of companies in the insurance industry have historically been subject to significant fluctuations. The factors which could affect the Company’s future results include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions and the known trends and uncertainties which are discussed more fully below.
The Company is exposed to the risks of natural disasters, pandemics, malicious and terrorist acts that could adversely affect the Company’s operations.
While the Company has obtained insurance, implemented risk management and contingency plans, and taken preventive measures and other precautions, no predictions of specific scenarios can be made nor can assurance be given that there are not scenarios that could have an adverse effect on the Company. A natural disaster, pandemic, or an outbreak of an easily communicable disease could adversely affect the mortality or morbidity experience of the Company or its reinsurers. A pandemic could also have an adverse effect on lapses and surrenders of existing policies, as well as sales of new policies. In addition, a pandemic could result in large areas being subject to quarantine, with the result that economic activity slows or ceases, adversely affecting the marketing or administration of the Company’s business within such area and/or the general economic climate, which in turn could have an adverse affect on the Company. The possible macroeconomic effects of a pandemic could also adversely affect the Company’s asset portfolio, as well as many other variables.
The Company operates in a mature, highly competitive industry, which could limit its ability to gain or maintain its position in the industry.
Life and health insurance is a mature and highly competitive industry. In recent years, the industry has experienced little growth in life insurance sales, though the aging population has increased the demand for retirement savings products. The Company encounters significant competition in all lines of business from other insurance companies, many of which have greater financial resources than the Company, as well as competition from other providers of financial services. Competition could result in, among other things, lower sales or higher lapses of existing products.
The insurance industry is consolidating, with larger, potentially more efficient organizations emerging from consolidation. Participants in certain of the Company’s independent distribution channels are also consolidating into larger organizations. Some mutual insurance companies have converted to stock ownership, which will give them greater access to capital markets. The ability of banks to increase their securities-related business or to affiliate with insurance companies may materially and adversely affect sales of all of the Company’s products by substantially increasing the number and financial strength of potential competitors.
The Company’s ability to compete is dependent upon, among other things, its ability to attract and retain distribution channels to market its insurance and investment products, its ability to develop competitive and profitable products, its ability to maintain low unit costs, and its maintenance of strong ratings from rating agencies.
As technology evolves, comparison of a particular product of any company for a particular customer with competing products for that customer is more readily available, which could lead to increased competition as well as customer behavior, including persistency, that differs from past customer behavior.
The purchase of life insurance products is limited by state insurable interest laws, which generally require that the purchaser of life insurance have some interest in the sustained life of the insured. To some extent, the insurable interest laws present a barrier to the life settlement, or “stranger-owned” industry, in which a financial entity acquires an interest in life insurance proceeds, and efforts have been made in some states to liberalize the insurable interest laws.
A ratings downgrade could adversely affect the Company’s ability to compete.
Rating organizations periodically review the financial performance and condition of insurers, including the Company’s subsidiaries. In recent years, downgrades of insurance companies have occurred with increasing frequency. A downgrade in the rating of the Company’s subsidiaries could adversely affect the Company’s ability to sell its products, retain existing business, and compete for attractive acquisition opportunities. Specifically, a ratings downgrade would materially harm the Company’s ability to sell certain products, including guaranteed investment products and funding agreements.
Rating organizations assign ratings based upon several factors. While most of the factors relate to the rated company, some of the factors relate to the views of the rating organization, general economic conditions and circumstances outside the rated company’s control. In addition, rating organizations use various models and formulas to assess the strength of a rated company, and from time to time rating organizations have, in their discretion, altered the models. Changes to the models could impact the rating organizations’ judgment of the rating to be assigned to the rated company. The Company cannot predict what actions the rating organizations may take, or what actions the Company may be required to take in response to the actions of the rating organizations, which could adversely affect the Company.
The Company’s policy claims fluctuate from period to period, and actual results could differ from its expectations.
The Company’s results may fluctuate from period to period due to fluctuations in policy claims received by the Company. Certain of the Company’s businesses may experience higher claims if the economy is growing slowly or in recession, or equity markets decline. Additionally, beginning in the second quarter of 2005, the Company increased its retained amounts on newly written traditional life products. This change will cause greater variability in financial results due to fluctuations in mortality results.
Mortality, morbidity, and casualty expectations incorporate assumptions about many factors, including for example, how a product is distributed, for what purpose the product is purchased, the mix of customers purchasing the products, persistency and lapses, future progress in the fields of health and medicine, and the projected level of used vehicle values. Actual mortality, morbidity, and/or casualty experience will differ from expectations if actual results differ from those assumptions. In addition, continued activity in the vatical, stranger-owned and/or life settlement industry could have an adverse impact on the Company’s level of persistency and lapses.
The Company’s results may be negatively affected should actual experience differ from management’s assumptions and estimates.
In the conduct of business, the Company makes certain assumptions regarding the mortality, persistency, expenses and interest rates, business mix, or other factors appropriate to the type of business it expects to experience in future periods. These assumptions are also used to estimate the amounts of deferred policy acquisition costs, policy liabilities and accruals, future earnings, and various components of the Company’s balance sheet. The Company’s actual experiences, as well as changes in estimates, are used to prepare the Company’s statements of income.
The calculations the Company uses to estimate various components of its balance sheet and statements of income are necessarily complex and involve analyzing and interpreting large quantities of data. The Company currently employs various techniques for such calculations and it from time to time will develop and implement more sophisticated administrative systems and procedures capable of facilitating the calculation of more precise estimates.
Assumptions and estimates involve judgment, and by their nature are imprecise and subject to changes and revision over time. Accordingly, the Company’s results may be affected, positively or negatively, from time to time, by actual results differing from assumptions, by changes in estimates, and by changes resulting from implementing more sophisticated administrative systems and procedures that facilitate the calculation of more precise estimates.
The use of reinsurance introduces variability in the Company’s statements of income.
The timing of premium payments to and receipt of expense allowances from, reinsurers may differ from the Company’s receipt of customer premium payments and incurrence of expenses. These timing differences introduce variability in certain components of the Company’s statements of income, and may also introduce variability in the Company’s quarterly results.
The Company could be forced to sell investments at a loss to cover policyholder withdrawals.
Many of the products offered by the Company and its insurance subsidiaries allow policyholders and contract holders to withdraw their funds under defined circumstances. The Company and its insurance subsidiaries manage their liabilities and configure their investment portfolios so as to provide and maintain sufficient liquidity to support anticipated withdrawal demands and contract benefits and maturities. While the Company and its life insurance subsidiaries own a significant amount of liquid assets, a certain portion of their assets are relatively illiquid. If the Company or its subsidiaries experience unanticipated withdrawal or surrender activity, the Company or its subsidiaries could exhaust their liquid assets and be forced to liquidate other assets, perhaps on unfavorable terms. If the Company or its subsidiaries are forced to dispose of assets on unfavorable terms, it could have an adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition.
Interest-rate fluctuations could negatively affect the Company’s spread income or otherwise impact its business.
Significant changes in interest rates expose insurance companies to the risk of not earning anticipated spreads between the interest rate earned on investments and the credited interest rates paid on outstanding policies and contracts. Both rising and declining interest rates can negatively affect the Company’s spread income. While the Company develops and maintains asset/liability management programs and procedures designed to preserve spread income in rising or falling interest rate environments, no assurance can be given that changes in interest rates will not affect such spreads.
From time to time, the Company has participated in securities repurchase transactions that have contributed to the Company’s investment income. Such transactions involve some degree of risk that the counterparty may fail to perform its obligations to pay amounts owed and the collateral has insufficient value to satisfy the obligation. No assurance can be given that such transactions will continue to be entered into and contribute to the Company’s investment income in the future.
Changes in interest rates may also impact its business in other ways. Lower interest rates may result in lower sales of certain of the Company’s insurance and investment products. In addition, certain of the Company’s insurance and investment products guarantee a minimum credited interest rate, and the Company could become unable to earn its spread income should interest rates decrease significantly.
Higher interest rates may create a less favorable environment for the origination of mortgage loans and decrease the investment income the Company receives in the form of prepayment fees, make-whole payments, and mortgage participation income. Higher interest rates may also increase the cost of debt and other obligations having floating rate or rate reset provisions and may result in lower sales of variable products.
Additionally, the Company’s asset/liability management programs and procedures incorporate assumptions about the relationship between short-term and long-term interest rates (i.e., the slope of the yield curve) and relationships between risk-adjusted and risk-free interest rates, market liquidity, and other factors. The effectiveness of the Company’s asset/liability management programs and procedures may be negatively affected whenever actual results differ from these assumptions.
In general terms, the Company’s results are improved when the yield curve is positively sloped (i.e., when long-term interest rates are higher than short-term interest rates), and will be adversely affected by a flat or negatively sloped curve.
Equity market volatility could negatively impact the Company’s business.
The amount of policy fees received from variable products is affected by the performance of the equity markets, increasing or decreasing as markets rise or fall. Equity market volatility can also affect the profitability of variable products in other ways.
The amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs relating to variable products and the estimated cost of providing guaranteed minimum death benefits incorporate various assumptions about the overall performance of equity markets over certain time periods. The rate of amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs and the estimated cost of providing guaranteed minimum death benefits could increase if equity market performance is worse than assumed.
Insurance companies are highly regulated and subject to numerous legal restrictions and regulations.
The Company and its subsidiaries are subject to government regulation in each of the states in which they conduct business. Such regulation is vested in state agencies having broad administrative power dealing with many aspects of the Company’s business, which may include, among other things, premium rates, reserve requirements, marketing practices, advertising, privacy, policy forms, reinsurance reserve requirements, acquisitions, and capital adequacy, and is concerned primarily with the protection of policyholders and other customers rather than share owners. At any given time, a number of financial and/or market conduct examinations of the Company’s subsidiaries is ongoing. The Company’s insurance subsidiaries are required to obtain state regulatory approval for rate increases for certain health insurance products, and the Company’s profits may be adversely affected if the requested rate increases are not approved in full by regulators in a timely fashion. From time to time, regulators raise issues during examinations or audits of the Company’s subsidiaries that could, if determined adversely, have a material impact on the Company.
The Company cannot predict whether or when regulatory actions may be taken that could adversely affect the Company or its operations. Interpretations of regulations by regulators may change and statutes may be enacted with retroactive impact, particularly in areas such as health insurance and accounting or reserve requirements. In addition, regulatory actions with prospective impact can potentially have a significant impact on currently sold products. In particular, the NAIC recently approved an amendment to Actuarial Guideline 38, which interprets the reserve requirements for universal life insurance with secondary guarantees. This amendment increases the reserve requirements for universal life insurance with secondary guarantee products issued after July 1, 2005. Moreover, although in general with respect to regulations and guidelines, states defer to the interpretation of the insurance department of the state of domicile, a state could choose to follow a different interpretation.
The Company’s subsidiaries may be subject to regulation by the United States Department of Labor when providing a variety of products and services to employee benefit plans governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (“ERISA”). Severe penalties are imposed for breach of duties under ERISA.
Certain policies, contracts, and annuities offered by the Company’s subsidiaries are subject to regulation under the federal securities laws administered by the Securities and Exchange Commission. The federal securities laws contain regulatory restrictions and criminal, administrative, and private remedial provisions.
Other types of regulation that could affect the Company and its subsidiaries include insurance company investment laws and regulations, state statutory accounting practices, anti-trust laws, minimum solvency requirements, state securities laws, federal privacy laws, insurable interest laws, federal money laundering and anti-terrorism laws, and because the Company owns and operates real property state, federal, and local environmental laws. The Company cannot predict what form any future changes in these or other areas of regulation affecting the insurance industry might take or what effect, if any, such proposals might have on the Company if enacted into law.
Changes to tax law or interpretations of existing tax law could adversely affect the Company and its ability to compete with non-insurance products or reduce the demand for certain insurance products.
Under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), income tax payable by policyholders on investment earnings is deferred during the accumulation period of certain life insurance and annuity products. This favorable tax treatment may give certain of the Company’s products a competitive advantage over other non-insurance products. To the extent that the Code is revised to reduce the tax-deferred status of life insurance and annuity products, or to increase the tax-deferred status of competing products, all life insurance companies, including the Company and its subsidiaries, would be adversely affected with respect to their ability to sell such products, and, depending upon grandfathering provisions, would be affected by the surrenders of existing annuity contracts and life insurance policies. For example, changes in laws or regulations could restrict or eliminate the advantages of certain corporate or bank-owned life insurance products. Changes in tax law, which have reduced the federal income tax rates on corporate dividends in certain circumstances, could make the tax advantages of investing in certain life insurance or annuity products less attractive. Additionally, changes in tax law based on proposals to establish new tax advantaged retirement and life savings plans, if enacted, could reduce the tax advantage of investing in certain life insurance or annuity products. For example, President Bush’s Fiscal Year 2006 Budget proposal includes changes that would create new and expanded vehicles for tax-exempt savings, including expanded “Retirement Savings Accounts” and “Lifetime Savings Accounts” which would permit higher contributions and tax-free build-up. In addition, life insurance products are often used to fund estate tax obligations. Legislation has been enacted that would, over time, reduce and eventually eliminate the federal estate tax. Under the legislation that has been enacted, the estate tax will be reinstated, in its entirety, in 2011 and thereafter. President Bush and members of Congress have expressed a desire to modify the existing legislation, which modification could result in faster or more complete reduction or repeal of the estate tax. If the estate tax is significantly reduced or eliminated, the demand for certain life insurance products could be adversely affected. Additionally, the Company is subject to the federal corporation income tax. President Bush has also formed a President’s Advisory Panel, which has been instructed to develop proposals for fundamental reform of the federal tax system. Such proposals could include substantial changes to the federal income tax laws currently in effect, or the adoption of a “flat tax” or federal sales tax in lieu of the current income tax structure. The Company cannot predict what changes to tax law or interpretations of existing tax law may ultimately be enacted or adopted or whether such changes could adversely affect the Company.
Financial services companies are frequently the targets of litigation, including class action litigation, which could result in substantial judgments.
A number of civil jury verdicts have been returned against insurers, broker-dealers, and other providers of financial services involving sales practices, alleged agent misconduct, failure to properly supervise representatives, relationships with agents or other persons with whom the insurer does business, and other matters. Often these lawsuits have resulted in the award of substantial judgments that are disproportionate to the actual damages, including material amounts of punitive non-economic compensatory damages. In some states, juries, judges, and arbitrators have substantial discretion in awarding punitive and non-economic compensatory damages, which creates the potential for unpredictable material adverse judgments or awards in any given lawsuit or arbitration. Arbitration awards are subject to very limited appellate review. In addition, in some class action and other lawsuits, companies have made material settlement payments.
Group health coverage issued through associations has received some negative coverage in the media as well as increased regulatory consideration and review. The Company has a small closed block of group health insurance coverage that was issued to members of an association; a lawsuit is currently pending against the Company in connection with this business.
The Company, like other financial services companies, in the ordinary course of business is involved in litigation and arbitration. Although the Company cannot predict the outcome of any litigation or arbitration, the Company does not believe that any such outcome will have a material impact on the financial condition or results of operations of the Company.
The financial services industry is sometimes the target of law enforcement investigations and the focus of increased regulatory scrutiny.
The financial services industry is sometimes the target of law enforcement investigations relating to the numerous laws that govern the financial services and insurance business. The Company cannot predict the impact of any such investigations on the Company or the industry.
The financial services industry has recently become the focus of increased scrutiny by regulatory and law enforcement authorities relating to allegations of improper special payments, price-fixing, bid-rigging and other alleged misconduct, including payments made by insurers and other financial services providers to brokers and the practices surrounding the placement of insurance business and sales of other financial products as well as practices related to finite reinsurance. Such publicity may generate litigation against financial service providers, even those who do not engage in the business lines or practices currently at issue. It is impossible to predict the outcome of these investigations or proceedings, whether they will expand into other areas not yet contemplated, whether they will result in changes in insurance regulation, whether activities currently thought to be lawful will be characterized as unlawful, or the impact, if any, of this increased regulatory and law enforcement scrutiny of the financial services industry on the Company. As these inquiries appear to encompass a large segment of our industry, it would not be unusual for large numbers of companies in the financial services industry to receive subpoenas, requests for information from regulatory authorities or other inquiries relating to these and similar matters. From time to time, the Company receives subpoenas, requests or other inquires and responds to them in the ordinary course of business.
The Company’s ability to maintain low unit costs is dependent upon the level of new sales and persistency of existing business.
The Company’s ability to maintain low unit costs is dependent upon the level of new sales and persistency (continuation or renewal) of existing business. A decrease in sales or persistency without a corresponding reduction in expenses may result in higher unit costs.
Additionally, a decrease in persistency may result in higher or more rapid amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs and thus higher unit costs, and lower reported earnings. Although many of the Company’s products contain surrender charges, the charges decrease over time and may not be sufficient to cover the unamortized deferred policy acquisition costs with respect to the insurance policy or annuity contract being surrendered. Some of the Company’s products do not contain surrender charge features and such products can be surrendered or exchanged without penalty. A decrease in persistency may also result in higher claims.
The Company’s investments are subject to market and credit risks.
The Company’s invested assets and derivative financial instruments are subject to customary risks of credit defaults and changes in market values. The value of the Company’s commercial mortgage loan portfolio depends in part on the financial condition of the tenants occupying the properties which the Company has financed. Factors that may affect the overall default rate on, and market value of, the Company’s invested assets, derivative financial instruments, and mortgage loans include interest rate levels, financial market performance, and general economic conditions as well as particular circumstances affecting the businesses of individual borrowers and tenants.
The Company may not realize its anticipated financial results from its acquisitions strategy.
The Company’s acquisitions have increased its earnings in part by allowing the Company to enter new markets and to position itself to realize certain operating efficiencies. There can be no assurance, however, that suitable acquisitions, presenting opportunities for continued growth and operating efficiencies, or capital to fund acquisitions will continue to be available to the Company, or that the Company will realize the anticipated financial results from its acquisitions.
The Company may be unable to complete an acquisition, or completion of an acquisition may be more costly or take longer than expected or may have a different financing structure than initially contemplated. The Company may be unable to obtain regulatory approvals that may be required to complete an acquisition.
Additionally, in connection with its acquisitions, the Company assumes or otherwise becomes responsible for the obligations of policies and other liabilities of other insurers. Any regulatory, legal, financial, or other adverse development affecting the other insurer could also have an adverse effect on the Company.
The Company is dependent on the performance of others.
The Company’s results may be affected by the performance of others because the Company has entered into various arrangements involving other parties. For example, most of the Company’s products are sold through independent distribution channels, and variable annuity deposits are invested in funds managed by third parties. Additionally, the Company’s operations are dependent on various technologies, some of which are provided and/or maintained by other parties.
Certain of these other parties may act on behalf of the Company or represent the Company in various capacities. Consequently, the Company may be held responsible for obligations that arise from the acts or omissions of these other parties.
As with all financial services companies, its ability to conduct business is dependent upon consumer confidence in the industry and its products. Actions of competitors and financial difficulties of other companies in the industry could undermine consumer confidence and adversely affect retention of existing business and future sales of the Company’s insurance and investment products.
The Company’s reinsurers could fail to meet assumed obligations, increase rates or be subject to adverse developments that could affect the Company.
The Company and its insurance subsidiaries cede material amounts of insurance and transfer related assets to other insurance companies through reinsurance. The Company may enter into third-party reinsurance arrangements under which the Company will rely on the third party to collect premiums, pay claims, and/or perform customer service functions. However, notwithstanding the transfer of related assets or other issues, the Company remains liable with respect to ceded insurance should any reinsurer fail to meet the obligations assumed by it.
The Company’s ability to compete is dependent on the availability of reinsurance or other substitute capital market solutions. Premium rates charged by the Company are based, in part, on the assumption that reinsurance will be available at a certain cost. Under certain reinsurance agreements, the reinsurer may increase the rate it charges the Company for the reinsurance. Therefore, if the cost of reinsurance were to increase or if reinsurance were to become unavailable or if alternatives to reinsurance were not available to the Company, or if a reinsurer should fail to meet its obligations, the Company could be adversely affected.
Recently, access to reinsurance has become more costly for the Company as well as the insurance industry in general. This could have a negative effect on the Company’s ability to compete. In recent years, the number of life reinsurers has decreased as the reinsurance industry has consolidated. The decreased number of participants in the life reinsurance market results in increased concentration risk for insurers, including the Company. In addition, going forward reinsurers are unwilling to continue to reinsure new sales of long-term guarantee products. If the reinsurance market further contracts, the Company’s ability to continue to offer its products on terms favorable to the Company would be adversely impacted.
Computer viruses or network security breaches could affect the data processing systems of the Company or its business partners.
A computer virus could affect the data processing systems of the Company or its business partners, destroying valuable data or making it difficult to conduct business. In addition, despite our implementation of network security measures, our servers could be subject to physical and electronic break-ins, and similar disruptions from unauthorized tampering with our computer systems.
The Company’s ability to grow depends in large part upon the continued availability of capital.
The Company has recently deployed significant amounts of capital to support its sales and acquisitions efforts. A recent amendment to Actuarial Guideline 38 increased the reserve requirements for universal life insurance with secondary guarantees for products issued after July 1, 2005, causing the sale of these products to consume additional capital. Capital has also been consumed as the Company increased its reserves on the residual value product. Although positive performance in the equity markets has recently allowed the Company to decrease its guaranteed minimum death benefit related policy liabilities and accruals, deterioration in these markets could lead to further capital consumption. Although the Company believes it has sufficient capital to fund its immediate growth and capital needs, the amount of capital available can vary significantly from period to period due to a variety of circumstances, some of which are neither predictable nor foreseeable, nor within the Company’s control. A lack of sufficient capital could impair the Company’s ability to grow.
New accounting rules or changes to existing accounting rules could negatively impact the Company.
Like all publicly traded companies, the Company is required to comply with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). A number of organizations are instrumental in the development and interpretation of GAAP such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”), and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (“AICPA”). GAAP is subject to constant review by these organizations and others in an effort to address emerging issues and otherwise improve financial reporting. In this regard, these organizations adopt new accounting rules and issue interpretive accounting guidance on a continual basis. The Company can give no assurance that future changes to GAAP will not have a negative impact on the Company.
In addition, the Company’s insurance subsidiaries are required to comply with statutory accounting principles (“SAP”). SAP is subject to constant review by the NAIC and its committees as well as state insurance departments in an effort to address emerging issues and otherwise improve financial reporting. The Company can give no assurance that future changes to SAP will not have a negative impact on the Company.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
None.
Item 2. Properties
The Company's Home Office is located at 2801 Highway 280 South, Birmingham, Alabama. This campus includes the original 142,000 square-foot building which was completed in 1976, a second contiguous 220,000 square-foot building which was completed in 1985, and a third contiguous 315,000 square-foot building that was completed in January 2003. In addition, parking is provided for approximately 2,760 vehicles. The Company owns each of the buildings except for the third building which is currently leased.
The Company leases administrative and marketing office space in 22 cities, including 11,428 square feet in Birmingham (excluding the home office building), with most leases being for periods of three to ten years. The aggregate annualized rent is approximately $5.4 million.
We believe our properties are adequate and suitable for our business as currently conducted and are adequately maintained. The above properties do not include properties we own for investment only.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
To the knowledge and in the opinion of management, there are no material pending legal proceedings, other than ordinary routine litigation incidental to the business of the Company, to which the Company or any of its subsidiaries is a party or of which any of the Company's properties is the subject. For additional information regarding legal proceedings see “Risk Factors and Cautionary Factors that may Affect Future Results” included herein.
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
No matter was submitted during the fourth quarter of 2005 to a vote of security holders of the Company.
PART II
Item 5. Market for the Registrant's Common Equity and Related Share-Owner Matters
The Company's Common Stock is listed and principally traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE symbol: PL). The following table sets forth the highest and lowest closing prices of the Company's Common Stock, $0.50 par value, as reported by the New York Stock Exchange during the periods indicated, along with the dividends paid per share of Common Stock during the same periods.
Range | ||||||||||
High | Low | Dividends | ||||||||
2004 | ||||||||||
First Quarter | $ | 38.25 | $ | 33.94 | $ | .16 | ||||
Second Quarter | 39.14 | 35.49 | .175 | |||||||
Third Quarter | 40.39 | 35.84 | .175 | |||||||
Fourth Quarter | 42.92 | 36.60 | .175 | |||||||
2005 | ||||||||||
First Quarter | $ | 43.33 | $ | 38.99 | $ | .175 | ||||
Second Quarter | 42.27 | 37.39 | .195 | |||||||
Third Quarter | 44.44 | 39.80 | .195 | |||||||
Fourth Quarter | 44.83 | 41.07 | .195 |
On March 3, 2006, there were approximately 1,893 owners of record of Company Common Stock.
The Company (or its predecessor) has paid cash dividends each year since 1926 and each quarter since 1934. The Company expects to continue to pay cash dividends, subject to the earnings and financial condition of the Company and other relevant factors. The ability of the Company to pay cash dividends is dependent in part on cash dividends received by the Company from its life insurance subsidiaries. See Item 7 - “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations -Liquidity and Capital Resources” included herein. Such subsidiary dividends are restricted by the various insurance laws of the states in which the subsidiaries are incorporated. See Item 1 - “Business - Regulation”.
The following table provides information regarding the common stock of the Company that is authorized for issuance under various equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2005.
Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans
Plan category | Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights (a) | Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights (b) | Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in column (a)) (c) | ||||||||||
Equity compensation plans approved by share owners | 2,357,318(1 | ) | $ | 26.90(2 | ) | 3,755,894(3 | ) | ||||||
Equity compensation plans not approved by share owners | 985,095(4 | ) | Not Applicable | Not Applicable(5 | ) | ||||||||
Total | 3,342,413(1)(4 | ) | $ | 26.90(2 | ) | 3,755,894(3)(6 | ) | ||||||
(1) Includes (a) 1,287,210 shares of common stock issuable with respect to outstanding stock appreciation rights ("SARs") granted under the Long-Term Incentive Plan, and 180,000 shares of common stock issuable with respect to outstanding SARs granted under the Company's 1996 Stock Incentive Plan (assuming for this purpose that one share of common stock will be issued with respect to each outstanding SAR); and (b) 890,108 shares of common stock issuable with respect to outstanding performance share awards granted under the Long-Term Incentive Plan (assuming maximum earn-out of the awards). | |||||||||||||
(2)Based on exercise prices of outstanding SARs. | |||||||||||||
(3)Represents (a) 3,663,101 shares of common stock available for future issuance under the Long-Term Incentive Plan; and (b) 92,793 shares of common stock available for future issuance under the Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors. | |||||||||||||
(4)Includes (a) 87,241 shares of common stock issuable with respect to stock equivalents pursuant to the Company's Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors Who Are Not Employees of the Company; (b) 698,699 shares of common stock issuable with respect to stock equivalents pursuant to the Company's Deferred Compensation Plan for Officers; and (c) 199,155 shares of common stock issuable with respect to stock equivalents pursuant to the Company's Deferred Compensation Plan for Sales Managers, Agents and Representatives. | |||||||||||||
(5)The plans listed in Note 4 do not currently have limits on the number of shares of common stock issuable thereunder. The total number of shares of common stock that may be issuable thereunder will depend upon, among other factors, the deferral elections made by participants in such plans. | |||||||||||||
(6)Plus any shares that become issuable under the plans listed in (4) above. |
Item 6. Selected Financial Data
Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | ||||||||||||
(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) | ||||||||||||||||
INCOME STATEMENT DATA Premiums and policy fees | $ | 1,955,780 | $ | 1,821,094 | $ | 1,667,725 | $ | 1,561,717 | $ | 1,389,820 | ||||||
Reinsurance ceded | (1,226,857 | ) | (1,125,646 | ) | (934,435 | ) | (751,396 | ) | (771,151 | ) | ||||||
Net of reinsurance ceded | 728,923 | 695,448 | 733,290 | 810,321 | 618,669 | |||||||||||
Net investment income | 1,180,502 | 1,084,217 | 1,030,752 | 1,022,953 | 880,141 | |||||||||||
Realized investment gains (losses) Derivative financial instruments | (30,881 | ) | 19,591 | 12,550 | 28,308 | (1,114 | ) | |||||||||
All other investments | 49,393 | 28,305 | 58,064 | 910 | (8,740 | ) | ||||||||||
Other income | 181,267 | 161,014 | 122,869 | 100,196 | 120,647 | |||||||||||
Total revenues | 2,109,204 | 1,988,575 | 1,957,525 | 1,962,688 | 1,609,603 | |||||||||||
Benefits and expenses | 1,732,191 | 1,603,374 | 1,632,113 | 1,697,645 | 1,400,007 | |||||||||||
Income tax expense | 130,446 | 134,820 | 108,362 | 87,688 | 68,538 | |||||||||||
Income (loss) from discontinued operations(1) | (30,522 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Change in accounting principle(2) | (15,801 | ) | (7,593 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net income | $ | 246,567 | $ | 234,580 | $ | 217,050 | $ | 177,355 | $ | 102,943 | ||||||
PER SHARE DATA Net income from continuing operations(3) - basic | $ | 3.49 | $ | 3.56 | $ | 3.10 | $ | 2.54 | $ | 2.02 | ||||||
Net income - basic | $ | 3.49 | $ | 3.34 | $ | 3.10 | $ | 2.54 | $ | 1.48 | ||||||
Average shares outstanding - basic | 70,562,186 | 70,299,470 | 70,033,288 | 69,923,955 | 69,410,525 | |||||||||||
Net income from continuing operations(3) - diluted | $ | 3.46 | $ | 3.52 | $ | 3.07 | $ | 2.52 | $ | 2.01 | ||||||
Net income - diluted | $ | 3.46 | $ | 3.30 | $ | 3.07 | $ | 2.52 | $ | 1.47 | ||||||
Average shares outstanding - diluted | 71,350,541 | 71,064,539 | 70,644,642 | 70,462,797 | 69,950,173 | |||||||||||
Cash dividends | $ | 0.76 | $ | 0.685 | $ | 0.63 | $ | 0.59 | $ | 0.55 | ||||||
Share-owners’ equity | $ | 31.35 | $ | 31.19 | $ | 29.02 | $ | 25.06 | $ | 20.42 | ||||||
(1) Income from discontinued operations in 2001 includes loss on sale of discontinued operations and loss from discontinued operations, net of income tax. (2) Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, net of income tax - amount in 2004 relates to SOP 03-1; amount in 2001 relates to FAS No. 133. (3) Net income excluding change in accounting principle and income (loss) from discontinued operations. |
December 31 | ||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | ||||||||||||
(dollars in thousands) | ||||||||||||||||
BALANCE SHEET DATA | ||||||||||||||||
Total assets | $ | 28,966,993 | $ | 27,211,378 | $ | 24,517,615 | $ | 21,893,403 | $ | 19,718,824 | ||||||
Total long-term debt | 482,532 | 451,433 | 461,329 | 406,110 | 376,211 | |||||||||||
Total stable value contract and annuity account balances(4) | 8,852,572 | 8,342,334 | 7,336,341 | 6,789,557 | 5,812,863 | |||||||||||
Liabilities related to variable interest entities | 448,093 | 482,434 | 400,000 | |||||||||||||
Subordinated debt securities | 324,743 | 324,743 | 221,650 | 215,000 | 175,000 | |||||||||||
Shares-owners’ equity | 2,183,660 | 2,166,327 | 2,002,144 | 1,720,702 | 1,400,144 | |||||||||||
(4) Includes stable value contract account balances and annuity account balances which do not pose significant mortality risk. Note: Certain reclassifications have been made in the previously reported financial information to make the prior period amounts comparable to those of the current period. Such reclassifications had no effect on previously reported net income or share-owners’ equity. |
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
This Management’s Discussion and Analysis should be read in its entirety, since it contains detailed information that is important to understanding the Company’s results and financial condition. The Overview below is qualified in its entirety by the full Management’s Discussion and Analysis.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS - CAUTIONARY LANGUAGE
This report reviews the Company’s financial condition and results of operations including its liquidity and capital resources. Historical information is presented and discussed. Where appropriate, factors that may affect future financial performance are also identified and discussed. Certain statements made in this report include “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include any statement that may predict, forecast, indicate or imply future results, performance or achievements instead of historical facts and may contain words like “believe,” “expect,” “estimate,” “project,” “budget,” “forecast,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “will,” “shall,” “may,” and other words, phrases, or expressions with similar meaning. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties which may cause actual results to differ materially from the results contained in the forward-looking statements, and the Company cannot give assurances that such statements will prove to be correct. Given these risks and uncertainties, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results. Please refer to “Risk Factors and Cautionary Factors that may Affect Future Results” herein for more information about factors which could affect future results.
OVERVIEW
Protective Life Corporation (the “Company”) is a holding company whose subsidiaries provide financial services through the production, distribution, and administration of insurance and investment products. The Company operates five business segments: Life Marketing, Acquisitions, Annuities, Stable Value Products, and Asset Protection. The Company also has an additional segment referred to as Corporate and Other which consists of net investment income on unallocated capital, interest on debt, earnings from various investment-related transactions, and the operations of several non-strategic lines of business.
In the following discussion, segment operating income is defined as income before income tax excluding net realized investment gains and losses (net of the related amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs (“DAC”) and participating income from real estate ventures), and the cumulative effect of change in accounting principle. Periodic settlements of derivatives associated with corporate debt and certain investments and annuity products are included in realized gains and losses but are considered part of segment operating income because the derivatives are used to mitigate risk in items affecting segment operating income. Management believes that segment operating income provides relevant and useful information to investors, as it represents the basis on which the performance of the Company’s business is internally assessed. Although the items excluded from segment operating income may be significant components in understanding and assessing the Company’s overall financial performance, management believes that segment operating income enhances an investor’s understanding of the Company’s results of operations by highlighting the income (loss) attributable to the normal, recurring operations of the Company’s business. Note that the Company’s segment operating income measures may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.
The Company achieved strong growth in earnings in 2005 despite numerous challenges that existed across the financial services industry. Historically low interest rates continued to create a challenge for the Company’s products that generate investment spread profits, such as fixed annuities and stable value contracts. However, active management of crediting rates on these products allowed the Company to minimize spread compression effects. Strong competitive pressures on pricing, particularly in the Company’s life insurance business, continued to present a challenge from a new sales perspective. However, the Company’s continued focus on delivering value to consumers and broadening its base of distribution allowed for solid product sales during the year. Increasing costs of reinsurance continues to present the Company with challenges from both a new product pricing and capital management perspective. In response to these challenges, during 2005 the Company reduced its reliance on reinsurance by changing from coinsurance to yearly renewable term reinsurance arrangements and increasing the maximum amount retained on any one life on certain of its newly written traditional life products. The Company issued non-recourse funding obligations to fund the additional statutory reserves required as a result of the overall increase in retention levels.
Earnings from the Life Marketing segment declined slightly in 2005 primarily due to favorable expense adjustments that increased earnings in 2004. The segment continued to focus on strengthening its relationships with high quality distributors of life insurance products. Sales made through the stockbroker and independent agent channels increased 108% and 35%, respectively. Sales of traditional life products declined during the first half of the year as the Company adjusted pricing on certain traditional life products in response to the rising cost of reinsurance. An increase in retention levels on certain newly written traditional life products allowed the segment to improve its competitive position with respect to these products, resulting in increased sales of traditional life products during the second half of 2005. Sales of universal life products increased 95.6% in 2005 due to a favorable competitive position combined with growth of our distribution footprint.
Earnings declined in the Acquisitions segment, as income from previously acquired blocks steadily decline. Since policies acquired through this segment are typically “closed” blocks of business, unless new acquisitions are made, earnings are expected to decline as a result of lapses, deaths, and other terminations in the closed blocks. The Company’s acquisition capabilities have historically given the Company a unique competitive advantage. As discussed in Part I, on February 7, 2006, the Company signed a definitive agreement to acquire from JPMorgan Chase & Co. the stock of five life insurance companies that manufacture and distribute traditional life insurance and annuities and the stock of four related non-insurance companies. This acquisition is expected to close during the third quarter of 2006.
The Annuities segment operating income nearly doubled in 2005, primarily due to favorable unlocking of DAC in the market value adjusted annuity and variable annuity lines. Increasing account values and improvement in the equity markets contributed to the favorable results. Growth in equity markets translated into improved earnings as fee income based on variable account values increased and claims expense for variable annuity guaranteed minimum death benefits declined. The segment actively managed the rates offered on its fixed annuity products to minimize the effects of lower interest rates on earnings. Additional expenses incurred related to the development of a new product decreased earnings in 2005.
Stable Value Products achieved modest growth in operating income despite a reduction in operating spreads. The positive current period results were generated by a 15% increase in average account values and a 20% decrease in other operating expenses. The success of the registered funding agreement-backed notes continues, accounting for 86% of the segment’s sales in 2005. The segment continues to proactively manage its investment portfolio to minimize spread compression caused by higher credited rates on floating rate contracts.
Earnings from the Asset Protection segment increased 31% in 2005. Improved loss ratios and proactive expense management resulted in increased earnings from all of the segment’s core product lines. Price increases implemented over the last several years and improvements in the underwriting process have paid off by reducing average claims cost. The service contract line continues to drive segment results, accounting for 47% and 88%, respectively, of the segment’s sales and earnings in 2005.
Corporate and Other operating income more than doubled from 2004, due to increased investment income resulting from higher levels of unallocated capital and increased participating income and prepayment fees from mortgages and real estate. Prepayment fee income was particularly strong in 2005 compared to prior years, reflecting increased transaction activity within the Company’s mortgage portfolio. The overall performance of the Company’s investment portfolio continued to be strong, with no significant credit issues in either the securities or mortgage portfolio. Impairment losses declined 35% in 2005 compared to the prior year.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The Company’s accounting policies inherently require the use of judgments relating to a variety of assumptions and estimates, in particular expectations of current and future mortality, morbidity, persistency, expenses, and interest rates. Because of the inherent uncertainty when using the assumptions and estimates, the effect of certain accounting policies under different conditions or assumptions could be materially different from those reported in the consolidated financial statements. A discussion of the various critical accounting policies is presented below.
The Company incurs significant costs in connection with acquiring new insurance business. These costs, which vary with and are primarily related to the production of new business and coinsurance of blocks of policies, are deferred. The recovery of such costs is dependent on the future profitability of the related policies. The amount of future profit is dependent principally on investment returns, mortality, morbidity, persistency, and expenses to administer the business and certain economic variables, such as inflation. These costs are amortized over the expected lives of the contracts, based on the level and timing of either gross profits or gross premiums, depending on the type of contract. Accounting for other intangible assets such as goodwill also requires an estimate of the future profitability of the associated lines of business. Revisions to estimates result in changes to the amounts expensed in the reporting period in which the revisions are made and could result in the impairment of the asset and a charge to income if estimated future profits are less than the unamortized deferred amounts. At December 31, 2005, the Company had DAC and goodwill assets of $2.2 billion and $49.4 million, respectively.
The Company has a DAC asset of approximately $117.5 million related to its variable annuity product line with an account balance of $2.4 billion at December 31, 2005. The Company monitors the rate of amortization of DAC associated with its variable annuity product line. The Company’s monitoring methodologies employ varying assumptions about how much and how quickly the stock markets will appreciate. The primary assumptions used to project future profits as part of the analysis include: a long-term equity market growth rate of 8%, reversion to the mean methodology with a reversion to the mean with no cap, reversion to the mean period of 6 years, and an amortization period of 25 years. A recovery in equity markets, or the use of methodologies and assumptions that anticipate a recovery, result in lower amounts of amortization, and a worsening of equity markets results in higher amounts of amortization.
The Company also establishes liabilities for guaranteed minimum death benefits (“GMDB”) on its variable annuity products. The methods used to estimate the liabilities employ assumptions about mortality and the performance of equity markets. The Company assumes mortality of 65% of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners 1994 Variable Annuity GMDB Mortality Table. Future declines in the equity market would increase the Company’s GMDB liability. Differences between the actual experience and the assumptions used result in variances in profit and could result in losses. The Company’s GMDB at December 31, 2005 are subject to a dollar-for-dollar reduction upon withdrawal of related annuity deposits on contracts issued prior to January 1, 2003. At December 31, 2005, the total GMDB liability held by the Company was $2.4 million.
Establishing an adequate liability for the Company’s obligations to its policyholders requires the use of assumptions. Estimating liabilities for future policy benefits on life and health insurance products requires the use of assumptions relative to future investment yields, mortality, morbidity, persistency and other assumptions based on the Company’s historical experience, modified as necessary to reflect anticipated trends and to include provisions for possible adverse deviation. Determining liabilities for the Company’s property and casualty insurance products also requires the use of assumptions, including the projected levels of used vehicle prices, the frequency and severity of claims, and the effectiveness of internal processes designed to reduce the level of claims. At December 31, 2005, the Company had total policy liabilities and accruals of $11.9 billion.
Determining whether a decline in the current fair value of invested assets is an other-than-temporary decline in value can involve a variety of assumptions and estimates, particularly for investments that are not actively traded in established markets. For example, assessing the value of certain investments requires the Company to perform an analysis of expected future cash flows or rates of prepayments. Other investments, such as collateralized mortgage or bond obligations, represent selected tranches of a structured transaction, supported overall by underlying investments in a wide variety of issuers. The Company’s specific accounting policies related to its invested assets are discussed in Notes 1 and 2 to Consolidated Financial Statements. At December 31, 2005, the Company held $16.0 billion of available-for-sale investments, including $7.1 billion in investments with a gross unrealized loss of $171.5 million.
The Company utilizes derivative transactions primarily in order to reduce its exposure to interest rate risk, inflation risk, equity market risk, and currency exchange risk. Assessing the effectiveness of the hedging programs and evaluating the carrying values of the related derivatives often involve a variety of assumptions and estimates. The Company employs a variety of methods for determining the fair value of its derivative instruments. The fair values of swaps, interest rate swaptions, and options are based upon industry standard models which calculate the present-value of the projected cash flows of the derivatives using current and implied future market conditions. At December 31, 2005, the fair value of derivatives reported on the Company’s balance sheet in “other long-term investments” and “other liabilities” was $117.4 million and $54.1 million, respectively.
Determining the Company’s obligations to employees under its defined benefit pension plan and stock-based compensation plans requires the use of estimates. The calculation of the liability related to the Company’s defined benefit pension plan requires assumptions regarding the appropriate weighted average discount rate, estimated rate of increase in the compensation of its employees and the expected long-term rate of return on the plan’s assets. Accounting for other stock-based compensation plans may require the use of option pricing models to estimate the Company’s obligations. Assumptions used in such models relate to equity market volatility, the risk-free interest rate at the date of grant, as well as expected exercise dates. See Notes 6 and 10 to Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on these plans.
The assessment of potential obligations for tax, regulatory, and litigation matters inherently involve a variety of estimates of potential future outcomes. The Company makes such estimates after consultation with its advisors and a review of available facts.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following table presents a summary of results and reconciles segment operating income (loss) to consolidated net income:
Change | ||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||
Segment Operating Income (Loss) | ||||||||||||||||
Life Marketing | $ | 163,661 | $ | 165,897 | $ | 159,157 | (1.3 | )% | 4.2 | % | ||||||
Acquisitions | 80,611 | 87,300 | 95,150 | (7.7 | ) | (8.3 | ) | |||||||||
Annuities | 31,933 | 16,467 | 13,373 | 93.9 | 23.1 | |||||||||||
Stable Value Products | 54,798 | 53,159 | 38,911 | 3.1 | 36.6 | |||||||||||
Asset Protection | 24,901 | 19,079 | 20,193 | 30.5 | (5.5 | ) | ||||||||||
Corporate and Other | 47,229 | 21,560 | (31,952 | ) | 119.1 | n/a | ||||||||||
Total segment operating income (loss) | 403,133 | 363,462 | 294,832 | 10.9 | 23.3 | |||||||||||
Realized investment gains (losses) - investments(1) | 15,803 | 21,370 | 39,117 | |||||||||||||
Realized investment gains (losses) - derivatives(2) | (41,923 | ) | 369 | (8,537 | ) | |||||||||||
Income tax expense | (130,446 | ) | (134,820 | ) | (108,362 | ) | ||||||||||
Net income before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle | 246,567 | 250,381 | 217,050 | (1.5 | ) | 15.4 | ||||||||||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, net of income tax | 0 | (15,801 | ) | 0 | ||||||||||||
Net income | $ | 246,567 | $ | 234,580 | $ | 217,050 | 5.1 | 8.1 | ||||||||
(1) Realized investment gains (losses) - investments | $ | 49,393 | $ | 28,305 | $ | 58,064 | ||||||||||
Less participating income from real estate ventures | 8,684 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Less related amortization of DAC | 24,906 | 6,935 | 18,947 | |||||||||||||
$ | 15,803 | $ | 21,370 | $ | 39,117 | |||||||||||
(2) Realized investment gains (losses) - derivatives | $ | (30,881 | ) | $ | 19,591 | $ | 12,550 | |||||||||
Less settlements on certain interest rate swaps | 11,393 | 19,222 | 21,087 | |||||||||||||
Less derivative losses related to certain annuities | (351 | ) | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||
$ | (41,923 | ) | $ | 369 | $ | (8,537 | ) |
Net income for 2005 reflects moderate growth in segment operating income, offset by net realized investment losses. Net realized investment losses were $26.1 million in 2005, compared to net realized investment gains of $21.7 million in 2004, a change of $47.8 million. Partially offsetting the change in realized investment gains and losses is the cumulative effect charge of $15.8 million recorded in 2004 arising from the Company’s adoption of SOP 03-1 (see Note 1 to Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of SOP 03-1). Life Marketing’s operating income decreased slightly primarily due to favorable expense adjustments that increased earnings in 2004, while the decline in earnings in the Acquisitions segment was caused by the normal runoff of the segment’s previously acquired blocks of business. Favorable unlocking of DAC in the market value adjusted annuity and variable annuity lines, increasing account values, and improvement in the equity markets resulted in earnings that nearly doubled in the Annuities segment. Increased average account values and reductions in operating expenses enabled the Stable Value Products segment to increase earnings despite tightening spreads. The Asset Protection segment’s continued focus on pricing and underwriting initiatives continue to yield steady reductions in loss ratios in all core product lines. These improved loss ratios along with continued expense management resulted in an increase to operating income in the current year in the Asset Protection segment. Increased investment income resulting from an increase in unallocated capital and higher participating income and prepayment fees from mortgages and real estate generated the increase in operating income for the Corporate and Other segment in 2005.
Net income for 2004 benefited from growth in segment operating income, somewhat offset by lower net realized investment gains compared to 2003, and the cumulative effect charge mentioned above. Excluding the $12.3 million of reinsurance recoveries during 2003 (see Note 12 to Consolidated Financial Statements), Life Marketing’s operating income increased 13.0%, reflecting continued growth in life insurance in-force, improved results from the segment’s non-insurance businesses, and favorable expense adjustments resulting from DAC unlocking, somewhat offset by lower expense capitalization levels driven by a reduction in traditional life sales in 2004. Earnings in the Acquisitions segment declined in 2004 as the result of the normal runoff of the segment’s previously acquired blocks of business. Improvement in the equity markets and higher sales levels contributed to the increase in Annuities’ income, while strong growth in average balances and a widening of spreads drove significant improvement in Stable Value Products’ earnings. Excluding charter sales in 2004 and 2003, Asset Protection segment operating income increased 34.3% in 2004 primarily due to improved loss ratios in the service contract business and effective expense management. Corporate and Other earnings reflect dramatically lower losses on the runoff insurance lines as well as higher participating mortgage income and investment income on unallocated capital.
RESULTS BY BUSINESS SEGMENT
In the following segment discussions, various statistics and other key data the Company uses to evaluate its segments are presented. Sales statistics are used by the Company to measure the relative progress in its marketing efforts, but may or may not have an immediate impact on reported segment operating income. Sales data for traditional life insurance are based on annualized premiums, while universal life sales are based on annualized planned (target) premiums plus 6% amounts received in excess of target premiums. Sales of annuities are measured based on the amount of deposits received. Stable value contract sales are measured at the time that the funding commitment is made based on the amount of deposit to be received. Sales within the Asset Protection segment are generally based on the amount of single premium and fees received.
Sales and life insurance in-force amounts are derived from the Company’s various sales tracking and administrative systems, and are not derived from the Company’s financial reporting systems or financial statements. Mortality variances are derived from actual claims compared to expected claims. These variances do not represent the net impact to earnings due to the interplay of reserves and DAC amortization.
Life Marketing
The Life Marketing segment markets level premium term and term-like insurance, universal life (“UL”), variable universal life, and bank owned life insurance (“BOLI”) products on a national basis primarily through networks of independent insurance agents and brokers, stockbrokers, and independent marketing organizations. Segment results were as follows:
Change | ||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||
REVENUES | ||||||||||||||||
Gross premiums and policy fees | $ | 1,190,623 | $ | 1,026,889 | $ | 856,431 | 15.9 | % | 19.9 | % | ||||||
Reinsurance ceded | (902,055 | ) | (818,207 | ) | (657,778 | ) | 10.2 | 24.4 | ||||||||
Net premiums and policy fees | 288,568 | 208,682 | 198,653 | 38.3 | 5.0 | |||||||||||
Net investment income | 261,859 | 238,193 | 231,238 | 9.9 | 3.0 | |||||||||||
Other income | 111,202 | 94,695 | 59,961 | 17.4 | 57.9 | |||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 661,629 | 541,570 | 489,852 | 22.2 | 10.6 | |||||||||||
BENEFITS AND EXPENSES | ||||||||||||||||
Benefits and settlement expenses | 392,448 | 274,584 | 253,785 | 42.9 | 8.2 | |||||||||||
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs | 55,688 | 58,970 | 66,078 | (5.6 | ) | (10.8 | ) | |||||||||
Other operating expenses | 49,832 | 42,119 | 10,832 | 18.3 | 288.8 | |||||||||||
Total benefits and expenses | 497,968 | 375,673 | 330,695 | 32.6 | 13.6 | |||||||||||
OPERATING INCOME | 163,661 | 165,897 | 159,157 | (1.3 | ) | 4.2 | ||||||||||
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAX | $ | 163,661 | $ | 165,897 | $ | 159,157 | (1.3 | ) | 4.2 |
The following table summarizes key data for the Life Marketing segment:
Change | ||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||
Sales By Product | ||||||||||||||||
Traditional | $ | 123,882 | $ | 171,883 | $ | 205,335 | (27.9 | )% | (16.3 | )% | ||||||
Universal life | 165,368 | 84,539 | 79,752 | 95.6 | 6.0 | |||||||||||
Variable universal life | 5,465 | 5,236 | 4,558 | 4.4 | 14.9 | |||||||||||
$ | 294,715 | $ | 261,658 | $ | 289,645 | 12.6 | (9.7 | ) | ||||||||
Sales By Distribution Channel | ||||||||||||||||
Brokerage general agents | $ | 140,575 | $ | 161,145 | $ | 186,711 | (12.8 | ) | (13.7 | ) | ||||||
Independent agents | 75,564 | 55,929 | 50,207 | 35.1 | 11.4 | |||||||||||
Stockbrokers/banks | 65,967 | 31,711 | 24,933 | 108.0 | 27.2 | |||||||||||
BOLI / other | 12,609 | 12,873 | 27,794 | (2.1 | ) | (53.7 | ) | |||||||||
$ | 294,715 | $ | 261,658 | $ | 289,645 | 12.6 | (9.7 | ) | ||||||||
Average Life Insurance In-Force(1) | ||||||||||||||||
Traditional | $ | 340,799,613 | $ | 296,399,244 | $ | 224,298,764 | 15.0 | 32.1 | ||||||||
Universal life | 45,366,295 | 40,416,769 | 36,865,396 | 12.2 | 9.6 | |||||||||||
$ | 386,165,908 | $ | 336,816,013 | $ | 261,164,160 | 14.7 | 29.0 | |||||||||
Average Account Values | ||||||||||||||||
Universal life | $ | 4,176,978 | $ | 3,614,026 | $ | 3,149,430 | 15.6 | 14.8 | ||||||||
Variable universal life | 230,412 | 190,522 | 137,380 | 20.9 | 38.7 | |||||||||||
$ | 4,407,390 | $ | 3,804,548 | $ | 3,286,810 | 15.8 | 15.8 | |||||||||
Mortality Experience(2) | $ | 10,557 | $ | 3,821 | $ | (567 | ) | |||||||||
(1) Amounts are not adjusted for reinsurance ceded. (2) Represents a favorable (unfavorable) variance as compared to pricing assumptions. |
Operating income in 2005 decreased slightly from 2004 reflecting higher overall benefits and expenses, offset by increased total revenue. Revenues continue to grow as a result of increasing sales of new business and growth of life insurance in-force and average account values. While current period expenses were reduced as a result of favorable unlocking of DAC on UL products, favorable unlocking reduced expenses by an even greater amount in 2004, resulting in higher expenses in 2005 as compared to the prior year. (See discussion of the term “unlocking” below.) Operating income increased 4.2% in 2004 reflecting the continued growth in life insurance in-force, favorable expense capitalization levels driven by strong sales in 2003, and improved results from non-insurance businesses, offset by the positive impact of reinsurance recoveries on 2003 results. During 2003, the segment recognized additional net premiums of $18.4 million, amortization of DAC of $6.1 million, and operating income of $12.3 million as a result of recoveries from previously overpaid reinsurance premiums (see Note 11 to Consolidated Financial Statements).
Net premiums and policy fees increased 38.3% in 2005 due in part to the growth in life insurance in-force achieved over the last several quarters. Net premiums and policy fees are also higher than the prior year due to an increase in retention levels on newly written traditional life products. Beginning in the second quarter of 2005, the Company reduced its reliance on reinsurance by changing from coinsurance to yearly renewable term reinsurance arrangements and increased the maximum amount retained on any one life from $500,000 to $1,000,000 on certain of its newly written traditional life products. In addition to increasing net premiums, this change will result in higher benefits and settlement expenses, and will cause greater variability in financial results due to fluctuations in mortality results. The 2004 increase in net premiums and policy fees compared to 2003 is the result of growth in life insurance in-force, offset by the favorable impact to 2003 net premiums resulting from the reinsurance recoveries mentioned above.
Net investment income and other income increased in both the current and prior years. The increases in net investment income reflect the growth of the segment’s assets, offset by lower investment yields, while the increases in other income are primarily due to additional income from the segment’s broker-dealer subsidiary. Due to the nature of this business, the majority of this additional income is offset by increases in other operating expenses.
Benefits and settlement expenses in 2005 were 42.9% higher than 2004 due to growth in life insurance in-force, increased retention levels on certain newly written traditional life products, and higher credited interest on UL products resulting from increases in account values. Additionally, the favorable DAC unlocking on UL products (see below) resulted in an increase to the SOP 03-1 liability and a corresponding increase to benefits and settlement expenses. These increases were partially offset by favorable fluctuations in mortality experience. In 2004, benefits and settlement expenses increased 8.2% from the prior year due to growth in life insurance in-force and higher benefit costs caused by the implementation of SOP 03-1, offset by lower crediting rates on UL products and favorable fluctuations in mortality experience.
An evaluation of DAC, including a review of the underlying assumptions of future mortality, expenses, lapses, premium persistency, investment yields, and interest spreads was performed by the Company on its UL products during the fourth quarter of 2005. As a result of this review, assumptions were updated based on actual experience and/or expectations for the future. This change in assumptions, and resulting adjustment to DAC, referred to as “unlocking”, resulted in a net decrease in total benefits and expenses of approximately $2.0 million. Excluding the impact of the fourth quarter unlocking, DAC amortization increased approximately 35% in 2005. This increase is the result of the continued growth of life insurance in-force, increased amortization resulting from the capitalization of premium taxes on excess premiums in the UL line, and reductions to amortization in 2004. The amortization recognized in 2004 was reduced as a result of the implementation of SOP 03-1, UL DAC unlocking, and a reduction in previously recorded reinsurance receivables. Excluding the additional amortization recorded in 2003 as a result of the reinsurance recoveries, these items resulted in a decrease in DAC amortization in 2004 compared to the prior period.
Other operating expenses for the segment were as follows:
Change | ||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||
Insurance Companies: | ||||||||||||||||
First year commissions | $ | 346,635 | $ | 288,991 | $ | 299,902 | 19.9 | % | (3.6 | )% | ||||||
Renewal commissions | 33,219 | 32,985 | 30,258 | 0.7 | 9.0 | |||||||||||
First year ceding allowances | (125,828 | ) | (167,197 | ) | (188,194 | ) | (24.7 | ) | (11.2 | ) | ||||||
Renewal ceding allowances | (187,002 | ) | (159,383 | ) | (125,960 | ) | 17.3 | 26.5 | ||||||||
General & administrative | 174,521 | 187,892 | 182,163 | (7.1 | ) | 3.1 | ||||||||||
Taxes, licenses and fees | 31,640 | 22,852 | 20,383 | 38.5 | 12.1 | |||||||||||
Other operating expenses incurred | 273,185 | 206,140 | 218,552 | 32.5 | (5.7 | ) | ||||||||||
Less commissions, allowances & expenses capitalized | (331,493 | ) | (256,336 | ) | (268,933 | ) | 29.3 | (4.7 | ) | |||||||
Other operating expenses | (58,308 | ) | (50,196 | ) | (50,381 | ) | 16.2 | (0.4 | ) | |||||||
Marketing Companies: | ||||||||||||||||
Commissions | 70,771 | 62,755 | 45,646 | 12.8 | 37.5 | |||||||||||
Other | 37,369 | 29,560 | 15,567 | 26.4 | 89.9 | |||||||||||
Other operating expenses | 108,140 | 92,315 | 61,213 | 17.1 | 50.8 | |||||||||||
Other operating expenses | $ | 49,832 | $ | 42,119 | $ | 10,832 | 18.3 | 288.8 |
Currently, the segment reinsures significant amounts of its life insurance in-force. Pursuant to the underlying reinsurance contracts, reinsurers pay allowances to the segment as a percentage of both first year and renewal premiums. A portion of these allowances is deferred as part of DAC while the remainder is recognized immediately as a reduction of other operating expenses. While the recognition of reinsurance allowances is consistent with GAAP, non-deferred allowances often exceed the segment’s non-deferred direct costs, causing net other operating expenses to be negative. Consideration of all components of the segment’s income statement, including amortization of DAC, is required to assess the impact of reinsurance on segment operating income.
Other operating expenses for the insurance companies decreased in 2005 as a result of lower expenses incurred per policy issued, combined with higher DAC capitalization driven by the significant growth in UL sales. These same expenses were relatively unchanged in 2004 versus 2003, as the decrease in expenses incurred was offset by a decline in expense capitalization levels driven by the drop in sales. Amounts capitalized as DAC generally include first year commissions and allowances and other deferrable acquisition expenses. The change in these amounts generally reflects the trend in sales.
Other operating expenses for the segment’s marketing companies increased 17.1% and 50.8%, respectively, for 2005 and 2004, as compared to the prior years, primarily due to higher commissions and other expenses in the segment’s broker-dealer subsidiary resulting from increased revenues.
Sales for the segment increased 12.6% in 2005 primarily due to the significant increase in UL sales, partially offset by lower traditional life sales. The upward trend in UL sales is the result of a favorable competitive position combined with growth of our distribution footprint. During 2005, sales through independent agents increased 35.1%, while sales through stockbrokers and banks grew 108.0%. Sales of BOLI business were relatively unchanged in 2005. BOLI sales can vary widely between periods as the segment responds to opportunities for these products only when required returns can be achieved.
Sales of traditional life products decreased during the first half of 2005 as a result of pricing adjustments on certain traditional life products in response to the rising cost of reinsurance. As previously discussed, during the second quarter of 2005, the Company was able to reduce its reliance on reinsurance for certain newly written traditional products, resulting in an improvement in the Company’s competitive position with respect to these products. Accordingly, traditional life sales improved during the second half of the year, with increases of 4.1% and 23.5%, respectively, in the third and fourth quarters of 2005. The Company issued non-recourse funding obligations to fund the additional statutory reserves required as a result of the increased overall level of retention (see Note 4 to Consolidated Financial Statements).
Sales for the segment decreased in 2004 primarily due to lower production of traditional life at Empire General, which is included within the brokerage general agent channel. As expected, traditional life business sold through Empire General declined $27.9 million versus the unusually strong levels achieved in 2003. Offsetting this decline was a $7.2 million increase in sales of UL business through the stockbroker channel, primarily resulting from a new product introduction in the fourth quarter of 2004. Sales of BOLI business declined significantly from the strong sales achieved in 2003, due to the inherent variability in the demand for these products previously mentioned.
Acquisitions
The Acquisitions segment focuses on acquiring, converting, and servicing policies acquired from other companies. The segment's primary focus is on life insurance policies sold to individuals. Segment results were as follows:
Change | ||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||
REVENUES | ||||||||||||||||
Gross premiums and policy fees | $ | 261,003 | $ | 276,394 | $ | 289,906 | (5.6 | )% | (4.7 | )% | ||||||
Reinsurance ceded | (74,199 | ) | (72,062 | ) | (75,994 | ) | 3.0 | (5.2 | ) | |||||||
Net premiums and policy fees | 186,804 | 204,332 | 213,912 | (8.6 | ) | (4.5 | ) | |||||||||
Net investment income | 223,201 | 232,499 | 246,143 | (4.0 | ) | (5.5 | ) | |||||||||
Other income | 1,605 | 2,272 | 2,640 | (29.4 | ) | (13.9 | ) | |||||||||
Total operating revenues | 411,610 | 439,103 | 462,695 | (6.3 | ) | (5.1 | ) | |||||||||
BENEFITS AND EXPENSES | ||||||||||||||||
Benefits and settlement expenses | 273,626 | 287,356 | 291,768 | (4.8 | ) | (1.5 | ) | |||||||||
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs | 27,072 | 28,652 | 32,690 | (5.5 | ) | (12.4 | ) | |||||||||
Other operating expenses | 30,301 | 35,795 | 43,087 | (15.3 | ) | (16.9 | ) | |||||||||
Total benefits and expenses | 330,999 | 351,803 | 367,545 | (5.9 | ) | (4.3 | ) | |||||||||
OPERATING INCOME | 80,611 | 87,300 | 95,150 | (7.7 | ) | (8.3 | ) | |||||||||
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAX | $ | 80,611 | $ | 87,300 | $ | 95,150 | (7.7 | ) | (8.3 | ) |
The following table summarizes key data for the Acquisitions segment:
Change | ||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||
Average Life Insurance In-Force(1) | ||||||||||||||||
Traditional | $ | 10,786,754 | $ | 11,694,948 | $ | 13,656,841 | (7.8 | )% | (14.4 | )% | ||||||
Universal life | 17,178,862 | 18,077,468 | 19,945,426 | (5.0 | ) | (9.4 | ) | |||||||||
$ | 27,965,616 | $ | 29,772,416 | $ | 33,602,267 | (6.1 | ) | (11.4 | ) | |||||||
Average Account Values | ||||||||||||||||
Universal life | $ | 1,706,082 | $ | 1,723,647 | $ | 1,747,831 | (1.0 | ) | (1.4 | ) | ||||||
Fixed annuity(2) | 213,530 | 218,087 | 226,567 | (2.1 | ) | (3.7 | ) | |||||||||
Variable annuity | 76,033 | 89,327 | 104,129 | (14.9 | ) | (14.2 | ) | |||||||||
$ | 1,995,645 | $ | 2,031,061 | $ | 2,078,527 | (1.7 | ) | (2.3 | ) | |||||||
Interest Spread - UL & Fixed Annuities | ||||||||||||||||
Net investment income yield | 7.00 | % | 7.17 | % | 7.51 | % | ||||||||||
Interest credited to policyholders | 5.15 | 5.22 | 5.57 | |||||||||||||
Interest spread | 1.85 | % | 1.95 | % | 1.94 | % | ||||||||||
Mortality Experience(3) | $ | 4,815 | $ | 5,364 | $ | 3,921 | ||||||||||
(1) Amounts are not adjusted for reinsurance ceded. (2) Includes general account balances held within variable annuity products and is net of reinsurance ceded. (3) Represents a favorable variance as compared to pricing assumptions. |
As previously mentioned, operating income and account values for this segment are expected to decline over time unless new acquisitions are made. Policies acquired through this segment are typically “closed” blocks of business (no new policies are being marketed), therefore earnings and account values are expected to decline as the result of lapses, deaths, and other terminations of coverage. Although acquisition opportunities were investigated, there have been no acquisitions since 2002. As a result, and as expected, operating income decreased 7.7% and 8.3% in 2005 and 2004, respectively. However, as discussed previously in Part I, on February 7, 2006, the Company signed a definitive agreement to acquire from JPMorgan Chase & Co. the stock of five life insurance companies that manufacture and distribute traditional life insurance and annuities (the “Chase Insurance Group”) and the stock of four related non-insurance companies. See Note 14 to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional discussion of this potential 2006 acquisition.
In addition to the expected decline resulting from the runoff of business, net premiums and policy fees were additionally decreased in 2005 by payments of amounts due under two reinsurance treaties. While this had no net income impact, the payments decreased net premiums and policy fees by $3.9 million, benefits and settlement expenses by $3.5 million, and other operating expenses by $0.3 million.
The steady decline in net investment income is due to the runoff of business combined with lower overall earned rates in 2005. The segment continues to review credited rates on UL and annuity business to minimize the impact of lower earned rates on interest spreads. The interest spread was 10 basis points lower in 2005 than in 2004.
Benefits and settlement expenses continue to decrease due to the decline in business in-force as well as normal fluctuations in mortality. The 2005 decrease also includes the impact of the reinsurance payments mentioned above. Amortization of DAC decreased due to the overall decline in business. Other operating expenses decreased during 2005 due to lower commissions resulting from lower net premiums, reductions in other general expenses, and the reinsurance payments discussed above. The reduction in other operating expenses in 2004 as compared to 2003 was partially due to conversion costs incurred in 2003 related to a 2002 acquisition.
The segment’s life insurance in-force and UL and annuity account values continue to decline due to the absence of new acquisitions mentioned above. In the ordinary course of business, the segment regularly considers acquisitions of blocks of policies or smaller insurance companies. However, the level of acquisition activity is predicated upon many factors, including available capital, operating capacity, and market dynamics. The Company will continue to pursue suitable acquisitions as they become available.
Annuities
The Annuities segment manufactures, sells, and supports fixed and variable annuity products. These products are primarily sold through stockbrokers, but are also sold through financial institutions and independent agents and brokers. Segment results were as follows:
Change | ||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||
REVENUES | ||||||||||||||||
Gross premiums and policy fees | $ | 31,810 | $ | 30,341 | $ | 26,265 | 4.8 | % | 15.5 | % | ||||||
Reinsurance ceded | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |||||||||||
Net premiums and policy fees | 31,810 | 30,341 | 26,265 | 4.8 | 15.5 | |||||||||||
Net investment income | 218,700 | 210,888 | 224,332 | 3.7 | (6.0 | ) | ||||||||||
Realized gains (losses) - derivatives | (351 | ) | 0 | 0 | n/a | n/a | ||||||||||
Other income | 7,772 | 7,004 | 8,745 | 11.0 | (19.9 | ) | ||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 257,931 | 248,233 | 259,342 | 3.9 | (4.3 | ) | ||||||||||
BENEFITS AND EXPENSES | ||||||||||||||||
Benefits and settlement expenses | 187,791 | 183,271 | 197,955 | 2.5 | (7.4 | ) | ||||||||||
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs | 12,606 | 25,336 | 19,249 | (50.2 | ) | 31.6 | ||||||||||
Other operating expenses | 25,601 | 23,159 | 28,765 | 10.5 | (19.5 | ) | ||||||||||
Total benefits and expenses | 225,998 | 231,766 | 245,969 | (2.5 | ) | (5.8 | ) | |||||||||
OPERATING INCOME | 31,933 | 16,467 | 13,373 | 93.9 | 23.1 | |||||||||||
Realized gains (losses) - investments | 30,980 | 9,873 | 22,733 | |||||||||||||
Related amortization of DAC | (24,906 | ) | (6,935 | ) | (18,947 | ) | ||||||||||
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAX | $ | 38,007 | $ | 19,405 | $ | 17,159 | 95.9 | 13.1 |
The following table summarizes key data for the Annuities segment:
Change | ||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||
Sales | ||||||||||||||||
Fixed annuity | $ | 275,038 | $ | 443,170 | $ | 163,516 | (37.9 | )% | 171.0 | % | ||||||
Variable annuity | 312,211 | 282,926 | 350,590 | 10.4 | (19.3 | ) | ||||||||||
$ | 587,249 | $ | 726,096 | $ | 514,106 | (19.1 | ) | 41.2 | ||||||||
Average Account Values | ||||||||||||||||
Fixed annuity(1) | $ | 3,448,977 | $ | 3,228,976 | $ | 3,302,511 | 6.8 | (2.2 | ) | |||||||
Variable annuity | 2,221,881 | 2,022,101 | 1,595,173 | 9.9 | 26.8 | |||||||||||
$ | 5,670,858 | $ | 5,251,077 | $ | 4,897,684 | 8.0 | 7.2 | |||||||||
Interest Spread - Fixed Annuities(2) | ||||||||||||||||
Net investment income yield | 6.26 | % | 6.45 | % | 6.69 | % | ||||||||||
Interest credited to policyholders | 5.45 | 5.61 | 5.79 | |||||||||||||
Interest spread | 0.81 | % | 0.84 | % | 0.90 | % | ||||||||||
As of December 31 | Change | |||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||
GMDB - Net amount at risk(3) | $ | 142,244 | $ | 182,038 | $ | 286,603 | (21.9 | )% | (36.5 | )% | ||||||
GMDB - Reserves | $ | 2,055 | $ | 4,575 | $ | 5,073 | (55.1 | ) | (9.8 | ) | ||||||
S&P 500® Index | 1,248 | 1,212 | 1,112 | 3.0 | 9.0 | |||||||||||
(1) Includes general account balances held within variable annuity products. (2) Interest spread on average general account values. (3) Guaranteed death benefit in excess of contract holder account balance. |
Segment operating income increased 93.9% in 2005 from the prior year primarily due to favorable unlocking of DAC in the market value adjusted annuity and variable annuity lines, which is discussed in more detail below. Interest spread compression was more than offset by growth in both fixed and variable account values, which contributed to the increase in operating income for 2005. The increase in segment operating income in 2004 was driven by higher sales of fixed annuities and the impact of improved equity markets reflected in the variable annuity business.
Segment operating revenues increased 3.9% in 2005 compared to 2004, primarily as a result of higher net investment income. Average account balances have grown approximately 8% from the prior year, resulting in higher investment income as well as higher other income, due to an increase in asset-based fees. The additional income resulting from the larger account balances was partially reduced by lower interest spreads resulting primarily from a rebalancing of the investment portfolio. During 2005, the investment portfolio was rebalanced to improve the duration match between the segment’s assets and liabilities. Approximately $300 million in securities were sold, causing the large increase in realized investment gains. These gains were partially offset by an increase in DAC amortization associated with those gains. The resulting funds from this transaction were reinvested in assets with lower rates than the investments that were sold, causing a decline in the investment income yield for the segment’s portfolio. The segment continually monitors and adjusts credited rates as appropriate in an effort to maintain the interest spread.
Operating revenues for the segment declined 4.3% in 2004 from the prior year due to lower investment income, partially offset by higher net premiums and policy fees. The lower interest rate environment and decrease in fixed annuity balances in 2004 caused net investment income to decline from 2003. Interest spreads on fixed annuities declined 6 basis points in 2004 as lower rates on new investments more than offset the effects of crediting rate reductions. The improvement in the equity markets in 2004 caused a significant increase in variable annuity account values, which drove the increase in net premiums and policy fees for the year.
Total benefits and expenses decreased in 2005 relative to the prior year. The 2005 decrease is primarily the result of lower DAC amortization. As previously mentioned in the Life Marketing segment discussion, the Company periodically reviews and updates as appropriate its key assumptions including future mortality, expenses, lapses, premium persistency, investment yields and interest spreads. Changes to these assumptions result in adjustments which increase or decrease DAC amortization. The periodic review and updating of assumptions is referred to as “unlocking”. DAC amortization for the Annuities segment was reduced $16.2 million in 2005 due to two separate favorable DAC unlocking events. The first unlocking occurred during the second quarter in the market value adjusted annuity line, when DAC amortization was reduced $5.0 million as a result of the portfolio rebalancing discussed above. While the investment income yield obtained on the reinvested assets resulting from the portfolio rebalancing was lower than the yield obtained prior to the rebalancing, the actual yield on the reinvested assets exceeded previously projected spread income. The higher investment yield resulted in higher future estimated gross profits (“EGPs”) in the segment’s market value adjusted annuity line, causing the favorable unlocking of DAC. The second unlocking occurred in the fourth quarter in the market value adjusted and variable annuity lines, and reduced DAC amortization by $11.2 million. This unlocking was a combination of a review of assumptions underlying future EGPs (prospective unlocking) and a “true-up” of past EGPs to actual gross profits (“AGPs”) in the DAC amortization models (retrospective unlocking). AGPs were higher than the EGPs previously used in the DAC amortization model primarily as a result of general improvement in equity market returns, resulting in the favorable unlocking and reduction in DAC amortization in the current period.
Partially offsetting the favorable DAC adjustments in 2005 were higher benefits and settlement expenses and other operating expenses. Benefits and settlement expenses are higher than the prior year due to higher credited interest on the increasing average account balances, while other operating expenses are higher due to expenses incurred related to the development of a new product.
Total benefits and expenses also declined in 2004, compared to 2003. Interest credited decreased $9.8 million in 2004 due to the decline in fixed annuity account values and reductions in credited rates. Benefits expense also benefited from lower GMDB expenses of $3.1 million, as the segment’s net amount at risk, reserves, and paid claims declined from 2003. The additional profits on variable annuities were partially offset by higher amortization of DAC, accounting for an increase of $5.3 million in 2004. Other operating expenses decreased $5.6 million, reflecting lower administrative expenses and the elimination of sub-advisor fees paid for the segment-managed mutual funds, as well as higher expense capitalization caused by the increase in sales.
The decline in fixed annuity sales in 2005 is primarily due to the nonrecurring sales of $122 million of single premium immediate annuities in the fourth quarter of 2004 on an institutional basis in a structured transaction. Sales made through structured transactions are opportunistic in nature and may vary widely between periods. Fixed annuity sales for the current year were also negatively impacted by lower interest rates. Sales trends showed steady improvement throughout 2005, in part due to increasing sales in the segment’s new equity-indexed fixed annuity during the second half of the year. Variable annuity sales increased 10.4% compared to 2004 as a result of general improvement in the equity markets. In addition to benefiting variable annuity sales, the improved equity markets also reduced the net amount at risk with respect to guaranteed minimum death benefits by 22.1%.
Stable Value Products
The Stable Value Products segment sells guaranteed funding agreement (“GFAs”) to special purpose entities that in turn issue notes or certificates in smaller, transferable denominations. The segment also markets fixed and floating rate funding agreements directly to the trustees of municipal bond proceeds, institutional investors, bank trust departments, and money market funds. Additionally, the segment markets guaranteed investment contracts (“GICs”) to 401(k) and other qualified retirement savings plans. Segment results were as follows:
Change | ||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||
REVENUES | ||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 310,715 | $ | 268,184 | $ | 233,104 | 15.9 | % | 15.0 | % | ||||||
BENEFITS AND EXPENSES | ||||||||||||||||
Benefits and settlement expenses | 246,134 | 205,168 | 186,565 | 20.0 | 10.0 | |||||||||||
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs | 4,694 | 3,480 | 2,279 | 34.9 | 52.7 | |||||||||||
Other operating expenses | 5,089 | 6,377 | 5,349 | (20.2 | ) | 19.2 | ||||||||||
Total benefits and expenses | 255,917 | 215,025 | 194,193 | 19.0 | 10.7 | |||||||||||
OPERATING INCOME | 54,798 | 53,159 | 38,911 | 3.1 | 36.6 | |||||||||||
Realized gains (losses) | (16,065 | ) | 13,225 | 9,756 | ||||||||||||
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAX | $ | 38,733 | $ | 66,384 | $ | 48,667 | (41.7 | ) | 36.4 |
The following table summarizes key data for the Stable Value Products segment:
Change | ||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||
Sales | ||||||||||||||||
GIC | $ | 96,350 | $ | 59,000 | $ | 275,000 | 63.3 | % | (78.5 | )% | ||||||
GFA - Direct Institutional | 100,000 | 67,020 | 377,900 | 49.2 | (82.3 | ) | ||||||||||
GFA - Non-Registered Notes | 0 | 0 | 505,000 | n/a | n/a | |||||||||||
GFA - Registered Notes - Institutional | 1,035,000 | 925,000 | 450,000 | 11.9 | 105.6 | |||||||||||
GFA - Registered Notes - Retail | 180,931 | 531,560 | 0 | (66.0 | ) | n/a | ||||||||||
$ | 1,412,281 | $ | 1,582,580 | $ | 1,607,900 | (10.8 | ) | (1.6 | ) | |||||||
Average Account Values | $ | 5,872,635 | $ | 5,122,170 | $ | 4,191,182 | 14.7 | 22.2 | ||||||||
Operating Spread | ||||||||||||||||
Net investment income yield | 5.42 | % | 5.39 | % | 5.73 | % | ||||||||||
Interest credited | 4.29 | 4.12 | 4.59 | |||||||||||||
Operating expenses | 0.17 | 0.20 | 0.19 | |||||||||||||
Operating spread | 0.96 | % | 1.07 | % | 0.95 | % |
Operating income increased modestly in 2005 compared to 2004, as a result of the 14.7% increase in average account balances, partially offset by spread compression of 11 basis points. The growth in average account balances was driven by sales of the segment’s registered funding agreement-backed notes program over the past two years. The primary driver of the spread compression has been increasing LIBOR rates, resulting in higher interest credited rates. The segment continues to review its investment portfolio for opportunities to increase the net investment income yield in an effort to maintain interest spreads.
Operating income increased 36.6% in 2004 from the amounts achieved in 2003 due to the 22.2% growth in account balances, combined with a 12 basis point widening of spreads. As with the current year, 2004’s increase in average account balances was the result of the success of the segment’s registered funding agreement-backed notes program, while a rebalancing of the segment’s portfolio and replacement of higher rate contracts during 2004 resulted in the improvement in spreads.
Total sales during 2005 were 10.8% lower than the prior year. Institutional sales of registered notes continue to be strong, increasing 11.9% from the prior year. These products are a part of the segment’s registered funding agreement-backed notes program introduced during the fourth quarter of 2003. Retail note sales continue to decline due to general market conditions including interest rate volatility. The segment no longer markets inflation-adjusted notes, which were first offered in 2004 and accounted for 44% of the segment’s retail sales in that year. The registered-notes program has given the segment access to a broader customer base and will continue to be the focus for future growth in the segment.
Asset Protection
The Asset Protection segment primarily markets extended service contracts and credit life and disability insurance to protect consumers’ investments in automobiles and watercraft. In addition, the segment markets an inventory protection product and a guaranteed asset protection (“GAP”) product. Segment results were as follows:
Change | ||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||
REVENUES | ||||||||||||||||
Gross premiums and policy fees | $ | 429,903 | $ | 439,079 | $ | 438,616 | (2.1 | )% | 0.1 | % | ||||||
Reinsurance ceded | (250,430 | ) | (234,345 | ) | (196,434 | ) | 6.9 | 19.3 | ||||||||
Net premiums and policy fees | 179,473 | 204,734 | 242,182 | (12.3 | ) | (15.5 | ) | |||||||||
Net investment income | 32,389 | 30,939 | 36,652 | 4.7 | (15.6 | ) | ||||||||||
Other income | 46,236 | 39,680 | 44,825 | 16.5 | (11.5 | ) | ||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 258,098 | 275,353 | 323,659 | (6.3 | ) | (14.9 | ) | |||||||||
BENEFITS AND EXPENSES | ||||||||||||||||
Benefits and settlement expenses | 101,477 | 121,007 | 142,166 | (16.1 | ) | (14.9 | ) | |||||||||
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs | 69,474 | 72,273 | 80,320 | (3.9 | ) | (10.0 | ) | |||||||||
Other operating expenses | 62,246 | 62,994 | 80,980 | (1.2 | ) | (22.2 | ) | |||||||||
Total benefits and expenses | 233,197 | 256,274 | 303,466 | (9.0 | ) | (15.6 | ) | |||||||||
OPERATING INCOME | 24,901 | 19,079 | 20,193 | 30.5 | (5.5 | ) | ||||||||||
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAX | $ | 24,901 | $ | 19,079 | $ | 20,193 | 30.5 | (5.5 | ) |
The following table summarizes key data for the Asset Protection segment:
Change | ||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||
Sales | ||||||||||||||||
Service contracts | $ | 228,656 | $ | 202,983 | $ | 204,810 | 12.6 | % | (0.9 | )% | ||||||
Credit insurance | 208,878 | 217,585 | 198,252 | (4.0 | ) | 9.8 | ||||||||||
Other products | 51,230 | 39,755 | 69,351 | 28.9 | (42.7 | ) | ||||||||||
$ | 488,764 | $ | 460,323 | $ | 472,413 | 6.2 | (2.6 | ) | ||||||||
Loss Ratios(1) | ||||||||||||||||
Service contracts | 72.9 | % | 78.4 | % | 84.7 | % | ||||||||||
Credit insurance | 36.7 | 38.3 | 37.3 | |||||||||||||
Other products | 62.9 | 69.0 | 89.7 | |||||||||||||
(1) Incurred claims as a percentage of earned premiums. |
Operating income increased significantly in 2005 as a result of higher earnings from core product lines. Within the segment’s core product lines, service contract and credit insurance earnings improved $3.3 million and $1.7 million, respectively, compared to the prior year, while earnings from other products increased $2.1 million. These positive results were partially offset by the lack of income from the sale of inactive charters in 2005, compared to charter sale gains of $1.2 million in the prior year. Results from lines the segment is no longer marketing are relatively unchanged from the prior year. Excluding gains from charter sales ($1.2 million in 2004 compared to $6.9 million in 2003), 2004 operating income exceeded the prior year by 34.3%, primarily due to improved earnings in the service contract line resulting from favorable claims experience and proactive expense management.
The declines in net premiums for 2005 and 2004 were primarily related to decreases of $17.1 million and $33.7 million, respectively, in the credit insurance lines. The 2005 decrease was due to the decline in business sold through automobile dealers, while the 2004 decrease was primarily the result of higher levels of reinsurance. Additionally, as expected, net premiums in the lines the segment is no longer marketing continue to decrease, resulting in net premiums for these lines that were $9.0 million and $7.7 million lower for 2005 and 2004, respectively, than the prior periods. Partially offsetting these declines were $0.8 million and $4.0 million increases in 2005 and 2004, respectively, in net premiums in the extended service contract and other lines of business reflecting the continued steady growth of these core lines.
Investment income in 2005 remains comparable to prior periods, while other income increased as a result of additional administrative fees on service contracts due to the increased volume of contracts sold in this product line. Excluding the impact of the charter sale gains, other income was relatively flat in 2004 compared to the prior year.
Benefits and settlement expenses declined in both 2005 and 2004, reflecting the decrease in the segment’s net premiums discussed above. In addition to lower net premiums, benefits and settlement expenses have also been favorably impacted by the overall improvement in loss ratios. Loss ratios for all three core product lines have benefited from the segment’s continuing initiatives to increase pricing and tighten the underwriting and claims processes.
Amortization of DAC declined in both periods due to the significant decline in the segment’s credit business. Other operating expenses decreased slightly in 2005 due to lower commissions caused by the drop in net premiums. Lower commissions also contributed to the decrease in other operating expenses during 2004, along with reductions in other general expenses. General expenses were reduced in 2004 primarily as a result of the outsourcing of the administration of a portion of the segment’s credit insurance business during 2003 and other cost saving initiatives implemented by management during the year.
Total segment sales increased 6.2% during 2005. Service contract sales continued to improve throughout the year, exceeding the prior year by 12.6%. This improvement in service contract sales is comprised of increases of $22.5 million and $3.1 million, respectively, in the vehicle and marine lines. Sales of credit insurance declined primarily due to a decline in credit insurance sold through automobile dealers, while the improvement in other product sales can be attributed to an $11.6 million increase in sales of the GAP product.
During 2004, sales of credit insurance through financial institutions increased from the prior year primarily due to a third party administrator relationship (currently in runoff), partially offset by a decline in sales of credit insurance sold through automobile dealers. The decrease in other product sales in 2004 reflects declines in products the segment is no longer marketing.
The Company is currently pursuing a small acquisition of a service contract provider.
Corporate and Other
The Company has an additional segment referred to as Corporate and Other. The Corporate and Other segment primarily consists of net investment income and expenses not attributable to the segments above (including net investment income on unallocated capital and interest on debt). This segment also includes earnings from several small non-strategic lines of business (primarily cancer insurance, residual value insurance, surety insurance, and group annuities), various investment-related transactions, and the operations of several small subsidiaries. The surety and residual value insurance lines were moved from the Asset Protection segment to Corporate and Other during 2004, and prior period segment data was restated to reflect the change.
The following table summarizes results for this segment:
Change | ||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||
Operating income (loss)(1) | $ | 47,229 | $ | 21,560 | $ | (31,952 | ) | $ | 25,669 | $ | 53,512 | |||||
Realized gains (losses) - investments | 26,045 | 6,366 | 26,550 | 19,679 | (20,184 | ) | ||||||||||
Realized gains (losses) - derivatives | (42,174 | ) | (790 | ) | (9,512 | ) | (41,384 | ) | 8,722 | |||||||
Income (loss) before income tax | $ | 31,100 | $ | 27,136 | $ | (14,914 | ) | $ | 3,964 | $ | 42,050 | |||||
(1) Includes settlements on interest rate swaps of $11,393, $19,222, and $21,087 for 2005, 2004, and 2003, respectively. Also includes participating income from real estate ventures of $6,344, net of minority interest, for 2005. |
Operating income increased $25.7 million in the current year, primarily due to increased investment income. Net investment income increased $30.1 million in 2005, while income from interest rate swaps decreased $7.8 million. The increased net investment income is primarily the result of higher amounts of unallocated capital and increased participating income and prepayment fees from mortgages and real estate, partially offset by lower income on trading securities. Results for the runoff insurance lines improved in 2005, adding $3.8 million to operating earnings. These improved results include a $5.0 million reserve strengthening taken in the third quarter of 2005 in the residual value line of business as a result of negative trends in used vehicle prices. Offsetting these positive changes to operating income was a $3.8 million write-off of capitalized costs associated with internally developed software.
The significant improvement in operating income in 2004, as compared to 2003 results, was the result of a $28.4 million reserve charge taken in 2003 and significantly higher net investment income in 2004. Results for the runoff insurance lines improved $16.0 million in 2004, primarily due to reduced reserve strengthening taken in the residual value line. The improvement in the residual value line was partially offset by higher losses in the cancer line of $3.6 million for 2004. Net investment income increased $44.2 million over 2003, reflecting mark-to-market gains on trading securities, increased participating mortgage income, and higher amounts of unallocated capital. Mark-to-market gains on the Company’s trading portfolio were $4.9 million in 2004 with no similar activity in 2003. Participating mortgage income increased $9.5 million, reflecting increased transaction activity within the Company’s mortgage portfolio.
Realized Gains and Losses
The following table presents realized investment gains and losses for the periods shown:
Change | ||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||
Fixed maturity gains | $ | 83,602 | $ | 50,916 | $ | 84,556 | $ | 32,686 | $ | (33,640 | ) | |||||
Fixed maturity losses | (27,609 | ) | (7,234 | ) | (6,270 | ) | (20,375 | ) | (964 | ) | ||||||
Equity gains | 1,285 | 3,863 | 368 | (2,578 | ) | 3,495 | ||||||||||
Equity losses | (1,028 | ) | (214 | ) | (295 | ) | (814 | ) | 81 | |||||||
Impairments on fixed maturity securities | (11,745 | ) | (14,667 | ) | (20,530 | ) | 2,922 | 5,863 | ||||||||
Impairments on equity securities | (53 | ) | (3,591 | ) | (1,800 | ) | 3,538 | (1,791 | ) | |||||||
Other | 4,941 | (768 | ) | 2,035 | 5,709 | (2,803 | ) | |||||||||
Total realized gains (losses) - investments | $ | 49,393 | $ | 28,305 | $ | 58,064 | $ | 21,088 | $ | (29,759 | ) | |||||
Foreign currency swaps | $ | (33,126 | ) | $ | 519 | $ | 2,687 | $ | (33,645 | ) | $ | (2,168 | ) | |||
Foreign currency adjustments on stable value contracts | 33,452 | (44 | ) | (1,711 | ) | 33,496 | 1,667 | |||||||||
Derivatives related to corporate debt | 1,669 | 17,601 | 1,359 | (15,932 | ) | 16,242 | ||||||||||
Derivatives related to mortgage loan commitments | (10,344 | ) | (1,652 | ) | 4,738 | (8,692 | ) | (6,390 | ) | |||||||
Other derivatives | (22,532 | ) | 3,167 | 5,477 | (25,699 | ) | (2,310 | ) | ||||||||
Total realized gains (losses) - derivatives | $ | (30,881 | ) | $ | 19,591 | $ | 12,550 | $ | (50,472 | ) | $ | 7,041 |
Realized gains and losses on investments reflect portfolio management activities designed to maintain proper matching of assets and liabilities and to enhance long-term investment portfolio performance. The change in net realized investment gains for 2005 and 2004, excluding impairments, reflects the normal operation of the Company’s asset/liability program within the context of the changing interest rate environment. The reduction in impairments for 2005 and 2004 reflects general improvement in the corporate credit environment. Additional details on the Company’s investment performance and evaluation is provided in the section entitled “Consolidated Investments” included herein.
Realized investment gains and losses related to derivatives represent changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments and gains (losses) on derivative contracts closed during the period. The Company has entered into foreign currency swaps to mitigate the risk of changes in the value of principal and interest payments to be made on certain of its foreign currency denominated stable value contracts. The net change in the realized gains (losses) resulting from these securities during 2005 was $(0.1) million. These changes were the result of differences in the related foreign currency spot and forward rates used to value the stable value contracts and foreign currency swaps. The Company also uses interest rate swaps to mitigate interest rate risk related to its Senior Notes, Medium-Term Notes, and subordinated debt securities. A flatting yield curve during 2005 caused the 2005 results from these swaps to compare unfavorably with the 2004 results. The Company has taken short positions in U.S. Treasury futures to mitigate interest rate risk related to the Company’s mortgage loan commitments. The changes in net gains (losses) from these securities were the result of fluctuations in interest rates and adjustments to the Company’s short positions during the respective periods.
The Company also uses various swaps and options to mitigate risk related to other interest rate exposures of the Company. For a portion of the change, a $13.6 million decrease in realized gains (losses), resulted from higher short-term and medium-term interest rates, which impacted the fair value of certain interest rate swaps and options. An additional decrease of $4.3 million during 2005 was related to embedded derivatives within certain bonds that either matured or were called during 2005. Additionally, in the first quarter of 2005, the Company recorded a $7.1 million realized investment loss (derivative financial instruments) related to accrued investment income, which arose in periods prior to 2003. The impact had no effect on previously reported segment operating income and no material effect on previously reported net income.
CONSOLIDATED INVESTMENTS
Portfolio Description
The Company’s investment portfolio consists primarily of fixed maturity securities (bonds and redeemable preferred stocks) and commercial mortgage loans. The Company generally purchases its investments with the intent to hold to maturity by purchasing investments that match future cash flow needs. However, the Company may sell any of its investments to maintain proper matching of assets and liabilities. Accordingly, the Company has classified $15.2 billion of its fixed maturities and certain other securities as “available for sale.”
As of December 31, 2003, the Company consolidated a special-purpose entity, in accordance with FASB Interpretation No. 46, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities,” (“FIN 46”), whose investments are managed by the Company. These investments with a market value of $411.9 million and $417.3 million at December 31, 2005 and December 31, 2004, respectively, have been classified as “trading” securities by the Company. No realized or unrealized gains (losses) were recognized in 2005 or 2004 on the trading portion of the Company’s investments.
The Company’s investments in debt and equity securities are reported at market value, and investments in mortgage loans are reported at amortized cost. At December 31, 2005, the Company’s fixed maturity investments (bonds and redeemable preferred stocks) had a market value of $15.5 billion, which is 2.0% above amortized cost of $15.2 billion. The Company had $3.3 billion in mortgage loans at December 31, 2005. While the Company’s mortgage loans do not have quoted market values, at December 31, 2005, the Company estimates the market value of its mortgage loans to be $3.4 billion (using discounted cash flows from the next call date), which is 4.2% above amortized cost. Most of the Company’s mortgage loans have significant prepayment fees. These assets are invested for terms approximately corresponding to anticipated future benefit payments. Thus, market fluctuations are not expected to adversely affect liquidity.
At December 31, 2004, the Company’s fixed maturity investments had a market value of $14.4 billion, which was 5.1% above amortized cost of $13.7 billion. The Company estimated the market value of its mortgage loans to be $3.2 billion at December 31, 2004, which was 5.6% above amortized cost of $3.0 billion.
The following table shows the reported values of the Company's invested assets.
December 31 | |||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||
(in thousands) | |||||||||||||
Publicly issued bonds | $ | 13,665,615 | 66.8 | % | $ | 12,519,107 | 64.2 | % | |||||
Privately issued bonds | 1,804,263 | 8.8 | 1,889,905 | 9.7 | |||||||||
Redeemable preferred stock | 2,508 | 0.0 | 3,593 | 0.0 | |||||||||
Fixed maturities | 15,472,386 | 75.6 | 14,412,605 | 73.9 | |||||||||
Equity securities | 121,012 | 0.6 | 58,941 | 0.3 | |||||||||
Mortgage loans | 3,287,745 | 16.0 | 3,005,418 | 15.4 | |||||||||
Investment real estate | 72,932 | 0.4 | 107,246 | 0.5 | |||||||||
Policy loans | 458,825 | 2.2 | 482,780 | 2.5 | |||||||||
Other long-term investments | 279,676 | 1.4 | 377,724 | 1.9 | |||||||||
Short-term investments | 776,139 | 3.8 | 1,059,557 | 5.5 | |||||||||
Total investments | $ | 20,468,715 | 100.0 | % | $ | 19,504,271 | 100.0 | % |
Included in the table above are $408.4 million and $410.1 million of fixed maturities and $3.5 million and $7.2 million of short-term investments classified by the Company as trading securities in 2005 and 2004, respectively.
Market values for private, non-traded securities are determined as follows: 1) the Company obtains estimates from independent pricing services or 2) the Company estimates market value based upon a comparison to quoted issues of the same issuer or issues of other issuers with similar terms and risk characteristics. The market value of private, non-traded securities was $1.8 billion at December 31, 2005, representing 8.8% of the Company’s total invested assets.
The Company participates in securities lending, primarily as an investment yield enhancement, whereby securities that are held as investments are loaned to third parties for short periods of time. The Company requires collateral of 102% of the market value of the loaned securities to be separately maintained. The loaned securities’ market value is monitored, on a daily basis, with additional collateral obtained as necessary. At December 31, 2005, securities with a market value of $340.7 million were loaned under these agreements. As collateral for the loaned securities, the Company receives short-term investments, which are recorded in “short-term investments” with a corresponding liability recorded in “other liabilities” to account for the Company’s obligation to return the collateral.
Risk Management and Impairment Review
The Company monitors the overall credit quality of the Company’s portfolio within general guidelines. The following table shows the Company's available for sale fixed maturities by credit rating at December 31, 2005.
S&P or Equivalent Designation | Market Value | Percent of Market Value | |||||
(in thousands) | |||||||
AAA | $ | 6,567,577 | 43.6 | % | |||
AA | 552,815 | 3.7 | |||||
A | 2,310,991 | 15.3 | |||||
BBB | 4,546,362 | 30.2 | |||||
Investment grade | 13,977,745 | 92.8 | |||||
BB | 602,058 | 4.0 | |||||
B | 404,381 | 2.7 | |||||
CCC or lower | 16,683 | 0.1 | |||||
In or near default | 60,644 | 0.4 | |||||
Below investment grade | 1,083,766 | 7.2 | |||||
Redeemable preferred stock | 2,508 | 0.0 | |||||
Total | $ | 15,064,019 | 100.0 | % |
Not included in the table above are $387.3 million of investment grade and $21.0 million of less than investment grade fixed maturities classified by the Company as trading securities.
Limiting bond exposure to any creditor group is another way the Company manages credit risk. The following table summarizes the Company's ten largest fixed maturity exposures to an individual creditor group as of December 31, 2005.
Creditor | Market Value | |||
(in millions) | ||||
FPL Group | $ | 74.8 | ||
Union Pacific | 74.8 | |||
Dominion | 74.8 | |||
Kinder Morgan | 73.6 | |||
American Electric Power | 72.0 | |||
Comcast | 71.9 | |||
Entergy | 71.0 | |||
Progress Energy | 71.0 | |||
Alcan | 69.9 | |||
Bank of America | 69.1 |
The Company’s management considers a number of factors when determining the impairment status of individual securities. These include the economic condition of various industry segments and geographic locations and other areas of identified risks. Although it is possible for the impairment of one investment to affect other investments, the Company engages in ongoing risk management to safeguard against and limit any further risk to its investment portfolio. Special attention is given to correlative risks within specific industries, related parties, and business markets.
The Company generally considers a number of factors in determining whether the impairment is other than temporary. These include, but are not limited to: 1) actions taken by rating agencies, 2) default by the issuer, 3) the significance of the decline, 4) the intent and ability of the Company to hold the investment until recovery, 5) the time period during which the decline has occurred, 6) an economic analysis of the issuer’s industry, and 7) the financial strength, liquidity, and recoverability of the issuer. Management performs a security-by-security review each quarter in evaluating the need for any other-than-temporary impairments. Although no set formula is used in this process, the investment performance, collateral position, and continued viability of the issuer are significant measures considered.
The Company generally considers a number of factors relating to the issuer in determining the financial strength, liquidity, and recoverability of an issuer. These include but are not limited to: available collateral, tangible and intangible assets that might be available to repay debt, operating cash flows, financial ratios, access to capital markets, quality of management, market position, exposure to litigation or product warranties, and the effect of general economic conditions on the issuer. Once management has determined that a particular investment has suffered an other-than-temporary impairment, the asset is written down to its estimated fair value.
There are certain risks and uncertainties associated with determining whether declines in market values are other than temporary. These include significant changes in general economic conditions and business markets, trends in certain industry segments, interest rate fluctuations, rating agency actions, changes in significant accounting estimates and assumptions, commission of fraud, and legislative actions. The Company continuously monitors these factors as they relate to the investment portfolio in determining the status of each investment. Provided below are additional facts concerning the potential effect upon the Company’s earnings should circumstances lead management to conclude that some of the current declines in market value are other than temporary.
Unrealized Gains and Losses
The information presented below relates to investments at a certain point in time and is not necessarily indicative of the status of the portfolio at any time after December 31, 2005, the balance sheet date. Information about unrealized gains and losses is subject to rapidly changing conditions, including volatility of financial markets and changes in interest rates. As indicated above, the Company’s management considers a number of factors in determining if an unrealized loss is other-than-temporary, including its ability and intent to hold the security until recovery. Furthermore, since the timing of recognizing realized gains and losses is largely based on management’s decisions as to the timing and selection of investments to be sold, the tables and information provided below should be considered within the context of the overall unrealized gain (loss) position of the portfolio. At December 31, 2005, the Company had an overall pretax net unrealized gain of $307.3 million.
For traded and private fixed maturity and equity securities held by the Company that are in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2005, the estimated market value, amortized cost, unrealized loss, and total time period that the security has been in an unrealized loss position are presented in the table below.
Estimated Market Value | % Market Value | Amortized Cost | % Amortized Cost | Unrealized Loss | % Unrealized Loss | ||||||||||||||
(in thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||
<= 90 days | $ | 2,457,994 | 34.6 | % | $ | 2,485,778 | 34.2 | % | $ | (27,784 | ) | 16.2 | % | ||||||
>90 days but <= 180 days | 3,851,139 | 54.2 | 3,934,439 | 54.1 | (83,300 | ) | 48.6 | ||||||||||||
>180 days but <= 270 days | 154,789 | 2.2 | 160,595 | 2.2 | (5,806 | ) | 3.4 | ||||||||||||
>270 days but <= 1 year | 128,105 | 1.8 | 137,230 | 1.9 | (9,125 | ) | 5.3 | ||||||||||||
>1 year but <= 2 years | 353,269 | 5.0 | 375,171 | 5.1 | (21,902 | ) | 12.8 | ||||||||||||
>2 years but <= 3 years | 129,991 | 1.8 | 138,073 | 1.9 | (8,082 | ) | 4.7 | ||||||||||||
>3 years but <= 4 years | 267 | 0.0 | 302 | 0.0 | (35 | ) | 0.0 | ||||||||||||
>4 years but <= 5 years | 328 | 0.0 | 390 | 0.0 | (62 | ) | 0.0 | ||||||||||||
>5 years | 28,256 | 0.4 | 43,658 | 0.6 | (15,402 | ) | 9.0 | ||||||||||||
Total | $ | 7,104,138 | 100.0 | % | $ | 7,275,636 | 100.0 | % | $ | (171,498 | ) | 100.0 | % |
At December 31, 2005, securities with a market value of $31.2 million and $20.7 million of unrealized losses were issued in Company-sponsored commercial mortgage loan securitizations, including $14.8 million of unrealized losses greater than five years. The Company does not consider these unrealized positions to be other than temporary because the underlying mortgage loans continue to perform consistently with the Company’s original expectations.
The Company has no material concentrations of issuers or guarantors of fixed maturity securities. The industry segment composition of all securities in an unrealized loss position held by the Company at December 31, 2005, is presented in the following table.
Estimated Market Value | % Market Value | Amortized Cost | % Amortized Cost | Unrealized Loss | % Unrealized Loss | ||||||||||||||
(in thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||
Consumer Noncyclical | $ | 58,002 | 0.8 | % | $ | 59,824 | 0.8 | % | $ | (1,822 | ) | 1.1 | % | ||||||
Non-Agency Mortgages | 2,581,641 | 36.3 | 2,626,579 | 36.1 | (44,938 | ) | 26.2 | ||||||||||||
Banking | 308,318 | 4.4 | 312,750 | 4.3 | (4,432 | ) | 2.6 | ||||||||||||
Electric | 518,796 | 7.3 | 531,586 | 7.3 | (12,790 | ) | 7.5 | ||||||||||||
Other Finance | 62,945 | 0.9 | 71,070 | 1.0 | (8,125 | ) | 4.7 | ||||||||||||
Finance Companies | 121,530 | 1.7 | 130,122 | 1.8 | (8,592 | ) | 5.0 | ||||||||||||
Natural Gas | 260,491 | 3.7 | 267,092 | 3.7 | (6,601 | ) | 3.9 | ||||||||||||
Agency Mortgages | 2,046,421 | 28.8 | 2,084,742 | 28.6 | (38,321 | ) | 22.3 | ||||||||||||
Basic Industrial | 156,012 | 2.2 | 165,131 | 2.3 | (9,119 | ) | 5.3 | ||||||||||||
Transportation | 116,333 | 1.6 | 119,230 | 1.6 | (2,897 | ) | 1.7 | ||||||||||||
U.S. Government | 127,526 | 1.8 | 128,717 | 1.8 | (1,191 | ) | 0.7 | ||||||||||||
Communications | 195,233 | 2.7 | 208,121 | 2.8 | (12,888 | ) | 7.5 | ||||||||||||
Consumer Cyclical | 170,287 | 2.4 | 181,614 | 2.5 | (11,327 | ) | 6.6 | ||||||||||||
Brokerage | 69,319 | 1.0 | 70,146 | 1.0 | (827 | ) | 0.5 | ||||||||||||
Energy | 114,608 | 1.6 | 116,660 | 1.6 | (2,052 | ) | 1.2 | ||||||||||||
Capital Goods | 4,962 | 0.1 | 4,994 | 0.1 | (32 | ) | 0.0 | ||||||||||||
Insurance | 103,646 | 1.5 | 105,278 | 1.4 | (1,632 | ) | 1.0 | ||||||||||||
Municipal Agencies | 2,636 | 0.0 | 2,667 | 0.0 | (31 | ) | 0.0 | ||||||||||||
Other Industrial | 62,643 | 0.9 | 64,648 | 0.9 | (2,005 | ) | 1.2 | ||||||||||||
Technology | 17,616 | 0.2 | 19,394 | 0.3 | (1,778 | ) | 1.0 | ||||||||||||
Other Utility | 21 | 0.0 | 44 | 0.0 | (23 | ) | 0.0 | ||||||||||||
U.S. Govt. Agencies | 5,152 | 0.1 | 5,227 | 0.1 | (75 | ) | 0.0 | ||||||||||||
Total | $ | 7,104,138 | 100.0 | % | $ | 7,275,636 | 100.0 | % | $ | (171,498 | ) | 100.0 | % |
The range of maturity dates for securities in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2005 varies, with 5.2% maturing in less than 5 years, 18.6% maturing between 5 and 10 years, and 76.2% maturing after 10 years. The following table shows the credit rating of securities in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2005.
S&P or Equivalent Designation | Estimated Market Value | % Market Value | Amortized Cost | % Amortized Cost | Unrealized Loss | % Unrealized Loss | |||||||||||||
(in thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||
AAA/AA/A | $ | 5,299,958 | 74.6 | % | $ | 5,389,231 | 74.1 | % | $ | (89,273 | ) | 52.1 | % | ||||||
BBB | 1,473,593 | 20.7 | 1,519,566 | 20.9 | (45,973 | ) | 26.8 | ||||||||||||
Investment grade | 6,773,551 | 95.3 | 6,908,797 | 95.0 | (135,246 | ) | 78.9 | ||||||||||||
BB | 182,766 | 2.6 | 195,536 | 2.7 | (12,770 | ) | 7.4 | ||||||||||||
B | 122,185 | 1.7 | 131,667 | 1.8 | (9,482 | ) | 5.5 | ||||||||||||
CCC or lower | 25,636 | 0.4 | 39,636 | 0.5 | (14,000 | ) | 8.2 | ||||||||||||
Below investment grade | 330,587 | 4.7 | 366,839 | 5.0 | (36,252 | ) | 21.1 | ||||||||||||
Total | $ | 7,104,138 | 100.0 | % | $ | 7,275,636 | 100.0 | % | $ | (171,498 | ) | 100.0 | % |
At December 31, 2005, securities in an unrealized loss position that were rated as below investment grade represented 4.7% of the total market value and 21.1% of the total unrealized loss. Unrealized losses related to below investment grade securities that had been in an unrealized loss position for more than twelve months were $19.8 million. Securities in an unrealized loss position rated less than investment grade were 1.6% of invested assets. The Company generally purchases its investments with the intent to hold to maturity. The Company does not expect these investments to adversely affect its liquidity or ability to maintain proper matching of assets and liabilities.
The following table shows the estimated market value, amortized cost, unrealized loss, and total time period that the security has been in an unrealized loss position for all below investment grade securities.
Estimated Market Value | % Market Value | Amortized Cost | % Amortized Cost | Unrealized Loss | % Unrealized Loss | ||||||||||||||
(in thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||
<= 90 days | $ | 107,889 | 32.6 | % | $ | 110,667 | 30.2 | % | $ | (2,778 | ) | 7.7 | % | ||||||
>90 days but <= 180 days | 75,598 | 22.9 | 81,312 | 22.2 | (5,714 | ) | 15.8 | ||||||||||||
>180 days but <= 270 days | 19,081 | 5.8 | 20,000 | 5.4 | (919 | ) | 2.5 | ||||||||||||
>270 days but <= 1 year | 59,906 | 18.1 | 66,950 | 18.2 | (7,044 | ) | 19.4 | ||||||||||||
>1 year but <= 2 years | 42,655 | 12.9 | 47,989 | 13.1 | (5,334 | ) | 14.7 | ||||||||||||
>2 years but <= 3 years | 95 | 0.0 | 146 | 0.0 | (51 | ) | 0.1 | ||||||||||||
>3 years but <= 4 years | 170 | 0.1 | 192 | 0.1 | (22 | ) | 0.1 | ||||||||||||
>4 years but <= 5 years | 48 | 0.0 | 54 | 0.0 | (6 | ) | 0.0 | ||||||||||||
>5 years | 25,145 | 7.6 | 39,529 | 10.8 | (14,384 | ) | 39.7 | ||||||||||||
Total | $ | 330,587 | 100.0 | % | $ | 366,839 | 100.0 | % | $ | (36,252 | ) | 100.0 | % |
At December 31, 2005, below investment grade securities with a market value of $23.4 million and $13.8 million of unrealized losses were issued in Company-sponsored commercial mortgage loan securitizations, including securities in an unrealized loss position greater than five years with a market value of $23.3 million and $13.8 million of unrealized losses. The Company does not consider these unrealized positions to be other than temporary, because the underlying mortgage loans continue to perform consistently with the Company’s original expectations.
Realized Losses
Realized losses are comprised of both write-downs on other-than-temporary impairments and actual sales of investments. During the year ended December 31, 2005, the Company recorded pretax other-than-temporary impairments in its investments of $11.8 million as compared to $18.3 million in the year ended December 31, 2004.
As discussed earlier, the Company’s management considers several factors when determining other than temporary impairments. Although the Company generally intends to hold securities until maturity, the Company may change its position as a result of a change in circumstances. Any such decision is consistent with the Company’s classification of all but a specific portion of its investment portfolio as available for sale. During the year ended December 31, 2005, the Company sold securities in an unrealized loss position with a market value of $1,949.5 million resulting in a realized loss of $28.6 million. For such securities, the proceeds, realized loss and total time period that the security had been in an unrealized loss position are presented in the table below.
Proceeds | % Proceeds | Realized Loss | % Realized Loss | ||||||||||
(in thousands) | |||||||||||||
<= 90 days | $ | 1,454,434 | 74.6 | % | $ | (14,619 | ) | 51.1 | % | ||||
>90 days but <= 180 days | 220,330 | 11.3 | (5,807 | ) | 20.3 | ||||||||
>180 days but <= 270 days | 52,169 | 2.7 | (758 | ) | 2.6 | ||||||||
>270 days but <= 1 year | 119,362 | 6.1 | (3,374 | ) | 11.8 | ||||||||
>1 year | 103,159 | 5.3 | (4,079 | ) | 14.2 | ||||||||
Total | $ | 1,949,454 | 100.0 | % | $ | (28,637 | ) | 100.0 | % |
See Note 2 to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional details on the Company’s analysis of its investments.
Mortgage Loans
The Company records mortgage loans net of an allowance for credit losses. This allowance is calculated through analysis of specific loans that are believed to be at a higher risk of becoming impaired in the near future. At December 31, 2005, the Company’s allowance for mortgage loan credit losses was $6.8 million.
During the first quarter of 2005, Winn-Dixie Stores Inc. (“Winn-Dixie”), an anchor tenant in the Company’s mortgage loan portfolio, declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy. At December 31, 2005, the Company had 25 loans amounting to $66.3 million in loan balances in which Winn-Dixie was considered to be the anchor tenant for the underlying property (including 8 loans with balances of $14.3 million included in mortgage loan securitization trusts in which the Company holds retained beneficial interests). At December 31, 2005, the rents from Winn-Dixie represented approximately 49% of the total rents applicable to the properties underlying these loans (including approximately 68% of rents on loans in mortgage loan securitizations). On June 21, 2005, Winn-Dixie announced a reorganization plan that included selling or closing a number of stores that served as the anchor tenant for properties underlying loans in the Company's mortgage loan portfolio. At December 31, 2005, the Company’s mortgage loan portfolio included 16 properties with rejected leases under this reorganization plan. Within the 16 loans on these properties, the Company has identified four potential impairments, and the mortgage loan allowance for credit losses at December 31, 2005 included $4.8 million related to these loans. The Company will continue to actively monitor these loans and assess them for potential impairments as circumstances develop in the future.
During the third quarter of 2005, two major hurricanes caused a significant amount of property damage in the states of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Texas. The Company's mortgage loan portfolio includes 23 loans totaling $62.0 million in the areas impacted by these hurricanes. Of the underlying properties securing these 23 loans, only 3 (approximately $5.2 million in loan balances) sustained damage of any significance as a result of these storms. Repairs to these properties are underway, and should be complete by the end of the first quarter of 2006. The Company therefore has not identified any impairments on loans secured by properties in the hurricane impacted areas.
For several years the Company has offered a type of commercial mortgage loan under which the Company will permit a slightly higher loan-to-value ratio in exchange for a participating interest in the cash flows from the underlying real estate. As of December 31, 2005, approximately $434.9 million of the Company’s mortgage loans have this participation feature.
At December 31, 2005, delinquent mortgage loans and foreclosed properties were 0.1% of invested assets. The Company does not expect these investments to adversely affect its liquidity or ability to maintain proper matching of assets and liabilities.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Liquidity
The Company meets its liquidity requirements primarily through positive cash flows from its operating subsidiaries. Primary sources of cash from the operating subsidiaries are premiums, deposits for policyholder accounts, investment sales and maturities, and investment income. Primary uses of cash for the operating subsidiaries include benefit payments, withdrawals from policyholder accounts, investment purchases, policy acquisition costs, and other operating expenses.
While the Company generally anticipates that the cash flow of its operating subsidiaries will be sufficient to meet their investment commitments and operating cash needs, the Company recognizes that investment commitments scheduled to be funded may, from time to time, exceed the funds then available. Therefore, the Company has established repurchase agreement programs for certain of its insurance subsidiaries to provide liquidity when needed. The Company expects that the rate received on its investments will equal or exceed its borrowing rate. Additionally, the Company may, from time to time, sell short-duration stable value products to complement its cash management practices. The Company has also used securitization transactions involving its commercial mortgage loans to increase liquidity for the operating subsidiaries.
The Company’s positive cash flows from operations are used to fund an investment portfolio that provides for future benefit payments. The Company employs a formal asset/liability program to manage the cash flows of its investment portfolio relative to its long-term benefit obligations.
The life insurance subsidiaries were committed at December 31, 2005, to fund mortgage loans in the amount of $979.8 million. The Company’s subsidiaries held $850.1 million in cash and short-term investments at December 31, 2005. Protective Life Corporation had an additional $9.7 million in cash and short-term investments available for general corporate purposes.
Protective Life Corporation’s primary sources of cash are dividends from its operating subsidiaries; revenues from investment, data processing, legal, and management services rendered to subsidiaries; investment income; and external financing. These sources of cash support the general corporate needs of the holding company including its common stock dividends and debt service. The states in which the Company’s insurance subsidiaries are domiciled impose certain restrictions on the insurance subsidiaries’ ability to pay dividends to Protective Life Corporation. These restrictions are generally based in part on the prior year’s statutory income and surplus. Generally, these restrictions pose no short-term liquidity concerns for Protective Life Corporation. The Company plans to retain substantial portions of the earnings of its insurance subsidiaries in those companies primarily to support their future growth.
Capital Resources
To give the Company flexibility in connection with future acquisitions and other funding needs, the Company has registered debt securities, preferred and common stock, and stock purchase contracts of Protective Life Corporation, and additional preferred securities of special purpose finance subsidiaries under the Securities Act of 1933 on a delayed (or shelf) basis. In October 2004, the Company issued the remaining securities available under the existing shelf registration. In December 2004, the Company filed a new shelf registration for a total of $750 million in securities, which became effective in January 2005.
At December 31, 2005, the Company’s capital structure consisted of Medium-Term Notes, Senior Notes, Subordinated Debentures, and share-owners’ equity. The Company also has a $200 million revolving line of credit, under which it may borrow funds at an interest rate of LIBOR plus 0.30%, with balances due July 30, 2009. At December 31, 2005, $68.0 million was outstanding under this line of credit. No compensating balances are required to maintain the line of credit. The line of credit arrangement contains, among other provisions, requirements for maintaining certain financial ratios and restrictions on indebtedness incurred by the Company and its subsidiaries. Additionally, the line of credit arrangement precludes the Company, on a consolidated basis, from incurring debt in excess of 40% of its total capital. The Company was in compliance with all debt covenants as of December 31, 2005.
The Company’s Subordinated Debentures are held by wholly-owned subsidiary trusts that have issued Trust Originated Preferred Securities (TOPrS) to finance the purchase of such debentures. The principal obligations of the trusts are irrevocably guaranteed by the Company. As described in Note 1 to Consolidated Financial Statements, the subsidiary trusts are not consolidated and, therefore, the Company’s obligations with respect to the TOPrS are reported in the financial statements as “subordinated debt securities”.
On August 26, 2005, Golden Gate Captive Insurance Company (“Golden Gate”), a special purpose financial captive insurance company wholly owned by Protective Life Insurance Company (“Protective Life”), the Company's largest operating subsidiary, issued $100 million of non-recourse funding obligations, which bear a floating rate of interest and mature in 2037. These non-recourse funding obligations were issued under a surplus notes facility established with certain purchasers through which Golden Gate may issue up to an aggregate of $400 million of non-recourse funding obligations through June 2007. On December 28, 2005, Golden Gate issued an additional $25 million of non-recourse funding obligations under this facility. The non-recourse funding obligations are direct financial obligations of Golden Gate and are not guaranteed by Protective Life or the Company. The non-recourse obligations are represented by surplus notes that were issued to fund statutory reserves required by the Valuation of Life Insurance Policies Regulation (“Regulation XXX”). Under the terms of the notes, the holders of the notes cannot require repayment from the Company or any of the Company's subsidiaries, other than Golden Gate, the direct issuer of the notes, although the Company has agreed to indemnify Golden Gate for certain costs and obligations (which obligations do not include payment of principle and interest on the notes). In addition, the Company has entered into certain support agreements with Golden Gate obligating the Company to make capital contributions to Golden Gate or provide support related to certain of Golden Gate's expenses and in certain circumstances, to collateralize certain of the Company's obligations to Golden Gate.
On February 7, 2006, the Company signed a definitive agreement to acquire from JPMorgan Chase & Co. the stock of five life insurance companies that manufacture and distribute traditional life insurance and annuities (the “Chase Insurance Group”) and the stock of four related non-insurance companies for a cash purchase price of approximately $1.2 billion, which will be a combination of a cash payment from the Company and a return of capital. Immediately following the stock purchase and subject to regulatory and third party approval, the Company expects to reinsure up to approximately one-half of the business of the Chase Insurance Group through a series of indemnity reinsurance agreements. Additionally, the Company anticipates that 100% of the variable annuity business of the Chase Insurance Group will be reinsured. The Company estimates that its investment will be approximately $460 million, after giving effect to the reinsurance transactions and requested pre-closing dividends. The reinsurance transactions and dividends are subject to regulatory approvals, including regulatory approvals that must be obtained by one reinsurer group. The Company expects to obtain the additional funds to complete the transaction (including any funds that may be needed due to failure to obtain regulatory approvals of reinsurance agreements or dividends) through a combination of sources, which may include internal excess capital, capital contributions from proceeds of offerings of securities in the public or private capital markets, and funds available from its existing credit facilities. In addition, the Company has obtained a commitment for a $750 million bridge financing facility from a third party. The Company does not expect it will be necessary to use the bridge financing facility.
The Company’s total debt (consisting of long-term debt and subordinated debt securities) increased $31.1 million in 2005, compared to an increase of $93.2 million in 2004. Debt issuances of $68.0 million and $253.1 million in 2005 and 2004, respectively, are detailed below.
Description (scheduled original maturity) | Amount | Interest Rate | |||||
2005 | |||||||
Revolving line of credit | $ | 68,000 | LIBOR + .30 | % | |||
2004 | |||||||
Subordinated Debentures (30-year) | $ | 103,093 | 6.125 | % | |||
Senior Notes (10-year) | 150,000 | 4.875 |
Debt reductions totaled $36.9 million and $159.9 million, respectively, during 2005 and 2004, as shown below.
Description (scheduled original maturity) | Amount | Interest Rate | |||||
2005 | |||||||
Senior Notes (30-year) | $ | 34,699 | 8.25 | % | |||
Other, net | 2,202 | Various | |||||
2004 | |||||||
Senior Notes (16-year) | $ | 59,864 | 7.50 | % | |||
Senior Notes (10-year) | 75,000 | 7.95 | % | ||||
Revolving line of credit | 25,000 | LIBOR + .30 | % | ||||
Other, net | 32 | Various |
In May 2004, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized a $100 million share repurchase program, available through May 2, 2007. There has been no activity under this program, and future activity will be dependent upon many factors, including capital levels, rating agency expectations, and the relative attractiveness of alternative uses for capital.
A life insurance company’s statutory capital is computed according to rules prescribed by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”), as modified by state law. Generally speaking, other states in which a company does business defer to the interpretation of the domiciliary state with respect to NAIC rules, unless inconsistent with the other state's law. Statutory accounting rules are different from GAAP and are intended to reflect a more conservative view by, for example, requiring immediate expensing of policy acquisition costs. The NAIC’s risk-based capital requirements require insurance companies to calculate and report information under a risk-based capital formula. The achievement of long-term growth will require growth in the statutory capital of the Company’s insurance subsidiaries. The subsidiaries may secure additional statutory capital through various sources, such as retained statutory earnings or equity contributions by the Company.
Currently, the Company’s insurance subsidiaries have statutory surplus and risk-based capital levels well above regulatory required levels. At December 31, 2005, the primary insurance subsidiaries had the following insurer financial strength ratings:
Standard & Poor's | A.M. Best | Fitch | Moody’s | ||||||||||
Protective Life Insurance Company | AA | A+ | AA- | Aa3 | |||||||||
West Coast Life Insurance Company | AA | A+ | AA- | Aa3 | |||||||||
Empire General Life Assurance Corporation | AA | A+ | AA- | N/A | |||||||||
Protective Life and Annuity Insurance Company | AA | A+ | AA- | N/A | |||||||||
Lyndon Property Insurance Company | N/A | A- | N/A | N/A |
MARKET RISK EXPOSURES AND OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
The Company’s financial position and earnings are subject to various market risks including changes in interest rates, changes in the yield curve, changes in spreads between risk-adjusted and risk-free interest rates, changes in foreign currency rates, changes in used vehicle prices, and equity price risks. The Company analyzes and manages the risks arising from market exposures of financial instruments, as well as other risks, through an integrated asset/liability management process. The Company’s asset/liability management programs and procedures involve the monitoring of asset and liability durations for various product lines; cash flow testing under various interest rate scenarios; and the continuous rebalancing of assets and liabilities with respect to yield, risk, and cash flow characteristics. These programs also incorporate the use of derivative financial instruments primarily to reduce the Company’s exposure to interest rate risk, inflation risk, currency exchange risk, and equity market risk.
The primary focus of the Company’s asset/liability program is the management of interest rate risk within the insurance operations. This includes monitoring the duration of both investments and insurance liabilities to maintain an appropriate balance between risk and profitability for each product category, and for the Company as a whole. It is the Company’s policy to generally maintain asset and liability durations within one-half year of one another, although, from time to time, a broader interval may be allowed.
Derivative instruments that are currently used as part of the Company’s interest rate risk management strategy include interest rate swaps, interest rate futures, and interest rate options. The Company’s inflation risk management strategy involves the use of swaps that require the Company to pay a fixed rate and receive a floating rate that is based on changes in the Consumer Price Index (“CPI”). The Company uses foreign currency swaps to manage its exposure to changes in the value of foreign currency denominated stable value contracts. The Company also uses S&P 500® options to mitigate its exposure to the value of equity indexed annuity contracts.
The Company believes its asset/liability management programs and procedures and certain product features provide protection for the Company against the effects of changes in interest rates under various scenarios. Additionally, the Company believes its asset/liability management programs and procedures provide sufficient liquidity to enable it to fulfill its obligation to pay benefits under its various insurance and deposit contracts. However, the Company’s asset/liability management programs and procedures incorporate assumptions about the relationship between short-term and long-term interest rates (i.e., the slope of the yield curve), relationships between risk-adjusted and risk-free interest rates, market liquidity and other factors, and the effectiveness of the Company’s asset/liability management programs and procedures may be negatively affected whenever actual results differ from those assumptions.
The following table sets forth the estimated market values of the Company’s fixed maturity investments and mortgage loans resulting from a hypothetical immediate 1 percentage point increase in interest rates from levels prevailing at December 31, and the percent change in market value the following estimated market values would represent.
At December 31 | Amount | Percent Change | |||||
(in millions) | |||||||
2005 | |||||||
Fixed maturities | $ | 14,599.8 | (5.6 | )% | |||
Mortgage loans | 3,246.5 | (5.2 | ) | ||||
2004 | |||||||
Fixed maturities | $ | 13,576.7 | (5.8 | )% | |||
Mortgage loans | 3,021.3 | (4.8 | ) |
Estimated market values were derived from the durations of the Company’s fixed maturities and mortgage loans. Duration measures the relationship between changes in market value to changes in interest rates. While these estimated market values generally provide an indication of how sensitive the market values of the Company’s fixed maturities and mortgage loans are to changes in interest rates, they do not represent management’s view of future market changes, and actual market results may differ from these estimates.
In the ordinary course of its commercial mortgage lending operations, the Company will commit to provide a mortgage loan before the property to be mortgaged has been built or acquired. The mortgage loan commitment is a contractual obligation to fund a mortgage loan when called upon by the borrower. The commitment is not recognized in the Company’s financial statements until the commitment is actually funded. The mortgage loan commitment contains terms, including the rate of interest, which may be different than prevailing interest rates.
At December 31, 2005 and 2004, the Company had outstanding mortgage loan commitments of $979.8 million and $793.9 million, respectively, with estimated fair values of $1,020.0 million and $805.1 million, respectively (using discounted cash flows from the first call date). The following table sets forth the estimated fair value of the Company’s mortgage loan commitments resulting from a hypothetical immediate 1 percentage point increase in interest rate levels prevailing at December 31, and the percent change in fair value the following estimated fair values would represent.
At December 31 | Amount | Percent Change | |||||
(in millions) | |||||||
2005 | $ | 962.7 | (5.6 | )% | |||
2004 | 764.8 | (5.0 | ) |
The estimated fair values were derived from the durations of the Company’s outstanding mortgage loan commitments. While these estimated fair values generally provide an indication of how sensitive the fair value of the Company’s outstanding commitments are to changes in interest rates, they do not represent management’s view of future market changes, and actual market results may differ from these estimates.
As previously discussed, the Company utilizes a risk management strategy that involves the use of derivative financial instruments. Derivative instruments expose the Company to credit and market risk. The Company minimizes its credit risk by entering into transactions with highly rated counterparties. The Company manages the market risk associated with interest rate and foreign exchange contracts by establishing and monitoring limits as to the types and degrees of risk that may be undertaken.
At December 31, 2005, derivative contracts with a notional amount of $4.4 billion were in a $72.6 million net gain position. At December 31, 2004, derivative contracts with a notional amount of $4.1 billion were in a $190.1 million net gain position. The Company recognized $(30.9) million, $19.6 million, and $12.6 million of realized investment gains (losses) related to derivative financial instruments in 2005, 2004, and 2003, respectively.
The following table sets forth the December 31 notional amount and fair value of the Company’s interest rate risk related derivative financial instruments, and the estimated fair value resulting from a hypothetical immediate plus and minus one percentage point change in interest rates from levels prevailing at December 31.
Fair Value Resulting From an Immediate +/-1% Change in Interest Rates | |||||||||||||
Notional Amount | Fair Value at December 31 | +1% | -1% | ||||||||||
(in millions) | |||||||||||||
2005 | |||||||||||||
Options | |||||||||||||
Puts | $ | 1,575.0 | $ | 0.2 | $ | 34.2 | $ | 0.0 | |||||
Futures | 545.0 | (12.0 | ) | 50.1 | (83.4 | ) | |||||||
Fixed to floating | |||||||||||||
Swaps | 468.7 | (6.0 | ) | (28.1 | ) | 4.5 | |||||||
Floating to fixed | |||||||||||||
Swaps | 678.5 | (10.2 | ) | 18.5 | (40.9 | ) | |||||||
Floating to floating | |||||||||||||
Swaps | 800.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |||||||||
$ | 4,067.2 | $ | (28.0 | ) | $ | 74.7 | $ | (119.8 | ) | ||||
2004 | |||||||||||||
Options | |||||||||||||
Puts | $ | 1,190.0 | $ | 0.5 | $ | 18.3 | $ | 0.0 | |||||
Futures | 499.0 | (6.0 | ) | 47.8 | (57.4 | ) | |||||||
Fixed to floating | |||||||||||||
Swaps | 550.8 | 15.4 | (14.3 | ) | 33.1 | ||||||||
Floating to fixed | |||||||||||||
Swaps | 651.2 | (13.4 | ) | 10.1 | (38.7 | ) | |||||||
Floating to floating | |||||||||||||
Swaps | 800.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |||||||||
$ | 3,691.0 | $ | (3.5 | ) | $ | 61.9 | $ | (63.0 | ) |
The Company is also subject to foreign exchange risk arising from stable value contracts denominated in foreign currencies and related foreign currency swaps. At December 31, 2005, stable value contracts of $288.9 million had a foreign exchange loss of approximately $95.9 million and the related foreign currency swaps had a net unrealized gain of approximately $105.4 million. At December 31, 2004, stable value contracts of $389.5 million had a foreign exchange loss of approximately $180.2 million and the related foreign currency swaps had a net unrealized gain of approximately $196.0 million.
The following table sets forth the notional amount and fair value of the funding agreements and related foreign currency swaps at December 31, and the estimated fair value resulting from a hypothetical 10% change in quoted foreign currency exchange rates from levels prevailing at December 31.
Fair Value Resulting From an Immediate +/-10% Change in Foreign Currency Exchange Rates | |||||||||||||
Notional Amount | Fair Value at December 31 | +10% | -10% | ||||||||||
(in millions) | |||||||||||||
2005 | |||||||||||||
Stable Value Contracts | $ | 288.9 | $ | (95.9 | ) | $ | (134.4 | ) | $ | (57.5 | ) | ||
Foreign Currency Swap | 288.9 | 105.4 | 123.8 | 87.0 | |||||||||
$ | 577.8 | $ | 9.5 | $ | (10.6 | ) | $ | 29.5 | |||||
2004 | |||||||||||||
Stable Value Contracts | $ | 389.5 | $ | (180.2 | ) | $ | (237.1 | ) | $ | (123.2 | ) | ||
Foreign Currency Swap | 389.5 | 196.0 | 215.3 | 176.6 | |||||||||
$ | 779.0 | $ | 15.8 | $ | (21.8 | ) | $ | 53.4 |
Estimated gains and losses were derived using pricing models specific to derivative financial instruments. While these estimated gains and losses generally provide an indication of how sensitive the Company’s derivative financial instruments are to changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates, they do not represent management’s view of future market changes, and actual market results may differ from these estimates.
The Company’s stable value contract and annuity products tend to be more sensitive to market risks than the Company’s other products. As such, many of these products contain surrender charges and other features that reward persistency and penalize the early withdrawal of funds. Certain stable value and annuity contracts have market-value adjustments that protect the Company against investment losses if interest rates are higher at the time of surrender than at the time of issue.
At December 31, 2005, the Company had $6.1 billion of stable value product account balances with an estimated fair value of $6.0 billion (using discounted cash flows), and $3.4 billion of annuity account balances with an estimated fair value of $3.3 billion (using surrender values). At December 31, 2004, the Company had $5.6 billion of stable value product account balances with an estimated fair value of $5.6 billion (using discounted cash flows), and $3.5 billion of annuity account balances with an estimated fair value of $3.5 billion (using surrender values).
The following table sets forth the estimated fair values of the Company’s stable value and annuity account balances resulting from a hypothetical immediate 1 percentage point decrease in interest rates from levels prevailing at December 31 and the percent change in fair value the following estimated fair values would represent.
At December 31 | Amount | Percent Change | |||||
(in millions) | |||||||
2005 | |||||||
Stable value product account balances | $ | 6,130.4 | 2.1 | % | |||
Annuity account balances | 3,480.5 | 4.6 | |||||
2004 | |||||||
Stable value product account balances | $ | 5,723.8 | 2.4 | % | |||
Annuity account balances | 3,621.4 | 4.8 |
Estimated fair values were derived from the durations of the Company’s stable value and annuity account balances. While these estimated fair values generally provide an indication of how sensitive the fair values of the Company’s stable value and annuity account balances are to changes in interest rates, they do not represent management’s view of future market changes, and actual market results may differ from these estimates.
Approximately 10% of the Company’s liabilities relate to products (primarily whole life insurance), the profitability of which could be affected by changes in interest rates. The effect of such changes in any one year is not expected to be material.
The Company’s runoff residual value line of business exposes the Company to the risk of changes in used vehicle prices. Reserves for this business are established based upon assumptions regarding the level of used vehicle prices. The following table sets forth the estimated changes in the Company’s reserves resulting from hypothetical immediate decreases in the assumed levels of used vehicle prices from those used to value the reserves established at December 31, 2005.
Change in Used Vehicle Prices | ||||||||||||||||
-1.0% | -2.0% | -3.0% | -4.0% | -5.0% | ||||||||||||
(in millions) | ||||||||||||||||
Reserve Change | $ | 2.2 | $ | 4.7 | $ | 7.5 | $ | 10.5 | $ | 13.7 |
Contractual Obligations
The table below sets forth future maturities of debt, non-recourse funding obligations, subordinated debt securities, stable value products, notes payable, operating lease obligations, other property lease obligations, mortgage loan commitments, and liabilities related to variable interest entities.
2006 | 2007-2008 | 2009-2010 | After 2010 | ||||||||||
(in thousands) | |||||||||||||
Long-term debt(a) | $ | 68,000 | $ | 414,532 | |||||||||
Non-recourse funding obligations(b) | 125,000 | ||||||||||||
Subordinated debt securities(c) | 324,743 | ||||||||||||
Stable value products(d) | $ | 1,234,972 | $ | 2,746,329 | 909,184 | 1,167,238 | |||||||
Operating leases(e) | 5,406 | 8,702 | 6,528 | 4,695 | |||||||||
Home office lease(f) | 3,089 | 75,515 | |||||||||||
Mortgage loan commitments | 979,778 | ||||||||||||
Liabilities related to variable interest entities(g) | 6,555 | 36,106 | 196 | 405,236 | |||||||||
Policyholder obligations(h) | 952,994 | 1,922,870 | 1,542,296 | 9,444,936 | |||||||||
Defined benefit pension obligations(i) | 8,222 | ||||||||||||
(a) Long-term debt includes all principal amounts owed on note agreements, and does not include interest payments due over the term of the notes. (b) Non-recourse funding obligations include all principal amounts owed on note agreements, and does not include interest payments due over the term of the notes. (c) Subordinated debt securities includes all principal amounts owed to non-consolidated special purpose finance subsidiaries of the Company, and does not include interest payments due over the term of the obligations. (d) Anticipated stable value products cash flows, excluding interest not yet accrued. (e) Includes all lease payments required under operating lease agreements. (f) The lease payments shown assume the Company exercises its option to purchase the building at the end of the lease term. (g) Liabilities related to variable interest entities are not the legal obligations of the Company, but will be repaid with cash flows generated by the variable interest entities. The amounts represent scheduled principal payments. (h) Estimated contractual policyholder obligations are based on mortality, morbidity, and lapse assumptions comparable to the Company’s historical experience, modified for recent observed trends. These obligations are based on current balance sheet values and do not incorporate an expectation of future market growth, interest crediting, or future deposits. Due to the significance of the assumptions used, the amounts presented could materially differ from actual results. As separate account obligations are legally insulated from general account obligations, the separate account obligations will be fully funded by cash flows from separate account assets. The Company expects to fully fund the general account obligations from cash flows from general account investments. (i) Estimated 2006 contributions to the Company’s defined benefit pension plan and unfunded excess benefit plan approximate the projected expense to be recognized in 2006. Key assumptions used to estimate this obligation are included in Footnote 10 to Consolidated Financial Statements. Due to the significance of the assumptions used, this amount could differ from actual results. No estimate has been made of amounts to be contributed to these plans in years subsequent to 2006. |
RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
See Note 1 to Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding recently issued accounting standards.
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
A proposal to amend Actuarial Guideline 38 (promulgated by the NAIC and part of the codification of statutory accounting principles) has been approved by the NAIC, with an effective date of July 1, 2005. Actuarial Guideline 38, also known as AXXX, sets forth the reserve requirements for universal life insurance with secondary guarantees (“ULSG”). The changes to Actuarial Guideline 38 increase the reserve levels required for many ULSG products, and potentially make those products more expensive and less competitive as compared to other products including term and whole life products. The changes to Actuarial Guideline 38 affect only policies with an issue date of July 1, 2005 and later, and reduce the competitiveness and/or profitability of newly written ULSG products compared to traditional whole life or other high cash value insurance products or other products supported by relatively inexpensive capital (such as reinsurance of redundant reserves). To the extent that the additional reserves are generally considered to be economically redundant, capital market or other solutions may emerge to reduce the impact of the amendment. The ability of the Company to access such solutions may depend on factors such as the ratings of the Company, the size of the blocks of business affected, the mortality experience of the Company and other factors. The Company cannot predict when or if these solutions may become available to the Company or its competitors.
The financial services industry has recently become the focus of increased scrutiny by regulatory and law enforcement authorities relating to allegations of improper special payments, price-fixing, bid-rigging and other alleged misconduct, including payments made by insurers and other financial service providers to brokers and the practices surrounding the placement of insurance business and sales of other financial products, as well as practices related to finite reinsurance. Such publicity may generate litigation against financial service providers, even those who do not engage in the business lines or practices currently at issue. It is impossible to predict the outcome of these investigations or proceedings, whether they will expand into other areas not yet contemplated, whether they will result in changes in insurance regulation, whether activities currently thought to be lawful will be characterized as unlawful, or the impact, if any, of this increased regulatory and law enforcement scrutiny of the financial services industry on the Company. As these inquiries appear to encompass a large segment of our industry, it would not be unusual for large numbers of companies in the financial services industry to receive subpoenas, requests for information from regulatory authorities or other inquiries relating to these and similar matters. From time to time, the Company receives subpoenas, requests, or other inquires and responds to them in the ordinary course of business.
In the first quarter of 2005, the Company received a subpoena from the Attorney General of West Virginia for documents and other information relating to funding agreement-backed securities, special purpose vehicles, and related subjects. The Company understands that other U.S. based life insurers that participate in funding agreement backed note programs have received similar subpoenas. The Company has responded to the subpoena. The Company is not aware of any problems relating to its participation in funding agreement-backed note programs that would have a material adverse effect on its results of operations or financial condition.
The California Department of Insurance has promulgated proposed regulations that would characterize some life insurance agents as brokers and impose certain obligations on those agents that may conflict with the interests of insurance carriers or require the agent to, among other things, advise the client with respect to the best available insurer. The Company cannot predict the outcome of this regulatory proposal or whether any other state will propose or adopt similar actions.
In July 2005, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued an exposure draft of a proposed interpretation, “Accounting for Uncertain Tax Positions - an Interpretation of FASB Statement 109.” The draft contains proposed guidance on the recognition and measurement of uncertain tax positions. It also addresses the accrual of any interest and penalties related to tax uncertainties and the classification of liabilities resulting from tax uncertainties on the balance sheet. The final interpretation is expected to be issued in the first or second quarter of 2006, and is expected to be effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2006. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of this draft interpretation, but does not currently anticipate that its adoption would have a material impact on its financial position or results of operation.
In September 2005, the FASB issued a revised exposure draft of a proposed amendment to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 128, “Earnings per Share” (“FAS128”). The draft clarifies guidance for mandatorily convertible instruments, the treasury stock method, contingently issuable shares, and contracts that may be settled in cash or shares. This project was undertaken by the FASB as part of the international convergence project. The final Statement is expected to be issued in the first quarter of 2006, and would be effective for interim and annual periods ending after June 15, 2006. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of this exposure draft, but does not currently anticipate that its adoption would have a material impact on its earnings per share calculations.
IMPACT OF INFLATION
Inflation increases the need for life insurance. Many policyholders who once had adequate insurance programs may increase their life insurance coverage to provide the same relative financial benefit and protection. Higher interest rates may result in higher sales of certain of the Company’s investment products.
The higher interest rates that have traditionally accompanied inflation could also affect the Company’s operations. Policy loans increase as policy loan interest rates become relatively more attractive. As interest rates increase, disintermediation of stable value and annuity account balances and individual life policy cash values may increase. The market value of the Company’s fixed-rate, long-term investments may decrease, the Company may be unable to implement fully the interest rate reset and call provisions of its mortgage loans, and the Company’s ability to make attractive mortgage loans, including participating mortgage loans, may decrease. In addition, participating mortgage loan income may decrease. The difference between the interest rate earned on investments and the interest rate credited to life insurance and investment products may also be adversely affected by rising interest rates.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
The information required by this item is included in Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”.
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Index to Consolidated Financial Statements
The following financial statements are located in this report on the pages indicated.
Page |
Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended |
December 31, 2005, 2004, and 2003 |
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2005 and 2004 |
Consolidated Statements of Share-Owners' Equity |
for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004, and 2003 |
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows |
for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004, and 2003 |
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
For supplemental quarterly financial information, please see Note 13, “Consolidated Quarterly Results - Unaudited” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein.
PROTECTIVE LIFE CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) | ||||||||||
Revenues | ||||||||||
Premiums and policy fees | $ | 1,955,780 | $ | 1,821,094 | $ | 1,667,725 | ||||
Reinsurance ceded | (1,226,857 | ) | (1,125,646 | ) | (934,435 | ) | ||||
Net of reinsurance ceded | 728,923 | 695,448 | 733,290 | |||||||
Net investment income | 1,180,502 | 1,084,217 | 1,030,752 | |||||||
Realized investment gains (losses): | ||||||||||
Derivative financial instruments | (30,881 | ) | 19,591 | 12,550 | ||||||
All other investments | 49,393 | 28,305 | 58,064 | |||||||
Other income | 181,267 | 161,014 | 122,869 | |||||||
Total revenues | 2,109,204 | 1,988,575 | 1,957,525 | |||||||
Benefits and expenses | ||||||||||
Benefits and settlement expenses, net of reinsurance ceded: (2005 - $1,052,955; 2004 - $1,134,762; 2003 - $932,164) | 1,253,367 | 1,130,437 | 1,151,574 | |||||||
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs | 198,503 | 200,130 | 225,107 | |||||||
Other operating expenses, net of reinsurance ceded: | ||||||||||
(2005 - $193,193; 2004 - $169,421; 2003 - $144,921) | 280,321 | 272,807 | 255,432 | |||||||
Total benefits and expenses | 1,732,191 | 1,603,374 | 1,632,113 | |||||||
Income before income tax and cumulative effect of change in accounting principle | 377,013 | 385,201 | 325,412 | |||||||
Income tax expense | ||||||||||
Current | 22,000 | 126,163 | 64,513 | |||||||
Deferred | 108,446 | 8,657 | 43,849 | |||||||
Total income tax expense | 130,446 | 134,820 | 108,362 | |||||||
Net income before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle | 246,567 | 250,381 | 217,050 | |||||||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, net of income tax | 0 | (15,801 | ) | 0 | ||||||
Net income | $ | 246,567 | $ | 234,580 | $ | 217,050 | ||||
Net income before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle per share - basic | $ | 3.49 | $ | 3.56 | $ | 3.10 | ||||
Net income per share - basic | $ | 3.49 | $ | 3.34 | $ | 3.10 | ||||
Net income before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle per share - diluted | $ | 3.46 | $ | 3.52 | $ | 3.07 | ||||
Net income per share - diluted | $ | 3.46 | $ | 3.30 | $ | 3.07 | ||||
Cash dividends paid per share | $ | .76 | $ | .685 | $ | .63 |
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
PROTECTIVE LIFE CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31 | |||||||
2005 | 2004 | ||||||
(dollars in thousands) | |||||||
Assets | |||||||
Investments: | |||||||
Fixed maturities, at market (amortized cost: 2005 - $15,172,482; 2004 - $13,711,526) | $ | 15,472,386 | $ | 14,412,605 | |||
Equity securities, at market (cost: 2005 - $114,994; 2004 - $56,049) | 121,012 | 58,941 | |||||
Mortgage loans | 3,287,745 | 3,005,418 | |||||
Investment real estate, net of accumulated depreciation (2005 - $1,009; 2004 - $1,417) | 72,932 | 107,246 | |||||
Policy loans | 458,825 | 482,780 | |||||
Other long-term investments | 279,676 | 377,724 | |||||
Short-term investments | 776,139 | 1,059,557 | |||||
Total investments | 20,468,715 | 19,504,271 | |||||
Cash | 83,670 | 130,596 | |||||
Accrued investment income | 189,038 | 196,076 | |||||
Accounts and premiums receivable, net of allowance for uncollectible amounts (2005 - $2,149 2004 - $2,452) | 82,080 | 44,364 | |||||
Reinsurance receivables | 3,020,685 | 2,750,260 | |||||
Deferred policy acquisition costs | 2,171,988 | 1,821,972 | |||||
Goodwill | 49,423 | 46,619 | |||||
Property and equipment, net | 47,010 | 45,454 | |||||
Other assets | 140,124 | 145,813 | |||||
Income tax receivable | 85,807 | 0 | |||||
Assets related to separate accounts | |||||||
Variable annuity | 2,377,124 | 2,308,858 | |||||
Variable universal life | 251,329 | 217,095 | |||||
$ | 28,966,993 | $ | 27,211,378 |
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
PROTECTIVE LIFE CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(continued)
December 31 | |||||||
2005 | 2004 | ||||||
(dollars in thousands) | |||||||
Liabilities | |||||||
Policy liabilities and accruals | |||||||
Future policy benefits and claims | $ | 11,155,074 | $ | 10,014,106 | |||
Unearned premiums | 740,071 | 666,560 | |||||
Total policy liabilities and accruals | 11,895,145 | 10,680,666 | |||||
Stable value product account balances | 6,057,721 | 5,562,997 | |||||
Annuity account balances | 3,388,005 | 3,463,477 | |||||
Other policyholders’ funds | 147,921 | 151,660 | |||||
Other liabilities | 968,403 | 1,075,949 | |||||
Accrued income taxes | 0 | 13,195 | |||||
Deferred income taxes | 317,317 | 312,544 | |||||
Non-recourse funding obligations | 125,000 | 0 | |||||
Liabilities related to variable interest entities | 448,093 | 482,434 | |||||
Long-term debt | 482,532 | 451,433 | |||||
Subordinated debt securities | 324,743 | 324,743 | |||||
Liabilities related to separate accounts | |||||||
Variable annuity | 2,377,124 | 2,308,858 | |||||
Variable universal life | 251,329 | 217,095 | |||||
Total liabilities | 26,783,333 | 25,045,051 | |||||
Commitments and contingent liabilities - Note 5 | |||||||
Share-owners’ equity | |||||||
Preferred Stock, $1 par value | |||||||
Shares authorized: 4,000,000 | |||||||
Issued: none | |||||||
Common Stock, $.50 par value | |||||||
Shares authorized: 2005 and 2004 - 160,000,000 | |||||||
Issued: 2005 and 2004 - 73,251,960 | 36,626 | 36,626 | |||||
Additional paid-in capital | 440,475 | 426,927 | |||||
Treasury stock, at cost (2005 - 3,557,911 shares; 2004 - 3,802,071 shares) | (12,765 | ) | (13,632 | ) | |||
Unallocated stock in Employee Stock Ownership Plan (2005 - 480,356 shares; 2004 - 609,735 shares) | (1,610 | ) | (1,989 | ) | |||
Retained earnings | 1,615,714 | 1,422,084 | |||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income | |||||||
Net unrealized gains on investments | |||||||
net of income tax: (2005 - $57,649; 2004 - $154,913) | 104,489 | 287,695 | |||||
Accumulated gain - hedging net of income tax: (2005 - $394; 2004 - $4,639) | 731 | 8,616 | |||||
Total share-owners’ equity | 2,183,660 | 2,166,327 | |||||
$ | 28,966,993 | $ | 27,211,378 |
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
PROTECTIVE LIFE CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHARE-OWNERS’ EQUITY
Common Stock | Additional Paid-In Capital | Treasury Stock | Stock Held In Trust | Unallocated Stock in ESOP | Retained Earnings | Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Investments | Accumulated Gain/ (Loss) Hedging | Total Share- Owners’ Equity | ||||||||||||||||||||
(dollars in thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance, December 31, 2002 | $ | 36,626 | $ | 408,397 | $ | (16,402 | ) | $ | (2,417 | ) | $ | (2,777 | ) | $ | 1,061,361 | $ | 237,983 | $ | (2,069 | ) | $ | 1,720,702 | ||||||
Net income for 2003 | 217,050 | 217,050 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Change in net unrealized gains/losses on investments (net of income tax - $69,820) | 129,666 | 129,666 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Reclassification adjustment for amounts included in net income (net of income tax - $(20,322)) | (37,742 | ) | (37,742 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Change in accumulated gain (loss) hedging (net of income tax - $(2,556)) | 4,747 | 4,747 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Comprehensive income for 2003 | 313,721 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash dividends ($0.63 per share) | (43,399 | ) | (43,399 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Purchase of common stock | (371 | ) | (371 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | 9,195 | 1,009 | 10,204 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Reissuance of treasury stock to ESOP | 759 | 118 | (877 | ) | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Allocation of stock to employee accounts | 1,287 | 1,287 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance, December 31, 2003 | 36,626 | 418,351 | (15,275 | ) | (2,788 | ) | (2,367 | ) | 1,235,012 | 329,907 | 2,678 | 2,002,144 | ||||||||||||||||
Net income for 2004 | 234,580 | 234,580 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Change in net unrealized gains/losses on investments (net of income tax - $(12,823)) | (23,814 | ) | (23,814 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Reclassification adjustment for amounts included in net income (net of income tax - $(9,907)) | (18,398 | ) | (18,398 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Change in accumulated gain (loss) hedging (net of income tax - $(3,197)) | 5,938 | 5,938 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Comprehensive income for 2004 | 198,306 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash dividends ($0.685 per share) | (47,508 | ) | (47,508 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Sale of common stock | 2,788 | 2,788 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | 7,774 | 1,557 | 9,331 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Reissuance of treasury stock to ESOP | 802 | 86 | (888 | ) | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Allocation of stock to employee accounts | 1,266 | 1,266 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance, December 31, 2004 | 36,626 | 426,927 | (13,632 | ) | 0 | (1,989 | ) | 1,422,084 | 287,695 | 8,616 | 2,166,327 | |||||||||||||||||
Net income for 2005 | 246,567 | 246,567 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Change in net unrealized gains/losses on investments (net of income tax - $(81,853)) | (154,170 | ) | (154,170 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Reclassification adjustment for amounts included in net income (net of income tax - $(15,411)) | (29,036 | ) | (29,036 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Change in accumulated gain (loss) hedging (net of income tax - $(4,245)) | (7,885 | ) | (7,885 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Comprehensive income for 2005 | 55,476 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash dividends ($0.76 per share) | (52,937 | ) | (52,937 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | 11,433 | 673 | 12,106 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Reissuance of treasury stock to ESOP | 2,115 | 194 | (2,309 | ) | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Allocation of stock to employee accounts | 2,688 | 2,688 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance, December 31, 2005 | $ | 36,626 | $ | 440,475 | $ | (12,765 | ) | $ | 0 | $ | (1,610 | ) | $ | 1,615,714 | $ | 104,489 | $ | 731 | $ | 2,183,660 |
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
PROTECTIVE LIFE CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
(dollars in thousands) | ||||||||||
Cash flows from operating activities | ||||||||||
Net income | $ | 246,567 | $ | 234,580 | $ | 217,050 | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: | ||||||||||
Realized investment gains | (49,393 | ) | (47,896 | ) | (58,064 | ) | ||||
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs | 198,503 | 200,130 | 225,107 | |||||||
Capitalization of deferred policy acquisition costs | (439,469 | ) | (362,882 | ) | (381,120 | ) | ||||
Depreciation expense | 15,343 | 17,679 | 12,302 | |||||||
Deferred income taxes | 106,187 | (151 | ) | 43,849 | ||||||
Accrued income taxes | (98,617 | ) | 5,060 | (3,385 | ) | |||||
Interest credited to universal life and investment products | 726,301 | 649,216 | 647,695 | |||||||
Policy fees assessed on universal life and investment products | (421,447 | ) | (349,057 | ) | (324,773 | ) | ||||
Change in reinsurance receivables | (270,425 | ) | (399,654 | ) | 17,462 | |||||
Change in accrued investment income and other receivables | (30,678 | ) | 7,376 | 1,423 | ||||||
Change in policy liabilities and other policyholders’ funds of traditional life and health products | 915,477 | 813,018 | 500,871 | |||||||
Net change in trading securities | 5,426 | 1,231 | 0 | |||||||
Change in other liabilities | (15,329 | ) | (4,915 | ) | (187,892 | ) | ||||
Other, net | 31,909 | (16,557 | ) | 74,992 | ||||||
Net cash provided by operating activities | 920,355 | 747,178 | 785,517 | |||||||
Cash flows from investing activities | ||||||||||
Investments available for sale: | ||||||||||
Maturities and principal reductions of investments: | ||||||||||
Fixed maturities | 1,777,366 | 1,900,432 | 4,615,081 | |||||||
Equity securities | 377 | 147 | 3,299 | |||||||
Sale of investments | ||||||||||
Fixed maturities | 4,352,261 | 4,261,578 | 7,524,769 | |||||||
Equity securities | 12,397 | 1,050 | 15,172 | |||||||
Cost of investments acquired | ||||||||||
Fixed maturities | (7,521,876 | ) | (7,097,456 | ) | (13,164,233 | ) | ||||
Equity securities | (64,228 | ) | (11,682 | ) | (9,366 | ) | ||||
Mortgage loans: | ||||||||||
New borrowings | (745,797 | ) | (719,510 | ) | (620,867 | ) | ||||
Repayments | 448,514 | 443,363 | 405,299 | |||||||
Change in investment real estate, net | 50,425 | 441 | 2,585 | |||||||
Change in policy loans, net | 23,955 | 19,968 | 40,413 | |||||||
Change in other long-term investments, net | (12,729 | ) | 11,899 | (26,760 | ) | |||||
Change in short-term investments, net | 84,570 | (324,414 | ) | 258,442 | ||||||
Purchase of property and equipment | (11,545 | ) | (16,788 | ) | (16,618 | ) | ||||
Net cash used in investing activities | (1,606,310 | ) | (1,530,972 | ) | (972,784 | ) | ||||
Cash flows from financing activities | ||||||||||
Borrowings under line of credit arrangements and long-term debt | 79,100 | 407,400 | 442,700 | |||||||
Principal payments on line of credit arrangements and long-term debt | (48,001 | ) | (417,296 | ) | (387,480 | ) | ||||
Payments on liabilities related to variable interest entities | (34,341 | ) | 0 | 0 | ||||||
Issuance of non-recourse funding obligations | 125,000 | 0 | 0 | |||||||
Dividends to share owners | (52,936 | ) | (47,508 | ) | (43,399 | ) | ||||
Issuance of subordinated debt securities | 0 | 103,093 | 0 | |||||||
Purchase of common stock held in trust | 0 | 0 | (371 | ) | ||||||
Investment product deposits and change in universal life deposits | 2,943,455 | 3,042,453 | 2,721,579 | |||||||
Investment product withdrawals | (2,447,323 | ) | (2,318,674 | ) | (2,511,017 | ) | ||||
Other financing activities, net | 74,075 | 8,224 | 0 | |||||||
Net cash provided by financing activities | 639,029 | 777,692 | 222,012 | |||||||
Change in cash | (46,926 | ) | (6,102 | ) | 34,745 | |||||
Cash at beginning of year | 130,596 | 136,698 | 101,953 | |||||||
Cash at end of year | $ | 83,670 | $ | 130,596 | $ | 136,698 |
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
PROTECTIVE LIFE CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All dollar amounts in tables are in thousands except per share amounts)
1. | Significant Accounting Policies |
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements of Protective Life Corporation and subsidiaries (the Company) are prepared on the basis of accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). Such accounting principles differ from statutory reporting practices used by insurance companies in reporting to state regulatory authorities (see also Note 8).
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, in particular deferred policy acquisition costs (“DAC”), valuation of business acquired, investments, future policy benefits, provision for income taxes, disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Entities Included
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts, after intercompany eliminations, of Protective Life Corporation and its wholly owned subsidiaries. The Company’s financial statements also include the accounts of certain variable interest entities which are not subsidiaries of the Company but are required to be consolidated under GAAP.
Nature of Operations
Protective Life Corporation is a holding company whose subsidiaries provide financial services through the production, distribution, and administration of insurance and investment products. The Company markets individual life insurance, credit life and disability insurance, guaranteed investment contracts, guaranteed funding agreements, fixed and variable annuities, and extended service contracts throughout the United States. The Company also maintains a separate division devoted to the acquisition of insurance policies from other companies. Founded in 1907, Protective Life Insurance Company (“Protective Life”) is the Company’s largest operating subsidiary.
The operating results of companies in the insurance industry have historically been subject to significant fluctuations due to changing competition, economic conditions, interest rates, investment performance, insurance ratings, claims, persistency, and other factors.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards
In January 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued FASB Interpretation No. 46, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities,” (“FIN 46”), which was revised in December 2003. FIN 46 clarifies the application of Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51, “Consolidated Financial Statements,” to certain entities in which equity investors do not have the characteristics of a controlling financial interest or do not have sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated support from other parties. The Company consolidated, as of March 31, 2004, two real estate investment companies that the Company had previously been reported as investments. The entities were consolidated based on the determination that the Company was the primary beneficiary. The consolidation resulted in the Company’s reported assets and liabilities increasing by $76.2 million with an immaterial impact on results of operations.
In July 2003, the Accounting Standards Executive Committee of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (“AcSEC”) issued Statement of Position 03-1 “Accounting and Reporting by Insurance Enterprises for Certain Nontraditional Long-Duration Contracts and for Separate Accounts” (“SOP 03-1”). SOP 03-1 provides guidance related to the establishment of reserves for benefit guarantees provided under certain long-duration contracts, as well as the accounting for mortality benefits provided in certain universal life products. In addition, it addresses the capitalization and amortization of sales inducements to contract holders. The SOP was effective January 1, 2004 and was adopted through an adjustment for the cumulative effect of change in accounting principle amounting to $15.8 million (net of $8.5 income tax).
The Company issues variable universal life and variable annuity products through its separate accounts for which the investment risk is borne by the contract holder. The Company also offers, for its variable annuity products, various account value guarantees upon death. The most significant of these guarantees involve (a) return of the highest anniversary date account value, or (b) return of the greater of the highest anniversary date account value or the last anniversary date account value compounded at 5% interest. The guaranteed minimum death benefit (“GMDB”) reserve is calculated by applying a benefit ratio, equal to the present value of total expected GMDB claims divided by the present value of total expected contract assessments, to cumulative contract assessments. This amount is then adjusted by the amount of cumulative GMDB claims paid and accrued interest. Assumptions used in the calculation of the GMDB reserve were as follows: mean investment performance of 8.5%, mortality at 65% of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners 1994 Variable Annuity GMDB Mortality Table, lapse rates ranging from 2%-20% (depending on product type and duration), and an average discount rate of 6.5%. Changes in the GMDB reserve are included in benefits and settlement expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.
The variable annuity separate account balances subject to GMDB were $2.4 billion at December 31, 2005. The total guaranteed amount payable based on variable annuity account balances at December 31, 2005, was $169.0 million (including $142.2 million in the Annuities segment and $26.8 million in the Acquisitions segment), with a GMDB reserve of $2.4 million (including $2.0 million in the Annuities segment and $0.4 million in the Acquisitions segment). The average attained age of contract holders at December 31, 2005 was 65.
Activity relating to GMDB reserves for the years ended December 31 was as follows:
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
Incurred claims | $ | 184 | $ | 3,179 | $ | 6,416 | ||||
Paid claims | 2,767 | 4,054 | 7,170 |
Account balances of variable annuities with guarantees invested in variable annuity separate accounts as of December 31 were as follows:
2005 | 2004 | ||||||
Equity mutual funds | $ | 2,151,288 | $ | 2,089,744 | |||
Fixed income mutual funds | 225,836 | 219,114 | |||||
Total | $ | 2,377,124 | $ | 2,308,858 |
Certain of the Company’s universal life products have a sales inducement in the form of a retroactive interest credit (“RIC”). In addition, certain variable annuity contracts provide a sales inducement in the form of a bonus interest credit. In accordance with SOP 03-1, the Company maintains a reserve for all interest credits earned to date. The Company defers the expense associated with the RIC and bonus interest credits each period and amortizes these costs in a manner similar to that used for DAC.
Activity in the Company’s deferred sales inducement asset for the years ended December 31 was as follows:
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
Deferred asset, beginning of period | $ | 28,618 | $ | 27,713 | $ | 31,557 | ||||
Amounts deferred | 17,182 | 12,597 | 14,041 | |||||||
Amortization | (6,489 | ) | (11,692 | ) | (17,885 | ) | ||||
Deferred asset, end of period | $ | 39,311 | $ | 28,618 | $ | 27,713 |
In December 2004, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123(R), “Share-Based Payment” (“FAS 123(R)”). FAS 123(R) is a revision of FAS 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” which was originally issued by the FASB in 1995. FAS 123(R) will become effective for the Company January 1, 2006. As originally issued, FAS 123 provided companies with the option to either record expense for share-based payments under a fair value model, or to simply disclose the impact of the expense. FAS 123(R) requires companies to measure the cost of share-based payments to employees using a fair value model, and to recognize that cost over the relevant service period. In addition, FAS 123(R) requires that an estimate of future award forfeitures be made at the grant date, while FAS 123 permitted recognition of forfeitures on an as incurred basis. When FAS 123 was originally issued, the Company elected to recognize the cost of its share-based compensation plans in its financial statements. The Company does not anticipate that adoption of this standard will have a material impact on its financial position or results of operations.
In May 2005, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 154, “Accounting Changes and Error Corrections” (“FAS 154”). FAS 154 replaces APB opinion No. 20, “Accounting Changes” and FASB Statement No. 3, “Reporting Accounting Changes in Interim Financial Statements.” FAS 154 requires that a voluntary change in accounting principle be applied retrospectively with all prior period financial statements presented on the new accounting principle, unless it is impracticable to do so. FAS 154 also provides that a correction of errors in previously issued financial statements should be termed a “restatement.” The new standard is effective for accounting changes and correction of errors beginning January 1, 2006.
In September 2005, AcSEC issued SOP 05-1, “Accounting by Insurance Enterprises for Deferred Acquisition Costs in Connection with Modifications or Exchanges of Insurance Contracts.” This SOP provides guidance on accounting by insurance enterprises for DAC on internal replacements of insurance and investment contracts other than those specifically described in Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 97, “Accounting and Reporting by Insurance Enterprises for Certain Long-Duration Contracts and for Realized Gains and Losses from the Sale of Investments” (“FAS97”). The SOP defines an internal replacement as a modification in product benefits, features, rights, or coverages that occurs by the exchange of a contract for a new contract, or by amendment, endorsement, or rider to a contract, or by the election of a feature or coverage within a contract. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of SOP 05-1, which is effective for internal replacements occurring in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006.
Investments
Investments are reported on the following bases:
· | Fixed maturities (bonds and redeemable preferred stocks) - at current market value. Where market values are unavailable, the Company obtains estimates from independent pricing services or estimates market value based upon a comparison to quoted issues of the same issuer or issues of other issuers with similar terms and risk characteristics. |
· | Equity securities (common and nonredeemable preferred stocks) - at current market value. |
· | Mortgage loans - at unpaid balances, adjusted for loan origination costs, net of fees, and amortization of premium or discount. Mortgage loans are also recorded net of an allowance for credit losses. This allowance is calculated through analysis of specific loans that are believed to be at a higher risk of becoming impaired in the near future. |
· | Investment real estate - at cost, less allowances for depreciation computed on the straight-line method. With respect to real estate acquired through foreclosure, cost is the lesser of the loan balance plus foreclosure costs or appraised value. |
· | Policy loans - at unpaid balances. |
· | Other long-term investments - at a variety of methods similar to those listed above, as deemed appropriate for the specific investment. |
· | Short-term investments - at amortized cost, which approximates current market value, except collateral from securities lending which is recorded at current market value. |
Estimated market values were derived from the durations of the Company’s fixed maturities and mortgage loans. Duration measures the relationship between changes in market value to changes in interest rates. While these estimated market values generally provide an indication of how sensitive the market values of the Company’s fixed maturities and mortgage loans are to changes in interest rates, they do not represent management’s view of future market changes, and actual market results may differ from these estimates.
Substantially all short-term investments have maturities of three months or less at the time of acquisition and include approximately $0.2 million in bank deposits voluntarily restricted as to withdrawal.
The market values of fixed maturities change due to interest rate changes, credit related events, and other factors. As prescribed by GAAP, investments deemed as “available for sale” are recorded at their market values with the resulting unrealized gains and losses reduced by a related adjustment to DAC, net of income tax, reported as a component of share-owners’ equity. Furthermore, investments deemed as trading securities by the Company are recorded at their market values with any resulting unrealized gains and losses reported in net investment income.
Investment securities are regularly reviewed for impairment. Unrealized losses that are deemed to be other than temporary are recognized in realized gains (losses). See Note 2 for further discussion of the Company’s policies regarding identification of other-than-temporary impairments. Realized gains and losses on sales of investments are recognized in net income using the specific identification basis.
Derivative Financial Instruments
The Company utilizes a risk management strategy that incorporates the use of derivative financial instruments to reduce its exposure to interest rate risk, inflation risk, currency exchange risk, and equity market risk. The Company monitors its use of derivatives in connection with its overall asset/liability management programs and strategies. These strategies are developed through the asset/liability committee’s analysis of data from financial simulation models and other internal and industry sources and are then incorporated into the Company’s risk management program.
Derivative instruments that are currently used as part of the Company’s interest rate risk management strategy include interest rate swaps, interest rate futures, and interest rate options. The Company’s inflation risk management strategy involves the use of swaps that require the Company to pay a fixed rate and receive a floating rate that is based on changes in the Consumer Price Index (“CPI”). The Company uses foreign currency swaps to manage its exposure to changes in the value of foreign currency denominated stable value contracts and related cash flows. The company also uses S&P 500® options to mitigate its exposure to the value of equity indexed annuity contracts.
Derivative instruments expose the Company to credit and market risk. The Company minimizes its credit risk by entering into transactions with highly rated counterparties. The Company also maintains netting and collateral support arrangements with its counterparties to further minimize the credit risk associated with its derivative instruments. The Company manages the market risk associated with interest rate and foreign exchange contracts by establishing and monitoring limits as to the types and degrees of risk that may be undertaken.
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133 (“FAS 133”) requires that all derivative instruments be recognized in the balance sheet at fair value. The Company records its derivative instruments on the balance sheet in “other long-term investments” and “other liabilities”. The accounting for changes in fair value of a derivative instrument depends on whether it has been designated and qualifies as part of a hedging relationship and further, on the type of hedging relationship. For those derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as hedging instruments, a company must designate the hedging instrument, based upon the exposure being hedged, as a fair value hedge, cash flow hedge or a hedge related to foreign currency exposure. For derivatives that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the gain or loss realized on the derivative instrument is reported as a component of other comprehensive income and reclassified into earnings in the same period during which the hedged transaction impacts earnings. The remaining gain or loss on these derivatives is recognized as ineffectiveness in current earnings during the period of the change. For derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges, the gain or loss on the derivative instrument as well as the offsetting loss or gain on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are recognized in current earnings during the period of change in fair values. Effectiveness of the Company’s hedge relationships is assessed on a quarterly basis. The Company accounts for changes in fair values of derivatives that are not part of a qualifying hedge relationship through earnings in the period of change. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are recognized in current earnings are reported in “realized investment gains (losses) - derivative financial instruments”.
Cash-Flow Hedges. The Company has entered into a foreign currency swap to hedge the risk of changes in the value of interest and principal payments to be made on certain foreign-currency-based stable value contracts. Under the terms of the swap, the Company pays a fixed U.S.-dollar-denominated rate and receives a fixed foreign-currency-denominated rate. Effective July 1, 2002, the Company designated this swap as a cash flow hedge and therefore recorded the change in the fair value of the swap during the period in accumulated other comprehensive income. Gains and losses on this swap are reclassified from other comprehensive income to current earnings as payments are made on the hedged stable value contract. In connection with the issuance of inflation adjusted funding agreements, the Company has entered into swaps to convert the floating CPI-linked interest rate on the contracts to a fixed rate. The Company pays a fixed rate on the swap and receives a floating rate equal to the CPI change paid on the funding agreements. Gains and losses on these swaps are reclassified from other comprehensive income to current earnings as interest payments are made on the funding agreements. For the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003, the amount of hedge ineffectiveness reported in income was a $0.2 million gain, $1.0 million gain, a $0.3 million gain, respectively. Additionally, as of December 31, 2005 and 2004, the Company reported an after-tax decrease to accumulated other comprehensive income of $7.9 million and an increase of $5.9 million, respectively, related to its cash flow hedges. During 2006, the Company expects to reclassify $1.7 million out of accumulated other comprehensive income and into earnings.
Other Derivatives. The Company also uses various other derivative instruments for risk management purposes that either do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment or have not currently been qualified by the Company for hedge accounting treatment. Changes in the fair value of these derivatives are recognized in earnings during the period of change.
The Company uses interest rate swaps to convert the fixed interest rate payments on certain of its debt obligations to a floating rate. Interest is exchanged periodically on the notional value, with the Company receiving the fixed rate and paying various LIBOR-based rates. In 2005, 2004, and 2003, the Company recognized pre-tax gains of $1.7 million, $17.6 million, and $1.4 million, respectively, representing the change in value of these derivatives and related net settlements.
The Company uses certain foreign currency swaps, which are not designated as cash flow hedges, to mitigate its exposure to changes in currency rates. For 2005, 2004, and 2003, the Company recorded a pre-tax loss of $33.3 million, a pre-tax gain of $0.3 million, and a pre-tax gain of $2.6 million on these swaps, respectively. In connection with these swaps, the Company also recognized a $33.4 million pre-tax gain, a $0.1 million pre-tax loss, and a $1.9 million pre-tax loss, respectively, during 2005, 2004, and 2003 as the change in value of the related foreign currency denominated stable value contracts. These net gains or losses primarily result from differences in the forward and spot exchange rates used to revalue the swaps and the stable value contracts.
The Company also uses short positions in interest rate futures to mitigate the interest rate risk associated with the Company’s mortgage loan commitments. During 2005, 2004, and 2003, the Company recognized a pre-tax loss of $10.3 million, a pre-tax loss of $1.7 million, and a pre-tax loss of $4.7 million, respectively, as a result of changes in value of these futures positions.
The Company uses other interest rate swaps and options to manage the interest rate risk in the Company’s mortgage-backed security portfolio. For 2005, 2004, and 2003, the Company recognized a pre-tax loss of $14.0 million, a pre-tax loss of $0.5 million, and a pre-tax loss of $6.1 million, respectively, for the change in fair value of these derivatives.
During 2005, the Company exited from asset swap arrangements that would, in effect, sell the equity options embedded in owned convertible bonds in exchange for an interest rate swap that converts the remaining host bond to a variable rate instrument. In 2005, 2004, and 2003, the Company recognized a $0.6 million gain, an immaterial loss, and a $3.0 million gain, respectively, for the change in the asset swaps’ fair value and recognized a $0.3 million gain, a $4.0 million gain, and a $0.1 million gain, respectively, to separately record the embedded equity options at fair value.
The Company has also entered into a total return swap in connection with a portfolio of investment securities managed by the Company for an unrelated party. The Company recognized a $0.7 million pre-tax loss, a $0.7 million pre-tax loss, and a $2.9 million pre-tax gain in 2005, 2004, and 2003, respectively, for the change in the total return swap’s fair value.
During 2005, debt securities with embedded options, which are considered to be derivative instruments under FAS 133, matured. In addition, the Company is involved in various modified coinsurance and funds withheld arrangements which, in accordance with DIG B36, contain embedded derivatives. The change in fair value of these derivatives resulted in the recognition of a $1.0 million pre-tax loss, a $0.3 million pre-tax loss, and a $5.6 million pre-tax gain in 2005, 2004, and 2003, respectively.
In 2005, the Company began marketing equity indexed annuities. Under FAS 133, the equity market component, where interest credited to the contracts is linked to the performance of the S&P 500® index, is considered an embedded derivative. The change in fair value of the embedded derivative resulted in a $0.6 million pre-tax loss in 2005. The Company utilizes S&P 500® options to mitigate the risk associated with equity indexed annuity contracts. The Company recognized a $0.2 million pre-tax gain on its S&P 500® options in 2005.
Cash
Cash includes all demand deposits reduced by the amount of outstanding checks and drafts. The Company has deposits with certain financial institutions which exceed federally insured limits. The Company has reviewed the creditworthiness of these financial institutions and believes there is minimal risk of a material loss.
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs
Commissions and other costs of acquiring traditional life and health insurance, credit insurance, universal life insurance, and investment products that vary with and are primarily related to the production of new business, have been deferred. Traditional life and health insurance acquisition costs are amortized over the premium-payment period of the related policies in proportion to the ratio of annual premium income to the present value of the total anticipated premium income. Credit insurance acquisition costs are being amortized in proportion to earned premium. Acquisition costs for universal life and investment products are amortized over the lives of the policies in relation to the present value of estimated gross profits before amortization.
Under FAS No. 97, the Company makes certain assumptions regarding the mortality, persistency, expenses, and interest rates (equal to the rate used to compute liabilities for future policy benefits, currently 2.3% to 13.0%) it expects to experience in future periods. These assumptions are to be best estimates and are periodically updated whenever actual experience and/or expectations for the future change from that assumed. Additionally, relating to FAS No. 115, these costs have been adjusted by an amount equal to the amortization that would have been recorded if unrealized gains or losses on investments associated with the Company’s universal life and investment products had been realized. Acquisition costs for stable value contracts are amortized over the term of the contracts using the effective yield method.
The cost to acquire blocks of insurance, representing the present value of future profits from such blocks of insurance, is also included in DAC. The Company amortizes the present value of future profits over the premium payment period, including accrued interest of up to approximately 8%. The unamortized present value of future profits for all acquisitions was approximately $436.5 million and $468.0 million at December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively. During 2005, no present value of profits was capitalized and $31.6 million was amortized. During 2004, no present value of profits was capitalized and $34.2 million was amortized.
The expected amortization of the present value of future profits for the next five years is as follows:
Year | Expected Amortization | |||
2006 | $ | 30,019 | ||
2007 | 28,557 | |||
2008 | 27,063 | |||
2009 | 25,215 | |||
2010 | 24,483 |
Goodwill
The goodwill balance was $49.4 million at December 31, 2005 and $46.6 million at December 31, 2004. The $2.8 million increase in the goodwill balance in 2005 relates to the purchase of a small subsidiary by the Asset Protection segment.
The Company evaluates the carrying value of goodwill during the fourth quarter of each year and between annual evaluations if events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the reporting unit below its carrying amount. Such circumstances could include, but are not limited to: (1) a significant adverse change in legal factors or in business climate, (2) unanticipated competition, or (3) an adverse action or assessment by a regulator. When evaluating whether goodwill is impaired, the Company compares the fair value of the reporting unit to which the goodwill is assigned to the reporting unit’s carrying amount, including goodwill. At October 31, 2005 and 2004, the Company evaluated its goodwill and determined that fair value had not decreased below carrying value and no adjustment to impair goodwill was necessary in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142, “Goodwill and Other intangible Assets” (“FAS 142”).
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are reported at cost less accumulated depreciation. The Company primarily uses the straight-line method of depreciation based upon the estimated useful lives of the assets. The Company’s Home Office building is depreciated over a thirty-nine year useful life, furniture is depreciated over a ten year useful life, office equipment and machines are depreciated over a five year useful life, and software and computers are depreciated over a three year useful life. Major repairs or improvements are capitalized and depreciated over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Other repairs are expensed as incurred. The cost and related accumulated depreciation of property and equipment sold or retired are removed from the accounts, and resulting gains or losses are included in income.
Property and equipment consisted of the following at December 31:
2005 | 2004 | ||||||
Home Office building | $ | 56,334 | $ | 50,156 | |||
Data processing equipment | 41,947 | 39,527 | |||||
Other, principally furniture and equipment | 52,074 | 48,786 | |||||
150,355 | 138,469 | ||||||
Accumulated depreciation | 103,345 | 93,015 | |||||
$ | 47,010 | $ | 45,454 |
Separate Accounts
The assets and liabilities related to separate accounts in which the Company does not bear the investment risk are valued at market and reported separately as assets and liabilities related to separate accounts in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. Amounts assessed against policy account balances for the costs of insurance, policy administration, and other services are included in premiums and policy fees in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.
Stable Value Product Account Balances
The Company markets guaranteed investment contracts (“GICs”) to 401(k) and other qualified retirement savings plans, and fixed and floating rate funding agreements to the trustees of municipal bond proceeds, institutional investors, bank trust departments, and money market funds. Through its registered funding agreement-backed note program, the Company is able to offer secured notes to both institutional and retail investors. GICs are generally contracts that specify a return on deposits for a specified period and often provide flexibility for withdrawals at book value in keeping with the benefits provided by the plan. Stable value product account balances include GICs and funding agreements issued by the Company as well as the obligations of consolidated special purpose trusts or entities formed to purchase funding agreements issued by the Company. At December 31, 2005 and 2004, the Company had $4.5 billion and $3.9 billion, respectively, of stable value product account balances marketed through structured programs. Most GICs and funding agreements written by the Company have maturities of three to ten years. At December 31, 2005, future maturities of stable value products were $1.2 billion in 2006, $2.7 billion in 2007-2008, $0.9 billion in 2009-2010, and $1.2 billion after 2010.
Revenues and Benefits Expense
Traditional Life, Health, and Credit Insurance Products:
Traditional life insurance products consist principally of those products with fixed and guaranteed premiums and benefits, and they include whole life insurance policies, term and term-like life insurance policies, limited payment life insurance policies, and certain annuities with life contingencies. Life insurance premiums are recognized as revenue when due. Health and credit insurance premiums are recognized as revenue over the terms of the policies. Benefits and expenses are associated with earned premiums so that profits are recognized over the life of the contracts. This is accomplished by means of the provision for liabilities for future policy benefits and the amortization of DAC. Gross premiums in excess of net premiums related to immediate annuities are deferred and recognized over the life of the policy.
Liabilities for future policy benefits on traditional life insurance products have been computed using a net level method including assumptions as to investment yields, mortality, persistency, and other assumptions based on the Company’s experience, modified as necessary to reflect anticipated trends and to include provisions for possible adverse deviation. Reserve investment yield assumptions on December 31, 2005 range from approximately 5.0% to 7.0%. The liability for future policy benefits and claims on traditional life, health, and credit insurance products includes estimated unpaid claims that have been reported to the Company and claims incurred but not yet reported. Policy claims are charged to expense in the period in which the claims are incurred.
Activity in the liability for unpaid claims for life and health insurance is summarized as follows:
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
Balance beginning of year | $ | 135,015 | $ | 121,832 | $ | 116,214 | ||||
Less reinsurance | 66,788 | 55,395 | 54,765 | |||||||
Net balance beginning of year | 68,227 | 66,437 | 61,449 | |||||||
Incurred related to: Current year | 258,138 | 256,754 | 266,676 | |||||||
Prior year | (2,247 | ) | (30 | ) | (1,783 | ) | ||||
Total incurred | 255,891 | 256,724 | 264,893 | |||||||
Paid related to: Current year | 208,832 | 210,943 | 261,311 | |||||||
Prior year | 42,837 | 43,991 | (1,406 | ) | ||||||
Total paid | 251,669 | 254,934 | 259,905 | |||||||
Net balance end of year | 72,449 | 68,227 | 66,437 | |||||||
Plus reinsurance | 61,655 | 66,788 | 55,395 | |||||||
Balance end of year | $ | 134,104 | $ | 135,015 | $ | 121,832 |
Universal Life and Investment Products:
Universal life and investment products include universal life insurance, guaranteed investment contracts, guaranteed funding agreements, deferred annuities, and annuities without life contingencies. Premiums and policy fees for universal life and investment products consist of fees that have been assessed against policy account balances for the costs of insurance, policy administration, and surrenders. Such fees are recognized when assessed and earned. Benefit reserves for universal life and investment products represent policy account balances before applicable surrender charges plus certain deferred policy initiation fees that are recognized in income over the term of the policies. Policy benefits and claims that are charged to expense include benefit claims incurred in the period in excess of related policy account balances and interest credited to policy account balances. Interest rates credited to universal life products ranged from 3.0% to 12.6% and investment products ranged from 2.3% to 13.0% in 2005.
The Company’s accounting policies with respect to variable universal life and variable annuities are identical except that policy account balances (excluding account balances that earn a fixed rate) are valued at market and reported as components of assets and liabilities related to separate accounts.
Property and Casualty Insurance Products:
Property and casualty insurance products include service contract business, surety bonds, residual value insurance, guaranteed asset protection (“GAP”), credit-related coverages, and inventory protection products. Premiums for service contracts and GAP products are recognized based on expected claim patterns. For all other products, premiums are generally recognized over the terms of the contract on a pro-rata basis. Fee income from providing administrative services is recognized as earned when the related services are performed. Unearned premium reserves are maintained for the portion of the premiums that is related to the unexpired period of the policy. Benefit reserves are recorded when insured events occur. Benefit reserves include case basis reserves for known but unpaid claims as of the balance sheet date as well as incurred but not reported (“IBNR”) reserves for claims where the insured event has occurred but has not been reported to the Company as of the balance sheet date. The case basis reserves and IBNR are calculated based on historical experience and on assumptions relating to claim severity and frequency, the level of used vehicle prices, and other factors. These assumptions are modified as necessary to reflect anticipated trends.
Income Taxes
The Company uses the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Income tax provisions are generally based on income reported for financial statement purposes. Deferred federal income taxes arise from the recognition of temporary differences between the basis of assets and liabilities determined for financial reporting purposes and the basis determined for income tax purposes. Such temporary differences are principally related to the marking to market value of investment assets, the deferral of policy acquisition costs, and the provision for future policy benefits and expenses.
Net Income Per Share
Net income per share - basic is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period, including shares issuable under various deferred compensation plans. Net income per share - diluted is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares and dilutive potential common shares outstanding during the period, including shares issuable under various stock-based compensation plans and stock purchase contracts.
A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted net income per share is presented below:
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
Calculation of basic earnings per share: | ||||||||||
Income before cumulative effect of change in accounting | $ | 246,567 | $ | 250,381 | $ | 217,050 | ||||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle | 0 | (15,801 | ) | 0 | ||||||
Net income | $ | 246,567 | $ | 234,580 | $ | 217,050 | ||||
Average shares issued and outstanding | 69,632,489 | 69,358,641 | 68,886,442 | |||||||
Stock held in trust | 0 | (60,478 | ) | (102,412 | ) | |||||
Issuable under various deferred compensation plans | 929,697 | 1,001,307 | 1,249,258 | |||||||
Weighted shares outstanding - Basic | 70,562,186 | 70,299,470 | 70,033,288 | |||||||
Per share: | ||||||||||
Income before cumulative effect of change in accounting | $ | 3.49 | $ | 3.56 | $ | 3.10 | ||||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle | 0.00 | (0.22 | ) | 0.00 | ||||||
Basic earnings per share | $ | 3.49 | $ | 3.34 | $ | 3.10 | ||||
Calculation of diluted earnings per share: | ||||||||||
Income before cumulative effect of change in accounting | $ | 246,567 | $ | 250,381 | $ | 217,050 | ||||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle | 0 | (15,801 | ) | 0 | ||||||
Net income | $ | 246,567 | $ | 234,580 | $ | 217,050 | ||||
Weighted shares outstanding - Basic | 70,562,185 | 70,299,470 | 70,033,288 | |||||||
Stock held in trust | 0 | 60,478 | 102,412 | |||||||
Stock appreciation rights (“SARs”)(a) | 304,779 | 313,984 | 248,289 | |||||||
Issuable under various other stock-based compensation plans | 483,577 | 390,607 | 260,653 | |||||||
Weighted shares outstanding - Diluted | 71,350,541 | 71,064,539 | 70,644,642 | |||||||
Per share: | ||||||||||
Income before cumulative effect of change in accounting | $ | 3.46 | $ | 3.52 | $ | 3.07 | ||||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle | 0.00 | (0.22 | ) | 0.00 | ||||||
Diluted earnings per share | $ | 3.46 | $ | 3.30 | $ | 3.07 | ||||
(a) Excludes 119,400, 0, and 617,500 SARs as of December 31, 2005, 2004, and 2003, respectively, that are antidilutive. In the event the average market price exceeds the issue price of the SARs, such rights would be dilutive to the Company’s earnings per share and will be included in the Company’s calculation of the diluted average shares outstanding. |
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
The following table sets forth supplemental cash flow information for the years ended December 31:
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
Cash paid during the year: | ||||||||||
Interest on debt | $ | 57,191 | $ | 49,107 | $ | 45,341 | ||||
Income taxes | 116,897 | 117,240 | 66,082 | |||||||
Noncash investing and financing activities: | ||||||||||
Reissuance of treasury stock to ESOP | 2,309 | 888 | 877 | |||||||
Change in unallocated stock in ESOP | 379 | 378 | 410 | |||||||
Stock-based compensation | 12,106 | 9,331 | 10,204 | |||||||
Change in collateral for securities lending transactions | (195,175 | ) | 214,824 | 83,456 |
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made in the previously reported financial statements and accompanying notes to make the prior year amounts comparable to those of the current year. Such reclassifications had no effect on previously reported net income or share-owners’ equity.
2. | Investment Operations |
Major categories of net investment income for the years ended December 31 are summarized as follows:
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
Fixed maturities | $ | 902,548 | $ | 822,081 | $ | 743,934 | ||||
Equity securities | 4,688 | 2,684 | 2,321 | |||||||
Mortgage loans | 257,914 | 232,577 | 208,983 | |||||||
Investment real estate | 2,371 | 1,622 | 3,478 | |||||||
Short-term investments and other | 60,052 | 55,573 | 91,795 | |||||||
1,227,573 | 1,114,537 | 1,050,511 | ||||||||
Investment expenses | 47,071 | 30,320 | 19,759 | |||||||
$ | 1,180,502 | $ | 1,084,217 | $ | 1,030,752 |
Realized investment gains (losses) for all other investments for the years ended December 31 are summarized as follows:
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
Fixed maturities | $ | 44,248 | $ | 29,015 | $ | 57,756 | ||||
Equity securities | 204 | 58 | (1,727 | ) | ||||||
Mortgage loans and other investments | 4,941 | (768 | ) | 2,035 | ||||||
$ | 49,393 | $ | 28,305 | $ | 58,064 |
In 2005, gross gains on investments available for sale (fixed maturities, equity securities, and short-term investments) were $84.9 million, and gross losses were $40.4 million. In 2004, gross gains on investments available for sale were $54.8 million, and gross losses were $25.7 million. In 2003, gross gains were $84.9 million, and gross losses were $28.9 million.
The amortized cost and estimated market value of the Company’s investments classified as available for sale at December 31 are as follows:
Amortized Cost | Gross Unrealized Gains | Gross Unrealized Losses | Estimated Market Value | ||||||||||
2005 Fixed maturities: Bonds: | |||||||||||||
Mortgage-backed securities | $ | 5,912,602 | $ | 36,394 | $ | (90,722 | ) | $ | 5,858,274 | ||||
United States Government and authorities | 686,793 | 5,773 | (1,267 | ) | 691,299 | ||||||||
States, municipalities, and political subdivisions | 47,887 | 2,314 | (38 | ) | 50,163 | ||||||||
Public utilities | 1,622,987 | 88,316 | (11,816 | ) | 1,699,487 | ||||||||
Convertibles and bonds with warrants | 231 | 0 | (63 | ) | 168 | ||||||||
All other corporate bonds | 6,489,639 | 339,604 | (67,123 | ) | 6,762,120 | ||||||||
Redeemable preferred stocks | 2,647 | 0 | (139 | ) | 2,508 | ||||||||
14,762,786 | 472,401 | (171,168 | ) | 15,064,019 | |||||||||
Equity securities | 114,993 | 6,349 | (330 | ) | 121,012 | ||||||||
Short-term investments | 772,639 | 0 | 0 | 772,639 | |||||||||
$ | 15,650,418 | $ | 478,750 | $ | (171,498 | ) | $ | 15,957,670 | |||||
2004 Fixed maturities: Bonds: | |||||||||||||
Mortgage-backed securities | $ | 4,812,610 | $ | 110,269 | $ | (22,997 | ) | $ | 4,899,882 | ||||
United States Government and authorities | 79,225 | 7,042 | (267 | ) | 86,000 | ||||||||
States, municipalities, and political subdivisions | 27,915 | 2,488 | 0 | 30,403 | |||||||||
Public utilities | 1,605,276 | 122,636 | (4,759 | ) | 1,723,153 | ||||||||
Convertibles and bonds with warrants | 10,439 | 597 | (89 | ) | 10,947 | ||||||||
All other corporate bonds | 6,766,424 | 505,220 | (23,120 | ) | 7,248,524 | ||||||||
Redeemable preferred stocks | 3,406 | 187 | 0 | 3,593 | |||||||||
13,305,295 | 748,439 | (51,232 | ) | 14,002,502 | |||||||||
Equity securities | 56,049 | 3,491 | (599 | ) | 58,941 | ||||||||
Short-term investments | 1,052,357 | 0 | 0 | 1,052,357 | |||||||||
$ | 14,413,701 | $ | 751,930 | $ | (51,831 | ) | $ | 15,113,800 |
At December 31, 2005 and 2004, the Company had an additional $408.4 million and $410.1 million, respectively, of fixed maturities and $3.5 million and $7.2 million, respectively, of short-term investments classified as trading securities.
The amortized cost and estimated market value of available for sale fixed maturities at December 31, 2005, by expected maturity, are shown as follows. Expected maturities are derived from rates of prepayment that may differ from actual rates of prepayment.
Estimated Amortized Cost | Estimated Market Value | ||||||
Due in one year or less | $ | 250,061 | $ | 252,555 | |||
Due after one year through five years | 2,908,093 | 2,906,147 | |||||
Due after five years through ten years | 4,876,006 | 4,942,159 | |||||
Due after ten years | 6,728,625 | 6,963,158 | |||||
$ | 14,762,785 | $ | 15,064,019 |
Each quarter the Company reviews investments with unrealized losses and tests for other-than-temporary impairments. The Company analyzes various factors to determine if any specific other-than-temporary asset impairments exist. These include, but are not limited to: 1) actions taken by rating agencies, 2) default by the issuer, 3) the significance of the decline, 4) the intent and ability of the Company to hold the investment until recovery, 5) the time period during which the decline has occurred, 6) an economic analysis of the issuer’s industry, and 7) the financial strength, liquidity, and recoverability of the issuer. Management performs a security by security review each quarter in evaluating the need for any other-than-temporary impairments. Although no set formula is used in this process, the investment performance and continued viability of the issuer are significant measures considered. Once a determination has been made that a specific other-than-temporary impairment exists, a realized loss is incurred and the cost basis of the impaired asset is adjusted to its fair value. During 2005, 2004, and 2003, the Company recorded other-than-temporary impairments in its investments of $11.8 million, $18.3 million, and $22.3 million, respectively.
The following table shows the Company’s investments’ gross unrealized losses and fair value, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at December 31, 2005.
Less Than 12 Months | 12 Months or More | Total | |||||||||||||||||
Market Value | Unrealized Loss | Market Value | Unrealized Loss | Market Value | Unrealized Loss | ||||||||||||||
Mortgage-backed securities | $ | 4,576,492 | $ | (71,530 | ) | $ | 88,264 | $ | (19,196 | ) | $ | 4,664,756 | $ | (90,726 | ) | ||||
US government | 109,188 | (439 | ) | 23,587 | (828 | ) | 132,775 | (1,267 | ) | ||||||||||
State, municipalities, etc. | 3,168 | (38 | ) | 0 | 0 | 3,168 | (38 | ) | |||||||||||
Public utilities | 362,202 | (7,131 | ) | 75,972 | (4,685 | ) | 438,174 | (11,816 | ) | ||||||||||
Convertible bonds | 0 | 0 | 167 | (63 | ) | 167 | (63 | ) | |||||||||||
Other corporate bonds | 1,537,310 | (46,646 | ) | 323,241 | (20,475 | ) | 1,860,551 | (67,121 | ) | ||||||||||
Equities | 3,667 | (232 | ) | 880 | (235 | ) | 4,547 | (467 | ) | ||||||||||
$ | 6,592,027 | $ | (126,016 | ) | $ | 512,111 | $ | (45,482 | ) | $ | 7,104,138 | $ | (171,498 | ) |
For mortgage-backed securities in an unrealized loss position for greater than 12 months, $17.5 million of the $19.2 million unrealized loss relates to securities issued in Company-sponsored commercial loan securitizations. The Company does not consider these unrealized loss positions to be other than temporary, because the underlying mortgage loans continue to perform consistently with the Company’s original expectations.
The public utilities category has gross unrealized losses greater than 12 months of $4.7 million, while the other corporate bonds category has gross unrealized losses greater than 12 months of $20.5 million at December 31, 2005. The aggregate decline in market value of these securities was deemed temporary due to positive factors supporting the recoverability of the respective investments. Positive factors considered included credit ratings, the financial health of the investee, the continued access of the investee to capital markets, and other pertinent information including the Company’s ability and intent to hold these securities to recovery.
The following table shows the Company’s investments’ gross unrealized losses and fair value, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at December 31, 2004.
Less Than 12 Months | 12 Months or More | Total | |||||||||||||||||
Market Value | Unrealized Loss | Market Value | Unrealized Loss | Market Value | Unrealized Loss | ||||||||||||||
Mortgage-backed securities | $ | 1,005,036 | $ | (18,075 | ) | $ | 21,120 | $ | (4,922 | ) | $ | 1,026,156 | $ | (22,997 | ) | ||||
US government | 22,545 | (187 | ) | 2,162 | (80 | ) | 24,707 | (267 | ) | ||||||||||
State, municipalities, etc. | 72 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 72 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Public utilities | 99,112 | (787 | ) | 97,405 | (3,972 | ) | 196,517 | (4,759 | ) | ||||||||||
Convertible bonds | 0 | 0 | 184 | (89 | ) | 184 | (89 | ) | |||||||||||
Other corporate bonds | 681,747 | (12,799 | ) | 226,548 | (10,321 | ) | 908,295 | (23,120 | ) | ||||||||||
Equities | 2,687 | (281 | ) | 1,793 | (318 | ) | 4,480 | (599 | ) | ||||||||||
$ | 1,811,199 | $ | (32,129 | ) | $ | 349,212 | $ | (19,702 | ) | $ | 2,160,411 | $ | (51,831 | ) |
At December 31, 2005 and 2004, the Company had bonds which were rated less than investment grade of $1,083.8 million and $966.0 million, respectively, having an amortized cost of $1,091.5 million and $933.4 million, respectively. Not included in these less than investment grade bonds at December 31, 2005 and 2004, are $21.0 million and $11.2 million of trading securities. At December 31, 2005, approximately $61.6 million of the bonds rated less than investment grade were securities issued in Company-sponsored commercial mortgage loan securitizations. Approximately $1,804.3 million of bonds are not publicly traded.
The change in unrealized gains (losses), net of income tax, on fixed maturity and equity securities, classified as available for sale, for the years ended December 31 is summarized as follows:
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | |||||||||||
Fixed maturities | $ | (257,383 | ) | $ | 54,931 | $110,499 | |||||||
Equity securities | 2,032 | 1,001 | 2,372 |
The Company participates in securities lending, primarily as an investment yield enhancement, whereby securities that are held as investments are loaned to third parties for short periods of time. The Company requires collateral of 102% of the market value of the loaned securities to be separately maintained. The loaned securities’ market value is monitored, on a daily basis, with additional collateral obtained as necessary. At December 31, 2005, securities with a market value of $340.7 million were loaned under these agreements. As collateral for the loaned securities, the Company receives short-term investments, which are recorded in “short-term investments” with a corresponding liability recorded in “other liabilities” to account for the Company’s obligation to return the collateral.
At December 31, 2005, all of the Company’s mortgage loans were commercial loans of which 68% were retail, 12% were apartments, 10% were office buildings, 8% were warehouses, and 2% were other. The Company specializes in making mortgage loans on either credit-oriented or credit-anchored commercial properties. No single tenant’s leased space represents more than 2.3% of mortgage loans. Approximately 70% of the mortgage loans are on properties located in the following states listed in decreasing order of significance: Texas, Tennessee, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, North Carolina, Utah, Florida, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Ohio, and California. At December 31, 2005, the average mortgage loan was $2.4 million, and the weighted average interest rate was 6.7%. The largest single mortgage loan was $22.8 million.
Many of the mortgage loans have call provisions between 3 and 10 years. Assuming the loans are called at their next call dates, approximately $93.5 million would become due in 2006, $485.4 million in 2007 through 2010, $707.6 million in 2011 through 2015, and $172.2 million thereafter.
For several years the Company has offered a type of commercial mortgage loan under which the Company will permit a slightly higher loan-to-value ratio in exchange for a participating interest in the cash flows from the underlying real estate. As of December 31, 2005 and 2004, approximately $434.9 million and $439.8 million, respectively, of the Company’s mortgage loans have this participation feature.
At December 31, 2005 and 2004, the Company’s problem mortgage loans (over sixty days past due) and foreclosed properties totaled $22.3 million and $10.8 million, respectively. Since the Company’s mortgage loans are collateralized by real estate, any assessment of impairment is based upon the estimated fair value of the real estate. At December 31, 2005 and 2004, the Company had an allowance for mortgage loan credit losses of $6.8 million and $3.3 million, respectively. This allowance is calculated through analysis of specific loans that are believed to be at a higher risk of becoming impaired in the near future.
During the first quarter of 2005, Winn-Dixie Stores Inc. (“Winn-Dixie”), an anchor tenant in the Company’s mortgage loan portfolio, declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy. At December 31, 2005, the Company had 25 loans amounting to $66.3 million in loan balances in which Winn-Dixie was considered to be the anchor tenant for the underlying property (including 8 loans with balances of $14.3 million included in mortgage loan securitization trusts in which the Company holds retained beneficial interests). At December 31, 2005, the rents from Winn-Dixie represented approximately 49% of the total rents applicable to the properties underlying these loans (including approximately 68% of rents on loans in mortgage loan securitizations). On June 21, 2005, Winn-Dixie announced a reorganization plan that included selling or closing a number of stores that served as the anchor tenant for properties underlying loans in the Company's mortgage loan portfolio. At December 31, 2005, the Company’s mortgage loan portfolio included 16 properties with rejected leases under this reorganization plan. Within the 16 loans on these properties, the Company has identified four potential impairments, and the mortgage loan allowance for credit losses at December 31, 2005 included $4.8 million related to these loans. The Company will continue to actively monitor these loans and assess them for potential impairments as circumstances develop in the future.
Certain investments, consisting of fixed maturities, equities, and investment real estate, with a carrying value of $6.4 million were non-income producing for the twelve months ended December 31, 2005.
During the third quarter of 2005, two major hurricanes caused a significant amount of property damage in the states of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Texas. The Company's mortgage loan portfolio includes 23 loans totaling $62.0 million in the areas impacted by these hurricanes. Of the underlying properties securing these 23 loans, only 3 (approximately $5.2 million in loan balances) sustained damage of any significance as a result of these storms. Repairs to these properties are underway, and should be complete by the end of the first quarter of 2006. The Company therefore has not identified any impairments on loans secured by properties in the hurricane impacted areas.
At December 31, 2005 and 2004, the Company had investments related to retained beneficial interests of mortgage loan securitizations of $225.6 million and $265.1 million, respectively.
Policy loan interest rates generally range from 3.0% to 12.0%.
3. | Income Taxes |
The Company’s effective income tax rate related to continuing operations varied from the maximum federal income tax rate as follows:
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
Statutory federal income tax rate applied to pretax income | 35.0 | % | 35.0 | % | 35.0 | % | ||||
State income taxes | 1.1 | 0.7 | 0.2 | |||||||
Dividends received deduction and tax-exempt income | (1.8 | ) | (1.5 | ) | (1.5 | ) | ||||
Low-income housing credit | 0.0 | 0.0 | (0.3 | ) | ||||||
Other | 0.3 | 0.8 | (0.1 | ) | ||||||
34.6 | % | 35.0 | % | 33.3 | % |
The provision for federal income tax differs from amounts currently payable due to certain items reported for financial statement purposes in periods which differ from those in which they are reported for income tax purposes.
The components of the Company’s income tax expense for the years ended December 31 are as follows:
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
Taxes estimated to be payable currently: | ||||||||||
Federal | $ | 19,040 | $ | 122,309 | $ | 62,602 | ||||
State | 2,960 | 3,854 | 1,911 | |||||||
Total current | $ | 22,000 | $ | 126,163 | $ | 64,513 | ||||
Taxes deferred: | ||||||||||
Federal | $ | 106,198 | $ | 149 | $ | 43,849 | ||||
State | 2,248 | 0 | 0 | |||||||
Total deferred | $ | 108,446 | $ | 149 | $ | 43,849 |
During the year ended December 31, 2004 the Company adopted SOP 03-1 and recognized a deferred tax benefit of approximately $8,508.
The components of the Company’s net deferred income tax liability as of December 31 were as follows:
2005 | 2004 | ||||||
Deferred income tax assets: Policy and policyholder liability reserves | $ | 387,636 | $ | 327,969 | |||
Other | 10,933 | 50,855 | |||||
398,569 | 378,824 | ||||||
Deferred income tax liabilities: Deferred policy acquisition costs | 683,368 | 562,753 | |||||
Unrealized gains on investments | 32,518 | 128,615 | |||||
715,886 | 691,368 | ||||||
Net deferred income tax liability | $ | 317,317 | $ | 312,544 |
Under pre-1984 life insurance company income tax laws, a portion of the Company’s gain from operations which was not subject to current income taxation was accumulated for income tax purposes in a memorandum account designated as Policyholders’ Surplus. The aggregate accumulation in this account at December 31, 2005, was approximately $70.5 million. Should the accumulation in the Policyholders’ Surplus account of the life insurance subsidiaries exceed certain stated maximums, or should distributions including cash dividends be made to Protective Life Corporation in excess of approximately $1.8 billion, such excess would be subject to federal income taxes at rates then effective. Legislation was enacted in 2004 which will suspend application of this provision for tax years 2005 and 2006. Deferred income taxes have not been provided on amounts designated as Policyholders’ Surplus. Under current income tax laws, the Company does not anticipate paying income tax on amounts in the Policyholders’ Surplus accounts.
4. | Debt and Other Obligations |
Long-Term Debt and Subordinated Debt Securities
Long-term debt and subordinated debt securities at December 31 are summarized as follows:
2005 | 2004 | ||||||
Long-term debt (year of issue): | |||||||
Notes payable to banks | $ | 68,000 | $ | 0 | |||
7.45% Medium-Term Notes (1996), due 2011 | 9,852 | 9,852 | |||||
8.25% Senior Notes (2000), due 2030, callable 2005 | 0 | 34,699 | |||||
4.30% Senior Notes (2003), due 2013 | 250,000 | 250,000 | |||||
4.875% Senior Notes (2004), due 2014 | 150,000 | 150,000 | |||||
Mortgage notes on investment real estate | 4,680 | 6,882 | |||||
Total long-term debt | $ | 482,532 | $ | 451,433 | |||
Subordinated debt securities (year of issue): | |||||||
7.50% Subordinated Debentures (2001), due 2031, callable 2006 | $ | 103,093 | $ | 103,093 | |||
7.25% Subordinated Debentures (2002), due 2032, callable 2007 | 118,557 | 118,557 | |||||
6.125% Subordinated Debentures (2004), due 2034, callable 2009 | 103,093 | 103,093 | |||||
Total subordinated debt securities | $ | 324,743 | $ | 324,743 |
Future maturities of long-term debt and subordinated debt securities are $68.0 million in 2009 and $739.3 million in years after 2010.
Under a revolving line of credit arrangement, the Company can borrow up to $200 million on an unsecured basis at an interest rate of LIBOR plus 0.30% (4.6% at December 31, 2005). No compensating balances are required to maintain the line of credit. This arrangement contains, among other provisions, requirements for maintaining certain financial ratios and restrictions on indebtedness incurred by the Company and its subsidiaries. Additionally, the Company, on a consolidated basis, cannot incur debt in excess of 40% of its total capital. At December 31, 2005, the Company had $68.0 million outstanding under this arrangement. The Company was in compliance with all debt covenants as of December 31, 2005.
The Company has also accessed capital from subordinated debt securities issued to wholly-owned subsidiary trusts. Securities currently outstanding were offered through a series of trusts (PLC Capital Trust III, PLC Capital Trust IV, and PLC Capital Trust V). These trusts were formed solely to issue preferred securities (TOPrS) and use the proceeds thereof to purchase subordinated debentures of the Company. The sole assets of the trusts are the subordinated debt securities issued by the Company. The principal obligations of the trusts are irrevocably guaranteed by the Company. Under the terms of the subordinated debentures, the Company has the right to extend interest payment periods up to five consecutive years. Consequently, dividends on the preferred securities may be deferred (but will continue to accumulate, together with additional dividends on any accumulated but unpaid dividends at the dividend rate) by the trusts during any such extended interest payment period.
Limited amounts of the 7.45% Medium-Term Notes may be redeemed upon the death of the beneficial owner of the notes.
Liabilities Related to Variable Interest Entities
As of December 31, 2003, the Company consolidated a special-purpose entity, as a result of the implementation of FIN 46. The consolidated entity included a $430.6 million investment portfolio, $400.0 million of notes payable, $15.0 million of derivative liabilities, and $15.6 million of minority interest. In accordance with FIN 46, the Company also consolidated, as of March 31, 2004, two real estate investment companies previously reported as investments. This consolidation resulted in the recognition of notes payable owed by the investment companies. The $448.1 million and $482.4 million of notes payable reported on the balance sheet in “liabilities related to variable interest entities” at December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively, are not the legal obligations of the Company, but will be repaid with cash flows generated by the separate entities’ operations.
Non-Recourse Funding Obligations
On August 26, 2005, Golden Gate Captive Insurance Company (“Golden Gate”), a special purpose financial captive insurance company wholly owned by Protective Life Insurance Company (“Protective Life”), the Company's largest operating subsidiary, issued $100 million of non-recourse funding obligations, which bear a floating rate of interest and mature in 2037. These non-recourse funding obligations were issued under a surplus notes facility established with certain purchasers through which Golden Gate may issue up to an aggregate of $400 million of non-recourse funding obligations through June 2007. On December 28, 2005, Golden Gate issued an additional $25 million of non-recourse funding obligations under this facility. The total obligations outstanding at December 31, 2005 were $125.0 million, at an interest rate of 5.6%. The non-recourse funding obligations are direct financial obligations of Golden Gate and are not guaranteed by Protective Life or the Company. The non-recourse obligations are represented by surplus notes that were issued to fund statutory reserves required by the Valuation of Life Insurance Policies Regulation (“Regulation XXX”). Any payment of principal of, including by redemption, or interest on the Notes may only be made with the prior approval of the Director of Insurance of the State of South Carolina in accordance with the terms of its licensing order and in accordance with applicable law. Under the terms of the notes, the holders of the notes cannot require repayment from the Company or any of the Company's subsidiaries, other than Golden Gate, the direct issuer of the notes, although the Company has agreed to indemnify Golden Gate for certain costs and obligations (which obligations do not include payment of principle and interest on the notes). In addition, the Company has entered into certain support agreements with Golden Gate obligating the Company to make capital contributions to Golden Gate or provide support related to certain of Golden Gate's expenses and in certain circumstances, to collateralize certain of the Company's obligations to Golden Gate.
Interest Expense
The Company uses interest rate swap agreements to convert a portion of its debt from a fixed interest rate to a floating rate. These interest rate swap agreements do not qualify as hedges of the corresponding long-term debt or subordinated debt securities, under FAS 133. All net interest settlements and mark-to-market adjustments for these interest rate swap agreements are recorded as “Realized investment gains (losses) - derivative financial instruments”. Interest expense on long-term debt and subordinated debt securities totaled $44.8 million, $42.6 million, and $15.2 million in 2005, 2004, and 2003, respectively. Interest expense on other obligations, including liabilities related to variable interest entities, non-recourse funding obligations, and other temporary borrowings totaled $11.6 million, $7.1 million, and $17.4 million in 2005, 2004, and 2003, respectively.
5. | Commitments and Contingent Liabilities |
The Company is contingently liable to obtain a $20 million letter of credit under indemnity agreements with its directors. Such agreements provide insurance protection in excess of the directors’ and officers’ liability insurance in force at the time up to $20 million. Should certain events occur constituting a change in control of the Company, the Company must obtain the letter of credit upon which directors may draw for defense or settlement of any claim relating to performance of their duties as directors. The Company has similar agreements with certain of its officers providing up to $10 million in indemnification that are not secured by the obligation to obtain a letter of credit.
The Company leases administrative and marketing office space in approximately 22 cities including Birmingham, with most leases being for periods of three to ten years. The aggregate annualized rent is approximately $5.4 million. The following is a schedule by year of future minimum rental payments required under these leases:
Year | Amount | |||
2006 | $ | 5,406 | ||
2007 | 4,380 | |||
2008 | 4,322 | |||
2009 | 3,570 | |||
2010 | 2,958 | |||
Thereafter | 4,695 |
Additionally, the Company leases a building contiguous to its home office, which expires in February 2007. Lease payments in 2006 approximate $3.1 million. At the end of the lease term the Company may purchase the building for approximately $75 million.
In conjunction with the Stock Purchase Agreement entered into by Protective Life Insurance Company on February 7, 2006, the Company executed a Guarantee (the “Guarantee”) in favor of JPMC and the Sellers by which the Company has unconditionally guaranteed the performance of Protective Life’s obligations under the Agreement, related documents and the related transactions contemplated by the Agreement. See additional information in Note 14.
Under insurance guaranty fund laws, in most states insurance companies doing business therein can be assessed up to prescribed limits for policyholder losses incurred by insolvent companies. The Company does not believe such assessments will be materially different from amounts already provided for in the financial statements. Most of these laws do provide, however, that an assessment may be excused or deferred if it would threaten an insurer’s own financial strength.
A number of civil jury verdicts have been returned against insurers and other providers of financial services involving sales practices, alleged agent misconduct, failure to properly supervise representatives, relationships with agents or persons with whom the insurer does business, and other matters. Increasingly these lawsuits have resulted in the award of substantial judgments that are disproportionate to the actual damages, including material amounts of punitive and non-economic compensatory damages. In some states, juries, judges, and arbitrators have substantial discretion in awarding punitive and non-economic compensatory damages which creates the potential for unpredictable material adverse judgments or awards in any given lawsuit or arbitration. Arbitration awards are subject to very little appellate review. In addition, in some class action and other lawsuits, companies have made material settlement payments. The Company, like other financial service companies, in the ordinary course of business, is involved in such litigation and in arbitration. Although the outcome of any such litigation or arbitration cannot be predicted, the Company believes that at the present time there are no pending or threatened lawsuits that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the financial position, results of operations, or liquidity of the Company.
6. | Share-Owners’ Equity and Stock-Based Compensation |
Activity in the Company’s issued and outstanding Common Stock is summarized as follows:
Issued Shares | Treasury Shares | Outstanding Shares | ||||||||
Balance, December 31, 2002 | 73,251,960 | 4,576,066 | 68,675,894 | |||||||
Reissuance of treasury stock | (315,807 | ) | 315,807 | |||||||
Balance, December 31, 2003 | 73,251,960 | 4,260,259 | 68,991,701 | |||||||
Reissuance of treasury stock | (458,188 | ) | 458,188 | |||||||
Balance, December 31, 2004 | 73,251,960 | 3,802,071 | 69,449,889 | |||||||
Reissuance of treasury stock | (244,160 | ) | 244,160 | |||||||
Balance, December 31, 2005 | 73,251,960 | 3,557,911 | 69,694,049 |
Share owners have authorized 4,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, $1.00 par value. Other terms, including preferences, voting, and conversion rights, may be established by the Board of Directors. None of these shares have been issued as of December 31, 2005.
The Company's most recent share owners’ rights plan expired August 18, 2005. At its meeting in July 2005, the Company's Board of Directors determined that it would not extend the rights plan, but would reserve the right to institute a rights plan in the future if it determined, in the exercise of its fiduciary duties, that such action was in the best interest of the Company's share owners.
The Company sponsors a deferred compensation plan for certain of its agents. A trust was established to aid the Company in meeting its obligations under the plan. Previously, Company Common Stock owned by the trust was accounted for as treasury stock. In September 2004, all Company Common Stock owned by the trust was sold.
The Company has an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”). The stock is used to match employee contributions to the Company’s 401(k) and Stock Ownership Plan (“401(k)��Plan”) and to provide other employee benefits. The stock held by the ESOP that has not yet been used is the unallocated stock shown as a reduction to share-owners’ equity. The ESOP shares are dividend-paying and are considered outstanding for earnings per share calculations. Dividends on the shares are used to pay the ESOP’s note to Protective Life. If certain events associated with a change in control of the Company occur, any unallocated shares held by the ESOP will become allocable to employee 401(k) accounts. 99,559 and 96,263 shares of stock were allocated from the ESOP to employee 401(k) accounts in 2005 and 2004, respectively.
The Company may, from time to time, reissue treasury shares or buy additional shares of Common Stock in the open market to complete its 401(k) obligations. In addition to the shares allocated to employee 401(k) accounts from the ESOP, the Company reissued from treasury 54,752 and 80,345 shares of Common Stock to the 401(k) Plan during 2005 and 2004, respectively, to complete its 401(k) obligations.
Since 1973, the Company has had stock-based incentive plans to motivate management to focus on the Company’s long-range performance through the awarding of stock-based compensation. Under plans approved by share owners in 1997 and 2003, up to 6,500,000 shares may be issued in payment of awards.
The criteria for payment of performance awards is based primarily upon a comparison of the Company’s average return on average equity (for 2005 awards) or average return on average equity and total rate of return over a four-year period for previous awards (earlier upon the death, disability, or retirement of the executive, or in certain circumstances, upon a change in control of the Company) to that of a comparison group of publicly held life and multiline insurance companies. If the Company’s results are below the median of the comparison group (40th percentile for 2005 awards), no portion of the award is earned. If the Company’s results are at or above the 90th percentile, the award maximum is earned. Awards are paid in shares of Company Common Stock.
Performance shares and performance-based stock appreciation rights (“P-SARs”) awarded in 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, and 2001 and the estimated fair value of the awards at grant date are as follows:
Year Awarded | Performance Shares | P-SARs | Estimated Fair Value | |||||||
2005 | 120,540 | $ | 4,600 | |||||||
2004 | 125,670 | 4,600 | ||||||||
2003 | 148,730 | 3,900 | ||||||||
2002 | 192,360 | 5,700 | ||||||||
2001 | 153,490 | 40,000 | 4,900 |
Performance shares are equivalent in value to one share of Company Common Stock times the award earned percentage payout. P-SARs convert to the equivalent of one stock appreciation right (“SAR”) if earned times the award percentage payout. The 40,000 P-SARs awarded in 2001 were not earned and have been canceled. The P-SARs, once converted to SARs, expire 10 years after the grant date. At December 31, 2005, the total outstanding performance shares related to these performance-based plans measured at maximum payouts were 890,108.
Between 1996 and 2005 SARs were granted (in addition to the P-SARs discussed above) to certain officers of the Company to provide long-term incentive compensation based solely on the performance of the Company’s Common Stock. The SARs are exercisable either in four equal annual installments beginning one year after the date of grant or after five years depending on the terms of the grant (earlier upon the death, disability, or retirement of the officer, or in certain circumstances, of a change in control of the Company) and expire after ten years or upon termination of employment. The SARs activity as well as weighted average base price for 2003, 2004, and 2005 is as follows:
Weighted Average Base Price | No. of SARs | ||||||
Balance at December 31, 2002 | $ | 23.90 | 1,498,823 | ||||
SARs granted | 26.49 | 95,000 | |||||
P-SARs converted | 22.31 | 45,838 | |||||
P-SARs canceled | 30.77 | (22,500 | ) | ||||
Balance at December 31, 2003 | 23.91 | 1,617,161 | |||||
P-SARs converted | 22.31 | 401,818 | |||||
SARs exercised | 18.68 | (451,036 | ) | ||||
Balance at December 31, 2004 | 25.01 | 1,567,943 | |||||
SARs granted | 41.05 | 119,400 | |||||
SARs exercised | 21.19 | (220,133 | ) | ||||
Balance at December 31, 2005 | 26.89 | 1,467,210 |
The outstanding SARs at December 31, 2005, were at the following base prices:
Base Price | SARs Outstanding | Remaining Life in Years | Currently Exercisable |
$17.44 | 180,000 | 1 | 180,000 |
26.49 | 15,000 | 1 | 15,000 |
32.00 | 30,000 | 1 | 30,000 |
22.31 | 555,310 | 4 | 555,310 |
31.26 | 50,000 | 5 | 0 |
31.29 | 2,500 | 5 | 0 |
32.00 | 435,000 | 6 | 0 |
26.49 | 80,000 | 7 | 0 |
41.05 | 119,400 | 9 | 0 |
The SARs issued in 2003 and 2005 had estimated fair values at grant date of $0.6 million and $1.7 million, respectively. The fair value of the 2003 SARs was estimated using a Black-Scholes option pricing model. Assumptions used in the model were as follows: expected volatility of 25.0% (approximately equal to that of the S&P Life and Health Insurance Index), a risk-free interest rate of 3.1%, a dividend rate of 1.9%, and an expected exercise date of 2009. The fair value of the 2005 SARs was estimated using a Black-Scholes option pricing model. The assumptions used for the 2005 SARs varied depending on the vesting period of awards. Assumptions used in the model were as follows: expected volatility ranged from 24.1% to 31.9%, a risk-free interest rate ranging from 4.1 to 4.3%, a dividend rate of 2.0%, and the expected exercise date ranged from 2010 to 2014.
The Company will pay an amount in stock equal to the difference between the specified base price of the Company’s Common Stock and the market value at the exercise date for each SAR.
The expense recorded by the Company for its stock-based compensation plans was $6.1 million, $4.8 million, and $5.5 million in 2005, 2004, and 2003, respectively. The Company’s obligations of its stock-based compensation plans that are expected to be settled in shares of the Company’s Common Stock are reported as a component of share-owners’ equity.
The Company has established deferred compensation plans for directors, officers, and others. Compensation deferred is credited to the participants in cash, mutual funds, Common Stock equivalents, or a combination thereof. The Company may, from time to time, reissue treasury shares or buy in the open market shares of Common Stock to fulfill its obligation under the plans. At December 31, 2005, the plans had 985,095 shares of Common Stock equivalents credited to participants. The Company’s obligations related to its deferred compensation plans are reported in other liabilities, unless they are to be settled in shares of the Company’s Common Stock, in which case they are reported as a component of share-owners’ equity.
At December 31, 2005, approximately $827.6 million of consolidated share-owners’ equity, excluding net unrealized gains on investments, represented net assets of the Company’s insurance subsidiaries that cannot be transferred to Protective Life Corporation. In addition, the Company’s insurance subsidiaries are subject to various state statutory and regulatory restrictions on the insurance subsidiaries’ ability to pay dividends to Protective Life Corporation. In general, dividends up to specified levels are considered ordinary and may be paid thirty days after written notice to the insurance commissioner of the state of domicile unless such commissioner objects to the dividend prior to the expiration of such period. Dividends in larger amounts are considered extraordinary and are subject to affirmative prior approval by such commissioner. The maximum amount that would qualify as ordinary dividends to the Company by its insurance subsidiaries in 2006 is estimated to be $137.5 million.
7. | Related Party Matters |
Certain corporations with which the Company’s directors were affiliated paid the Company premiums and policy fees or other amounts for various types of insurance and investment products. Such premiums, policy fees, and other amounts totaled $9.0 million, $10.5 million, and $12.2 million in 2005, 2004, and 2003, respectively. The Company paid commissions, interest on debt and investment products, and fees to these same corporations totaling $2.2 million, $2.6 million, and $2.1 million in 2005, 2004, and 2003, respectively.
8. | Statutory Reporting Practices and Other Regulatory Matters |
Financial statements prepared in conformity with GAAP differ in some respects from the statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by insurance regulatory authorities. The most significant differences are as follows: (a) acquisition costs of obtaining new business are deferred and amortized over the approximate life of the policies rather than charged to operations as incurred; (b) benefit liabilities are computed using a net level method and are based on realistic estimates of expected mortality, interest, and withdrawals as adjusted to provide for possible unfavorable deviation from such assumptions; (c) deferred income taxes are not subject to statutory limitations as to amounts recognized and are recognized through earnings as opposed to being charged to share-owners’ equity; (d) the Asset Valuation Reserve and Interest Maintenance Reserve are restored to share-owners’ equity; (e) furniture and equipment, agents’ debit balances, and prepaid expenses are reported as assets rather than being charged directly to surplus (referred to as nonadmitted assets); (f) certain items of interest income, such as mortgage and bond discounts, are amortized differently; and (g) bonds are recorded at their market values instead of amortized cost.
The net income and share-owners’ equity prepared in conformity with statutory reporting practices compared to that reported in the accompanying consolidated financial statements are as follows:
Net Income (Loss) | Share-Owners’ Equity | ||||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||||||||
In conformity with statutory reporting practices(1) | $ | (18,420 | ) | $ | 202,980 | $ | 274,244 | $ | 1,381,564 | $ | 1,317,719 | $ | 1,135,942 | ||||||
In conformity with GAAP | $ | 246,567 | $ | 234,580 | $ | 217,050 | $ | 2,183,660 | $ | 2,166,327 | $ | 2,002,144 | |||||||
(1) Consolidated |
The statutory net loss for 2005 is the result of an increase in the level of reserves maintained for statutory reporting practices. An amendment to Actuarial Guideline 38 increased the level of statutory reserves required for certain universal life with secondary guaranty insurance products issued on or after July 1, 2005. Additionally, during 2005 statutory reserves required by Regulation XXX were reinsured with a special purpose finance captive insurance company wholly owned by Protective Life. A substantial portion of these reserves were previously reinsured with unaffiliated reinsurers.
As of December 31, 2005, the Company’s insurance subsidiaries had on deposit with regulatory authorities, fixed maturity and short-term investments with a market value of approximately $29.7 million.
9. | Operating Segments |
The Company operates several business segments each having a strategic focus. An operating segment is generally distinguished by products and/or channels of distribution. A brief description of each segment follows.
· | The Life Marketing segment markets level premium term and term-like insurance, universal life, variable universal life and bank owned life insurance (“BOLI”) products on a national basis primarily through networks of independent insurance agents and brokers, stockbrokers, and independent marketing organizations. |
· | The Acquisitions segment focuses on acquiring, converting, and servicing policies acquired from other companies. The segment’s primary focus is on life insurance policies sold to individuals. |
· | The Annuities segment manufactures, sells, and supports fixed and variable annuity products. These products are primarily sold through stockbrokers, but are also sold through financial institutions and independent agents and brokers. |
· | The Stable Value Products segment sells guaranteed funding agreements (“GFAs”) to special purpose entities that in turn issue notes or certificates in smaller, transferable denominations. The segment also markets fixed and floating rate funding agreements directly to the trustees of municipal bond proceeds, institutional investors, bank trust departments, and money market funds. Additionally, the segment markets guaranteed investment contracts (“GICs”) to 401(k) and other qualified retirement savings plans. |
· | The Asset Protection segment primarily markets extended service contracts and credit life and disability insurance to protect consumers’ investments in automobiles and watercraft. In addition, the segment markets an inventory protection product and a guaranteed asset protection (“GAP”) product. |
The Company has an additional segment referred to as Corporate and Other. The Corporate and Other segment primarily consists of net investment income and expenses not attributable to the segments above (including net investment income on unallocated capital and interest on debt). This segment also includes earnings from several small non-strategic lines of business (mostly cancer insurance, residual value insurance, surety insurance, and group annuities), various investment-related transactions, and the operations of several small subsidiaries. The surety and residual value insurance lines were moved from the Asset Protection segment to Corporate and Other in 2004, and prior period segment data has been restated to reflect the change.
The Company uses the same accounting policies and procedures to measure segment operating income and assets as it uses to measure its consolidated net income and assets. Segment operating income is generally income before income tax excluding net realized investment gains and losses (net of the related amortization of DAC and participating income from real estate ventures), and the cumulative effect of change in accounting principle. Periodic settlements of derivatives associated with corporate debt and certain investments and annuity products are included in realized gains and losses but are considered part of operating income because the derivatives are used to mitigate risk in items affecting consolidated and segment operating income. Segment operating income represents the basis on which the performance of the Company’s business is internally assessed by management. Premiums and policy fees, other income, benefits and settlement expenses, and amortization of DAC are attributed directly to each operating segment. Net investment income is allocated based on directly related assets required for transacting the business of that segment. Realized investment gains (losses) and other operating expenses are allocated to the segments in a manner that most appropriately reflects the operations of that segment. Investments and other assets are allocated based on statutory policy liabilities, while DAC and goodwill are shown in the segments to which they are attributable.
There are no significant intersegment transactions.
The following tables summarize financial information for the Company’s segments. Asset adjustments represent the inclusion of assets related to discontinued operations.
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
Revenues | ||||||||||
Life Marketing | $ | 661,629 | $ | 541,570 | $ | 489,852 | ||||
Acquisitions | 411,610 | 439,103 | 462,695 | |||||||
Annuities | 288,911 | 258,106 | 282,075 | |||||||
Stable Value Products | 294,650 | 281,409 | 242,860 | |||||||
Asset Protection | 258,098 | 275,353 | 323,659 | |||||||
Corporate and Other | 194,306 | 193,034 | 156,384 | |||||||
Total revenues | $ | 2,109,204 | $ | 1,988,575 | $ | 1,957,525 | ||||
Segment Operating Income | ||||||||||
Life Marketing | $ | 163,661 | $ | 165,897 | $ | 159,157 | ||||
Acquisitions | 80,611 | 87,300 | 95,150 | |||||||
Annuities | 31,933 | 16,467 | 13,373 | |||||||
Stable Value Products | 54,798 | 53,159 | 38,911 | |||||||
Asset Protection | 24,901 | 19,079 | 20,193 | |||||||
Corporate and Other | 47,229 | 21,560 | (31,952 | ) | ||||||
Total segment operating income | 403,133 | 363,462 | 294,832 | |||||||
Realized investment gains (losses) - investments(1) | 15,803 | 21,370 | 39,117 | |||||||
Realized investment gains (losses) - derivatives(2) | (41,923 | ) | 369 | (8,537 | ) | |||||
Income tax expense | (130,446 | ) | (134,820 | ) | (108,362 | ) | ||||
Net income before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle | 246,567 | 250,381 | 217,050 | |||||||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle | 0 | (15,801 | ) | 0 | ||||||
Net income | $ | 246,567 | $ | 234,580 | $ | 217,050 | ||||
(1) Realized investment gains (losses) - investments | $ | 49,393 | $ | 28,305 | $ | 58,064 | ||||
Less participating income from real estate ventures | 8,684 | 0 | 0 | |||||||
Less related amortization of DAC | 24,906 | 6,935 | 18,947 | |||||||
$ | 15,803 | $ | 21,370 | $ | 39,117 | |||||
(2) Realized investment gains (losses) - derivatives | $ | (30,881 | ) | $ | 19,591 | $ | 12,550 | |||
Less settlements on certain interest rate swaps | 11,393 | 19,222 | 21,087 | |||||||
Less derivative losses related to certain annuities | (351 | ) | 0 | 0 | ||||||
$ | (41,923 | ) | $ | 369 | $ | (8,537 | ) | |||
Net investment income | ||||||||||
Life Marketing | $ | 261,859 | $ | 238,193 | $ | 231,238 | ||||
Acquisitions | 223,201 | 232,499 | 246,143 | |||||||
Annuities | 218,700 | 210,888 | 224,332 | |||||||
Stable Value Products | 310,715 | 268,184 | 233,104 | |||||||
Asset Protection | 32,389 | 30,939 | 36,652 | |||||||
Corporate and Other | 133,638 | 103,514 | 59,283 | |||||||
Total net investment income | $ | 1,180,502 | $ | 1,084,217 | $ | 1,030,752 | ||||
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs | ||||||||||
Life Marketing | $ | 55,688 | $ | 58,970 | $ | 66,078 | ||||
Acquisitions | 27,072 | 28,652 | 32,690 | |||||||
Annuities | 37,512 | 32,271 | 38,196 | |||||||
Stable Value Products | 4,694 | 3,480 | 2,279 | |||||||
Asset Protection | 69,474 | 72,273 | 80,320 | |||||||
Corporate and Other | 4,063 | 4,484 | 5,544 | |||||||
Total amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs | $ | 198,503 | $ | 200,130 | $ | 225,107 |
Operating Segment Assets December 31, 2005 | |||||||||||||
Life Marketing | Acquisitions | Annuities | Stable Value Products | ||||||||||
Investments and other assets | $ | 7,219,157 | $ | 3,914,853 | $ | 6,065,367 | $ | 5,959,112 | |||||
Deferred policy acquisition costs | 1,584,325 | 330,278 | 128,930 | 19,102 | |||||||||
Goodwill | 10,354 | ||||||||||||
Total assets | $ | 8,813,836 | $ | 4,245,131 | $ | 6,194,297 | $ | 5,978,214 |
Asset Protection | Corporate and Other | Adjustments | Total Consolidated | ||||||||||
Investments and other assets | $ | 812,774 | $ | 2,732,774 | $ | 41,545 | $ | 26,745,582 | |||||
Deferred policy acquisition costs | 101,972 | 7,381 | 2,171,988 | ||||||||||
Goodwill | 38,986 | 83 | 49,423 | ||||||||||
Total assets | $ | 953,732 | $ | 2,740,238 | $ | 41,545 | $ | 28,966,993 |
Operating Segment Assets December 31, 2004 | |||||||||||||
Life Marketing | Acquisitions | Annuities | Stable Value Products | ||||||||||
Investments and other assets | $ | 5,967,768 | $ | 4,063,711 | $ | 5,980,259 | $ | 5,377,917 | |||||
Deferred policy acquisition costs | 1,262,637 | 337,372 | 81,251 | 18,301 | |||||||||
Goodwill | 10,354 | ||||||||||||
Total assets | $ | 7,240,759 | $ | 4,401,083 | $ | 6,061,510 | $ | 5,396,218 | |||||
Asset Protection | Corporate and Other | Adjustments | Total Consolidated | ||||||||||
Investments and other assets | $ | 879,385 | $ | 3,027,486 | $ | 46,261 | $ | 25,342,787 | |||||
Deferred policy acquisition costs | 113,918 | 8,493 | 1,821,972 | ||||||||||
Goodwill | 36,182 | 83 | 46,619 | ||||||||||
Total assets | $ | 1,029,485 | $ | 3,036,062 | $ | 46,261 | $ | 27,211,378 |
10. | Employee Benefit Plans |
The Company sponsors a defined benefit pension plan covering substantially all of its employees. The benefits are based on years of service and the employee’s highest thirty-six consecutive months of compensation. The Company’s funding policy is to contribute amounts to the plan sufficient to meet the minimum funding requirements of ERISA plus such additional amounts as the Company may determine to be appropriate from time to time. Contributions are intended to provide not only for benefits attributed to service to date but also for those expected to be earned in the future.
At December 31, 2005, the Company estimated that its 2006 defined benefit pension plan expense will be $7.0 million, which is the Company’s estimate of its expected contributions for 2006. The measurement date used to determine the benefit expense and benefit obligations of the plan is December 31, 2005.
The actuarial present value of benefit obligations and the funded status of the defined benefit pension plan at December 31 are as follows:
2005 | 2004 | ||||||
Benefit obligation at beginning of year | $ | 97,399 | $ | 77,454 | |||
Service cost | 5,950 | 5,408 | |||||
Interest cost | 5,922 | 5,506 | |||||
Actuarial loss | 4,041 | 10,756 | |||||
Benefits paid | (2,017 | ) | (1,725 | ) | |||
Benefit obligation at end of year | 111,295 | 97,399 | |||||
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year | 99,890 | 74,071 | |||||
Actual return on plan assets | 5,993 | 7,780 | |||||
Employer contributions | 9,855 | 19,764 | |||||
Benefits paid | (2,017 | ) | (1,725 | ) | |||
Fair value of plan assets at end of year | 113,721 | 99,890 | |||||
Funded status | 2,426 | 2,491 | |||||
Unrecognized net actuarial loss | 39,828 | 36,056 | |||||
Unrecognized prior service cost | 1,244 | 1,458 | |||||
Net pension asset | $ | 43,498 | $ | 40,005 | |||
Accumulated benefit obligation | $ | 93,360 | $ | 80,526 | |||
Fair value of assets | $ | 113,721 | $ | 99,890 | |||
Unfunded accumulated benefit obligation | $ | 0 | $ | 0 |
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine the benefit obligations of the defined benefit pension plan as of December 31 were as follows:
2005 | 2004 | ||||||
Discount rate | 5.63 | % | 5.75 | % | |||
Rate of compensation increase | 3.75 | 3.75 |
The assumed discount rate used to determine the benefit obligations of the defined benefit pension plan was based on an analysis of future benefits expected to be paid under the plan. The assumed discount rate reflects the interest rate at which an amount that is invested in a portfolio of high-quality debt instruments on the measurement date would provide the future cash flows necessary to pay benefits when they come due.
Components of the net periodic benefit cost of the defined benefit pension plan for the years ended December 31 are as follows:
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
Service cost - Benefits earned during the period | $ | 5,950 | $ | 5,408 | $ | 4,513 | ||||
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation | 5,922 | 5,506 | 4,666 | |||||||
Expected return on plan assets | (8,371 | ) | (6,864 | ) | (5,604 | ) | ||||
Amortization of prior service cost | 214 | 214 | 214 | |||||||
Amortization of actuarial losses | 2,647 | 1,920 | 1,049 | |||||||
Net periodic benefit cost | $ | 6,362 | $ | 6,184 | $ | 4,838 |
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine the net pension cost of the defined benefit pension plan for the years ended December 31 are as follows:
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
Discount rate | 5.75 | % | 6.25 | % | 6.75 | % | ||||
Rates of compensation increase | 3.75 | 4.00 | 4.50 | |||||||
Expected long-term return on plan assets | 8.25 | 8.50 | 8.50 |
Plan assets of the defined benefit pension plan by category as of December 31 were as follows:
Target Allocation for 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | 2.0 | % | 1.3 | % | 2.7 | % | ||||
Equity securities | 60.0 | 67.6 | 68.8 | |||||||
Fixed income | 38.0 | 31.1 | 28.5 | |||||||
Total | 100.0 | % | 100.0 | % | 100.0 | % |
Prior to July 1999, upon an employee’s retirement, a distribution from pension plan assets was used to purchase a single premium annuity from Protective Life in the retiree’s name. Therefore, amounts shown above as plan assets exclude assets relating to such retirees. Since July 1999, retiree obligations have been fulfilled from pension plan assets. The defined benefit pension plan has a target asset allocation of 60% domestic equities, 38% fixed income, and 2% cash and cash equivalents. When calculating asset allocation, the Company includes reserves for pre-July 1999 retirees. Based on historical data of the domestic equity markets and the Company’s group annuity investments, the plan’s target asset allocation would be expected to earn annualized returns in excess of 9% per year. In arriving at the plan’s 8.25% expected rate of return, the Company has adjusted this historical data to reflect lower expectations for equity returns. The plan’s equity assets are invested in a domestic equity index collective trust managed by Northern Trust Corporation. The plan’s cash equivalents are invested in a collective trust managed by Northern Trust Corporation. The plan’s fixed income assets are invested in a group annuity contract with Protective Life.
Estimated future benefit payments under the defined benefit pension plan are as follows:
Year | Amount | |||
2006 | $ | 2,079 | ||
2007 | 2,388 | |||
2008 | 2,817 | |||
2009 | 3,155 | |||
2010 | 3,717 | |||
2011-2015 | 28,932 |
The Company also sponsors an unfunded excess benefits plan, which is a nonqualified plan that provides defined pension benefits in excess of limits imposed on qualified plans by federal tax law. At December 31, 2005 and 2004, the projected benefit obligation of this plan totaled $23.8 million and $21.6 million, respectively, of which $17.3 million and $16.3 million, respectively, have been recognized in the Company’s financial statements. The Company estimates that it will expense $1.2 million related to this plan in 2006.
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine the benefit obligations of the unfunded excess benefit plan as of December 31 were as follows:
2005 | 2004 | ||||||
Discount rate | 5.63 | % | 5.75 | % | |||
Rates of compensation increase | 4.75 | 4.75 |
Components of the net periodic benefit cost of the unfunded excess benefits plan for the years ended December 31 are as follows:
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
Service cost - Benefits earned during the period | $ | 629 | $ | 542 | $ | 485 | ||||
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation | 1,276 | 1,302 | 1,182 | |||||||
Amortization of prior service cost | 14 | 16 | 16 | |||||||
Amortization of actuarial losses | 372 | 309 | 118 | |||||||
Cost of divestiture and special termination benefits | 0 | 0 | 81 | |||||||
Net periodic benefit cost | $ | 2,291 | $ | 2,169 | $ | 1,882 |
Weighted average assumptions used to determine the net pension cost of the excess benefits plan for the years ended December 31 are as follows:
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
Discount rate | 5.75 | % | 6.25 | % | 6.75 | % | ||||
Rates of compensation increase | 4.75 | 5.00 | 5.50 |
Estimated benefit payments under the excess benefits plan are as follows:
Year | Amount | |||
2006 | $ | 1,197 | ||
2007 | 1,230 | |||
2008 | 1,288 | |||
2009 | 1,319 | |||
2010 | 1,379 | |||
2011-2015 | 7,872 |
In addition to pension benefits, the Company provides limited healthcare benefits to eligible retired employees until age 65. This postretirement benefit is provided by an unfunded plan. This benefit has no material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. For a closed group of retirees over age 65, Protective provides a prescription drug benefit. At December 31, 2005 and 2004, the Company’s liability related to this benefit was $0.2 million and $0.3 million, respectively. The Company’s obligation is not materially affected by a 1% change in the healthcare cost trend assumptions used in the calculation of the obligation.
Life insurance benefits for retirees from $9,000 up to a maximum of $75,000 are provided through the payment of premiums under a group life insurance policy. This plan is partially funded at a maximum of $50,000 face amount of insurance.
The Company sponsors a defined contribution retirement plan which covers substantially all employees. Employee contributions are made on a before-tax basis as provided by Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Company has established an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) to match voluntary employee contributions to the Company’s 401(k) Plan. In 1994, a stock bonus component was added to the 401(k) Plan for employees who are not otherwise under a bonus or sales incentive plan. Expense related to the ESOP consists of the cost of the shares allocated to participating employees plus the interest expense on the ESOP’s note payable to the Company less dividends on shares held by the ESOP. All shares held by the ESOP are treated as outstanding for purposes of computing earnings per share. At December 31, 2005, the Company had committed approximately 100,315 shares (99,286 shares to be released from the ESOP and 1,029 shares to be reissued from treasury) to fund the 401(k) Plan match. The expense recorded by the Company for these employee benefits was $2.2 million, $2.0 million, and $0.6 million in 2005, 2004, and 2003, respectively.
Effective as of January 1, 2005, the Company adopted a supplemental matching contribution program, which is a nonqualified plan that provides supplemental matching contributions in excess of the limits imposed on qualified defined contribution plans by federal tax law. The first allocations under this program will be made in early 2006, with respect to the 2005 plan year. The expense recorded by the Company for this employee benefit was $0.3 million in 2005.
11. | Reinsurance |
The Company reinsures certain of its risks with (cedes), and assumes risks from, other insurers under yearly renewable term, coinsurance, and modified coinsurance agreements. Under yearly renewable term agreements, the Company reinsures only the mortality risk, while under coinsurance, the Company reinsures a proportionate part of all risks arising under the reinsured policy. Under coinsurance, the reinsurer receives a proportionate part of the premiums less commissions and is liable for a corresponding part of all benefit payments. Modified coinsurance is accounted for similarly to coinsurance except that the liability for future policy benefits is held by the original company, and settlements are made on a net basis between the companies.
Reinsurance ceded arrangements do not discharge the Company as the primary insurer. Ceded balances would represent a liability of the Company in the event the reinsurers were unable to meet their obligations to the Company under the terms of the reinsurance agreements. The Company continues to monitor the consolidation of reinsurers and the concentration of credit risk the Company has with any reinsurer, as well as the financial condition of its reinsurers. At December 31, 2005, the Company had reinsured approximately 84.1% of the face value of its life insurance in force. The Company had reinsured approximately 51.0% of the face value of its life insurance in force with three reinsurers (Lincoln National Life Insurance Co., Swiss Re Life & Health America Inc., and Security Life of Denver Insurance Co.) These reinsurers had a minimum Standard & Poor’s rating of AA- and a minimum A. M. Best rating of A+. The Company has not experienced any credit losses for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004, or 2003 related to these reinsurers. The Company sets a limit on the amount of insurance retained on the life of any one person. In 2005, the Company increased its retention from $500,000 to $1,000,000 on any one life.
Reinsurance premiums, commissions, expense reimbursements, benefits and reserves related to reinsured long-duration contracts are accounted for over the life of the underlying reinsured contracts using assumptions consistent with those used to account for the underlying contracts. The cost of reinsurance related to short-duration contracts is accounted for over the reinsurance contract period. Amounts recoverable from reinsurers, for both short-and long-duration reinsurance arrangements, are estimated in a manner consistent with the claim liabilities and policy benefits associated with reinsured policies.
The Company has reinsured approximately $393.6 billion, $354.0 billion, and $292.7 billion in face amount of life insurance risks with other insurers representing $1,064.7 million, $959.6 million, and $781.8 million of premium income for 2005, 2004, and 2003, respectively. Additionally, the Company has assumed approximately $23.2 billion, $29.4 billion, and $22.2 billion in face amount of life insurance risks from other insurers, representing $221.8 million, $219.9 million, and $247.6 million of premium income for 2005, 2004, and 2003, respectively.
The Company has also reinsured accident and health risks representing $43.9 million, $60.6 million, and $61.6 million of premium income, while it has assumed accident and health risks representing $4.1 million, $25.5 million, and $59.6 million of premium income for 2005, 2004, and 2003, respectively. In addition, the Company reinsured property and casualty risks representing $118.3 million, $105.4 million, and $91.0 million of premium income, while it assumed property and casualty risks representing $13.4 million, $27.6 million, and $65.7 million of premium income for 2005, 2004, and 2003, respectively.
In 2005 and 2004, policy and claim reserves relating to insurance ceded of $3,020.7 million and $2,750.3 million, respectively, are included in reinsurance receivables. Should any of the reinsurers be unable to meet its obligation at the time of the claim, obligation to pay such claim would remain with the Company. At December 31, 2005 and 2004, the Company had paid $57.7 million and $63.1 million, respectively, of ceded benefits which are recoverable from reinsurers. In addition, at December 31, 2005 and 2004, the Company had receivables of $66.6 million and $66.9 million, respectively, related to insurance assumed.
In 2002, the Company discovered that it had overpaid reinsurance premiums to several reinsurance companies of approximately $94.5 million. In 2003, the Company substantially completed its recovery of the reinsurance overpayments. As a result, the Company increased premiums and policy fees by $18.4 million in 2003. The increase in premiums and policy fees resulted in $6.1 million of additional amortization of DAC. As a result of the recoveries, income before income tax increased $12.3 million in 2003. During 2004, the Company adjusted its estimate of the remaining expected receipts, resulting in a $1.3 million decrease in income before income tax.
12. | Estimated Fair Values of Financial Instruments |
The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments at December 31 are as follows:
2005 | 2004 | ||||||||||||
Carrying Amounts | Fair Values | Carrying Amounts | Fair Value | ||||||||||
Assets (see Notes 1 and 2): Investments: Fixed maturities | $ | 15,472,386 | $ | 15,472,386 | $ | 14,412,605 | $ | 14,412,605 | |||||
Equity securities | 121,012 | 121,012 | 58,941 | 58,941 | |||||||||
Mortgage loans on real estate | 3,287,745 | 3,422,808 | 3,005,418 | 3,173,656 | |||||||||
Short-term investments | 776,139 | 776,139 | 1,059,557 | 1,059,557 | |||||||||
Cash | 83,670 | 83,670 | 130,596 | 130,596 | |||||||||
Liabilities (see Notes 1 and 4): Stable value product account balances | 6,057,721 | 6,004,310 | 5,562,997 | 5,589,665 | |||||||||
Annuity account balances | 3,388,005 | 3,327,309 | 3,463,477 | 3,454,065 | |||||||||
Debt: Bank borrowings | 68,000 | 68,000 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||
Senior and Medium-Term Notes | 409,852 | 392,568 | 444,551 | 431,288 | |||||||||
Subordinated debt securities | 324,743 | 323,638 | 324,743 | 336,454 | |||||||||
Other (see Note 1): Derivative financial instruments | 63,316 | 63,316 | 192,342 | 192,342 |
Except as noted below, fair values were estimated using quoted market prices.
The Company estimates the fair value of its mortgage loans using discounted cash flows from the next call date. The Company believes the fair value of its short-term investments and notes payable to banks approximates book value due to being either short-term or having a variable rate of interest. The Company also believes the fair value of its non-recourse funding obligations approximate book value.
The Company estimates the fair value of its stable value products and annuities using discounted cash flows and surrender values, respectively.
The Company believes it is not practicable to determine the fair value of its policy loans since there is no stated maturity, and policy loans are often repaid by reductions to policy benefits.
The Company estimates the fair value of its derivative financial instruments using market quotes or derivative pricing models. The fair values represent the net amount of cash the Company would have received (or paid) had the contracts been terminated on December 31.
13. | Consolidated Quarterly Results - Unaudited |
The Company’s unaudited consolidated quarterly operating data for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004 are presented below. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring items) necessary for a fair statement of quarterly results have been reflected in the following data. It is also management’s opinion, however, that quarterly operating data for insurance enterprises are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected in succeeding quarters or years. In order to obtain a more accurate indication of performance, there should be a review of operating results, changes in share-owners’ equity, and cash flows for a period of several quarters. Amounts shown for the first quarter of 2004 have been restated from the amount originally reported due to the Company’s adoption of SOP 03-1 (see Note 1 for further detail).
First Quarter | Second Quarter | Third Quarter | Fourth Quarter | ||||||||||
2005 | |||||||||||||
Premiums and policy fees | $ | 468,514 | $ | 484,643 | $ | 486,660 | $ | 515,963 | |||||
Reinsurance ceded | (282,152 | ) | (312,511 | ) | (282,919 | ) | (349,275 | ) | |||||
Net of reinsurance ceded | 186,362 | 172,132 | 203,741 | 166,688 | |||||||||
Net investment income | 287,953 | 282,374 | 306,885 | 303,290 | |||||||||
Realized investment gains (losses) | 21,510 | (13,541 | ) | 11,274 | (731 | ) | |||||||
Other income | 44,284 | 45,505 | 47,377 | 44,101 | |||||||||
Total revenues | 540,109 | 486,470 | 569,277 | 513,348 | |||||||||
Benefits and expenses | 448,239 | 413,028 | 462,410 | 408,514 | |||||||||
Income before income tax | 91,870 | 73,442 | 106,867 | 104,834 | |||||||||
Income tax expense | 31,787 | 25,411 | 36,976 | 36,272 | |||||||||
Net income | $ | 60,083 | $ | 48,031 | $ | 69,891 | $ | 68,562 | |||||
Net income per share - basic | $ | 0.85 | $ | 0.68 | $ | 0.99 | $ | 0.97 | |||||
Average shares outstanding - basic | 70,474,337 | 70,517,476 | 70,582,016 | 70,672,518 | |||||||||
Net income per share - diluted | $ | 0.84 | $ | 0.68 | $ | 0.98 | $ | 0.96 | |||||
Average shares outstanding - diluted | 71,273,760 | 71,279,363 | 71,350,044 | 71,496,555 | |||||||||
2004 | |||||||||||||
Premiums and policy fees | $ | 439,416 | $ | 448,776 | $ | 456,193 | $ | 476,709 | |||||
Reinsurance ceded | (245,484 | ) | (279,499 | ) | (272,846 | ) | (327,817 | ) | |||||
Net of reinsurance ceded | 193,932 | 169,277 | 183,347 | 148,892 | |||||||||
Net investment income | 264,608 | 265,899 | 279,271 | 274,439 | |||||||||
Realized investment gains (losses) | 21,710 | 7,817 | 14,468 | 3,901 | |||||||||
Other income | 37,944 | 39,005 | 41,622 | 42,443 | |||||||||
Total revenues | 518,194 | 481,998 | 518,708 | 469,675 | |||||||||
Benefits and expenses | 418,795 | 386,628 | 416,442 | 381,509 | |||||||||
Income before income tax and cumulative effect of change in accounting principle | 99,399 | 95,370 | 102,266 | 88,166 | |||||||||
Income tax expense | 34,094 | 34,075 | 35,793 | 30,858 | |||||||||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, net of income tax | (15,801 | ) | |||||||||||
Net income | $ | 49,504 | $ | 61,295 | $ | 66,473 | $ | 57,308 | |||||
Net income before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle per share - basic | $ | 0.93 | $ | 0.87 | $ | 0.95 | $ | 0.81 | |||||
Net income per share - basic | $ | 0.71 | $ | 0.87 | $ | 0.95 | $ | 0.81 | |||||
Average shares outstanding - basic | 70,142,108 | 70,284,893 | 70,337,248 | 70,431,763 | |||||||||
Net income before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle per share - diluted | $ | 0.92 | $ | 0.86 | $ | 0.94 | $ | 0.80 | |||||
Net income per share - diluted | $ | 0.70 | $ | 0.86 | $ | 0.94 | $ | 0.80 | |||||
Average shares outstanding - diluted | 70,887,591 | 71,030,983 | 71,115,468 | 71,221,826 |
14. | Subsequent Event (Unaudited) |
On February 7, 2006, Protective Life Insurance Company (“Protective Life”), the Company’s largest operating subsidiary, entered into a Stock Purchase Agreement (the “Agreement”) with JPMorgan Chase & Co. (“JPMC”) and two wholly-owned subsidiaries of JPMC, Banc One Insurance Holdings, Inc. and CBD Holdings Ltd. (collectively, the “Sellers”). Pursuant to the Agreement, Protective Life has agreed to acquire from the Sellers nine direct and indirect subsidiaries of the Sellers, including five insurance companies (the “Acquired Companies”). The acquisition and related agreements are subject to various regulatory approvals and other customary conditions to closing.
On February 7, 2006, the Company executed a Guarantee in favor of JPMC and the Sellers by which the Company has unconditionally guaranteed the performance of Protective Life’s obligations under the Agreement, related documents and the related transactions contemplated by the Agreement.
The aggregate purchase price for the Acquired Companies is approximately $1.2 billion and will be reduced by dividends paid to the Sellers by the Acquired Companies on or prior to the closing date. The purchase price is subject to adjustments.
The availability of financing to Protective Life is not a condition to closing. Subject to regulatory and third party approvals, Protective Life expects to enter into a series of reinsurance agreements with third parties for the variable annuity business of the Acquired Companies and up to approximately one-half of the value of the remaining business. Any dividends that may be paid by the Acquired Companies to the sellers prior to the closing will reduce the purchase price. Protective Life estimates that its investment will be approximately $460 million, after giving effect to the reinsurance transactions and requested pre-closing dividends. The requested dividends and reinsurance agreements are subject to regulatory approvals, including regulatory approvals that must be obtained by one reinsurer group. Protective Life expects to obtain the additional funds to complete the transaction (including any funds that may be needed due to failure to obtain requisite regulatory approvals of reinsurance agreements or dividends) through a combination of sources, which may include internal excess capital, capital contributions from proceeds of offerings of securities by the Company in the public or private capital markets, and funds made available by the Company from its existing credit facilities. In addition, the Company has obtained a commitment for a $750 million bridge financing facility from a third party. The Company does not expect it will be necessary to use the bridge financing facility.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Directors and Share Owners of
Protective Life Corporation:
We have completed integrated audits of Protective Life Corporation’s 2005 and 2004 consolidated financial statements and of its internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2005 and an audit of its 2003 consolidated financial statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Our opinions, based on our audits, are presented below.
Consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedules
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements listed in the accompanying index present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Protective Life Corporation and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2005 and 2004, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2005 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 under Item 15(2) present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. These financial statements and financial statement schedules are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial statement schedules based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these statements 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 of financial statements includes 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. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
As discussed in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, effective January 1, 2004, the Company adopted American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Statement of Position (SOP) 03-1 “Accounting and Reporting by Insurance Enterprises for Certain Nontraditional Long-Duration Contracts and for Separate Accounts” and effective March 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Interpretation No. 46 (FIN 46), “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities”.
Internal control over financial reporting
Also, in our opinion, management’s assessment, included in Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 9A, that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2005 based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”), is fairly stated, in all material respects, based on those criteria. Furthermore, in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2005, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the COSO. The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express opinions on management’s assessment and on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We conducted our audit of internal control over financial reporting 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 effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. An audit of internal control over financial reporting includes obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, evaluating management’s assessment, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control, and performing such other procedures as we consider necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinions.
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/PRICEWATRHOUSECOOPERS LLP
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Birmingham, Alabama
March 15, 2006
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
(a) Disclosure controls and procedures
Under the direction of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we evaluated our disclosure controls and procedures and concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2005. It should be noted that any system of controls, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the control system’s objectives will be met. Further, the design of any control system is based in part upon certain judgments, including the costs and benefits of controls and the likelihood of future events. Because of these and other inherent limitations of control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues, if any, within the Company have been detected.
(b) Management’s report on Internal controls over financial reporting
Management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The 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 accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:
· | pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; |
· | provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and |
· | 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 risks that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2005. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control-Integrated Framework.
Based on our assessment of internal control over financial reporting, management has concluded that, as of December 31, 2005, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
Management’s assessment of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2005 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report included in Item 8.
March 15, 2006
(c) Changes in internal control over financial reporting
No significant changes in our internal control over financial reporting occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2005 that have materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, such internal control over financial reporting. Our internal controls exist within a dynamic environment and the Company continually strives to improve its internal controls and procedures to enhance the quality of its financial reporting.
Item 9B. Other Information
None
PART III
Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant
The information regarding Executive Officers called for by this item is included in Item 1.
Audit Committee Financial Expert
The members of the Board have determined that each member of the Audit Committee meets the independence and financial expertise requirements of the New York Stock Exchange. The Board has determined that the Company has at least one “audit committee financial expert,” as defined under applicable SEC rules and regulations, and has determined that Mr. Terry is an audit committee financial expert. While Mr. Terry possesses the attributes of an “audit committee financial expert,” as defined under applicable SEC rules and regulations, he is not and never has been an accountant or an auditor, and this financial expert designation does not impose any duties, obligations or liabilities that are greater than the duties, obligations and liabilities imposed by being a member of the Audit Committee or the Board. The Board has also determined that Mr. Terry is “independent” as defined under the listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange and the independence standards for audit committee members in the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and rules thereunder.
The remaining information called for by this item is incorporated by reference to "Election of Directors", “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance”, “Corporate Governance”, “Audit Committee” and “Board Composition, Qualifications, and Nominations” in the Company's definitive proxy statement for the Annual Meeting of Share Owners to be held May 1, 2006.
Item 11. Executive Compensation
The information called for by this Item is incorporated by reference to “Executive Compensation”, “Compensation of Non-Employee Directors” and “Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation” in the Company's definitive proxy statement for the Annual Meeting of Share Owners to be held May 1, 2006.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Share Owner Matters
The information called for by this Item is included in Item 5, “Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity and Related Share-Owner Matters” and incorporated by reference to "Beneficial Ownership" in the Company's definitive proxy statement for the Annual Meeting of Share Owners to be held May 1, 2006.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions
None.
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services
The information called for by this Item is incorporated herein by reference to "Fees Paid to Independent Accountants" in the Company's definitive proxy statement for the Annual Meeting of Share Owners to be held May 1, 2006.
PART IV
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
The following documents are filed as part of this report:
1. | Financial Statements: See “Index to Consolidated Financial Statements” under Item 8 on page 55 of this Annual Report. |
2. | Financial Statement Schedules: |
The Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm which covers the financial statement schedules appears on page 88 of this report. The following schedules are located in this report on the pages indicated.
Page |
Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information |
of Registrant |
Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information |
Schedule IV - Reinsurance |
Schedule V - Valuation Accounts |
All other schedules to the consolidated financial statements required by Article 7 of Regulation S-X are not required under the related instructions or are inapplicable and therefore have been omitted.
3. | Exhibits: |
Included as exhibits are the items listed below. The Company will furnish a copy of any of the exhibits listed upon the payment of $5.00 per exhibit to cover the cost of the Company in furnishing the exhibit.
Item Number Document
*2(a) | Stock and Asset Purchase Agreement By and Among Protective Life Corporation, Protective Life Insurance Company, Fortis, Inc. and Dental Care Holdings, Inc. dated July 9, 2001, filed as Exhibit 2(a) to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001. |
*2(b) | Indemnity Reinsurance Agreement By and Between Protective Life Insurance Company and Fortis Benefits Insurance Company dated December 31, 2001, filed as Exhibit 2(b) to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001. |
*2(c) | Indemnity Reinsurance Agreement By and Between Empire General Life Assurance Corporation and Fortis Benefits Insurance Company dated December 31, 2001, filed as Exhibit 2(c) to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001. |
*2(d) | Indemnity Reinsurance Agreement By and Between Protective Life & Annuity Insurance Company and First Fortis Life Insurance Company dated December 31, 2001, filed as Exhibit 2(d) to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001. |
*2(e) | Stock Purchase Agreement Among Banc One Insurance Holdings, Inc., CBD Holdings Ltd., JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Protective Life Insurance Company dated as of February 7, 2006, filed as Exhibit 2.01 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed February 13, 2006. |
*3(a) | 1998 Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on November 12, 1998, filed as Exhibit 3(a) to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 1998. |
*3(b) | 2004 Amended and Restated By-laws of the Company, as adopted August 2, 2004, filed as Exhibit 4(b) to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed December 30, 2004 (No. 333-121791). |
4(a) | Reference is made to Exhibit 3(a) above. |
4(b) | Reference is made to Exhibit 3(b) above. |
*4(c) | Rights Agreement, dated as of August 7, 1995, between the Company and The Bank of New York as successor to AmSouth Bank (formerly, AmSouth Bank N.A.), as Rights Agent filed as Exhibit 2 to the Company’s Form 8-K Current Report filed August 7, 1995 and filed as Exhibit 1 to the Company’s Form 8-A Registration Statement filed August 7, 1995. |
*4(d) | Rights Certificate filed as Exhibit 1 to the Company’s Form 8-A filed August 7, 1995. |
*4(e) | Certificate of Trust of PLC Capital Trust III filed as Exhibit 4(bb) to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed July 8, 1997 (No. 333-30965). |
*4(f) | Declaration of Trust of PLC Capital Trust II filed as Exhibit 4 (ee) to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed July 8, 1997 (No. 333-30965). |
*4(g) | Form of Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust of PLC Capital III, dated August 22, 2001 filed as Exhibit 4.3 to the Company’s Current Filing on Form 8-K filed August 22, 2001. |
*4(h) | Form of Preferred Security Certificate for PLC Capital Trust III (included in Exhibit 4(g)). |
*4(i) | Preferred Securities Guarantee Agreement, dated August 22, 2001 with respect to Preferred Securities issued by PLC Capital Trust III filed as Exhibit 4.4 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 22, 2001. |
*4(j) | Certificate of Trust of PLC Capital Trust IV filed as Exhibit 4(cc) to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed July 8, 1997 (No. 333-30905). |
*4(k) | Declaration of Trust of PLC Capital Trust IV filed as Exhibit 4(ff) to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed July 8, 1997 (No. 333-30905). |
*4(l) | Form of Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust for PLC Capital Trust IV filed as Exhibit 4.09 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 18, 2002. |
*4(m) | Form of Preferred Security Certificate for PLC Capital Trust IV (included as Exhibit A-1 of Exhibit 4(l)). |
*4(n) | Form of Guarantee with respect to Preferred Securities of PLC Capital Trust IV filed as Exhibit 4(x) to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed July 8, 1997 (No. 333-30905). |
*4(o) | Certificate of Trust of PLC Capital Trust V filed as Exhibit 4(cc) to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed May 5, 2003 (No. 333-105003). |
*4(p) | Declaration of Trust of PLC Capital Trust V filed as Exhibit 4(ee) to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed May 5, 2003 (No. 333-105003). |
*4(q) | Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust of PLC Capital Trust V filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 28, 2004. |
*4(r) | Form of Preferred Security Certificate for PLC Capital Trust V (included as Exhibit A-1 of Exhibit 4(q)). |
*4(s) | Preferred Securities, Guarantee Agreement, dated January 27, 2004, with respect to Preferred Securities issued by PLC Capital Trust V filed as Exhibit 4.4 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 28, 2004. |
*10(a)† | The Company’s Annual Incentive Plan (effective as of January 1, 2002) filed as Exhibit 10(a) to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 10, 2005. |
*10(b)† | The Company’s Long-Term Incentive Plan as amended and restated as of May 5, 2003, filed as Exhibit 10 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed May 15, 2003. |
*10(b)(1)† | Form of Performance Share Award Letter under the Company’s Long-Term Incentive Plan filed as Exhibit 10(a) to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed November 9, 2004. |
*10(b)(2)† | Form of Performance Share Award Letter for Senior Officers under the Company’s Long-Term Incentive Plan filed as Exhibit 10(b)(1) to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 10, 2005. |
*10(b)(3)† | Form of Stock Appreciation Rights Award Letter under the Company’s Long-Term Incentive Plan filed as Exhibit 10(b) to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed November 9, 2004. |
*10(b)(4)† | Form of Stock Appreciation Rights Award Letter for Senior Officers under the Company’s Long-Term Incentive Plan filed as Exhibit 10(b)(2) to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 10, 2005. |
*10(b)(5)† | Form of Stock Appreciation Rights Award Letter for under the Company’s Long-Term Incentive Plan filed as Exhibit 10(b)(3) to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 10, 2005. |
*10(b)(6)† | Amendment to the Protective Life Corporation Long-Term Incentive Plan filed as Exhibit 10(b)(1) to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 9, 2006. |
*10(c)† | Excess Benefit Plan filed as Exhibit 10(d) to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed November 9, 2004. |
*10(d)† | Form of Indemnity Agreement for Directors filed as Exhibit 19.1 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed August 14, 1986. |
*10(d)(1)† | Form of Indemnity Agreement for Officers filed as Exhibit 10(d)(1) to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1996. |
*10(e)† | Form of the Company’s Employment Continuation Agreement (Executives) filed as Exhibit 10(a) to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed May 10, 2004. |
*10(e)(1)† | Form of the Company’s Employment Continuation Agreement (Senior Officers) filed as Exhibit 10(b) to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed May 10, 2004. |
*10(f)† | The Company’s Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors Who Are Not Employees of the Company as amended through March 3, 1997, filed as Exhibit 10(e) to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed May 14, 1997. |
*10(f)(1)† | Amendment to the Company’s Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors who are not Employees of the Company effective as of November 4, 2002, filed as Exhibit 10(f)(1) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002. |
*10(g)† | The Company’s Deferred Compensation Plan for Officers as amended through March 3, 1997, filed as Exhibit 10(d) to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed May 14, 1997. |
*10(g)(1)† | Amendment to the Company’s Deferred Compensation Plan for Officers effective as of February 5, 2001, filed as Exhibit 10(g)(1) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002. |
*10(g)(2)† | Amendment to the Company’s Deferred Compensation Plan for Officers effective as of November 4, 2002, filed as Exhibit 10(g)(2) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002. |
*10(h)† | The Company’s 1996 Stock Incentive Plan as amended through March 3, 1997, filed as Exhibit 10(c) to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed May 14, 1997. |
*10(h)(1)† | The Company’s specimen letter confirming grants under the Company’s 1996 Stock Incentive Plan, filed as Exhibit 10(2) to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed November 13, 1996. |
*10(i)† | Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors of Protective Life Corporation filed as Exhibit 10 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed August 9, 2004. |
*10(j) | Amended and Restated Credit Agreement among Protective Life Corporation, Protective Life Insurance Company, the several lenders from time to time party thereto, AmSouth Bank and Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC, dated as of July 30, 2004 filed as Exhibit 10(c) to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed November 9, 2004. |
*10(k) | Reference is made to Exhibit 2(a) above, filed as Exhibit 10(j) to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001. |
*10(l) | Reference is made to Exhibit 2(b) above, filed as Exhibit 10(k) to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001. |
*10(m) | Lease Agreement dated as of February 1, 2000, between Wachovia Capital Investments, Inc. and the Company, filed as Exhibit 10(l) to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002. |
*10(m)(l) | First Amendment to Lease Agreement dated as of October 31, 2001, between Wachovia Capital Investments, Inc. and the Company, filed as Exhibit 10(l)(l) to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002. |
*10(n) | Investment and Participation Agreement dated as of February 1, 2000, among the Company and Wachovia Capital Investments, Inc., filed as Exhibit 10(m) to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002. |
*10(n)(1) | First Amendment to Investment and Participation Agreement and Lease Agreement dated as of November 30, 2002, among the Company, Wachovia Capital Investments, Inc., and SunTrust Bank and LaSalle Bank National Association, filed as Exhibit 10(m)(1) to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002. |
*10(n)(2) | Second Amendment to Investment and Participation Agreement and Lease Agreement dated as of March 11, 2002 among the Company, Wachovia Capital Investments, Inc., and SunTrust Bank and LaSalle Bank National Association, filed as Exhibit 10(m)(2) to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002. |
*10(n)(3) | Third Amendment to Investment and Participation Agreement and Lease Agreement dated as of July 22, 2002 among the Company, Wachovia Capital Investments, Inc., and SunTrust Bank and LaSalle Bank National Association, filed as Exhibit 10(m)(3) to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002. |
*10(o) | Guarantee of Protective Life Corporation dated February 7, 2006, filed as Exhibit 10.01 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed February 13, 2006. |
21 | Organization Chart of the Company and Affiliates. |
23 | Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. |
24 | Powers of Attorney. |
31(a) | Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
31(b) | Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
32(a) | Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
32(b) | Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
99 | Safe Harbor for Forward-Looking Statements. |
*incorporated by reference
†Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement
SCHEDULE II - CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
OF REGISTRANT
STATEMENTS OF INCOME
PROTECTIVE LIFE CORPORATION
(Parent Company)
Years Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
(in thousands) | ||||||||||
Revenues | ||||||||||
Dividends from subsidiaries* | $ | 2,322 | $ | 1,665 | $ | 8,917 | ||||
Service fees from subsidiaries* | 108,956 | 109,896 | 104,245 | |||||||
Net investment income | 2,944 | 1,273 | 8,278 | |||||||
Realized investment gains (losses) | 8,679 | 23,531 | (4,399 | ) | ||||||
Other income (loss) | 292 | 136 | 682 | |||||||
Total revenues | 123,193 | 136,501 | 117,723 | |||||||
Expenses | ||||||||||
Operating and administrative | 67,243 | 81,065 | 95,199 | |||||||
Interest - subsidiaries | 22,642 | 22,168 | 16,327 | |||||||
Interest - other | 22,116 | 20,444 | 26,285 | |||||||
Total expenses | 112,001 | 123,677 | 137,811 | |||||||
Income (loss) before income tax and other items below | 11,192 | 12,824 | (20,088 | ) | ||||||
Income tax expense (benefit) | 4,635 | (120 | ) | (10,866 | ) | |||||
Income before equity in undistributed income of subsidiaries | 6,557 | 12,944 | (9,222 | ) | ||||||
Equity in undistributed income of subsidiaries* | 240,010 | 237,437 | 226,272 | |||||||
Net income before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle | 246,567 | 250,381 | 217,050 | |||||||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, net of income tax | 0 | (15,801 | ) | 0 | ||||||
Net income | $ | 246,567 | $ | 234,580 | $ | 217,050 |
See Notes to Condensed Financial Information.
*Eliminated in consolidation.
SCHEDULE II - CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
OF REGISTRANT
BALANCE SHEETS
PROTECTIVE LIFE CORPORATION
(Parent Company)
December 31 | |||||||
2005 | 2004 | ||||||
(in thousands) | |||||||
Assets | |||||||
Investments: | |||||||
Fixed maturities | $ | 2,145 | $ | 2,390 | |||
Other long-term investments | 39,052 | 32,489 | |||||
Short-term investments | 6,971 | 830 | |||||
Investments in subsidiaries (equity method)* | 2,967,547 | 2,917,044 | |||||
Total investments | 3,015,715 | 2,952,753 | |||||
Cash | 2,749 | 0 | |||||
Accrued investment income | 0 | 44 | |||||
Receivables from subsidiaries* | 18,096 | 19,909 | |||||
Property and equipment, net | 1,316 | 1,060 | |||||
Other | 58,968 | 55,294 | |||||
$ | 3,096,844 | $ | 3,029,060 | ||||
Liabilities | |||||||
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | $ | 72,439 | $ | 64,863 | |||
Accrued income taxes | 2,489 | (4,457 | ) | ||||
Deferred income taxes | 35,661 | 33,033 | |||||
Long-term debt | 477,852 | 444,551 | |||||
Subordinated debt securities | 324,743 | 324,743 | |||||
Total liabilities | 913,184 | 862,733 | |||||
Commitments and contingent liabilities - Note 5 | |||||||
Share-owners’ equity | |||||||
Preferred stock | |||||||
Common stock | 36,626 | 36,626 | |||||
Additional paid-in capital | 440,474 | 426,927 | |||||
Treasury stock | (12,765 | ) | (13,632 | ) | |||
Unallocated stock in employee stock ownership plan | (1,610 | ) | (1,989 | ) | |||
Retained earnings (including undistributed income of subsidiaries: 2005 - $1,917,597; 2004 - $1,677,587) | 1,615,715 | 1,422,084 | |||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income Net unrealized gains on investments (all from subsidiaries, net of income tax: 2005 - $57,649; 2004 - $154,913) | 104,489 | 287,695 | |||||
Accumulated gain - hedging (net of income tax: 2005 - $394; 2004 - $4,639) | 731 | 8,616 | |||||
Total share-owners’ equity | 2,183,660 | 2,166,327 | |||||
$ | 3,096,844 | $ | 3,029,060 |
See Notes to Condensed Financial Information.
*Eliminated in consolidation.
SCHEDULE II - CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
OF REGISTRANT
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
PROTECTIVE LIFE CORPORATION
(Parent Company)
Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
(dollars in thousands) | ||||||||||
Cash flows from operating activities | ||||||||||
Net income | $ | 246,567 | $ | 234,580 | $ | 217,050 | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: | ||||||||||
Realized investment (gains) losses | (8,679 | ) | 2,466 | 8,700 | ||||||
Equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries* | (240,010 | ) | (237,437 | ) | (226,272 | ) | ||||
Depreciation expense | 264 | |||||||||
Deferred income taxes | 2,628 | (10,120 | ) | 3,029 | ||||||
Accrued income taxes | 7,331 | 40,790 | (7,396 | ) | ||||||
Accrued expenses | 4,478 | (2,448 | ) | 16,262 | ||||||
Accrued investment income | 44 | (44 | ) | |||||||
Receivables from subsidiaries | 1,813 | (9,305 | ) | (3,620 | ) | |||||
Other (net) | 6,825 | (17,728 | ) | (5,661 | ) | |||||
Net cash provided by operating activities | 21,261 | 754 | 2,092 | |||||||
Cash flows from investing activities | ||||||||||
Purchase of and/or additional investments in subsidiaries* | (390 | ) | (53,352 | ) | (23,437 | ) | ||||
Purchase of property and equipment | (520 | ) | (222 | ) | ||||||
Principal payments received on loan to subsidiaries* | 2,000 | |||||||||
Cost of investments acquired | (93 | ) | (5,293 | ) | ||||||
Sale of investments | 7,783 | 991 | ||||||||
Change in other long-term investments, net | 484 | 2,650 | 7,940 | |||||||
Change in short-term investments, net | (6,141 | ) | (179 | ) | 454 | |||||
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities | 1,123 | (55,183 | ) | (13,265 | ) | |||||
Cash flows from financing activities | ||||||||||
Borrowings under line of credit arrangements and long-term debt | 79,100 | 407,400 | 442,700 | |||||||
Principal payments on line of credit arrangements and long-term debt | (45,799 | ) | (417,264 | ) | (387,451 | ) | ||||
Issuance of guaranteed preferred beneficial interests | 103,093 | |||||||||
Purchase of common stock | (371 | ) | ||||||||
Dividends to share owners | (52,936 | ) | (47,508 | ) | (43,399 | ) | ||||
Other financing activities | 8,224 | |||||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities | (19,635 | ) | 53,945 | 11,479 | ||||||
Increase (decrease) in cash | 2,749 | (484 | ) | 306 | ||||||
Cash at beginning of year | 0 | 484 | 178 | |||||||
Cash at end of year | $ | 2,749 | $ | 0 | $ | 484 |
See Notes to Condensed Financial Information.
*Eliminated in consolidation.
SCHEDULE II - CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
OF REGISTRANT
PROTECTIVE LIFE CORPORATION
(Parent Company)
NOTES TO CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Company publishes consolidated financial statements that are its primary financial statements. Therefore, these parent company condensed financial statements are not intended to be the primary financial statements of the Company, and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto of Protective Life Corporation and subsidiaries.
NOTE 1 - RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS/CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLE
In December 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123(R), “Share-Based Payment” (“FAS 123(R)”). FAS 123(R) is a revision of FAS 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” which was originally issued by the FASB in 1995. FAS 123(R) will become effective for the Company January 1, 2006. As originally issued, FAS 123 provided companies with the option to either record expense for share-based payments under a fair value model, or to simply disclose the impact of the expense. FAS 123(R) requires companies to measure the cost of share-based payments to employees using a fair value model, and to recognize that cost over the relevant service period. In addition, FAS 123(R) requires that an estimate of future award forfeitures be made at the grant date, while FAS 123 permitted recognition of forfeitures on an as incurred basis. When FAS 123 was originally issued, the Company elected to recognize the cost of its share-based compensation plans in its financial statements. The Company does not anticipate that adoption of this standard will have a material impact on its financial position or results of operations.
In May 2005, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 154, “Accounting Changes and Error Corrections” (“FAS 154”). FAS 154 replaces APB opinion No. 20, “Accounting Changes” and FASB Statement No. 3, “Reporting Accounting Changes in Interim Financial Statements.” FAS 154 requires that a voluntary change in accounting principle be applied retrospectively with all prior period financial statements presented on the new accounting principle, unless it is impracticable to do so. FAS 154 also provides that a correction of errors in previously issued financial statements should be termed a “restatement.” The new standard is effective for accounting changes and correction of errors beginning January 1, 2006.
NOTE 2 - DEBT
At December 31, 2005, the Company had $68.0 million outstanding under its $200 million line of credit arrangement. $9.9 million of 7.45% Medium-Term Notes due 2011, $250.0 million of 4.30% Senior Notes due 2013, $150.0 million of 4.875% Senior Notes due 2014, $103.1 million of subordinated debentures due 2031, $118.6 million of subordinated debentures due 2032, and $103.1 million of subordinated debentures due 2034, were outstanding at December 31, 2005. The subordinated debentures were issued to affiliates in connection with the issuance by such affiliates of Trust Originated Preferred Securities.
NOTE 3 - SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION
2005 | 2004 | 2003 | ||||||||
Cash paid during the year for: | ||||||||||
Interest paid to non-affiliates | $ | 22,761 | $ | 23,526 | $ | 28,006 | ||||
Interest paid for subordinated debt securities | 22,642 | 22,168 | 16,327 | |||||||
$ | 45,403 | $ | 45,694 | $ | 44,333 | |||||
Income taxes (reduced by amounts received from affiliates under a tax sharing agreement) | $ | (7,557 | ) | $ | (29,983 | ) | ||||
Noncash investing and financing activities | ||||||||||
Reinsurance of treasury stock to ESOP | $ | 2,309 | $ | 888 | $ | 877 | ||||
Change in unallocated stock in ESOP | $ | 379 | $ | 378 | $ | 410 | ||||
Stock-based compensation | $ | 12,106 | $ | 9,331 | $ | 10,204 |
NOTE 4 - OPERATING EXPENSES
In 2004, the Company incurred an additional $13.9 million of expense related to the payment of claims in the Company’s Corporate and Other segment. The Company incurred no such expense in 2005.
NOTE 5 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
The Company is contingently liable to obtain a $20 million letter of credit under indemnity agreements with its directors. Such agreements provide insurance protection in excess of the directors’ and officers’ liability insurance in force at the time up to $20 million. Should certain events occur constituting a change in control of the Company, the Company must obtain the letter of credit upon which directors may draw for defense or settlement of any claim relating to performance of their duties as directors. The Company has similar agreements with certain of its officers providing up to $10 million in indemnification that are not secured by the obligation to obtain a letter of credit.
The Company leases administrative and marketing office space in 22 cities including Birmingham, with most leases being for periods of three to ten years. The aggregate annualized rent is approximately $5.4 million. Additionally, the Company leases a building contiguous to its home office, which expires in February 2007. Lease payments in 2006 approximate $3.1 million. At the end of the lease term the Company may purchase the building for approximately $75 million.
On August 26, 2005, Golden Gate Captive Insurance Company (“Golden Gate”), a special purpose financial captive insurance company wholly owned by Protective Life Insurance Company (“Protective Life”), the Company's largest operating subsidiary, issued $100 million of non-recourse funding obligations, which bear a floating rate of interest and mature in 2037. These non-recourse funding obligations were issued under a surplus notes facility established with certain purchasers through which Golden Gate may issue up to an aggregate of $400 million of non-recourse funding obligations through June 2007. On December 28, 2005, Golden Gate issued an additional $25 million of non-recourse funding obligations under this facility. The total obligations outstanding at December 31, 2005 were $125.0 million, at an interest rate of 5.6%. The non-recourse funding obligations are direct financial obligations of Golden Gate and are not guaranteed by Protective Life or the Company. The non-recourse obligations are represented by surplus notes that were issued to fund statutory reserves required by the Valuation of Life Insurance Policies Regulation (“Regulation XXX”). Under the terms of the notes, the holders of the notes cannot require repayment from the Company or any of the Company's subsidiaries, other than Golden Gate, the direct issuer of the notes, although the Company has agreed to indemnify Golden Gate for certain costs and obligations (which obligations do not include payment of principle and interest on the notes). In addition, the Company has entered into certain support agreements with Golden Gate obligating the Company to make capital contributions to Golden Gate or provide support related to certain of Golden Gate's expenses and in certain circumstances, to collateralize certain of the Company's obligations to Golden Gate.
In conjunction with the Stock Purchase Agreement entered into by Protective Life Insurance Company on February 7, 2006, the Company executed a Guarantee (the “Guarantee”) in favor of JPMC and the Sellers by which the Company has unconditionally guaranteed the performance of Protective Life’s obligations under the Agreement, related documents and the related transactions contemplated by the Agreement. See additional information in Note 14 to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Under insurance guaranty fund laws, in most states insurance companies doing business therein can be assessed up to prescribed limits for policyholder losses incurred by insolvent companies. The Company does not believe such assessments will be materially different from amounts already provided for in the financial statements. Most of these laws do provide, however, that an assessment may be excused or deferred if it would threaten an insurer’s own financial strength.
A number of civil jury verdicts have been returned against insurers and other providers of financial services involving sales practices, alleged agent misconduct, failure to properly supervise representatives, relationships with agents or persons with whom the insurer does business, and other matters. Increasingly these lawsuits have resulted in the award of substantial judgments that are disproportionate to the actual damages, including material amounts of punitive and non-economic compensatory damages. In some states, juries, judges, and arbitrators have substantial discretion in awarding punitive and non-economic compensatory damages which creates the potential for unpredictable material adverse judgments or awards in any given lawsuit or arbitration. Arbitration awards are subject to very little appellate review. In addition, in some class action and other lawsuits, companies have made material settlement payments. The Company, like other financial service companies, in the ordinary course of business, is involved in such litigation and in arbitration. Although the outcome of any such litigation or arbitration cannot be predicted, the Company believes that at the present time there are no pending or threatened lawsuits that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the financial position, results of operations, or liquidity of the Company.
SCHEDULE III - SUPPLEMENTARY INSURANCE INFORMATION
PROTECTIVE LIFE CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
(in thousands)
COL. A | COL. B | COL. C | COL. D | COL. E | COL. F | COL. G | COL. H | COL. I | COL. J | |||||||||||||||||||
Segment | Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs | Future Policy Benefits and Claims | Unearned Premiums | Stable Value Products, Annuity Contracts and Other Policyholders’ Funds | Net Premiums and Policy Fees | Net Investment Income(1) | Benefits and Settlement Expenses | Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisitions Costs | Other Operating Expenses(1) | |||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
December 31, 2005: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Life Marketing | $ | 1,584,325 | $ | 7,027,066 | $ | 130,683 | $ | 62,851 | $ | 288,568 | $ | 261,859 | $ | 392,448 | $ | 55,688 | $ | 49,832 | ||||||||||
Acquisitions | 330,278 | 3,091,166 | 274 | 757,043 | 186,804 | 223,201 | 273,626 | 27,072 | 30,301 | |||||||||||||||||||
Annuities | 128,930 | 760,906 | 11,959 | 2,661,224 | 31,810 | 218,700 | 187,791 | 37,512 | 25,601 | |||||||||||||||||||
Stable Value Products | 19,102 | 5,959,112 | 310,715 | 246,134 | 4,694 | 5,089 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Asset Protection | 101,972 | 139,834 | 576,282 | 7,587 | 179,473 | 32,389 | 101,477 | 69,474 | 62,246 | |||||||||||||||||||
Corporate and Other | 7,381 | 100,260 | 20,804 | 145,829 | 42,268 | 133,638 | 51,891 | 4,063 | 107,252 | |||||||||||||||||||
Adjustments(2) | 35,842 | 69 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 2,171,988 | $ | 11,155,074 | $ | 740,071 | $ | 9,593,646 | $ | 728,923 | $ | 1,180,502 | $ | 1,253,367 | $ | 198,503 | $ | 280,321 | ||||||||||
Year Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
December 31, 2004: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Life Marketing | $ | 1,262,637 | $ | 5,794,434 | $ | 43,500 | $ | 64,247 | $ | 208,682 | $ | 238,193 | $ | 274,584 | $ | 58,970 | $ | 42,119 | ||||||||||
Acquisitions | 337,372 | 3,136,525 | 309 | 834,675 | 204,332 | 232,499 | 287,356 | 28,652 | 35,795 | |||||||||||||||||||
Annuities | 81,251 | 772,440 | 8,861 | 2,669,776 | 30,341 | 210,888 | 183,271 | 32,271 | 23,159 | |||||||||||||||||||
Stable Value Products | 18,301 | 5,377,917 | 268,184 | 205,168 | 3,480 | 6,377 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Asset Protection | 113,918 | 181,722 | 584,202 | 5,603 | 204,734 | 30,939 | 121,007 | 72,273 | 62,994 | |||||||||||||||||||
Corporate and Other | 8,493 | 90,883 | 29,617 | 225,916 | 47,359 | 103,514 | 59,051 | 4,484 | 102,363 | |||||||||||||||||||
Adjustments(2) | 38,102 | 71 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 1,821,972 | $ | 10,014,106 | $ | 666,560 | $ | 9,178,134 | $ | 695,448 | $ | 1,084,217 | $ | 1,130,437 | $ | 200,130 | $ | 272,807 | ||||||||||
Year Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
December 31, 2003: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Life Marketing | $ | 198,653 | $ | 231,238 | $ | 253,785 | $ | 66,078 | $ | 10,832 | ||||||||||||||||||
Acquisitions | 213,912 | 246,143 | 291,768 | 32,690 | 43,087 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Annuities | 26,265 | 224,332 | 197,955 | 38,196 | 28,765 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Stable Value Products | 233,104 | 186,565 | 2,279 | 5,349 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Asset Protection | 242,182 | 36,652 | 142,166 | 80,320 | 80,980 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Corporate and Other | 52,278 | 59,283 | 79,335 | 5,544 | 86,419 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 733,290 | $ | 1,030,752 | $ | 1,151,574 | $ | 225,107 | $ | 255,432 | ||||||||||||||||||
(1) Allocations of Net Investment Income and Other Operating Expenses are based on a number of assumptions and estimates and results would change if different methods were applied. (2) Balance Sheet adjustments represent the inclusion of assets related to discontinued operations. |
SCHEDULE IV - REINSURANCE
PROTECTIVE LIFE CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
(dollars in thousands)
COL. A | COL. B | COL. C | COL. D | COL. E | COL. F | |||||||||||
Gross Amount | Ceded to Other Companies | Assumed from Other Companies | Net Amount | Percentage of Amount Assumed to Net | ||||||||||||
Year Ended | ||||||||||||||||
December 31, 2005: | ||||||||||||||||
Life insurance in force | $ | 443,923,068 | $ | 393,605,152 | $ | 23,210,523 | $ | 73,528,439 | 31.6 | % | ||||||
Premiums and policy fees: | ||||||||||||||||
Life insurance | $ | 1,369,591 | $ | 1,064,657 | $ | 221,756 | $ | 526,690 | 42.1 | % | ||||||
Accident/health insurance | 107,072 | 43,855 | 4,100 | 67,317 | 6.1 | |||||||||||
Property and liability insurance | 239,907 | 118,345 | 13,354 | 134,916 | 9.9 | |||||||||||
Total | $ | 1,716,570 | $ | 1,226,857 | $ | 239,210 | $ | 728,923 | ||||||||
Year Ended | ||||||||||||||||
December 31, 2004: | ||||||||||||||||
Life insurance in force | $ | 379,588,512 | $ | 354,015,938 | $ | 29,448,143 | $ | 55,020,717 | 53.5 | % | ||||||
Premiums and policy fees: | ||||||||||||||||
Life insurance | $ | 1,218,899 | $ | 959,643 | $ | 219,917 | $ | 479,173 | 45.9 | % | ||||||
Accident/health insurance | 113,367 | 60,560 | 25,461 | 78,268 | 32.5 | |||||||||||
Property and liability insurance | 215,846 | 105,443 | 27,604 | 138,007 | 20.0 | |||||||||||
Total | $ | 1,548,112 | $ | 1,125,646 | $ | 272,982 | $ | 695,448 | ||||||||
Year Ended | ||||||||||||||||
December 31, 2003: | ||||||||||||||||
Life insurance in force | $ | 324,318,517 | $ | 292,740,795 | $ | 22,176,303 | $ | 53,754,025 | 41.3 | % | ||||||
Premiums and policy fees: | ||||||||||||||||
Life insurance | $ | 1,028,053 | $ | 781,776 | $ | 247,592 | $ | 493,869 | 50.1 | % | ||||||
Accident/health insurance | 99,023 | 61,644 | 59,633 | 97,012 | 61.5 | |||||||||||
Property and liability insurance | 170,322 | 91,015 | 65,688 | 142,409 | 46.1 | |||||||||||
Total | $ | 1,297,398 | $ | 934,435 | $ | 372,913 | $ | 733,290 |
SCHEDULE V - VALUATION ACCOUNTS
PROTECTIVE LIFE CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
(dollars in thousands)
COL. A | COL. B | COL. C | COL. D | COL. E | ||||||||||||
Additions | ||||||||||||||||
Description | Balance at beginning of period | (1) Charged to costs and expenses | (2) Charges to other accounts | Deductions | Balance at end of period | |||||||||||
2005 | ||||||||||||||||
Allowance for Uncollected Reinsurance Receivable | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||
2004 | ||||||||||||||||
Allowance for Uncollected Reinsurance Receivable | $ | 6,462 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 6,462 | $ | 0 |
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Company has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
PROTECTIVE LIFE CORPORATION
By: /s/ John D. Johns
John D. Johns
Chairman of the Board, President
and Chief Executive Officer
March 16, 2006
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Company and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Signature | Capacity in Which Signed | Date |
/s/ John D. Johns | Chairman of the Board, President | March 16, 2006 |
JOHN D. JOHNS | and Chief Executive Officer | |
(Principal Executive Officer) | ||
and Director | ||
/s/ Allen W. Ritchie | Executive Vice President and | March 16, 2006 |
ALLEN W. RITCHIE | Chief Financial Officer | |
(Principal Financial Officer) | ||
/s/ Steven G. Walker | Senior Vice President, Controller, | March 16, 2006 |
STEVEN G. WALKER | and Chief Accounting Officer | |
(Principal Accounting Officer) | ||
* | Director | March 16, 2006 |
JOHN J. MCMAHON, JR. | ||
* | Director | March 16, 2006 |
JAMES S. M. FRENCH | ||
* | Director | March 16, 2006 |
DONALD M. JAMES | ||
* | Director | March 16, 2006 |
J. GARY COOPER | ||
* | Director | March 16, 2006 |
H. CORBIN DAY |
* | Director | March 16, 2006 |
W. MICHAEL WARREN, JR. | ||
* | Director | March 16, 2006 |
MALCOLM PORTERA | ||
* | Director | March 16, 2006 |
THOMAS L. HAMBY | ||
* | Director | March 16, 2006 |
VANESSA LEONARD | ||
* | Director | March 16, 2006 |
WILLIAM A. TERRY | ||
* | Director | March 16, 2006 |
CHARLES D. MCCRARY | ||
* | Director | March 16, 2006 |
C. DOWD RITTER |
*John D. Johns, by signing his name hereto, does sign this document on behalf of each of the persons indicated above pursuant to powers of attorney duly executed by such persons and filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
By: /s/ John D. Johns
JOHN D. JOHNS
Attorney-in-fact