UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form 10-Q
(Mark One)
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| þ | QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED MARCH 31, 2015
or
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| ¨ | 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: 033-03094
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
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Delaware | | 06-0566090 |
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
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11225 North Community House Road, Charlotte, North Carolina | | 28277 |
(Address of principal executive offices) | | (Zip Code) |
(212) 578-9500
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes þ No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
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Large accelerated filer ¨ | | Accelerated filer ¨ |
Non-accelerated filer þ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) | | Smaller reporting company ¨ |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ¨ No þ
At May 13, 2015, 3,000 shares of the registrant’s common stock, $25,000 par value per share, were outstanding, all of which were owned directly by MetLife, Inc.
REDUCED DISCLOSURE FORMAT
The registrant meets the conditions set forth in General Instruction H(1)(a) and (b) of Form 10-Q and is, therefore, filing this Form 10-Q with the reduced disclosure format.
Table of Contents
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Item 1. | Financial Statements (at March 31, 2015 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2014 and for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 (Unaudited)) | |
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Item 2. | | |
Item 4. | | |
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Item 1. | | |
Item 1A. | | |
Item 6. | | |
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As used in this Form 10-Q, “MetLife USA,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” and “us” refer to MetLife Insurance Company USA (formerly, MetLife Insurance Company of Connecticut), a Delaware corporation originally incorporated in Connecticut in 1863, and its subsidiaries. MetLife Insurance Company USA is a wholly-owned subsidiary of MetLife, Inc. (MetLife, Inc., together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, “MetLife”).
Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, including Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, may contain or incorporate by reference information that includes or is based upon forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements give expectations or forecasts of future events. These statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They use words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe” and other words and terms of similar meaning, or are tied to future periods, in connection with a discussion of future operating or financial performance. In particular, these include statements relating to future actions, prospective services or products, future performance or results of current and anticipated services or products, sales efforts, expenses, the outcome of contingencies such as legal proceedings, trends in operations and financial results.
Any or all forward-looking statements may turn out to be wrong. They can be affected by inaccurate assumptions or by known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Many such factors will be important in determining the actual future results of MetLife USA. These statements are based on current expectations and the current economic environment. They involve a number of risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. These statements are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Risks, uncertainties, and other factors that might cause such differences include the risks, uncertainties and other factors identified in MetLife Insurance Company USA’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. These factors include: (1) difficult conditions in the global capital markets; (2) increased volatility and disruption of the capital and credit markets, which may affect our ability to meet liquidity needs and access capital, generate fee income and market-related revenue and finance statutory reserve requirements and may require us to pledge collateral or make payments related to declines in value of specified assets, including assets supporting risks ceded to certain affiliated captive reinsurers or hedging arrangements associated with those risks; (3) exposure to financial and capital market risks, including as a result of the disruption in Europe and possible withdrawal of one or more countries from the Euro zone; (4) impact on us of comprehensive financial services regulation reform, including regulation of MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank systemically important financial institution, or otherwise; (5) numerous rulemaking initiatives required or permitted by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act which may impact how we conduct our business, including those compelling the liquidation of certain financial institutions; (6) regulatory, legislative or tax changes relating to our insurance or other operations that may affect the cost of, or demand for, our products or services, or increase the cost or administrative burdens of providing benefits to employees; (7) adverse results or other consequences from litigation, arbitration or regulatory investigations; (8) potential liquidity and other risks resulting from our participation in a securities lending program and other transactions; (9) investment losses and defaults, and changes to investment valuations; (10) changes in assumptions related to investment valuations, deferred policy acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements, value of business acquired or goodwill; (11) impairments of goodwill and realized losses or market value impairments to illiquid assets; (12) defaults on our mortgage loans; (13) the defaults or deteriorating credit of other financial institutions that could adversely affect us; (14) fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates; (15) downgrades in our claims paying ability, financial strength ratings or those of MetLife, Inc.’s other insurance subsidiaries, or MetLife, Inc.’s credit ratings; (16) an inability of MetLife, Inc. to access its credit facilities; (17) availability and effectiveness of reinsurance or indemnification arrangements, as well as any default or failure of counterparties to perform; (18) differences between actual claims experience and underwriting and reserving assumptions; (19) ineffectiveness of MetLife’s risk management policies and procedures; (20) catastrophe losses; (21) increasing cost and limited market capacity for statutory life insurance reserve financings; (22) heightened competition, including with respect to pricing, entry of new competitors, consolidation of distributors, the development of new products by new and existing competitors, and for personnel; (23) exposure to losses related to variable annuity guarantee benefits, including from significant and sustained downturns or extreme volatility in equity markets, reduced interest rates, unanticipated policyholder behavior, mortality or longevity, and the adjustment for nonperformance risk; (24) our ability to address difficulties, unforeseen liabilities, asset impairments, or rating agency actions arising from business acquisitions, and integrating and managing the growth of such acquired businesses, or arising from dispositions of businesses or legal entity reorganizations; (25) changes in accounting standards, practices and/or policies; (26) increased expenses relating to pension and postretirement benefit plans for employees and retirees of MetLife, Inc. and its subsidiaries, as well as health care and other employee benefits; (27) inability to protect our intellectual property rights or claims of infringement of the intellectual property rights of others; (28) inability to attract and retain sales representatives; (29) the effects of business disruption or economic contraction due to disasters such as terrorist attacks, cyberattacks, other hostilities, or natural catastrophes, including any related impact on the value of our investment portfolio, MetLife’s disaster recovery systems, cyber- or other information security systems and management continuity planning; (30) the effectiveness of MetLife’s programs and practices in avoiding giving associates incentives to take excessive risks; and (31) other risks and uncertainties described from time to time in MetLife Insurance Company USA’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
MetLife Insurance Company USA does not undertake any obligation to publicly correct or update any forward-looking statement if MetLife Insurance Company USA later becomes aware that such statement is not likely to be achieved. Please consult any further disclosures MetLife Insurance Company USA makes on related subjects in reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Note Regarding Reliance on Statements in Our Contracts
See “Exhibit Index — Note Regarding Reliance on Statements in Our Contracts” for information regarding agreements included as exhibits to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
Part I — Financial Information
Item 1. Financial Statements
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Interim Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
March 31, 2015 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2014
(In millions, except share and per share data)
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| | March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
Assets | | | | |
Investments: | | | | |
Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value (amortized cost: $48,233 and $46,423, respectively) | | $ | 53,065 |
| | $ | 50,697 |
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Equity securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value (cost: $422 and $400, respectively) | | 480 |
| | 459 |
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Mortgage loans (net of valuation allowances of $26 and $25, respectively; includes $272 and $280, respectively, at estimated fair value, relating to variable interest entities) | | 6,120 |
| | 5,839 |
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Policy loans | | 1,190 |
| | 1,194 |
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Real estate and real estate joint ventures (includes $46 and $93 respectively, of real estate held-for-sale) | | 819 |
| | 894 |
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Other limited partnership interests | | 2,244 |
| | 2,234 |
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Short-term investments, principally at estimated fair value | | 3,321 |
| | 1,232 |
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Other invested assets, principally at estimated fair value | | 5,209 |
| | 4,531 |
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Total investments | | 72,448 |
| | 67,080 |
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Cash and cash equivalents, principally at estimated fair value | | 827 |
| | 1,206 |
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Accrued investment income (includes $1 and $2, respectively, relating to variable interest entities) | | 526 |
| | 501 |
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Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables | | 21,978 |
| | 21,559 |
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Deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired | | 4,811 |
| | 4,890 |
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Current income tax recoverable | | 498 |
| | 537 |
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Goodwill | | 381 |
| | 381 |
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Other assets | | 839 |
| | 848 |
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Separate account assets | | 110,014 |
| | 108,861 |
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Total assets | | $ | 212,322 |
| | $ | 205,863 |
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Liabilities and Stockholder’s Equity | | | | |
Liabilities | | | | |
Future policy benefits | | $ | 29,073 |
| | $ | 28,479 |
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Policyholder account balances | | 35,506 |
| | 35,486 |
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Other policy-related balances | | 3,426 |
| | 3,320 |
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Payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions | | 9,394 |
| | 7,501 |
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Long-term debt (includes $132 and $139, respectively, at estimated fair value, relating to variable interest entities) | | 921 |
| | 928 |
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Deferred income tax liability | | 1,575 |
| | 1,338 |
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Other liabilities (includes $1 and $1, respectively, relating to variable interest entities) | | 9,828 |
| | 7,944 |
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Separate account liabilities | | 110,014 |
| | 108,861 |
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Total liabilities | | 199,737 |
| | 193,857 |
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Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (Note 9) | |
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Stockholder’s Equity | | | | |
Common stock, par value $25,000 per share; 4,000 shares authorized; 3,000 shares issued and outstanding, respectively | | 75 |
| | 75 |
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Additional paid-in capital | | 10,856 |
| | 10,855 |
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Retained earnings (deficit) | | (1,066 | ) | | (1,350 | ) |
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | | 2,720 |
| | 2,426 |
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Total stockholder’s equity | | 12,585 |
| | 12,006 |
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Total liabilities and stockholder’s equity | | $ | 212,322 |
| | $ | 205,863 |
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See accompanying notes to the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 (Unaudited)
(In millions)
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| Three Months Ended March 31, |
| 2015 | | 2014 |
Revenues | | | |
Premiums | $ | 283 |
| | $ | 178 |
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Universal life and investment-type product policy fees | 718 |
| | 805 |
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Net investment income | 635 |
| | 735 |
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Other revenues | 120 |
| | 142 |
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Net investment gains (losses): | | | |
Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities | (2 | ) | | (1 | ) |
Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities transferred to other comprehensive income (loss) | (1 | ) | | — |
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Other net investment gains (losses) | 45 |
| | (505 | ) |
Total net investment gains (losses) | 42 |
| | (506 | ) |
Net derivative gains (losses) | 85 |
| | (150 | ) |
Total revenues | 1,883 |
| | 1,204 |
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Expenses | | | |
Policyholder benefits and claims | 592 |
| | 568 |
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Interest credited to policyholder account balances | 257 |
| | 269 |
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Other expenses | 647 |
| | 677 |
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Total expenses | 1,496 |
| | 1,514 |
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Income (loss) before provision for income tax | 387 |
| | (310 | ) |
Provision for income tax expense (benefit) | 103 |
| | (111 | ) |
Net income (loss) | $ | 284 |
| | $ | (199 | ) |
Comprehensive income (loss) | $ | 578 |
| | $ | 483 |
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See accompanying notes to the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholder’s Equity
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 (Unaudited)
(In millions)
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| Common Stock | | Additional Paid-in Capital | | Retained Earnings (Deficit) | | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | | Total Stockholder's Equity |
Balance at December 31, 2014 | $ | 75 |
| | $ | 10,855 |
| | $ | (1,350 | ) | | $ | 2,426 |
| | $ | 12,006 |
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Capital contribution | | | 1 |
| | | | | | 1 |
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Net income (loss) | | | | | 284 |
| | | | 284 |
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Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income tax | | | | | | | 294 |
| | 294 |
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Balance at March 31, 2015 | $ | 75 |
| | $ | 10,856 |
| | $ | (1,066 | ) | | $ | 2,720 |
| | $ | 12,585 |
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| Common Stock | | Additional Paid-in Capital | | Retained Earnings (Deficit) | | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | | Total Stockholder's Equity |
Balance at December 31, 2013 | $ | 86 |
| | $ | 11,506 |
| | $ | (1,006 | ) | | $ | 980 |
| | $ | 11,566 |
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Dividend paid to MetLife, Inc. | | | | | (77 | ) | | | | (77 | ) |
Capital contribution | | | 3 |
| | | | | | 3 |
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Net income (loss) | | | | | (199 | ) | | | | (199 | ) |
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income tax | | | | | | | 682 |
| | 682 |
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Balance at March 31, 2014 | $ | 86 |
| | $ | 11,509 |
| | $ | (1,282 | ) | | $ | 1,662 |
| | $ | 11,975 |
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See accompanying notes to the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 (Unaudited)
(In millions)
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| Three Months Ended March 31, |
| 2015 | | 2014 |
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities | $ | 825 |
| | $ | 982 |
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Cash flows from investing activities | | | |
Sales, maturities and repayments of: | | | |
Fixed maturity securities | 7,427 |
| | 4,603 |
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Equity securities | 7 |
| | 14 |
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Mortgage loans | 123 |
| | 807 |
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Real estate and real estate joint ventures | 103 |
| | 1 |
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Other limited partnership interests | 37 |
| | 37 |
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Purchases of: | | | |
Fixed maturity securities | (7,681 | ) | | (5,189 | ) |
Equity securities | (27 | ) | | (9 | ) |
Mortgage loans | (435 | ) | | (126 | ) |
Real estate and real estate joint ventures | (5 | ) | | (89 | ) |
Other limited partnership interests | (47 | ) | | (62 | ) |
Cash received in connection with freestanding derivatives | 59 |
| | 45 |
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Cash paid in connection with freestanding derivatives | (259 | ) | | (345 | ) |
Cash received under repurchase agreements (Note 4) | 199 |
| | — |
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Cash paid under reverse repurchase agreements (Note 4) | (199 | ) | | — |
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Net change in policy loans | 4 |
| | 5 |
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Net change in short-term investments | (2,088 | ) | | 214 |
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Net change in other invested assets | 22 |
| | 28 |
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Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities | (2,760 | ) | | (66 | ) |
Cash flows from financing activities | | | |
Policyholder account balances: | | | |
Deposits | 4,546 |
| | 4,464 |
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Withdrawals | (4,840 | ) | | (5,007 | ) |
Net change in payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions | 1,893 |
| | 1,423 |
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Long-term debt repaid | (7 | ) | | (459 | ) |
Financing element on certain derivative instruments | (37 | ) | | (58 | ) |
Dividends paid to MetLife, Inc. | — |
| | (77 | ) |
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities | 1,555 |
| | 286 |
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Effect of change in foreign currency exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents balances | 1 |
| | 8 |
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Change in cash and cash equivalents | (379 | ) | | 1,210 |
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Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period | 1,206 |
| | 1,400 |
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Cash and cash equivalents, end of period | $ | 827 |
| | $ | 2,610 |
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Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information | | | |
Net cash paid (received) for: | | | |
Interest | $ | 2 |
| | $ | 21 |
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Income tax | $ | 1 |
| | $ | 2 |
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Non-cash transactions: | | | |
Capital contributions from MetLife, Inc. | $ | 1 |
| | $ | 3 |
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Transfer of fixed maturity securities to affiliates | $ | — |
| | $ | 333 |
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See accompanying notes to the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
1. Business, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Business
“MetLife USA” and the “Company” refer to MetLife Insurance Company USA (formerly, MetLife Insurance Company of Connecticut (“MICC”)), a Delaware corporation originally incorporated in Connecticut in 1863, and its subsidiaries. MetLife Insurance Company USA is a wholly-owned subsidiary of MetLife, Inc. (MetLife, Inc., together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, “MetLife”). The Company offers individual annuities, individual life insurance, and institutional protection and asset accumulation products.
In November 2014, MetLife Insurance Company of Connecticut re-domesticated from Connecticut to Delaware, changed its name to MetLife Insurance Company USA and merged with its subsidiary, MetLife Investors USA Insurance Company (“MLI-USA”), and its affiliate, MetLife Investors Insurance Company, each a U.S. insurance company that issued variable annuity products in addition to other products, and Exeter Reassurance Company, Ltd., a former offshore, reinsurance subsidiary of MetLife, Inc. and affiliate of MICC that mainly reinsured guarantees associated with variable annuity products (the “Mergers”). The surviving entity of the Mergers was MetLife USA. The Mergers represent a transaction among entities under common control and have been accounted for in a manner similar to the pooling-of-interests method, which requires that the merged entities be combined at their historical cost. The Company’s consolidated financial statements and related footnotes are presented as if the transaction occurred at the beginning of the earliest date presented and the prior periods have been retrospectively adjusted. See Note 3 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in MetLife Insurance Company USA’s Annual Report on Form 10‑K for the year ended December 31, 2014 (the “2014 Annual Report”) for further information on the Mergers.
The Company is organized into two segments: Retail and Corporate Benefit Funding.
Basis of Presentation
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to adopt accounting policies and make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported in the interim condensed consolidated financial statements. In applying these policies and estimates, management makes subjective and complex judgments that frequently require assumptions about matters that are inherently uncertain. Many of these policies, estimates and related judgments are common in the insurance and financial services industries; others are specific to the Company’s business and operations. Actual results could differ from estimates.
The accompanying interim condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of MetLife USA, as well as partnerships and joint ventures in which the Company has control, and variable interest entities (“VIEs”) for which the Company is the primary beneficiary. Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
The Company uses the equity method of accounting for equity securities when it has significant influence or at least 20% interest and for real estate joint ventures and other limited partnership interests (“investees”) when it has more than a minor ownership interest or more than a minor influence over the investee’s operations, but does not have a controlling financial interest. The Company generally recognizes its share of the investee’s earnings on a three-month lag in instances where the investee’s financial information is not sufficiently timely or when the investee’s reporting period differs from the Company’s reporting period. The Company uses the cost method of accounting for investments in which it has virtually no influence over the investee’s operations.
Certain amounts in the prior year periods’ interim condensed consolidated financial statements and related footnotes thereto have been reclassified to conform with the 2015 presentation as discussed throughout the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Since the Company is a member of a controlled group of affiliated companies, its results may not be indicative of those of a stand-alone entity.
The accompanying interim condensed consolidated financial statements are unaudited and reflect all adjustments (including normal recurring adjustments) necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the interim periods presented in conformity with GAAP. Interim results are not necessarily indicative of full year performance. The December 31, 2014 consolidated balance sheet data was derived from audited consolidated financial statements included in the 2014 Annual Report, which include all disclosures required by GAAP. Therefore, these interim condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of the Company included in the 2014 Annual Report.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
1. Business, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements
Effective January 1, 2015, the Company adopted guidance requiring repurchase-to-maturity transactions and repurchase financing arrangements to be accounted for as secured borrowings and providing for enhanced disclosures, including the nature of collateral pledged and the time to maturity. Certain interim period disclosures for repurchase agreements and securities lending transactions are not required until the second quarter of 2015. The adoption of this new guidance did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Future Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements
In May, 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued new guidance on fair value measurement (Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2015-07, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosures for Investments in Certain Entities That Calculate Net Asset Value per Share (or Its Equivalent)), effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years and which should be applied retrospectively to all periods presented. Earlier application is permitted. The new amendments in this ASU remove the requirement to categorize within the fair value hierarchy all investments for which fair value is measured using the net asset value (“NAV”) per share practical expedient. In addition, the amendments remove the requirement to make certain disclosures for all investments that are eligible to be measured at fair value using the net asset value per share practical expedient. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on its consolidated financial statements.
In April 2015, the FASB issued new guidance on accounting for fees paid in a cloud computing arrangement (ASU 2015-05, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other - Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer’s Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement), effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption of the new guidance is permitted and an entity can elect to adopt the guidance either: (1) prospectively to all arrangements entered into or materially modified after the effective date; or (2) retrospectively. The new guidance provides that all software licenses included in cloud computing arrangements be accounted for consistent with other licenses of intangible assets. However, if a cloud computing arrangement does not include a software license, the arrangement should be accounted for as a service contract, the accounting for which did not change. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on its consolidated financial statements.
In April 2015, the FASB issued new guidance on the presentation of debt issuance costs (ASU 2015-03, Interest - Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs), effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years and should be applied retrospectively to all periods presented. Early adoption of the new guidance is permitted for financial statements that have not been previously issued. The new guidance will require that debt issuance costs be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the related debt liability rather than as an asset, consistent with debt discounts. However, the current recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not affected by the new guidance. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on its consolidated financial statements.
In February 2015, the FASB issued new guidance to improve consolidation guidance for legal entities (ASU 2015-02, Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis), effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015 and interim periods within those years and early adoption is permitted. The new standard is intended to improve targeted areas of the consolidation guidance for legal entities such as limited partnerships, limited liability corporations, and securitization structures. The amendments in this ASU affect the consolidation evaluation for reporting organizations. In addition, the amendments in this ASU simplify and improve current GAAP by reducing the number of consolidation models. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on its consolidated financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued a comprehensive new revenue recognition standard (ASU 2014‑09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)), effective retrospectively for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within those years. Early adoption of this standard is not permitted. The new guidance will supersede nearly all existing revenue recognition guidance under GAAP; however, it will not impact the accounting for insurance contracts, leases, financial instruments and guarantees. For those contracts that are impacted by the new guidance, the guidance will require an entity to recognize revenue upon the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on its consolidated financial statements.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
2. Segment Information
The Company is organized into two segments: Retail and Corporate Benefit Funding. In addition, the Company reports certain of its results of operations in Corporate & Other. As anticipated, in the first quarter of 2015, the Company implemented certain segment reporting changes related to the measurement of segment operating earnings, which included revising the Company’s capital allocation methodology. These changes were applied retrospectively and did not have an impact on total consolidated operating earnings or net income.
Retail
The Retail segment offers a broad range of protection products and a variety of annuities primarily to individuals, and is organized into two businesses: Annuities and Life & Other. Annuities includes a variety of variable, fixed and equity index-linked annuities which provide for both asset accumulation and asset distribution needs. Life & Other insurance products and services include variable life, universal life, term life and whole life products, as well as individual disability income products. Additionally, through broker-dealer affiliates, the Company offers a full range of mutual funds and other securities products.
Corporate Benefit Funding
The Corporate Benefit Funding segment offers a broad range of annuity and investment products, including guaranteed interest products and other stable value products, income annuities, and separate account contracts for the investment management of defined benefit and defined contribution plan assets. This segment also includes structured settlements and certain products to fund company-, bank- or trust-owned life insurance used to finance non-qualified benefit programs for executives.
Corporate & Other
Corporate & Other contains the excess capital not allocated to the segments, run-off businesses, the Company’s ancillary international operations, ancillary U.S. direct business sold direct to consumer, and interest expense related to the majority of the Company’s outstanding debt, as well as expenses associated with certain legal proceedings and income tax audit issues. Corporate & Other also includes assumed reinsurance of certain variable annuity products from a former affiliated operating joint venture in Japan. Under this in-force reinsurance agreement, the Company reinsures living and death benefit guarantees issued in connection with variable annuity products. Additionally, Corporate & Other includes a reinsurance agreement to assume certain blocks of indemnity reinsurance from an affiliate. These reinsurance agreements were recaptured effective November 1, 2014. Corporate & Other also includes the elimination of intersegment amounts.
Financial Measures and Segment Accounting Policies
Operating earnings is the measure of segment profit or loss the Company uses to evaluate segment performance and allocate resources. Consistent with GAAP guidance for segment reporting, operating earnings is the Company’s measure of segment performance and is reported below. Operating earnings should not be viewed as a substitute for net income (loss). The Company believes the presentation of operating earnings as the Company measures it for management purposes enhances the understanding of its performance by highlighting the results of operations and the underlying profitability drivers of the business.
Operating earnings is defined as operating revenues less operating expenses, both net of income tax.
Operating revenues and operating expenses exclude results of discontinued operations and other businesses that have been or will be sold or exited by the Company and are referred to as divested businesses. Operating revenues also excludes net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses). Operating expenses also excludes goodwill impairments.
The following additional adjustments are made to GAAP revenues, in the line items indicated, in calculating operating revenues:
| |
• | Universal life and investment-type product policy fees excludes the amortization of unearned revenue related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses) and certain variable annuity guaranteed minimum income benefits (“GMIBs”) fees (“GMIB Fees”); and |
| |
• | Net investment income: (i) includes amounts for scheduled periodic settlement payments and amortization of premium on derivatives that are hedges of investments or that are used to replicate certain investments, but do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment, (ii) includes income from discontinued real estate operations, (iii) excludes post-tax operating earnings adjustments relating to insurance joint ventures accounted for under the equity method, (iv) excludes certain amounts related to contractholder-directed unit-linked investments, and (v) excludes certain amounts related to securitization entities that are VIEs consolidated under GAAP. |
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
2. Segment Information (continued)
The following additional adjustments are made to GAAP expenses, in the line items indicated, in calculating operating expenses:
| |
• | Policyholder benefits and claims excludes: (i) amounts associated with periodic crediting rate adjustments based on the total return of a contractually referenced pool of assets, (ii) benefits and hedging costs related to GMIBs (“GMIB Costs”), and (iii) market value adjustments associated with surrenders or terminations of contracts (“Market Value Adjustments”); |
| |
• | Interest credited to policyholder account balances includes adjustments for scheduled periodic settlement payments and amortization of premium on derivatives that are hedges of policyholder account balances but do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment and excludes amounts related to net investment income earned on contractholder-directed unit-linked investments; |
| |
• | Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs (“DAC”) and value of business acquired (“VOBA”) excludes amounts related to: (i) net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses), (ii) GMIB Fees and GMIB Costs, and (iii) Market Value Adjustments; |
| |
• | Interest expense on debt excludes certain amounts related to securitization entities that are VIEs consolidated under GAAP; and |
| |
• | Other expenses excludes costs related to: (i) implementation of new insurance regulatory requirements, and (ii) acquisition and integration costs. |
Set forth in the tables below is certain financial information with respect to the Company’s segments, as well as Corporate & Other, for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014. The segment accounting policies are the same as those used to prepare the Company’s consolidated financial statements, except for operating earnings adjustments as defined above. In addition, segment accounting policies include the method of capital allocation described below.
Economic capital is an internally developed risk capital model, the purpose of which is to measure the risk in the business and to provide a basis upon which capital is deployed. The economic capital model accounts for the unique and specific nature of the risks inherent in MetLife’s and the Company’s business.
MetLife’s economic capital model, coupled with considerations of local capital requirements, aligns segment allocated equity with emerging standards and consistent risk principles. The model applies statistics-based risk evaluation principles to the material risks to which the Company is exposed. These consistent risk principles include calibrating required economic capital shock factors to a specific confidence level and time horizon while applying an industry standard method for the inclusion of diversification benefits among risk types. MetLife’s management is responsible for the ongoing production and enhancement of the economic capital model and reviews its approach periodically to ensure that it remains consistent with emerging industry practice standards.
Segment net investment income is credited or charged based on the level of allocated equity; however, changes in allocated equity do not impact the Company’s consolidated net investment income, operating earnings or net income (loss).
Net investment income is based upon the actual results of each segment’s specifically identifiable investment portfolios adjusted for allocated equity. Other costs are allocated to each of the segments based upon: (i) a review of the nature of such costs; (ii) time studies analyzing the amount of employee compensation costs incurred by each segment; and (iii) cost estimates included in the Company’s product pricing.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
2. Segment Information (continued)
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
|
| Operating Results |
| |
| |
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 |
| Retail |
| Corporate Benefit Funding |
| Corporate & Other |
| Total |
| Adjustments |
| Total Consolidated |
|
| (In millions) |
Revenues |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Premiums |
| $ | 271 |
|
| $ | 4 |
|
| $ | 8 |
|
| $ | 283 |
|
| $ | — |
|
| $ | 283 |
|
Universal life and investment-type product policy fees |
| 643 |
|
| 9 |
|
| — |
|
| 652 |
|
| 66 |
|
| 718 |
|
Net investment income |
| 504 |
|
| 218 |
|
| (26 | ) |
| 696 |
|
| (61 | ) |
| 635 |
|
Other revenues |
| 118 |
|
| 1 |
|
| 1 |
|
| 120 |
|
| — |
|
| 120 |
|
Net investment gains (losses) |
| — |
|
| — |
|
| — |
|
| — |
|
| 42 |
|
| 42 |
|
Net derivative gains (losses) |
| — |
|
| — |
|
| — |
|
| — |
|
| 85 |
|
| 85 |
|
Total revenues |
| 1,536 |
|
| 232 |
|
| (17 | ) |
| 1,751 |
|
| 132 |
|
| 1,883 |
|
Expenses |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Policyholder benefits and claims |
| 385 |
| | 97 |
| | 21 |
|
| 503 |
|
| 89 |
|
| 592 |
|
Interest credited to policyholder account balances |
| 228 |
| | 28 |
| | — |
|
| 256 |
|
| 1 |
|
| 257 |
|
Capitalization of DAC |
| (74 | ) | | — |
| | (25 | ) |
| (99 | ) |
| — |
|
| (99 | ) |
Amortization of DAC and VOBA |
| 164 |
| | — |
| | 7 |
|
| 171 |
|
| 24 |
|
| 195 |
|
Interest expense on debt |
| — |
| | — |
| | 17 |
|
| 17 |
|
| 1 |
|
| 18 |
|
Other expenses |
| 472 |
| | 12 |
| | 49 |
|
| 533 |
|
| — |
|
| 533 |
|
Total expenses |
| 1,175 |
|
| 137 |
|
| 69 |
|
| 1,381 |
|
| 115 |
|
| 1,496 |
|
Provision for income tax expense (benefit) |
| 98 |
|
| 33 |
|
| (34 | ) |
| 97 |
|
| 6 |
|
| 103 |
|
Operating earnings |
| $ | 263 |
|
| $ | 62 |
|
| $ | (52 | ) |
| 273 |
|
|
|
|
|
Adjustments to: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total revenues |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| 132 |
|
|
|
|
|
Total expenses |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| (115 | ) |
|
|
|
|
Provision for income tax (expense) benefit |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| (6 | ) |
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| $ | 284 |
|
|
|
| $ | 284 |
|
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
2. Segment Information (continued)
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Operating Results | | | | |
Three Months Ended March 31, 2014 | | Retail | | Corporate Benefit Funding (1) | | Corporate & Other | | Total | | Adjustments | | Total Consolidated |
| | (In millions) |
Revenues | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Premiums | | $ | 229 |
| | $ | (65 | ) | | $ | 14 |
| | $ | 178 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 178 |
|
Universal life and investment-type product policy fees | | 669 |
| | 8 |
| | 45 |
| | 722 |
| | 83 |
| | 805 |
|
Net investment income | | 502 |
| | 237 |
| | (24 | ) | | 715 |
| | 20 |
| | 735 |
|
Other revenues | | 141 |
| | 1 |
| | — |
| | 142 |
| | — |
| | 142 |
|
Net investment gains (losses) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | (506 | ) | | (506 | ) |
Net derivative gains (losses) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | (150 | ) | | (150 | ) |
Total revenues | | 1,541 |
| | 181 |
| | 35 |
| | 1,757 |
| | (553 | ) | | 1,204 |
|
Expenses | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Policyholder benefits and claims | | 389 |
| | 26 |
| | 13 |
| | 428 |
| | 140 |
| | 568 |
|
Interest credited to policyholder account balances | | 238 |
| | 31 |
| | — |
| | 269 |
| | — |
| | 269 |
|
Capitalization of DAC | | (60 | ) | | — |
| | (16 | ) | | (76 | ) | | — |
| | (76 | ) |
Amortization of DAC and VOBA | | 193 |
| | 1 |
| | 8 |
| | 202 |
| | 71 |
| | 273 |
|
Interest expense on debt | | 2 |
| | — |
| | 17 |
| | 19 |
| | 18 |
| | 37 |
|
Other expenses | | 416 |
| | 7 |
| | 15 |
| | 438 |
| | 5 |
| | 443 |
|
Total expenses | | 1,178 |
| | 65 |
| | 37 |
| | 1,280 |
| | 234 |
| | 1,514 |
|
Provision for income tax expense (benefit) | | 103 |
| | 41 |
| | (3 | ) | | 141 |
| | (252 | ) | | (111 | ) |
Operating earnings | | $ | 260 |
| | $ | 75 |
| | $ | 1 |
| | 336 |
| | | | |
Adjustments to: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total revenues | | | | | | | | (553 | ) | | | | |
Total expenses | | | | | | | | (234 | ) | | | | |
Provision for income tax (expense) benefit | | | | | | | | 252 |
| | | | |
Net income (loss) | | | | | | | | $ | (199 | ) | | | | $ | (199 | ) |
____________
| |
(1) | Premiums and policyholder benefits and claims both include ($87) million of ceded reinsurance with Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (“MLIC”). See Note 10. |
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
2. Segment Information (continued)
The following table presents total assets with respect to the Company’s segments, as well as Corporate & Other, at:
|
| | | | | | | |
| March 31, 2015 |
| December 31, 2014 |
| (In millions) |
Retail | $ | 175,865 |
|
| $ | 173,657 |
|
Corporate Benefit Funding | 25,794 |
|
| 25,312 |
|
Corporate & Other | 10,663 |
|
| 6,894 |
|
Total | $ | 212,322 |
|
| $ | 205,863 |
|
3. Insurance
Guarantees
As discussed in Notes 1 and 5 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2014 Annual Report, the Company issues variable annuity products with guaranteed minimum benefits. The non-life contingent portion of guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefits (“GMWBs”) and the portion of certain GMIBs that does not require annuitization are accounted for as embedded derivatives in policyholder account balances and are further discussed in Note 5.
Based on the type of guarantee, the Company defines net amount at risk as listed below.
Variable Annuity Guarantees
In the Event of Death
Defined as the death benefit less the total contract account value, as of the balance sheet date. It represents the amount of the claim that the Company would incur if death claims were filed on all contracts on the balance sheet date and includes any additional contractual claims associated with riders purchased to assist with covering income taxes payable upon death.
At Annuitization
Defined as the amount (if any) that would be required to be added to the total contract account value to purchase a lifetime income stream, based on current annuity rates, equal to the minimum amount provided under the guaranteed benefit. This amount represents the Company’s potential economic exposure to such guarantees in the event all contractholders were to annuitize on the balance sheet date, even though the contracts contain terms that allow annuitization of the guaranteed amount only after the 10th anniversary of the contract, which not all contractholders have achieved.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
3. Insurance (continued)
Universal and Variable Life Contracts
Defined as the guarantee amount less the account value, as of the balance sheet date. It represents the amount of the claim that the Company would incur if death claims were filed on all contracts on the balance sheet date.
Information regarding the types of guarantees relating to annuity contracts and universal and variable life contracts was as follows at:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
| In the Event of Death | | At Annuitization | | In the Event of Death | | At Annuitization |
| (In millions) |
Annuity Contracts (1) | | | | | | | |
Variable Annuity Guarantees | | | | | | | |
Total contract account value | $ | 113,275 |
| | $ | 65,009 |
| | $ | 112,298 |
| | $ | 64,550 |
|
Separate account value | $ | 108,287 |
| | $ | 63,694 |
| | $ | 107,261 |
| | $ | 63,206 |
|
Net amount at risk | $ | 2,933 |
| | $ | 1,487 |
| | $ | 3,151 |
| | $ | 1,297 |
|
Average attained age of contractholders | 66 years |
| | 66 years |
| | 65 years |
| | 65 years |
|
|
| | | | | | | |
| March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
| Secondary Guarantees |
| (In millions) |
Universal and Variable Life Contracts (1) | | | |
Account value (general and separate account) | $ | 6,765 |
| | $ | 6,702 |
|
Net amount at risk | $ | 91,098 |
| | $ | 91,204 |
|
Average attained age of policyholders | 59 years |
| | 59 years |
|
____________
| |
(1) | The Company’s annuity and life contracts with guarantees may offer more than one type of guarantee in each contract. Therefore, the amounts listed above may not be mutually exclusive. |
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
4. Investments
Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale
Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale by Sector
The following table presents the fixed maturity and equity securities available-for-sale (“AFS”) by sector. Redeemable preferred stock is reported within U.S. corporate and foreign corporate fixed maturity securities and non-redeemable preferred stock is reported within equity securities. Included within fixed maturity securities are structured securities including residential mortgage-backed securities (“RMBS”), commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”) and asset-backed securities (“ABS”).
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
| Cost or Amortized Cost | | Gross Unrealized | | Estimated Fair Value | | Cost or Amortized Cost | | Gross Unrealized | | Estimated Fair Value |
| Gains | | Temporary Losses | | OTTI Losses | | Gains | | Temporary Losses | | OTTI Losses | |
| (In millions) |
Fixed maturity securities | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. corporate | $ | 15,716 |
| | $ | 1,795 |
| | $ | 106 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 17,405 |
| | $ | 15,286 |
| | $ | 1,635 |
| | $ | 119 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 16,802 |
|
U.S. Treasury and agency | 12,335 |
| | 1,974 |
| | 12 |
| | — |
| | 14,297 |
| | 14,147 |
| | 1,686 |
| | 7 |
| | — |
| | 15,826 |
|
RMBS | 8,459 |
| | 328 |
| | 32 |
| | 32 |
| | 8,723 |
| | 5,858 |
| | 291 |
| | 33 |
| | 35 |
| | 6,081 |
|
Foreign corporate | 5,190 |
| | 327 |
| | 84 |
| | — |
| | 5,433 |
| | 5,162 |
| | 310 |
| | 58 |
| | — |
| | 5,414 |
|
State and political subdivision | 2,213 |
|
| 449 |
|
| 1 |
|
| — |
|
| 2,661 |
|
| 2,180 |
|
| 413 |
|
| 1 |
|
| — |
|
| 2,592 |
|
CMBS (1) | 1,757 |
| | 54 |
| | 2 |
| | (1 | ) | | 1,810 |
| | 1,637 |
| | 45 |
| | 4 |
| | (1 | ) | | 1,679 |
|
ABS | 1,948 |
| | 27 |
| | 5 |
| | — |
| | 1,970 |
| | 1,546 |
| | 26 |
| | 10 |
| | — |
| | 1,562 |
|
Foreign government | 615 |
| | 152 |
| | 1 |
| | — |
| | 766 |
| | 607 |
| | 136 |
| | 2 |
| | — |
| | 741 |
|
Total fixed maturity securities | $ | 48,233 |
| | $ | 5,106 |
| | $ | 243 |
| | $ | 31 |
| | $ | 53,065 |
| | $ | 46,423 |
| | $ | 4,542 |
| | $ | 234 |
| | $ | 34 |
| | $ | 50,697 |
|
Equity securities | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Common stock | $ | 197 |
| | $ | 57 |
| | $ | 3 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 251 |
| | $ | 176 |
| | $ | 60 |
| | $ | 3 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 233 |
|
Non-redeemable preferred stock | 225 |
| | 13 |
| | 9 |
| | — |
| | 229 |
| | 224 |
| | 9 |
| | 7 |
| | — |
| | 226 |
|
Total equity securities | $ | 422 |
| | $ | 70 |
| | $ | 12 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 480 |
| | $ | 400 |
| | $ | 69 |
| | $ | 10 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 459 |
|
______________
| |
(1) | The noncredit loss component of other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses for CMBS was in an unrealized gain position of $1 million at both March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, due to increases in estimated fair value subsequent to initial recognition of noncredit losses on such securities. See also “— Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses).” |
The Company held non-income producing fixed maturity securities with an estimated fair value of $18 million and $14 million with unrealized gains (losses) of $4 million and $4 million at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively.
Maturities of Fixed Maturity Securities
The amortized cost and estimated fair value of fixed maturity securities, by contractual maturity date, were as follows at March 31, 2015:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Due in One Year or Less | | Due After One Year Through Five Years | | Due After Five Years Through Ten Years | | Due After Ten Years | | Structured Securities | | Total Fixed Maturity Securities |
| (In millions) |
Amortized cost | $ | 3,081 |
| | $ | 10,178 |
| | $ | 7,520 |
| | $ | 15,290 |
| | $ | 12,164 |
| | $ | 48,233 |
|
Estimated fair value | $ | 3,108 |
| | $ | 10,611 |
| | $ | 7,973 |
| | $ | 18,870 |
| | $ | 12,503 |
| | $ | 53,065 |
|
Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities due to the exercise of call or prepayment options. Fixed maturity securities not due at a single maturity date have been presented in the year of final contractual maturity. Structured securities (RMBS, CMBS and ABS) are shown separately, as they are not due at a single maturity.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
4. Investments (continued)
Continuous Gross Unrealized Losses for Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities AFS by Sector
The following table presents the estimated fair value and gross unrealized losses of fixed maturity and equity securities AFS in an unrealized loss position, aggregated by sector and by length of time that the securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position.
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
| Less than 12 Months | | Equal to or Greater than 12 Months | | Less than 12 Months | | Equal to or Greater than 12 Months |
| Estimated Fair Value | | Gross Unrealized Losses | | Estimated Fair Value | | Gross Unrealized Losses | | Estimated Fair Value | | Gross Unrealized Losses | | Estimated Fair Value | | Gross Unrealized Losses |
| (In millions, except number of securities) |
Fixed maturity securities | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. corporate | $ | 1,094 |
| | $ | 37 |
| | $ | 428 |
| | $ | 69 |
| | $ | 1,346 |
| | $ | 45 |
| | $ | 685 |
| | $ | 74 |
|
U.S. Treasury and agency | 1,929 |
| | 12 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 4,067 |
| | 5 |
| | 163 |
| | 2 |
|
RMBS | 926 |
| | 13 |
| | 485 |
| | 51 |
| | 684 |
| | 26 |
| | 530 |
| | 42 |
|
Foreign corporate | 1,033 |
| | 73 |
| | 117 |
| | 11 |
| | 1,031 |
| | 49 |
| | 133 |
| | 9 |
|
State and political subdivision | 14 |
| | 1 |
| | 20 |
| | — |
| | 11 |
| | — |
| | 24 |
| | 1 |
|
CMBS | 114 |
| | 1 |
| | 22 |
| | — |
| | 124 |
| | 1 |
| | 78 |
| | 2 |
|
ABS | 325 |
| | 1 |
| | 178 |
| | 4 |
| | 334 |
| | 2 |
| | 231 |
| | 8 |
|
Foreign government | 14 |
| | 1 |
| | 3 |
| | — |
| | 27 |
| | 1 |
| | 9 |
| | 1 |
|
Total fixed maturity securities | $ | 5,449 |
| | $ | 139 |
| | $ | 1,253 |
| | $ | 135 |
| | $ | 7,624 |
| | $ | 129 |
| | $ | 1,853 |
| | $ | 139 |
|
Equity securities | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Common stock | $ | 16 |
| | $ | 3 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 11 |
| | $ | 3 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
Non-redeemable preferred stock | 12 |
| | 2 |
| | 43 |
| | 7 |
| | 28 |
| | 1 |
| | 44 |
| | 6 |
|
Total equity securities | $ | 28 |
| | $ | 5 |
| | $ | 43 |
| | $ | 7 |
| | $ | 39 |
| | $ | 4 |
| | $ | 44 |
| | $ | 6 |
|
Total number of securities in an unrealized loss position | 625 |
| | | | 292 |
| | | | 752 |
| | | | 333 |
| | |
Evaluation of AFS Securities for OTTI and Evaluating Temporarily Impaired AFS Securities
As described more fully in Notes 1 and 8 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2014 Annual Report, the Company performs a regular evaluation of all investment classes for impairment, including fixed maturity securities, equity securities and perpetual hybrid securities, in accordance with its impairment policy, in order to evaluate whether such investments are other-than-temporarily impaired.
Current Period Evaluation
Based on the Company’s current evaluation of its AFS securities in an unrealized loss position in accordance with its impairment policy, and the Company’s current intentions and assessments (as applicable to the type of security) about holding, selling and any requirements to sell these securities, the Company concluded that these securities were not other-than-temporarily impaired at March 31, 2015. Future OTTI will depend primarily on economic fundamentals, issuer performance (including changes in the present value of future cash flows expected to be collected), changes in credit ratings, collateral valuation, interest rates and credit spreads. If economic fundamentals deteriorate or if there are adverse changes in the above factors, OTTI may be incurred in upcoming periods.
Gross unrealized losses on fixed maturity securities increased $6 million during the three months ended March 31, 2015 to $274 million. The increase in gross unrealized losses for the three months ended March 31, 2015 was primarily attributable to the impact of weakening foreign currencies on non-functional currency denominated fixed maturity securities.
At March 31, 2015, $48 million of the total $274 million of gross unrealized losses were from 12 fixed maturity securities with an unrealized loss position of 20% or more of amortized cost for six months or greater.
Investment Grade Fixed Maturity Securities
Of the $48 million of gross unrealized losses on fixed maturity securities with an unrealized loss of 20% or more of amortized cost for six months or greater, $29 million, or 60%, were related to gross unrealized losses on six investment grade fixed maturity securities. Unrealized losses on investment grade fixed maturity securities are principally related to widening credit spreads and, with respect to fixed-rate fixed maturity securities, rising interest rates since purchase.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
4. Investments (continued)
Below Investment Grade Fixed Maturity Securities
Of the $48 million of gross unrealized losses on fixed maturity securities with an unrealized loss of 20% or more of amortized cost for six months or greater, $19 million, or 40%, were related to gross unrealized losses on six below investment grade fixed maturity securities. Unrealized losses on below investment grade fixed maturity securities are principally related to non-agency RMBS (primarily alternative residential mortgage loans) and are the result of significantly wider credit spreads resulting from higher risk premiums since purchase, largely due to economic and market uncertainties including concerns over valuations of residential real estate supporting non-agency RMBS. Management evaluates non-agency RMBS based on actual and projected cash flows after considering the quality of underlying collateral, expected prepayment speeds, current and forecasted loss severity, consideration of the payment terms of the underlying assets backing a particular security, and the payment priority within the tranche structure of the security.
Equity Securities
Gross unrealized losses on equity securities increased $2 million during the three months ended March 31, 2015 to $12 million. Of the $12 million, $5 million were from two securities with gross unrealized losses of 20% or more of cost for 12 months or greater. Of the $5 million, 40% were from securities rated A or better, and all were from financial services industry investment grade non-redeemable preferred stock securities.
Mortgage Loans
Mortgage Loans by Portfolio Segment
Mortgage loans are summarized as follows at:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
| Carrying Value | | % of Total | | Carrying Value | | % of Total |
| (In millions) | | | | (In millions) | | |
Mortgage loans: | | | | | | | |
Commercial | $ | 4,550 |
| | 74.4 | % | | $ | 4,281 |
| | 73.3 | % |
Agricultural | 1,324 |
| | 21.6 |
| | 1,303 |
| | 22.3 |
|
Subtotal | 5,874 |
| | 96.0 |
| | 5,584 |
| | 95.6 |
|
Valuation allowances | (26 | ) | | (0.4 | ) | | (25 | ) | | (0.4 | ) |
Subtotal mortgage loans, net | 5,848 |
| | 95.6 |
| | 5,559 |
| | 95.2 |
|
Commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs - fair value option ("FVO") | 272 |
| | 4.4 |
| | 280 |
| | 4.8 |
|
Total mortgage loans, net | $ | 6,120 |
| | 100.0 | % | | $ | 5,839 |
| | 100.0 | % |
See “— Variable Interest Entities” for discussion of consolidated securitization entities (“CSEs”).
See “— Related Party Investment Transactions” for discussion of related party mortgage loans.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
4. Investments (continued)
Information on commercial and agricultural mortgage loans is presented in the tables below. Information on commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs - FVO is presented in Note 6. The Company elects the FVO for certain commercial mortgage loans and related long-term debt that are managed on a total return basis.
Mortgage Loans, Valuation Allowance and Impaired Loans by Portfolio Segment
Mortgage loans by portfolio segment, by method of evaluation of credit loss, impaired mortgage loans including those modified in a troubled debt restructuring, and the related valuation allowances, were as follows at:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Evaluated Individually for Credit Losses | | Evaluated Collectively for Credit Losses | | Impaired Loans |
| Impaired Loans with a Valuation Allowance | | Impaired Loans without a Valuation Allowance | | | | | | |
| Unpaid Principal Balance | | Recorded Investment | | Valuation Allowances | | Unpaid Principal Balance | | Recorded Investment | | Recorded Investment | | Valuation Allowances | | Carrying Value |
| (In millions) |
March 31, 2015 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Commercial | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 4,550 |
| | $ | 22 |
| | $ | — |
|
Agricultural | 4 |
| | 3 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 1,321 |
| | 4 |
| | 3 |
|
Total | $ | 4 |
| | $ | 3 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 5,871 |
| | $ | 26 |
| | $ | 3 |
|
December 31, 2014 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Commercial | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 4,281 |
| | $ | 21 |
| | $ | — |
|
Agricultural | 4 |
| | 3 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 1,300 |
| | 4 |
| | 3 |
|
Total | $ | 4 |
| | $ | 3 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 5,581 |
| | $ | 25 |
| | $ | 3 |
|
The average recorded investment for impaired commercial and agricultural mortgage loans was $0 and $3 million, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2015; and $72 million and $4 million, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2014.
Valuation Allowance Rollforward by Portfolio Segment
The changes in the valuation allowance, by portfolio segment, were as follows:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended March 31, |
| 2015 |
| 2014 |
| Commercial |
| Agricultural |
| Total |
| Commercial |
| Agricultural |
| Total |
| (In millions) |
Balance, beginning of period | $ | 21 |
|
| $ | 4 |
|
| $ | 25 |
|
| $ | 31 |
|
| $ | 4 |
|
| $ | 35 |
|
Provision (release) | 1 |
|
| — |
|
| 1 |
|
| (1 | ) |
| — |
|
| (1 | ) |
Balance, end of period | $ | 22 |
|
| $ | 4 |
|
| $ | 26 |
|
| $ | 30 |
|
| $ | 4 |
|
| $ | 34 |
|
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
4. Investments (continued)
Credit Quality of Commercial Mortgage Loans
The credit quality of commercial mortgage loans was as follows at:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Recorded Investment | | | | |
| Debt Service Coverage Ratios | | % of Total | | Estimated Fair Value | | % of Total |
| > 1.20x | | 1.00x - 1.20x | | < 1.00x | | Total | |
| (In millions) | | | | (In millions) | | |
March 31, 2015 | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Loan-to-value ratios | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Less than 65% | $ | 3,892 |
| | $ | 223 |
| | $ | 110 |
| | $ | 4,225 |
| | 92.8 | % | | $ | 4,571 |
| | 93.3 | % |
65% to 75% | 207 |
| | 24 |
| | — |
| | 231 |
| | 5.1 |
| | 235 |
| | 4.8 |
|
76% to 80% | 9 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 9 |
| | 0.2 |
| | 10 |
| | 0.2 |
|
Greater than 80% | 45 |
| | 25 |
| | 15 |
| | 85 |
| | 1.9 |
| | 83 |
| | 1.7 |
|
Total | $ | 4,153 |
| | $ | 272 |
| | $ | 125 |
| | $ | 4,550 |
| | 100.0 | % | | $ | 4,899 |
| | 100.0 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2014 | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Loan-to-value ratios | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Less than 65% | $ | 3,668 |
| | $ | 267 |
| | $ | 125 |
| | $ | 4,060 |
| | 94.8 | % | | $ | 4,431 |
| | 95.1 | % |
65% to 75% | 113 |
| | 14 |
| | — |
| | 127 |
| | 3.0 |
| | 134 |
| | 2.9 |
|
76% to 80% | 9 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 9 |
| | 0.2 |
| | 10 |
| | 0.2 |
|
Greater than 80% | 45 |
| | 26 |
| | 14 |
| | 85 |
| | 2.0 |
| | 83 |
| | 1.8 |
|
Total | $ | 3,835 |
| | $ | 307 |
| | $ | 139 |
| | $ | 4,281 |
| | 100.0 | % | | $ | 4,658 |
| | 100.0 | % |
Credit Quality of Agricultural Mortgage Loans
The credit quality of agricultural mortgage loans was as follows at:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
| Recorded Investment | | % of Total | | Recorded Investment | | % of Total |
| (In millions) | | | | (In millions) | | |
Loan-to-value ratios | | | | | | | |
Less than 65% | $ | 1,207 |
| | 91.2 | % | | $ | 1,239 |
| | 95.1 | % |
65% to 75% | 117 |
| | 8.8 |
| | 64 |
| | 4.9 |
|
Total | $ | 1,324 |
| | 100.0 | % | | $ | 1,303 |
| | 100.0 | % |
The estimated fair value of agricultural mortgage loans was $1.4 billion at both March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014.
Past Due and Interest Accrual Status of Mortgage Loans
The Company has a high quality, well performing mortgage loan portfolio, with over 99% of all mortgage loans classified as performing at both March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014. The Company defines delinquency consistent with industry practice, when mortgage loans are past due as follows: commercial mortgage loans — 60 days and agricultural mortgage loans — 90 days. The Company had no mortgage loans past due and no mortgage loans in non-accrual status at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively.
Mortgage Loans Modified in a Troubled Debt Restructuring
For a small portion of the mortgage loan portfolio, classified as troubled debt restructurings, concessions are granted related to borrowers experiencing financial difficulties. Generally, the types of concessions include: reduction of the contractual interest rate, extension of the maturity date at an interest rate lower than current market interest rates, and/or a reduction of accrued interest. The amount, timing and extent of the concession granted is considered in determining any impairment or changes in the specific valuation allowance. There were no mortgage loans modified in a troubled debt restructuring during the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
4. Investments (continued)
Cash Equivalents
The carrying value of cash equivalents, which includes securities and other investments with an original or remaining maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase, was $245 million and $681 million at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively.
Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses)
Unrealized investment gains (losses) on fixed maturity and equity securities AFS and the effect on DAC, VOBA, deferred sales inducements (“DSI”) and future policy benefits, that would result from the realization of the unrealized gains (losses), are included in net unrealized investment gains (losses) in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”).
The components of net unrealized investment gains (losses), included in AOCI, were as follows:
|
| | | | | | | |
| March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
| (In millions) |
Fixed maturity securities | $ | 4,858 |
| | $ | 4,311 |
|
Fixed maturity securities with noncredit OTTI losses in AOCI | (31 | ) | | (34 | ) |
Total fixed maturity securities | 4,827 |
| | 4,277 |
|
Equity securities | 77 |
| | 69 |
|
Derivatives | 376 |
| | 282 |
|
Other | 13 |
| | 9 |
|
Subtotal | 5,293 |
| | 4,637 |
|
Amounts allocated from: | | | |
Future policy benefits | (712 | ) | | (503 | ) |
DAC and VOBA related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in AOCI | (1 | ) | | (2 | ) |
DAC, VOBA and DSI | (390 | ) | | (403 | ) |
Subtotal | (1,103 | ) | | (908 | ) |
Deferred income tax benefit (expense) related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in AOCI | 11 |
| | 12 |
|
Deferred income tax benefit (expense) | (1,468 | ) | | (1,308 | ) |
Net unrealized investment gains (losses) | $ | 2,733 |
| | $ | 2,433 |
|
The changes in fixed maturity securities with noncredit OTTI losses included in AOCI were as follows:
|
| | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 | | Year Ended December 31, 2014 |
| (In millions) |
Balance, beginning of period | $ | (34 | ) | | $ | (45 | ) |
Noncredit OTTI losses and subsequent changes recognized | 1 |
| | 6 |
|
Securities sold with previous noncredit OTTI loss | 2 |
| | 9 |
|
Subsequent changes in estimated fair value | — |
| | (4 | ) |
Balance, end of period | $ | (31 | ) | | $ | (34 | ) |
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
4. Investments (continued)
The changes in net unrealized investment gains (losses) were as follows:
|
| | | |
| Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 |
| (In millions) |
Balance, beginning of period | $ | 2,433 |
|
Fixed maturity securities on which noncredit OTTI losses have been recognized | 3 |
|
Unrealized investment gains (losses) during the period | 653 |
|
Unrealized investment gains (losses) relating to: | |
Future policy benefits | (209 | ) |
DAC and VOBA related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in AOCI | 1 |
|
DAC, VOBA and DSI | 13 |
|
Deferred income tax benefit (expense) related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in AOCI | (1 | ) |
Deferred income tax benefit (expense) | (160 | ) |
Balance, end of period | $ | 2,733 |
|
Change in net unrealized investment gains (losses) | $ | 300 |
|
Concentrations of Credit Risk
There were no investments in any counterparty that were greater than 10% of the Company’s stockholder’s equity, other than the U.S. government and its agencies, at both March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014.
Securities Lending
Elements of the securities lending program are presented below at:
|
| | | | | | | |
| March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
| (In millions) |
Securities on loan: (1) | | | |
Amortized cost | $ | 6,488 |
| | $ | 5,748 |
|
Estimated fair value | $ | 7,664 |
| | $ | 6,703 |
|
Cash collateral on deposit from counterparties (2) | $ | 7,727 |
| | $ | 6,781 |
|
Security collateral on deposit from counterparties (3) | $ | 98 |
| | $ | 60 |
|
Reinvestment portfolio — estimated fair value | $ | 7,804 |
| | $ | 6,846 |
|
____________
| |
(1) | Included within fixed maturity securities and short-term investments. At March 31, 2015, both amortized cost and estimated fair value also include $26 million, at estimated fair value, of securities which are not reflected in the consolidated financial statements. |
| |
(2) | Included within payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions. |
| |
(3) | Security collateral on deposit from counterparties may not be sold or re-pledged, unless the counterparty is in default, and is not reflected in the consolidated financial statements. |
Repurchase Agreement Transactions
Commencing in the first quarter of 2015, the Company began participating in short-term repurchase agreements and reverse repurchase agreements with unaffiliated financial institutions. Under these agreements, the Company lends fixed maturity securities, and contemporaneously borrows other fixed maturity securities (e.g., repurchase and reverse repurchase, respectively). The Company accounted for these transactions as collateralized borrowing and lending. The amount of fixed maturity securities lent and borrowed, at estimated fair value, was $516 million and $505 million, respectively, at March 31, 2015. Securities loaned under such transactions may be sold or re-pledged by the transferee. Securities borrowed under such transactions may be re-pledged and are not reflected in the consolidated financial statements. The amount of borrowed securities which were re-pledged was $117 million, at estimated fair value, at March 31, 2015. Net interest expense related to these transactions included in net investment income was less than $1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
4. Investments (continued)
The Company has elected to offset amounts recognized as receivables and payables resulting from these transactions. The gross amounts of the receivables and payables related to these transactions at March 31, 2015 were both $499 million. After the effect of offsetting of $499 million, the net amount presented in the consolidated balance sheet at March 31, 2015 was a liability of less than $1 million. Amounts owed to and due from counterparties may be settled in cash or offset, in accordance with the agreements. Cash inflows and outflows for cash settlements are reported on the consolidated statements of cash flows.
See Note 5 for information regarding the estimated fair value of the Company’s net derivative assets and net derivative liabilities after the application of master netting agreements and collateral.
Invested Assets on Deposit, Held in Trust and Pledged as Collateral
Invested assets on deposit, held in trust and pledged as collateral are presented below at estimated fair value for all asset classes, except mortgage loans, which are presented at carrying value at:
|
| | | | | | | |
| March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
| (In millions) |
Invested assets on deposit (regulatory deposits) | $ | 7,443 |
| | $ | 7,334 |
|
Invested assets held in trust (reinsurance agreements) (1) | 957 |
| | 936 |
|
Invested assets pledged as collateral (2) | 3,591 |
| | 3,174 |
|
Total invested assets on deposit, held in trust and pledged as collateral | $ | 11,991 |
| | $ | 11,444 |
|
____________
| |
(1) | The Company has held in trust certain investments, primarily fixed maturity securities, in connection with certain reinsurance transactions. |
| |
(2) | The Company has pledged invested assets in connection with various agreements and transactions, including funding agreements (see Note 5 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2014 Annual Report) and derivative transactions (see Note 5). |
See “— Securities Lending” for information regarding securities on loan.
Variable Interest Entities
The Company has invested in certain structured transactions (including CSEs) that are VIEs. In certain instances, the Company holds both the power to direct the most significant activities of the entity, as well as an economic interest in the entity and, as such, is deemed to be the primary beneficiary or consolidator of the entity.
The determination of the VIE’s primary beneficiary requires an evaluation of the contractual and implied rights and obligations associated with each party’s relationship with or involvement in the entity, an estimate of the entity’s expected losses and expected residual returns and the allocation of such estimates to each party involved in the entity. The Company generally uses a qualitative approach to determine whether it is the primary beneficiary. However, for VIEs that are investment companies or apply measurement principles consistent with those utilized by investment companies, the primary beneficiary is based on a risks and rewards model and is defined as the entity that will absorb a majority of a VIE’s expected losses, receive a majority of a VIE’s expected residual returns if no single entity absorbs a majority of expected losses, or both. The Company reassesses its involvement with VIEs on a quarterly basis. The use of different methodologies, assumptions and inputs in the determination of the primary beneficiary could have a material effect on the amounts presented within the consolidated financial statements.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
4. Investments (continued)
Consolidated VIEs
The following table presents the total assets and total liabilities relating to VIEs for which the Company has concluded that it is the primary beneficiary and which are consolidated at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014. Creditors or beneficial interest holders of VIEs where the Company is the primary beneficiary have no recourse to the general credit of the Company, as the Company’s obligation to the VIEs is limited to the amount of its committed investment.
|
| | | | | | | |
| March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
| (In millions) |
CSEs: (1) | | | |
Assets: | | | |
Mortgage loans (commercial mortgage loans) | $ | 272 |
| | $ | 280 |
|
Accrued investment income | 1 |
| | 2 |
|
Total assets | $ | 273 |
| | $ | 282 |
|
Liabilities: | | | |
Long-term debt | $ | 132 |
| | $ | 139 |
|
Other liabilities | 1 |
| | 1 |
|
Total liabilities | $ | 133 |
| | $ | 140 |
|
____________
| |
(1) | The Company consolidates entities that are structured as CMBS. The assets of these entities can only be used to settle their respective liabilities, and under no circumstances is the Company liable for any principal or interest shortfalls should any arise. The Company’s exposure was limited to that of its remaining investment in these entities of $122 million and $123 million at estimated fair value at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. The long-term debt bears interest primarily at fixed rates ranging from 2.25% to 5.57%, payable primarily on a monthly basis. Interest expense related to these obligations, included in other expenses, was $1 million and $18 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. |
Unconsolidated VIEs
The carrying amount and maximum exposure to loss relating to VIEs in which the Company holds a significant variable interest but is not the primary beneficiary and which have not been consolidated were as follows at:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
| Carrying Amount | | Maximum Exposure to Loss (1) | | Carrying Amount | | Maximum Exposure to Loss (1) |
| (In millions) |
Fixed maturity securities AFS: | | | | | | | |
Structured securities (RMBS, CMBS and ABS) (2) | $ | 12,503 |
| | $ | 12,503 |
| | $ | 9,322 |
| | $ | 9,322 |
|
U.S. and foreign corporate | 541 |
| | 541 |
| | 526 |
| | 526 |
|
Other limited partnership interests | 1,767 |
| | 2,156 |
| | 1,774 |
| | 2,162 |
|
Real estate joint ventures | 47 |
| | 51 |
| | 47 |
| | 51 |
|
Other invested assets | 41 |
| | 46 |
| | 37 |
| | 47 |
|
Equity securities AFS: | | | | | | | |
Non-redeemable preferred stock | 18 |
| | 18 |
| | 19 |
| | 19 |
|
Total | $ | 14,917 |
| | $ | 15,315 |
| | $ | 11,725 |
| | $ | 12,127 |
|
____________
| |
(1) | The maximum exposure to loss relating to fixed maturity and equity securities AFS is equal to their carrying amounts or the carrying amounts of retained interests. The maximum exposure to loss relating to other limited partnership interests and real estate joint ventures is equal to the carrying amounts plus any unfunded commitments. For certain of its investments in other invested assets, the Company’s return is in the form of income tax credits which are guaranteed by creditworthy third parties. For such investments, the maximum exposure to loss is equal to the carrying amounts plus any unfunded commitments, reduced by income tax credits guaranteed by third parties of less than $1 million at both March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014. Such a maximum loss would be expected to occur only upon bankruptcy of the issuer or investee. |
| |
(2) | For these variable interests, the Company’s involvement is limited to that of a passive investor in mortgage-backed or asset-backed securities issued by trusts that do not have substantial equity. |
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
4. Investments (continued)
As described in Note 9, the Company makes commitments to fund partnership investments in the normal course of business. Excluding these commitments, the Company did not provide financial or other support to investees designated as VIEs during the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014.
Net Investment Income
The components of net investment income were as follows:
|
| | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended March 31, |
| 2015 |
| 2014 |
| (In millions) |
Investment income: |
|
|
|
Fixed maturity securities | $ | 487 |
| | $ | 521 |
|
Equity securities | 4 |
| | 4 |
|
Mortgage loans | 72 |
| | 81 |
|
Policy loans | 13 |
| | 14 |
|
Real estate and real estate joint ventures | 22 |
| | 23 |
|
Other limited partnership interests | 52 |
| | 98 |
|
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments | 2 |
| | 1 |
|
Operating joint venture | 2 |
| | — |
|
Other | 4 |
| | (3 | ) |
Subtotal | 658 |
| | 739 |
|
Less: Investment expenses | 27 |
| | 26 |
|
Subtotal, net | 631 |
| | 713 |
|
FVO CSEs — interest income — commercial mortgage loans | 4 |
| | 22 |
|
Net investment income | $ | 635 |
| | $ | 735 |
|
See “— Variable Interest Entities” for discussion of CSEs.
See “— Related Party Investment Transactions” for discussion of affiliated net investment income and investment expenses.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
4. Investments (continued)
Net Investment Gains (Losses)
Components of Net Investment Gains (Losses)
The components of net investment gains (losses) were as follows:
|
| | | | | | | | |
| | Three Months Ended March 31, |
| | 2015 |
| 2014 |
| (In millions) |
Total gains (losses) on fixed maturity securities: | |
|
|
|
Total OTTI losses recognized — by sector and industry: | |
|
|
|
U.S. and foreign corporate securities — by industry: | |
|
|
|
Consumer | | $ | — |
| | $ | (1 | ) |
Industrial | | (1 | ) | | — |
|
Total U.S. and foreign corporate securities | | (1 | ) | | (1 | ) |
RMBS | | (2 | ) | | — |
|
OTTI losses on fixed maturity securities recognized in earnings | | (3 | ) | | (1 | ) |
Fixed maturity securities — net gains (losses) on sales and disposals | | 25 |
| | 16 |
|
Total gains (losses) on fixed maturity securities | | 22 |
| | 15 |
|
Total gains (losses) on equity securities: | |
| |
|
Equity securities — net gains (losses) on sales and disposals | | (1 | ) | | 4 |
|
Total gains (losses) on equity securities | | (1 | ) | | 4 |
|
Mortgage loans | | (1 | ) | | 9 |
|
Real estate and real estate joint ventures | | 23 |
| | (2 | ) |
Other limited partnership interests | | (1 | ) | | (2 | ) |
Other investment portfolio gains (losses) | | 2 |
| | (1 | ) |
Subtotal — investment portfolio gains (losses) | | 44 |
| | 23 |
|
FVO CSEs : | |
| |
|
Commercial mortgage loans | | (3 | ) | | 1 |
|
Long-term debt — related to commercial mortgage loans | | 1 |
| | 1 |
|
Non-investment portfolio gains (losses) (1) | | — |
| | (531 | ) |
Subtotal FVO CSEs and non-investment portfolio gains (losses) | | (2 | ) | | (529 | ) |
Total net investment gains (losses) | | $ | 42 |
| | $ | (506 | ) |
____________ | |
(1) | Non-investment portfolio gains (losses) for the three months ended March 31, 2014 includes a loss of $547 million related to the disposition of MetLife Assurance Limited. See Note 4 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2014 Annual Report. |
See “— Variable Interest Entities” for discussion of CSEs.
See “— Related Party Investment Transactions” for discussion of affiliated net investment gains (losses) related to transfers of invested assets to affiliates.
Gains (losses) from foreign currency transactions included within net investment gains (losses) were $1 million and $16 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
4. Investments (continued)
Sales or Disposals and Impairments of Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities
Proceeds from sales or disposals of fixed maturity and equity securities and the components of fixed maturity and equity securities net investment gains (losses) were as shown in the table below. Investment gains and losses on sales of securities are determined on a specific identification basis.
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended March 31, |
| 2015 |
| 2014 |
| 2015 |
| 2014 |
| Fixed Maturity Securities |
| Equity Securities |
| (In millions) |
Proceeds | $ | 7,984 |
|
| $ | 3,617 |
|
| $ | 2 |
|
| $ | 11 |
|
Gross investment gains | $ | 48 |
|
| $ | 39 |
|
| $ | — |
|
| $ | 4 |
|
Gross investment losses | (23 | ) |
| (23 | ) |
| (1 | ) |
| — |
|
OTTI losses | (3 | ) |
| (1 | ) |
| — |
|
| — |
|
Net investment gains (losses) | $ | 22 |
|
| $ | 15 |
|
| $ | (1 | ) |
| $ | 4 |
|
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
4. Investments (continued)
Credit Loss Rollforward
The table below presents a rollforward of the cumulative credit loss component of OTTI loss recognized in earnings on fixed maturity securities still held for which a portion of the OTTI loss was recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) (“OCI”):
|
| | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended March 31, |
| 2015 | | 2014 |
| (In millions) |
Balance, beginning of period | $ | 57 |
| | $ | 59 |
|
Additions: | | | |
Additional impairments — credit loss OTTI on securities previously impaired | 2 |
| | — |
|
Reductions: | | | |
Sales (maturities, pay downs or prepayments) during the period of securities previously impaired as credit loss OTTI | (2 | ) | | (2 | ) |
Increases in cash flows — accretion of previous credit loss OTTI | (1 | ) | | — |
|
Balance, end of period | $ | 56 |
| | $ | 57 |
|
Related Party Investment Transactions
The Company transfers invested assets, primarily consisting of fixed maturity securities, to and from affiliates. Invested assets transferred to and from affiliates were as follows:
|
| | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended March 31, |
| 2015 | | 2014 |
| (In millions) |
Estimated fair value of invested assets transferred to affiliates | $ | — |
| | $ | 354 |
|
Amortized cost of invested assets transferred to affiliates | $ | — |
| | $ | 333 |
|
Net investment gains (losses) recognized on transfers | $ | — |
| | $ | 21 |
|
Estimated fair value of invested assets transferred from affiliates | $ | 525 |
| | $ | 35 |
|
Below is a summary of certain affiliated loans, which are more fully described in Note 8 of the Notes of the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2014 Annual Report.
The Company has affiliated loans outstanding to wholly-owned real estate subsidiaries of an affiliate, MLIC, which are included in mortgage loans, with a carrying value of $242 million at both March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014. These affiliated loans are secured by interests in the real estate subsidiaries, which own operating real estate with a fair value in excess of the loans. Net investment income from these affiliated loans was $3 million and $5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
The Company receives investment administrative services from an affiliate. The related investment administrative service charges were $17 million and $16 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
5. Derivatives
Accounting for Derivatives
Freestanding Derivatives
Freestanding derivatives are carried on the Company’s balance sheet either as assets within other invested assets or as liabilities within other liabilities at estimated fair value. The Company does not offset the fair value amounts recognized for derivatives executed with the same counterparty under the same master netting agreement.
Accruals on derivatives are generally recorded in accrued investment income or within other liabilities. However, accruals that are not scheduled to settle within one year are included with the derivatives carrying value in other invested assets or other liabilities.
If a derivative is not designated as an accounting hedge or its use in managing risk does not qualify for hedge accounting, changes in the estimated fair value of the derivative are reported in net derivative gains (losses) except as follows:
|
| | |
Statement of Operations Presentation: | Derivative: |
Policyholder benefits and claims | • | Economic hedges of variable annuity guarantees included in future policy benefits |
Net investment income | • | Economic hedges of equity method investments in joint ventures |
Hedge Accounting
To qualify for hedge accounting, at the inception of the hedging relationship, the Company formally documents its risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedging transaction, as well as its designation of the hedge. Hedge designation and financial statement presentation of changes in estimated fair value of the hedging derivatives are as follows:
| |
• | Fair value hedge (a hedge of the estimated fair value of a recognized asset or liability) - in net derivative gains (losses), consistent with the change in fair value of the hedged item attributable to the designated risk being hedged. |
| |
• | Cash flow hedge (a hedge of a forecasted transaction or of the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized asset or liability) - effectiveness in OCI (deferred gains or losses on the derivative are reclassified into the statement of operations when the Company’s earnings are affected by the variability in cash flows of the hedged item); ineffectiveness in net derivative gains (losses). |
The changes in estimated fair values of the hedging derivatives are exclusive of any accruals that are separately reported on the statement of operations within interest income or interest expense to match the location of the hedged item.
In its hedge documentation, the Company sets forth how the hedging instrument is expected to hedge the designated risks related to the hedged item and sets forth the method that will be used to retrospectively and prospectively assess the hedging instrument’s effectiveness and the method that will be used to measure ineffectiveness. A derivative designated as a hedging instrument must be assessed as being highly effective in offsetting the designated risk of the hedged item. Hedge effectiveness is formally assessed at inception and at least quarterly throughout the life of the designated hedging relationship. Assessments of hedge effectiveness and measurements of ineffectiveness are also subject to interpretation and estimation and different interpretations or estimates may have a material effect on the amount reported in net income.
The Company discontinues hedge accounting prospectively when: (i) it is determined that the derivative is no longer highly effective in offsetting changes in the estimated fair value or cash flows of a hedged item; (ii) the derivative expires, is sold, terminated, or exercised; (iii) it is no longer probable that the hedged forecasted transaction will occur; or (iv) the derivative is de-designated as a hedging instrument.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
5. Derivatives (continued)
When hedge accounting is discontinued because it is determined that the derivative is not highly effective in offsetting changes in the estimated fair value or cash flows of a hedged item, the derivative continues to be carried on the balance sheet at its estimated fair value, with changes in estimated fair value recognized in net derivative gains (losses). The carrying value of the hedged recognized asset or liability under a fair value hedge is no longer adjusted for changes in its estimated fair value due to the hedged risk, and the cumulative adjustment to its carrying value is amortized into income over the remaining life of the hedged item. Provided the hedged forecasted transaction is still probable of occurrence, the changes in estimated fair value of derivatives recorded in OCI related to discontinued cash flow hedges are released into the statement of operations when the Company’s earnings are affected by the variability in cash flows of the hedged item.
When hedge accounting is discontinued because it is no longer probable that the forecasted transactions will occur on the anticipated date or within two months of that date, the derivative continues to be carried on the balance sheet at its estimated fair value, with changes in estimated fair value recognized currently in net derivative gains (losses). Deferred gains and losses of a derivative recorded in OCI pursuant to the discontinued cash flow hedge of a forecasted transaction that is no longer probable are recognized immediately in net derivative gains (losses).
In all other situations in which hedge accounting is discontinued, the derivative is carried at its estimated fair value on the balance sheet, with changes in its estimated fair value recognized in the current period as net derivative gains (losses).
Embedded Derivatives
The Company sells variable annuities and issues certain insurance products and investment contracts and is a party to certain reinsurance agreements that have embedded derivatives. The Company assesses each identified embedded derivative to determine whether it is required to be bifurcated. The embedded derivative is bifurcated from the host contract and accounted for as a freestanding derivative if:
| |
• | the combined instrument is not accounted for in its entirety at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in earnings; |
| |
• | the terms of the embedded derivative are not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics of the host contract; and |
| |
• | a separate instrument with the same terms as the embedded derivative would qualify as a derivative instrument. |
Such embedded derivatives are carried on the balance sheet at estimated fair value with the host contract and changes in their estimated fair value are generally reported in net derivative gains (losses) except for those in policyholder benefits and claims related to ceded reinsurance of GMIB. If the Company is unable to properly identify and measure an embedded derivative for separation from its host contract, the entire contract is carried on the balance sheet at estimated fair value, with changes in estimated fair value recognized in the current period in net investment gains (losses) or net investment income. Additionally, the Company may elect to carry an entire contract on the balance sheet at estimated fair value, with changes in estimated fair value recognized in the current period in net investment gains (losses) or net investment income if that contract contains an embedded derivative that requires bifurcation. At inception, the Company attributes to the embedded derivative a portion of the projected future guarantee fees to be collected from the policyholder equal to the present value of projected future guaranteed benefits. Any additional fees represent “excess” fees and are reported in universal life and investment-type product policy fees.
See Note 6 for information about the fair value hierarchy for derivatives.
Derivative Strategies
The Company is exposed to various risks relating to its ongoing business operations, including interest rate, foreign currency exchange rate, credit and equity market. The Company uses a variety of strategies to manage these risks, including the use of derivatives.
Derivatives are financial instruments with values derived from interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, credit spreads and/or other financial indices. Derivatives may be exchange-traded or contracted in the over-the-counter (“OTC”) market. Certain of the Company’s OTC derivatives are cleared and settled through central clearing counterparties (“OTC-cleared”), while others are bilateral contracts between two counterparties (“OTC-bilateral”). The types of derivatives the Company uses include swaps, forwards, futures and option contracts. To a lesser extent, the Company uses credit default swaps to synthetically replicate investment risks and returns which are not readily available in the cash market.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
5. Derivatives (continued)
Interest Rate Derivatives
The Company uses a variety of interest rate derivatives to reduce its exposure to changes in interest rates, including interest rate swaps, caps, floors, futures and forwards.
Interest rate swaps are used by the Company primarily to reduce market risks from changes in interest rates and to alter interest rate exposure arising from mismatches between assets and liabilities (duration mismatches). In an interest rate swap, the Company agrees with another party to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between fixed rate and floating rate interest amounts as calculated by reference to an agreed notional amount. The Company utilizes interest rate swaps in fair value, cash flow and non-qualifying hedging relationships.
The Company purchases interest rate caps and floors primarily to protect its floating rate liabilities against rises in interest rates above a specified level, and against interest rate exposure arising from mismatches between assets and liabilities, as well as to protect its minimum rate guarantee liabilities against declines in interest rates below a specified level, respectively. In certain instances, the Company locks in the economic impact of existing purchased caps and floors by entering into offsetting written caps and floors. The Company utilizes interest rate caps and floors in non-qualifying hedging relationships.
In exchange-traded interest rate (Treasury and swap) futures transactions, the Company agrees to purchase or sell a specified number of contracts, the value of which is determined by the different classes of interest rate securities, and to post variation margin on a daily basis in an amount equal to the difference in the daily market values of those contracts. The Company enters into exchange-traded futures with regulated futures commission merchants that are members of the exchange. Exchange-traded interest rate (Treasury and swap) futures are used primarily to hedge mismatches between the duration of assets in a portfolio and the duration of liabilities supported by those assets, to hedge against changes in value of securities the Company owns or anticipates acquiring, to hedge against changes in interest rates on anticipated liability issuances by replicating Treasury or swap curve performance, and to hedge minimum guarantees embedded in certain variable annuity products offered by the Company. The Company utilizes exchange-traded interest rate futures in non-qualifying hedging relationships.
Swaptions are used by the Company to hedge interest rate risk associated with the Company’s long-term liabilities and invested assets. A swaption is an option to enter into a swap with a forward starting effective date. In certain instances, the Company locks in the economic impact of existing purchased swaptions by entering into offsetting written swaptions. The Company pays a premium for purchased swaptions and receives a premium for written swaptions. The Company utilizes swaptions in non-qualifying hedging relationships. Swaptions are included in interest rate options.
The Company enters into interest rate forwards to buy and sell securities. The price is agreed upon at the time of the contract and payment for such a contract is made at a specified future date. The Company utilizes interest rate forwards in cash flow hedging relationships.
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Derivatives
The Company uses foreign currency swaps to reduce the risk from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates associated with its assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies. In a foreign currency swap transaction, the Company agrees with another party to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between one currency and another at a fixed exchange rate, generally set at inception, calculated by reference to an agreed upon notional amount. The notional amount of each currency is exchanged at the inception and termination of the currency swap by each party. The Company utilizes foreign currency swaps in fair value, cash flow and non-qualifying hedging relationships.
To a lesser extent, the Company uses foreign currency forwards and exchange-traded currency futures in non-qualifying hedging relationships.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
5. Derivatives (continued)
Credit Derivatives
The Company enters into purchased credit default swaps to hedge against credit-related changes in the value of its investments. In a credit default swap transaction, the Company agrees with another party to pay, at specified intervals, a premium to hedge credit risk. If a credit event occurs, as defined by the contract, the contract may be cash settled or it may be settled gross by the delivery of par quantities of the referenced investment equal to the specified swap notional amount in exchange for the payment of cash amounts by the counterparty equal to the par value of the investment surrendered. Credit events vary by type of issuer but typically include bankruptcy, failure to pay debt obligations, repudiation, moratorium, involuntary restructuring or governmental intervention. In each case, payout on a credit default swap is triggered only after the Credit Derivatives Determinations Committee of the International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. (“ISDA”) deems that a credit event has occurred. The Company utilizes credit default swaps in non-qualifying hedging relationships.
The Company enters into written credit default swaps to synthetically create credit investments that are either more expensive to acquire or otherwise unavailable in the cash markets. These transactions are a combination of a derivative and one or more cash instruments, such as U.S. Treasury securities, agency securities or other fixed maturity securities. These credit default swaps are not designated as hedging instruments.
To a lesser extent, the Company uses credit forwards to lock in the price to be paid for forward purchases of certain securities. The Company utilizes credit forwards in cash flow hedging relationships.
Equity Derivatives
The Company uses a variety of equity derivatives to reduce its exposure to equity market risk, including equity index options, equity variance swaps, exchange-traded equity futures and total rate of return swaps (“TRRs”).
Equity index options are used by the Company primarily to hedge minimum guarantees embedded in certain variable annuity products offered by the Company. To hedge against adverse changes in equity indices, the Company enters into contracts to sell the equity index within a limited time at a contracted price. The contracts will be net settled in cash based on differentials in the indices at the time of exercise and the strike price. Certain of these contracts may also contain settlement provisions linked to interest rates. In certain instances, the Company may enter into a combination of transactions to hedge adverse changes in equity indices within a pre-determined range through the purchase and sale of options. The Company utilizes equity index options in non-qualifying hedging relationships.
Equity variance swaps are used by the Company primarily to hedge minimum guarantees embedded in certain variable annuity products offered by the Company. In an equity variance swap, the Company agrees with another party to exchange amounts in the future, based on changes in equity volatility over a defined period. The Company utilizes equity variance swaps in non-qualifying hedging relationships.
In exchange-traded equity futures transactions, the Company agrees to purchase or sell a specified number of contracts, the value of which is determined by the different classes of equity securities, and to post variation margin on a daily basis in an amount equal to the difference in the daily market values of those contracts. The Company enters into exchange-traded futures with regulated futures commission merchants that are members of the exchange. Exchange-traded equity futures are used primarily to hedge minimum guarantees embedded in certain variable annuity products offered by the Company. The Company utilizes exchange-traded equity futures in non-qualifying hedging relationships.
TRRs are swaps whereby the Company agrees with another party to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between the economic risk and reward of an asset or a market index and the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”), calculated by reference to an agreed notional amount. No cash is exchanged at the outset of the contract. Cash is paid and received over the life of the contract based on the terms of the swap. The Company uses TRRs to hedge its equity market guarantees in certain of its insurance products. TRRs can be used as hedges or to synthetically create investments. The Company utilizes TRRs in non-qualifying hedging relationships.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
5. Derivatives (continued)
Primary Risks Managed by Derivatives
The following table presents the gross notional amount, estimated fair value and primary underlying risk exposure of the Company’s derivatives, excluding embedded derivatives, held at:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
| Primary Underlying Risk Exposure | | Gross Notional Amount | | Estimated Fair Value | | Gross Notional Amount | | Estimated Fair Value |
| Assets | | Liabilities | | Assets | | Liabilities |
| | | (In millions) |
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments |
Fair value hedges: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Interest rate swaps | Interest rate | | $ | 369 |
| | $ | 42 |
| | $ | 2 |
| | $ | 379 |
| | $ | 33 |
| | $ | 2 |
|
Foreign currency swaps | Foreign currency exchange rate | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Subtotal | | | 369 |
| | 42 |
| | 2 |
| | 379 |
| | 33 |
| | 2 |
|
Cash flow hedges: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Interest rate swaps | Interest rate | | 335 |
| | 103 |
| | — |
| | 369 |
| | 81 |
| | — |
|
Interest rate forwards | Interest rate | | 130 |
| | 48 |
| | — |
| | 155 |
| | 45 |
| | — |
|
Foreign currency swaps | Foreign currency exchange rate | | 768 |
| | 107 |
| | 5 |
| | 728 |
| | 56 |
| | 9 |
|
Subtotal | | | 1,233 |
| | 258 |
| | 5 |
| | 1,252 |
| | 182 |
| | 9 |
|
Total qualifying hedges | | 1,602 |
| | 300 |
| | 7 |
| | 1,631 |
| | 215 |
| | 11 |
|
Derivatives Not Designated or Not Qualifying as Hedging Instruments |
Interest rate swaps | Interest rate | | 25,078 |
| | 2,019 |
| | 761 |
| | 25,919 |
| | 1,709 |
| | 601 |
|
Interest rate floors | Interest rate | | 13,504 |
| | 77 |
| | 63 |
| | 16,404 |
| | 83 |
| | 69 |
|
Interest rate caps | Interest rate | | 7,901 |
| | 6 |
| | — |
| | 7,901 |
| | 11 |
| | — |
|
Interest rate futures | Interest rate | | 730 |
| | 2 |
| | — |
| | 325 |
| | 1 |
| | — |
|
Interest rate options | Interest rate | | 18,870 |
| | 694 |
| | 1 |
| | 29,870 |
| | 446 |
| | 16 |
|
Foreign currency swaps | Foreign currency exchange rate | | 751 |
| | 81 |
| | 1 |
| | 672 |
| | 59 |
| | 4 |
|
Foreign currency forwards | Foreign currency exchange rate | | 49 |
| | 6 |
| | — |
| | 48 |
| | 3 |
| | — |
|
Credit default swaps — purchased | Credit | | 45 |
| | — |
| | 1 |
| | 45 |
| | — |
| | 1 |
|
Credit default swaps — written | Credit | | 1,851 |
| | 30 |
| | 1 |
| | 1,924 |
| | 29 |
| | 1 |
|
Equity futures | Equity market | | 3,238 |
| | 21 |
| | — |
| | 3,086 |
| | 34 |
| | — |
|
Equity index options | Equity market | | 30,631 |
| | 881 |
| | 639 |
| | 27,212 |
| | 854 |
| | 613 |
|
Equity variance swaps | Equity market | | 15,283 |
| | 118 |
| | 450 |
| | 15,433 |
| | 120 |
| | 435 |
|
TRRs | Equity market | | 2,408 |
| | 6 |
| | 56 |
| | 2,332 |
| | 12 |
| | 67 |
|
Total non-designated or non-qualifying derivatives | | 120,339 |
| | 3,941 |
| | 1,973 |
| | 131,171 |
| | 3,361 |
| | 1,807 |
|
Total | | $ | 121,941 |
| | $ | 4,241 |
| | $ | 1,980 |
| | $ | 132,802 |
| | $ | 3,576 |
| | $ | 1,818 |
|
Based on gross notional amounts, a substantial portion of the Company’s derivatives was not designated or did not qualify as part of a hedging relationship at both March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014. The Company’s use of derivatives includes (i) derivatives that serve as macro hedges of the Company’s exposure to various risks and that generally do not qualify for hedge accounting due to the criteria required under the portfolio hedging rules; (ii) derivatives that economically hedge insurance liabilities that contain mortality or morbidity risk and that generally do not qualify for hedge accounting because the lack of these risks in the derivatives cannot support an expectation of a highly effective hedging relationship; (iii) derivatives that economically hedge embedded derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting because the changes in estimated fair value of the embedded derivatives are already recorded in net income; and (iv) written credit default swaps that are used to synthetically create credit investments and that do not qualify for hedge accounting because they do not involve a hedging relationship. For these non-qualified derivatives, changes in market factors can lead to the recognition of fair value changes on the statement of operations without an offsetting gain or loss recognized in earnings for the item being hedged.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
5. Derivatives (continued)
Net Derivative Gains (Losses)
The components of net derivative gains (losses) were as follows:
|
| | | | | | | | |
| | Three Months Ended March 31, |
| | 2015 | | 2014 |
| | (In millions) |
Derivatives and hedging gains (losses) (1) | | $ | 321 |
| | $ | 211 |
|
Embedded derivatives gains (losses) | | (236 | ) | | (361 | ) |
Total net derivative gains (losses) | | $ | 85 |
| | $ | (150 | ) |
____________
| |
(1) | Includes foreign currency transaction gains (losses) on hedged items in cash flow and non-qualifying hedging relationships, which are not presented elsewhere in this note. |
The following table presents earned income on derivatives:
|
| | | | | | | | |
| | Three Months Ended March 31, |
| | 2015 | | 2014 |
| | (In millions) |
Qualifying hedges: | | | | |
Net investment income | | $ | 3 |
| | $ | 1 |
|
Interest credited to policyholder account balances | | — |
| | — |
|
Non-qualifying hedges: | | | | |
Net derivative gains (losses) | | 91 |
| | 80 |
|
Policyholder benefits and claims | | 3 |
| | (9 | ) |
Total | | $ | 97 |
| | $ | 72 |
|
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
5. Derivatives (continued)
Non-Qualifying Derivatives and Derivatives for Purposes Other Than Hedging
The following table presents the amount and location of gains (losses) recognized in income for derivatives that were not designated or qualifying as hedging instruments:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net Derivative Gains (Losses) | | Net Investment Income (1) | | Policyholder Benefits and Claims (2) |
| (In millions) |
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 | | | | | |
Interest rate derivatives | $ | 401 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 11 |
|
Foreign currency exchange rate derivatives | 35 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Credit derivatives — written | 1 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Equity derivatives | (209 | ) | | (1 | ) | | (73 | ) |
Total | $ | 228 |
| | $ | (1 | ) | | $ | (62 | ) |
Three Months Ended March 31, 2014 | | | | | |
Interest rate derivatives | $ | 253 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 12 |
|
Foreign currency exchange rate derivatives | 54 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Credit derivatives — written | (2 | ) | | — |
| | — |
|
Equity derivatives | (178 | ) | | (3 | ) | | (39 | ) |
Total | $ | 127 |
| | $ | (3 | ) | | $ | (27 | ) |
____________
| |
(1) | Changes in estimated fair value related to economic hedges of equity method investments in joint ventures. |
| |
(2) | Changes in estimated fair value related to economic hedges of variable annuity guarantees included in future policy benefits. |
Fair Value Hedges
The Company designates and accounts for the following as fair value hedges when they have met the requirements of fair value hedging: (i) interest rate swaps to convert fixed rate assets and liabilities to floating rate assets and liabilities; and (ii) foreign currency swaps to hedge the foreign currency fair value exposure of foreign currency denominated liabilities.
The Company recognizes gains and losses on derivatives and the related hedged items in fair value hedges within net derivative gains (losses). The following table presents the amount of such net derivative gains (losses):
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Derivatives in Fair Value Hedging Relationships | |
Hedged Items in Fair Value Hedging Relationships | | Net Derivative Gains (Losses) Recognized for Derivatives | | Net Derivative Gains (Losses) Recognized for Hedged Items | | Ineffectiveness Recognized in Net Derivative Gains (Losses) |
| | | | (In millions) |
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 | | | | | | |
Interest rate swaps: | | Fixed maturity securities | | $ | (1 | ) | | $ | 1 |
| | $ | — |
|
| | Policyholder liabilities (1) | | 9 |
| | (9 | ) | | — |
|
Foreign currency swaps: | | Foreign-denominated policyholder account balances (2) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Total | | $ | 8 |
| | $ | (8 | ) | | $ | — |
|
Three Months Ended March 31, 2014 | | | | | | |
Interest rate swaps: | | Fixed maturity securities | | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
| | Policyholder liabilities (1) | | 9 |
| | (9 | ) | | — |
|
Foreign currency swaps: | | Foreign-denominated policyholder account balances | | 1 |
| | (1 | ) | | — |
|
Total | | $ | 10 |
| | $ | (10 | ) | | $ | — |
|
____________
| |
(1) | Fixed rate liabilities reported in policyholder account balances or future policy benefits. |
| |
(2) | Fixed rate or floating rate liabilities. |
All components of each derivative’s gain or loss were included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
5. Derivatives (continued)
Cash Flow Hedges
The Company designates and accounts for the following as cash flow hedges when they have met the requirements of cash flow hedging: (i) interest rate swaps to convert floating rate assets and liabilities to fixed rate assets and liabilities; (ii) foreign currency swaps to hedge the foreign currency cash flow exposure of foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities; (iii) interest rate forwards and credit forwards to lock in the price to be paid for forward purchases of investments; and (iv) interest rate swaps and interest rate forwards to hedge the forecasted purchases of fixed-rate investments.
In certain instances, the Company discontinued cash flow hedge accounting because the forecasted transactions were no longer probable of occurring. Because certain of the forecasted transactions also were not probable of occurring within two months of the anticipated date, the Company reclassified certain amounts from AOCI into net derivative gains (losses). For the three months ended March 31, 2015, the amounts reclassified into net derivative gains (losses) related to such discontinued cash flow hedges were not significant. For the three months ended March 31, 2014, there were no amounts reclassified into net derivative gains (losses) related to such discontinued cash flow hedges.
At both March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, the maximum length of time over which the Company was hedging its exposure to variability in future cash flows for forecasted transactions did not exceed five years.
At March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, the balance in AOCI associated with cash flow hedges was $376 million and $282 million, respectively.
The following table presents the effects of derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships on the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) and the consolidated statements of stockholder’s equity:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships | | Amount of Gains (Losses) Deferred in AOCI on Derivatives | | Amount and Location of Gains (Losses) Reclassified from AOCI into Income (Loss) | | Amount and Location of Gains (Losses) Recognized in Income (Loss) on Derivatives |
| | (Effective Portion) | | (Effective Portion) | | (Ineffective Portion) |
| | | | Net Derivative Gains (Losses) | | Net Investment Income | | Net Derivative Gains (Losses) |
| | | | (In millions) | | |
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 | | | | | | | | |
Interest rate swaps | | $ | 29 |
| | $ | 1 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
Interest rate forwards | | 11 |
| | 1 |
| | 1 |
| | — |
|
Foreign currency swaps | | 52 |
| | (4 | ) | | — |
| | — |
|
Credit forwards | | — |
| | (1 | ) | | — |
| | — |
|
Total | | $ | 92 |
| | $ | (3 | ) | | $ | 1 |
| | $ | — |
|
Three Months Ended March 31, 2014 | | | | | | | | |
Interest rate swaps | | $ | 42 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 1 |
|
Interest rate forwards | | 20 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 1 |
|
Foreign currency swaps | | 3 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Credit forwards | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Total | | $ | 65 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 2 |
|
All components of each derivative’s gain or loss were included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness.
At March 31, 2015, $18 million of deferred net gains (losses) on derivatives in AOCI was expected to be reclassified to earnings within the next 12 months.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
5. Derivatives (continued)
Credit Derivatives
In connection with synthetically created credit investment transactions, the Company writes credit default swaps for which it receives a premium to insure credit risk. Such credit derivatives are included within the non-qualifying derivatives and derivatives for purposes other than hedging table. If a credit event occurs, as defined by the contract, the contract may be cash settled or it may be settled gross by the Company paying the counterparty the specified swap notional amount in exchange for the delivery of par quantities of the referenced credit obligation. The Company’s maximum amount at risk, assuming the value of all referenced credit obligations is zero, was $1.9 billion at both March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014. The Company can terminate these contracts at any time through cash settlement with the counterparty at an amount equal to the then current fair value of the credit default swaps. At March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, the Company would have received $29 million and $28 million, respectively, to terminate all of these contracts.
The following table presents the estimated fair value, maximum amount of future payments and weighted average years to maturity of written credit default swaps at:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
Rating Agency Designation of Referenced Credit Obligations (1) | | Estimated Fair Value of Credit Default Swaps | | Maximum Amount of Future Payments under Credit Default Swaps (2) | | Weighted Average Years to Maturity (3) | | Estimated Fair Value of Credit Default Swaps | | Maximum Amount of Future Payments under Credit Default Swaps (2) | | Weighted Average Years to Maturity (3) |
| | (In millions) | | | | (In millions) | | |
Aaa/Aa/A | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Single name credit default swaps (corporate) | | $ | 2 |
| | $ | 155 |
| | 1.8 |
| | $ | 2 |
| | $ | 155 |
| | 2.1 |
|
Credit default swaps referencing indices | | — |
| | 84 |
| | 1.7 |
| | 1 |
| | 134 |
| | 1.3 |
|
Subtotal | | 2 |
| | 239 |
| | 1.8 |
| | 3 |
| | 289 |
| | 1.7 |
|
Baa | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Single name credit default swaps (corporate) | | 5 |
| | 434 |
| | 2.1 |
| | 5 |
| | 454 |
| | 2.3 |
|
Credit default swaps referencing indices | | 19 |
| | 1,143 |
| | 5.1 |
| | 18 |
| | 1,145 |
| | 5.0 |
|
Subtotal | | 24 |
| | 1,577 |
| | 4.3 |
| | 23 |
| | 1,599 |
| | 4.2 |
|
B | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Single name credit default swaps (corporate) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Credit default swaps referencing indices | | 3 |
| | 35 |
| | 4.8 |
| | 2 |
| | 36 |
| | 5.0 |
|
Subtotal | | 3 |
| | 35 |
| | 4.8 |
| | 2 |
| | 36 |
| | 5.0 |
|
Total | | $ | 29 |
| | $ | 1,851 |
| | 3.9 |
| | $ | 28 |
| | $ | 1,924 |
| | 3.8 |
|
____________
| |
(1) | The rating agency designations are based on availability and the midpoint of the applicable ratings among Moody’s Investors Service (“Moody’s”), Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services (“S&P”) and Fitch Ratings. If no rating is available from a rating agency, then an internally developed rating is used. |
| |
(2) | Assumes the value of the referenced credit obligations is zero. |
| |
(3) | The weighted average years to maturity of the credit default swaps is calculated based on weighted average gross notional amounts. |
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
5. Derivatives (continued)
Credit Risk on Freestanding Derivatives
The Company may be exposed to credit-related losses in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to derivatives. Generally, the current credit exposure of the Company’s derivatives is limited to the net positive estimated fair value of derivatives at the reporting date after taking into consideration the existence of master netting or similar agreements and any collateral received pursuant to such agreements.
The Company manages its credit risk related to derivatives by entering into transactions with creditworthy counterparties and establishing and monitoring exposure limits. The Company’s OTC-bilateral derivative transactions are generally governed by ISDA Master Agreements which provide for legally enforceable set-off and close-out netting of exposures to specific counterparties in the event of early termination of a transaction, which includes, but is not limited to, events of default and bankruptcy. In the event of an early termination, the Company is permitted to set off receivables from the counterparty against payables to the same counterparty arising out of all included transactions. Substantially all of the Company’s ISDA Master Agreements also include Credit Support Annex provisions which require both the pledging and accepting of collateral in connection with its OTC-bilateral derivatives.
The Company’s OTC-cleared derivatives are effected through central clearing counterparties and its exchange-traded derivatives are effected through regulated exchanges. Such positions are marked to market and margined on a daily basis (both initial margin and variation margin), and the Company has minimal exposure to credit-related losses in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to such derivatives.
See Note 6 for a description of the impact of credit risk on the valuation of derivatives.
The estimated fair values of the Company’s net derivative assets and net derivative liabilities after the application of master netting agreements and collateral were as follows at:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
Derivatives Subject to a Master Netting Arrangement or a Similar Arrangement (6) | | Assets | | Liabilities | | Assets | | Liabilities |
| | (In millions) |
Gross estimated fair value of derivatives: | | | | | | | | |
OTC-bilateral (1) | | $ | 4,227 |
| | $ | 1,909 |
| | $ | 3,554 |
| | $ | 1,767 |
|
OTC-cleared (1) | | 90 |
| | 95 |
| | 75 |
| | 73 |
|
Exchange-traded | | 23 |
| | — |
| | 35 |
| | — |
|
Total gross estimated fair value of derivatives (1) | | 4,340 |
| | 2,004 |
| | 3,664 |
| | 1,840 |
|
Amounts offset on the consolidated balance sheets | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Estimated fair value of derivatives presented on the consolidated balance sheets (1) | | 4,340 |
| | 2,004 |
| | 3,664 |
| | 1,840 |
|
Gross amounts not offset on the consolidated balance sheets: | | | | | | | | |
Gross estimated fair value of derivatives: (2) | | | | | | | | |
OTC-bilateral | | (1,722 | ) | | (1,722 | ) | | (1,592 | ) | | (1,592 | ) |
OTC-cleared | | (67 | ) | | (67 | ) | | (54 | ) | | (54 | ) |
Exchange-traded | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Cash collateral: (3), (4) | | | | | | | | |
OTC-bilateral | | (1,660 | ) | | — |
| | (753 | ) | | — |
|
OTC-cleared | | (23 | ) | | (26 | ) | | (21 | ) | | (18 | ) |
Exchange-traded | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Securities collateral: (5) | | | | | | | | |
OTC-bilateral | | (796 | ) | | (188 | ) | | (1,152 | ) | | (175 | ) |
OTC-cleared | | — |
| | (1 | ) | | — |
| | — |
|
Exchange-traded | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Net amount after application of master netting agreements and collateral | | $ | 72 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 92 |
| | $ | 1 |
|
____________
| |
(1) | At March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, derivative assets include income or expense accruals reported in accrued investment income or in other liabilities of $99 million and $88 million, respectively, and derivative liabilities include income or expense accruals reported in accrued investment income or in other liabilities of $24 million and $22 million, respectively. |
| |
(2) | Estimated fair value of derivatives is limited to the amount that is subject to set-off and includes income or expense accruals. |
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
5. Derivatives (continued)
| |
(3) | Cash collateral received by the Company for OTC-bilateral and OTC-cleared derivatives is included in cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments or in fixed maturity securities, and the obligation to return it is included in payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions on the balance sheet. In certain instances, cash collateral pledged to the Company as initial margin for OTC-bilateral derivatives is held in separate custodial accounts and is not recorded on the Company’s balance sheet because the account title is in the name of the counterparty (but segregated for the benefit of the Company). The amount of this off-balance sheet collateral was $91 million and $121 million at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. |
| |
(4) | The receivable for the return of cash collateral provided by the Company is inclusive of initial margin on exchange-traded and OTC-cleared derivatives and is included in premiums, reinsurance and other receivables on the balance sheet. The amount of cash collateral offset in the table above is limited to the net estimated fair value of derivatives after application of netting agreements. At March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, the Company received excess cash collateral of $41 million and $33 million (including $40 million and $33 million off-balance sheet cash collateral held in separate custodial accounts), respectively, and provided excess cash collateral of $40 million and $30 million, respectively, which is not included in the table above due to the foregoing limitation. |
| |
(5) | Securities collateral received by the Company is held in separate custodial accounts and is not recorded on the balance sheet. Subject to certain constraints, the Company is permitted by contract to sell or re-pledge this collateral, but at March 31, 2015 none of the collateral had been sold or re-pledged. Securities collateral pledged by the Company is reported in fixed maturity securities on the balance sheet. Subject to certain constraints, the counterparties are permitted by contract to sell or re-pledge this collateral. The amount of securities collateral offset in the table above is limited to the net estimated fair value of derivatives after application of netting agreements and cash collateral. At March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, the Company received excess securities collateral with an estimated fair value of $74 million and $122 million, respectively, for its OTC-bilateral derivatives, which are not included in the table above due to the foregoing limitation. At March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, the Company provided excess securities collateral with an estimated fair value of $24 million and $17 million, respectively, for its OTC-bilateral derivatives, and $40 million and $37 million, respectively, for its OTC-cleared derivatives, and $136 million and $165 million, respectively, for its exchange-traded derivatives, which are not included in the table above due to the foregoing limitation. |
| |
(6) | See Note 4 for information regarding the Company’s gross and net payables and receivables under repurchase agreement transactions. |
The Company’s collateral arrangements for its OTC-bilateral derivatives generally require the counterparty in a net liability position, after considering the effect of netting agreements, to pledge collateral when the fair value of that counterparty’s derivatives reaches a pre-determined threshold. Certain of these arrangements also include financial strength-contingent provisions that provide for a reduction of these thresholds (on a sliding scale that converges toward zero) in the event of downgrades in the financial strength ratings of the Company and/or the credit ratings of the counterparty. In addition, certain of the Company’s netting agreements for derivatives contain provisions that require both the Company and the counterparty to maintain a specific investment grade financial strength or credit rating from each of Moody’s and S&P. If a party’s financial strength or credit ratings were to fall below that specific investment grade financial strength or credit rating, that party would be in violation of these provisions, and the other party to the derivatives could terminate the transactions and demand immediate settlement and payment based on such party’s reasonable valuation of the derivatives.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
5. Derivatives (continued)
The following table presents the estimated fair value of the Company’s OTC-bilateral derivatives that are in a net liability position after considering the effect of netting agreements, together with the estimated fair value and balance sheet location of the collateral pledged. The table also presents the incremental collateral that the Company would be required to provide if there was a one notch downgrade in the Company’s financial strength rating at the reporting date or if the Company’s financial strength rating sustained a downgrade to a level that triggered full overnight collateralization or termination of the derivative position at the reporting date. OTC-bilateral derivatives that are not subject to collateral agreements are excluded from this table.
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Estimated Fair Value of Collateral Provided | | Fair Value of Incremental Collateral Provided Upon |
| Estimated Fair Value of Derivatives in Net Liability Position (1) | | Fixed Maturity Securities | | One Notch Downgrade in the Company’s Financial Strength Rating | | Downgrade in the Company’s Financial Strength Rating to a Level that Triggers Full Overnight Collateralization or Termination of the Derivative Position |
| (In millions) |
March 31, 2015 | $ | 187 |
| | $ | 212 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
December 31, 2014 | $ | 175 |
| | $ | 192 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
____________
| |
(1) | After taking into consideration the existence of netting agreements. |
Embedded Derivatives
The Company issues certain products or purchases certain investments that contain embedded derivatives that are required to be separated from their host contracts and accounted for as freestanding derivatives. These host contracts principally include: variable annuities with guaranteed minimum benefits, including GMWBs, guaranteed minimum accumulation benefits (“GMABs”) and certain GMIBs; affiliated ceded reinsurance of guaranteed minimum benefits related to GMWBs, GMABs and certain GMIBs; affiliated assumed reinsurance of guaranteed minimum benefits related to GMWBs and certain GMIBs; funds withheld on ceded reinsurance; fixed annuities with equity-indexed returns; and certain debt and equity securities.
The following table presents the estimated fair value and balance sheet location of the Company’s embedded derivatives that have been separated from their host contracts at:
|
| | | | | | | | | |
| Balance Sheet Location | | March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
| | | (In millions) |
Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts: | | | | | |
Ceded guaranteed minimum benefits | Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables | | $ | 242 |
| | $ | 217 |
|
Funds withheld on assumed reinsurance | Other invested assets | | 56 |
| | 53 |
|
Options embedded in debt or equity securities | Investments | | (58 | ) | | (48 | ) |
Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts | | $ | 240 |
| | $ | 222 |
|
| | | | | |
Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts: | | | | | |
Direct guaranteed minimum benefits | Policyholder account balances | | $ | (410 | ) | | $ | (609 | ) |
Assumed guaranteed minimum benefits | Policyholder account balances | | 893 |
| | 827 |
|
Funds withheld on ceded reinsurance | Other liabilities | | 458 |
| | 382 |
|
Other | Policyholder account balances | | 19 |
|
| 17 |
|
Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts | | $ | 960 |
| | $ | 617 |
|
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
5. Derivatives (continued)
The following table presents changes in estimated fair value related to embedded derivatives:
|
| | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended March 31, |
| 2015 | | 2014 |
| (In millions) |
Net derivative gains (losses) (1), (2) | $ | (236 | ) | | $ | (361 | ) |
Policyholder benefits and claims | $ | 24 |
| | $ | 15 |
|
____________
| |
(1) | The valuation of direct and assumed guaranteed minimum benefits includes a nonperformance risk adjustment. The amounts included in net derivative gains (losses) in connection with this adjustment were $16 million and $44 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. |
| |
(2) | See Note 10 for discussion of affiliated net derivative gains (losses) included in the table above. |
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value
Considerable judgment is often required in interpreting market data to develop estimates of fair value, and the use of different assumptions or valuation methodologies may have a material effect on the estimated fair value amounts.
Recurring Fair Value Measurements
The assets and liabilities measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis and their corresponding placement in the fair value hierarchy, including those items for which the Company has elected the FVO, are presented below.
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| March 31, 2015 |
| Fair Value Hierarchy | | Total Estimated Fair Value |
| Level 1 | | Level 2 | | Level 3 | |
| (In millions) |
Assets | | | | | | | |
Fixed maturity securities: | | | | | | | |
U.S. corporate | $ | — |
| | $ | 15,953 |
| | $ | 1,452 |
| | $ | 17,405 |
|
U.S. Treasury and agency | 8,137 |
| | 6,160 |
| | — |
| | 14,297 |
|
RMBS | 1,359 |
| | 6,443 |
| | 921 |
| | 8,723 |
|
Foreign corporate | — |
| | 4,734 |
| | 699 |
| | 5,433 |
|
State and political subdivision | — |
| | 2,661 |
| | — |
| | 2,661 |
|
CMBS | — |
| | 1,623 |
| | 187 |
| | 1,810 |
|
ABS | — |
| | 1,551 |
| | 419 |
| | 1,970 |
|
Foreign government | — |
| | 766 |
| | — |
| | 766 |
|
Total fixed maturity securities | 9,496 |
| | 39,891 |
| | 3,678 |
| | 53,065 |
|
Equity securities: | | | | | | | |
Common stock | 108 |
| | 115 |
| | 28 |
| | 251 |
|
Non-redeemable preferred stock | — |
| | 167 |
| | 62 |
| | 229 |
|
Total equity securities | 108 |
| | 282 |
| | 90 |
| | 480 |
|
Short-term investments (1) | 542 |
| | 2,062 |
| | 307 |
| | 2,911 |
|
Commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs — FVO | — |
| | 272 |
| | — |
| | 272 |
|
Derivative assets: (2) | | | | | | | |
Interest rate | 2 |
| | 2,941 |
| | 48 |
| | 2,991 |
|
Foreign currency exchange rate | — |
| | 194 |
| | — |
| | 194 |
|
Credit | — |
| | 30 |
| | — |
| | 30 |
|
Equity market | 21 |
| | 804 |
| | 201 |
| | 1,026 |
|
Total derivative assets | 23 |
| | 3,969 |
| | 249 |
| | 4,241 |
|
Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts (3) | — |
| | — |
| | 298 |
| | 298 |
|
Separate account assets (4) | 287 |
| | 109,571 |
| | 156 |
| | 110,014 |
|
Total assets | $ | 10,456 |
| | $ | 156,047 |
| | $ | 4,778 |
| | $ | 171,281 |
|
Liabilities | | | | | | | |
Derivative liabilities: (2) | | | | | | | |
Interest rate | $ | — |
| | $ | 827 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 827 |
|
Foreign currency exchange rate | — |
| | 6 |
| | — |
| | 6 |
|
Credit | — |
| | 2 |
| | — |
| | 2 |
|
Equity market | — |
| | 671 |
| | 474 |
| | 1,145 |
|
Total derivative liabilities | — |
| | 1,506 |
| | 474 |
| | 1,980 |
|
Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts (3) | — |
| | — |
| | 960 |
| | 960 |
|
Long-term debt of CSEs — FVO | — |
| | 132 |
| | — |
| | 132 |
|
Total liabilities | $ | — |
| | $ | 1,638 |
| | $ | 1,434 |
| | $ | 3,072 |
|
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| December 31, 2014 |
| Fair Value Hierarchy | | Total Estimated Fair Value |
| Level 1 | | Level 2 | | Level 3 | |
| (In millions) |
Assets | | | | | | | |
Fixed maturity securities: | | | | | | | |
U.S. corporate | $ | — |
| | $ | 15,447 |
| | $ | 1,355 |
| | $ | 16,802 |
|
U.S. Treasury and agency | 10,226 |
| | 5,600 |
| | — |
| | 15,826 |
|
RMBS | — |
| | 5,365 |
| | 716 |
| | 6,081 |
|
Foreign corporate
| — |
| | 4,704 |
| | 710 |
| | 5,414 |
|
State and political subdivision | — |
| | 2,592 |
| | — |
| | 2,592 |
|
CMBS | — |
| | 1,531 |
| | 148 |
| | 1,679 |
|
ABS | — |
| | 1,381 |
| | 181 |
| | 1,562 |
|
Foreign government | — |
| | 741 |
| | — |
| | 741 |
|
Total fixed maturity securities | 10,226 |
| | 37,361 |
| | 3,110 |
| | 50,697 |
|
Equity securities: | | | | | | | |
Common stock | 105 |
| | 99 |
| | 29 |
| | 233 |
|
Non-redeemable preferred stock | — |
| | 155 |
| | 71 |
| | 226 |
|
Total equity securities | 105 |
| | 254 |
| | 100 |
| | 459 |
|
Short-term investments (1) | 253 |
| | 812 |
| | 71 |
| | 1,136 |
|
Commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs — FVO | — |
| | 280 |
| | — |
| | 280 |
|
Derivative assets: (2) | | | | | | | |
Interest rate | 1 |
| | 2,363 |
| | 45 |
| | 2,409 |
|
Foreign currency exchange rate | — |
| | 118 |
| | — |
| | 118 |
|
Credit | — |
| | 28 |
| | 1 |
| | 29 |
|
Equity market | 34 |
| | 770 |
| | 216 |
| | 1,020 |
|
Total derivative assets | 35 |
| | 3,279 |
| | 262 |
| | 3,576 |
|
Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts (3) | — |
| | — |
| | 270 |
| | 270 |
|
Separate account assets (4) | 249 |
| | 108,454 |
| | 158 |
| | 108,861 |
|
Total assets | $ | 10,868 |
| | $ | 150,440 |
| | $ | 3,971 |
| | $ | 165,279 |
|
Liabilities | | | | | | | |
Derivative liabilities: (2) | | | | | | | |
Interest rate | $ | — |
| | $ | 688 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 688 |
|
Foreign currency exchange rate | — |
| | 13 |
| | — |
| | 13 |
|
Credit | — |
| | 2 |
| | — |
| | 2 |
|
Equity market | — |
| | 657 |
| | 458 |
| | 1,115 |
|
Total derivative liabilities | — |
| | 1,360 |
| | 458 |
| | 1,818 |
|
Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts (3) | — |
| | — |
| | 617 |
| | 617 |
|
Long-term debt of CSEs — FVO | — |
| | 139 |
| | — |
| | 139 |
|
Total liabilities | $ | — |
| | $ | 1,499 |
| | $ | 1,075 |
| | $ | 2,574 |
|
____________
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
| |
(1) | Short-term investments as presented in the tables above differ from the amounts presented on the consolidated balance sheets because certain short-term investments are not measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis. |
| |
(2) | Derivative assets are presented within other invested assets on the consolidated balance sheets and derivative liabilities are presented within other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. The amounts are presented gross in the tables above to reflect the presentation on the consolidated balance sheets, but are presented net for purposes of the rollforward in the Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) tables. |
| |
(3) | Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts are presented primarily within premiums, reinsurance and other receivables on the consolidated balance sheets. Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts are presented within policyholder account balances and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. At March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, equity securities also included embedded derivatives of ($58) million and ($48) million, respectively. |
| |
(4) | Investment performance related to separate account assets is fully offset by corresponding amounts credited to contractholders whose liability is reflected within separate account liabilities. Separate account liabilities are set equal to the estimated fair value of separate account assets. |
The following describes the valuation methodologies used to measure assets and liabilities at fair value. The description includes the valuation techniques and key inputs for each category of assets or liabilities that are classified within Level 2 and Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
Investments
Valuation Controls and Procedures
On behalf of the Company and MetLife, Inc.’s Chief Investment Officer and Chief Financial Officer, a pricing and valuation committee that is independent of the trading and investing functions and comprised of senior management provides oversight of control systems and valuation policies for securities, mortgage loans and derivatives. On a quarterly basis, this committee reviews and approves new transaction types and markets, ensures that observable market prices and market-based parameters are used for valuation, wherever possible, and determines that judgmental valuation adjustments, when applied, are based upon established policies and are applied consistently over time. This committee also provides oversight of the selection of independent third party pricing providers and the controls and procedures to evaluate third party pricing. Periodically, the Chief Accounting Officer reports to MetLife Insurance Company USA’s Audit Committee regarding compliance with fair value accounting standards.
The Company reviews its valuation methodologies on an ongoing basis and revises those methodologies when necessary based on changing market conditions. Assurance is gained on the overall reasonableness and consistent application of input assumptions, valuation methodologies and compliance with fair value accounting standards through controls designed to ensure valuations represent an exit price. Several controls are utilized, including certain monthly controls, which include, but are not limited to, analysis of portfolio returns to corresponding benchmark returns, comparing a sample of executed prices of securities sold to the fair value estimates, comparing fair value estimates to management’s knowledge of the current market, reviewing the bid/ask spreads to assess activity, comparing prices from multiple independent pricing services and ongoing due diligence to confirm that independent pricing services use market-based parameters. The process includes a determination of the observability of inputs used in estimated fair values received from independent pricing services or brokers by assessing whether these inputs can be corroborated by observable market data. The Company ensures that prices received from independent brokers, also referred to herein as “consensus pricing,” represent a reasonable estimate of fair value by considering such pricing relative to the Company’s knowledge of the current market dynamics and current pricing for similar financial instruments. While independent non-binding broker quotations are utilized, they are not used for a significant portion of the portfolio. For example, fixed maturity securities priced using independent non-binding broker quotations represent 1% of the total estimated fair value of fixed maturity securities and 15% of the total estimated fair value of Level 3 fixed maturity securities at March 31, 2015.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
The Company also applies a formal process to challenge any prices received from independent pricing services that are not considered representative of estimated fair value. If prices received from independent pricing services are not considered reflective of market activity or representative of estimated fair value, independent non-binding broker quotations are obtained, or an internally developed valuation is prepared. Internally developed valuations of current estimated fair value, which reflect internal estimates of liquidity and nonperformance risks, compared with pricing received from the independent pricing services, did not produce material differences in the estimated fair values for the majority of the portfolio; accordingly, overrides were not material. This is, in part, because internal estimates of liquidity and nonperformance risks are generally based on available market evidence and estimates used by other market participants. In the absence of such market-based evidence, management’s best estimate is used.
Securities, Short-term Investments and Long-term Debt of CSEs — FVO
When available, the estimated fair value of these financial instruments is based on quoted prices in active markets that are readily and regularly obtainable. Generally, these are the most liquid of the Company’s securities holdings and valuation of these securities does not involve management’s judgment.
When quoted prices in active markets are not available, the determination of estimated fair value is based on market standard valuation methodologies, giving priority to observable inputs. The significant inputs to the market standard valuation methodologies for certain types of securities with reasonable levels of price transparency are inputs that are observable in the market or can be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. When observable inputs are not available, the market standard valuation methodologies rely on inputs that are significant to the estimated fair value that are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. These unobservable inputs can be based in large part on management’s judgment or estimation and cannot be supported by reference to market activity. Even though these inputs are unobservable, management believes they are consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing such securities and are considered appropriate given the circumstances.
The estimated fair value of long-term debt of CSEs — FVO is determined on a basis consistent with the methodologies described herein for securities.
The valuation of most instruments listed below is determined using independent pricing sources, matrix pricing, discounted cash flow methodologies or other similar techniques that use either observable market inputs or unobservable inputs.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
|
| | | | | |
Instrument | | Level 2 Observable Inputs | Level 3 Unobservable Inputs |
Fixed Maturity Securities |
U.S. corporate and Foreign corporate securities |
| Valuation Techniques: Principally the market and income approaches. | Valuation Techniques: Principally the market approach. |
| Key Inputs: | Key Inputs: |
| • | quoted prices in markets that are not active | • | illiquidity premium |
| • | benchmark yields | • | delta spread adjustments to reflect specific credit-related issues |
| • | spreads off benchmark yields | • | credit spreads |
| • | new issuances | • | quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar securities that are less liquid and based on lower levels of trading activity than securities classified in Level 2 |
| • | issuer rating | |
| • | duration | • | independent non-binding broker quotations |
| • | trades of identical or comparable securities | | |
| • | Privately-placed securities are valued using the additional key inputs: | | |
| | • | market yield curve | | |
| | • | call provisions | | |
| | • | observable prices and spreads for similar publicly traded or privately traded securities that incorporate the credit quality and industry sector of the issuer | | |
| | • | delta spread adjustments to reflect specific credit-related issues | | |
U.S. Treasury and agency, State and political subdivision and Foreign government securities |
| Valuation Techniques: Principally the market approach. | Valuation Techniques: Principally the market approach. |
| Key Inputs: | Key Inputs: |
| • | quoted prices in markets that are not active | • | independent non-binding broker quotations |
| • | benchmark U.S. Treasury yield or other yields | • | quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar securities that are less liquid and based on lower levels of trading activity than securities classified in Level 2 |
| • | the spread off the U.S. Treasury yield curve for the identical security | |
| • | issuer ratings and issuer spreads | • | credit spreads |
| • | broker-dealer quotes | | |
| • | comparable securities that are actively traded | | |
| • | reported trades of similar securities, including those that are actively traded, and those within the same sub-sector or with a similar maturity or credit rating | | |
Structured securities comprised of RMBS, CMBS and ABS |
| Valuation Techniques: Principally the market and income approaches. | Valuation Techniques: Principally the market and income approaches. |
| Key Inputs: | Key Inputs: |
| • | quoted prices in markets that are not active | • | credit spreads |
| • | spreads for actively traded securities | • | quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar securities that are less liquid and based on lower levels of trading activity than securities classified in Level 2 |
| • | spreads off benchmark yields | |
| • | expected prepayment speeds and volumes | • | independent non-binding broker quotations |
| • | current and forecasted loss severity | | |
| • | ratings | | |
| • | weighted average coupon and weighted average maturity | | |
| • | average delinquency rates | | |
| • | geographic region | | |
| • | debt-service coverage ratios | | |
| • | issuance-specific information, including, but not limited to: | | |
| | • | collateral type | | |
| | • | payment terms of the underlying assets | | |
| | • | payment priority within the tranche | | |
| | • | structure of the security | | |
| | • | deal performance | | |
| | • | vintage of loans | | |
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
|
| | | | | |
Instrument | Level 2 Observable Inputs | Level 3 Unobservable Inputs |
Equity Securities |
Common and Non-redeemable preferred stock |
| Valuation Techniques: Principally the market approach. | Valuation Techniques: Principally the market and income approaches. |
| Key Input: | Key Inputs: |
| • | quoted prices in markets that are not considered active | • | credit ratings |
| | | • | issuance structures |
| | | • | quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar securities that are less liquid and based on lower levels of trading activity than securities classified in Level 2 |
| | | • | independent non-binding broker quotations |
Short-term investments |
| • | Short-term investments are of a similar nature and class to the fixed maturity and equity securities described above; accordingly, the valuation techniques and observable inputs used in their valuation are also similar to those described above. | • | Short-term investments are of a similar nature and class to the fixed maturity and equity securities described above; accordingly, the valuation techniques and unobservable inputs used in their valuation are also similar to those described above. |
Commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs — FVO |
| Valuation Techniques: Principally the market approach. | • | N/A |
| Key Input: | | |
| • | quoted securitization market price of the obligations of the CSEs determined principally by independent pricing services using observable inputs | | |
| | | |
Separate Account Assets (1) |
Mutual funds without readily determinable fair values as prices are not published publicly |
| Key Input: | | |
| • | quoted prices or reported NAV provided by the fund managers | • | N/A |
Other limited partnership interests |
| •
| N/A | Valuation Techniques: Valued giving consideration to the underlying holdings of the partnerships and by applying a premium or discount, if appropriate. |
| | | Key Inputs: |
| | | • | liquidity |
| | | • | bid/ask spreads |
| | | • | the performance record of the fund manager |
| | | • | other relevant variables that may impact the exit value of the particular partnership interest |
______________
| |
(1) | Estimated fair value equals carrying value, based on the value of the underlying assets, including: mutual fund interests, fixed maturity securities, equity securities, derivatives, other limited partnership interests, short-term investments and cash and cash equivalents. Fixed maturity securities, equity securities, derivatives, short-term investments and cash and cash equivalents are similar in nature to the instruments described under “— Securities, Short-term Investments and Long-term Debt of CSEs — FVO” and “— Derivatives — Freestanding Derivatives Valuation Techniques and Key Inputs.” |
Derivatives
The estimated fair value of derivatives is determined through the use of quoted market prices for exchange-traded derivatives, or through the use of pricing models for OTC-bilateral and OTC-cleared derivatives. The determination of estimated fair value when quoted market values are not available is based on market standard valuation methodologies and inputs that management believes are consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing such instruments. Derivative valuations can be affected by changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, financial indices, credit spreads, default risk, nonperformance risk, volatility, liquidity and changes in estimates and assumptions used in the pricing models. The valuation controls and procedures for derivatives are described in “— Investments.”
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
The significant inputs to the pricing models for most OTC-bilateral and OTC-cleared derivatives are inputs that are observable in the market or can be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. Certain OTC-bilateral and OTC-cleared derivatives may rely on inputs that are significant to the estimated fair value that are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. These unobservable inputs may involve significant management judgment or estimation. Even though unobservable, these inputs are based on assumptions deemed appropriate given the circumstances and management believes they are consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing such instruments.
Most inputs for OTC-bilateral and OTC-cleared derivatives are mid-market inputs but, in certain cases, liquidity adjustments are made when they are deemed more representative of exit value. Market liquidity, as well as the use of different methodologies, assumptions and inputs, may have a material effect on the estimated fair values of the Company’s derivatives and could materially affect net income.
The credit risk of both the counterparty and the Company are considered in determining the estimated fair value for all OTC-bilateral and OTC-cleared derivatives, and any potential credit adjustment is based on the net exposure by counterparty after taking into account the effects of netting agreements and collateral arrangements. The Company values its OTC-bilateral and OTC-cleared derivatives using standard swap curves which may include a spread to the risk-free rate, depending upon specific collateral arrangements. This credit spread is appropriate for those parties that execute trades at pricing levels consistent with similar collateral arrangements. As the Company and its significant derivative counterparties generally execute trades at such pricing levels and hold sufficient collateral, additional credit risk adjustments are not currently required in the valuation process. The Company’s ability to consistently execute at such pricing levels is in part due to the netting agreements and collateral arrangements that are in place with all of its significant derivative counterparties. An evaluation of the requirement to make additional credit risk adjustments is performed by the Company each reporting period.
Freestanding Derivatives Valuation Techniques and Key Inputs
Level 2
This level includes all types of derivatives utilized by the Company with the exception of exchange-traded derivatives included within Level 1 and those derivatives with unobservable inputs as described in Level 3.
Level 3
These valuation methodologies generally use the same inputs as described in the corresponding sections for Level 2 measurements of derivatives. However, these derivatives result in Level 3 classification because one or more of the significant inputs are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
Freestanding derivatives are principally valued using the income approach. Valuations of non-option-based derivatives utilize present value techniques, whereas valuations of option-based derivatives utilize option pricing models. Key inputs are as follows:
|
| | | | | | | | |
Instrument | | Interest Rate | | Foreign Currency Exchange Rate | | Credit | | Equity Market |
Inputs common to Level 2 and Level 3 by instrument type | • | swap yield curve | • | swap yield curve | • | swap yield curve | • | swap yield curve |
• | basis curves | • | basis curves | • | credit curves | • | spot equity index levels |
• | interest rate volatility (1) | • | currency spot rates | • | recovery rates | • | dividend yield curves |
| | | •
| cross currency basis curves | | | •
| equity volatility |
Level 3 | • | swap yield curve (2) | •
| N/A | • | swap yield curve (2) | • | dividend yield curves (2) |
| • | basis curves (2) | | | •
| credit curves (2) | •
| equity volatility (2) |
| | | | | •
| credit spreads | • | correlation between model inputs (1) |
| | | | | •
| repurchase rates | | |
| | | | | • | independent non-binding broker quotations | | |
______________ | |
(2) | Extrapolation beyond the observable limits of the curve(s). |
Embedded Derivatives
Embedded derivatives principally include certain direct, assumed and ceded variable annuity guarantees and embedded derivatives related to funds withheld on ceded reinsurance and within certain annuity contracts. Embedded derivatives are recorded at estimated fair value with changes in estimated fair value reported in net income.
The Company issues certain variable annuity products with guaranteed minimum benefits. GMWBs, GMABs and certain GMIBs contain embedded derivatives, which are measured at estimated fair value separately from the host variable annuity contract, with changes in estimated fair value reported in net derivative gains (losses). These embedded derivatives are classified within policyholder account balances on the consolidated balance sheets.
The Company’s actuarial department calculates the fair value of these embedded derivatives, which are estimated as the present value of projected future benefits minus the present value of projected future fees using actuarial and capital market assumptions including expectations concerning policyholder behavior. The calculation is based on in-force business, and is performed using standard actuarial valuation software which projects future cash flows from the embedded derivative over multiple risk neutral stochastic scenarios using observable risk-free rates.
Capital market assumptions, such as risk-free rates and implied volatilities, are based on market prices for publicly traded instruments to the extent that prices for such instruments are observable. Implied volatilities beyond the observable period are extrapolated based on observable implied volatilities and historical volatilities. Actuarial assumptions, including mortality, lapse, withdrawal and utilization, are unobservable and are reviewed at least annually based on actuarial studies of historical experience.
The valuation of these guarantee liabilities includes nonperformance risk adjustments and adjustments for a risk margin related to non-capital market inputs. The nonperformance adjustment is determined by taking into consideration publicly available information relating to spreads in the secondary market for MetLife, Inc.’s debt, including related credit default swaps. These observable spreads are then adjusted, as necessary, to reflect the priority of these liabilities and the claims paying ability of the issuing insurance subsidiaries compared to MetLife, Inc.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
Risk margins are established to capture the non-capital market risks of the instrument which represent the additional compensation a market participant would require to assume the risks related to the uncertainties of such actuarial assumptions as annuitization, premium persistency, partial withdrawal and surrenders. The establishment of risk margins requires the use of significant management judgment, including assumptions of the amount and cost of capital needed to cover the guarantees. These guarantees may be more costly than expected in volatile or declining equity markets. Market conditions including, but not limited to, changes in interest rates, equity indices, market volatility and foreign currency exchange rates; changes in nonperformance risk; and variations in actuarial assumptions regarding policyholder behavior, mortality and risk margins related to non-capital market inputs, may result in significant fluctuations in the estimated fair value of the guarantees that could materially affect net income.
The Company assumed from an affiliated insurance company the risk associated with certain GMIBs. These embedded derivatives are included in other policy-related balances on the consolidated balance sheets with changes in estimated fair value reported in net derivative gains (losses). The value of the embedded derivatives on these assumed risks is determined using a methodology consistent with that described previously for the guarantees directly written by the Company.
The Company ceded to an affiliated reinsurance company the risk associated with certain of the GMIBs, GMABs and GMWBs described above that are also accounted for as embedded derivatives. In addition to ceding risks associated with guarantees that are accounted for as embedded derivatives, the Company also cedes, to the same affiliated reinsurance company, certain directly written GMIBs that are accounted for as insurance (i.e., not as embedded derivatives), but where the reinsurance agreement contains an embedded derivative. These embedded derivatives are included within premiums, reinsurance and other receivables on the consolidated balance sheets with changes in estimated fair value reported in net derivative gains (losses). The value of the embedded derivatives on the ceded risk is determined using a methodology consistent with that described previously for the guarantees directly written by the Company with the exception of the input for nonperformance risk that reflects the credit of the reinsurer.
The estimated fair value of the embedded derivatives within funds withheld related to certain ceded reinsurance is determined based on the change in estimated fair value of the underlying assets held by the Company in a reference portfolio backing the funds withheld liability. The estimated fair value of the underlying assets is determined as previously described in “— Investments — Securities, Short-term Investments and Long-term Debt of CSEs — FVO.” The estimated fair value of these embedded derivatives is included, along with their funds withheld hosts, in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets with changes in estimated fair value recorded in net derivative gains (losses). Changes in the credit spreads on the underlying assets, interest rates and market volatility may result in significant fluctuations in the estimated fair value of these embedded derivatives that could materially affect net income.
The Company issues certain annuity contracts which allow the policyholder to participate in returns from equity indices. These equity indexed features are embedded derivatives which are measured at estimated fair value separately from the host fixed annuity contract, with changes in estimated fair value reported in net derivative gains (losses). These embedded derivatives are classified within policyholder account balances on the consolidated balance sheets.
The estimated fair value of the embedded equity indexed derivatives, based on the present value of future equity returns to the policyholder using actuarial and present value assumptions including expectations concerning policyholder behavior, is calculated by the Company’s actuarial department. The calculation is based on in-force business and uses standard capital market techniques, such as Black-Scholes, to calculate the value of the portion of the embedded derivative for which the terms are set. The portion of the embedded derivative covering the period beyond where terms are set is calculated as the present value of amounts expected to be spent to provide equity indexed returns in those periods. The valuation of these embedded derivatives also includes the establishment of a risk margin, as well as changes in nonperformance risk.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
Embedded Derivatives Within Asset and Liability Host Contracts
Level 3 Valuation Techniques and Key Inputs:
Direct and assumed guaranteed minimum benefits
These embedded derivatives are principally valued using the income approach. Valuations are based on option pricing techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include swap yield curve, currency exchange rates and implied volatilities. These embedded derivatives result in Level 3 classification because one or more of the significant inputs are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. Significant unobservable inputs generally include: the extrapolation beyond observable limits of the swap yield curve and implied volatilities, actuarial assumptions for policyholder behavior and mortality and the potential variability in policyholder behavior and mortality, nonperformance risk and cost of capital for purposes of calculating the risk margin.
Reinsurance ceded on certain guaranteed minimum benefits
These embedded derivatives are principally valued using the income approach. The valuation techniques and significant market standard unobservable inputs used in their valuation are similar to those described above in “— Direct and assumed guaranteed minimum benefits” and also include counterparty credit spreads.
Transfers between Levels
Overall, transfers between levels occur when there are changes in the observability of inputs and market activity. Transfers into or out of any level are assumed to occur at the beginning of the period.
Transfers between Levels 1 and 2:
For assets and liabilities measured at estimated fair value and still held at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, transfers between Levels 1 and 2 were not significant.
Transfers into or out of Level 3:
Assets and liabilities are transferred into Level 3 when a significant input cannot be corroborated with market observable data. This occurs when market activity decreases significantly and underlying inputs cannot be observed, current prices are not available, and/or when there are significant variances in quoted prices, thereby affecting transparency. Assets and liabilities are transferred out of Level 3 when circumstances change such that a significant input can be corroborated with market observable data. This may be due to a significant increase in market activity, a specific event, or one or more significant input(s) becoming observable.
Transfers into Level 3 for fixed maturity securities were due primarily to a lack of trading activity, decreased liquidity and credit ratings downgrades (e.g., from investment grade to below investment grade) which have resulted in decreased transparency of valuations and an increased use of independent non-binding broker quotations and unobservable inputs, such as illiquidity premiums, delta spread adjustments, or credit spreads.
Transfers out of Level 3 for fixed maturity securities resulted primarily from increased transparency of both new issuances that, subsequent to issuance and establishment of trading activity, became priced by independent pricing services and existing issuances that, over time, the Company was able to obtain pricing from, or corroborate pricing received from, independent pricing services with observable inputs (such as observable spreads used in pricing securities) or increases in market activity and upgraded credit ratings.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
The following table presents certain quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement, and the sensitivity of the estimated fair value to changes in those inputs, for the more significant asset and liability classes measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) at:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 | | Impact of Increase in Input on Estimated Fair Value (2) |
| Valuation Techniques | | Significant Unobservable Inputs | | Range | | Weighted Average (1) | | Range | | Weighted Average (1) | |
Fixed maturity securities (3) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. corporate and foreign corporate | Ÿ | Matrix pricing | | Ÿ | Delta spread adjustments (4) | | (35) | - | 240 | | 47 | | (35) | - | 240 | | 51 | | Decrease |
| Ÿ | Market pricing | | Ÿ | Quoted prices (5) | | 13 | - | 531 | | 105 | | — | - | 750 | | 418 | | Increase |
| Ÿ | Consensus pricing | | Ÿ | Offered quotes (5) | | 68 | - | 780 | | 487 | | 78 | - | 103 | | 86 | | Increase |
RMBS | Ÿ | Consensus pricing | | Ÿ | Offered quotes (5) | | 30 | - | 114 | | 94 | | 1 | - | 117 | | 93 | | Increase (6) |
ABS | Ÿ | Market pricing | | Ÿ | Quoted prices (5) | | 91 | - | 109 | | 100 | | 97 | - | 108 | | 101 | | Increase (6) |
| Ÿ | Consensus pricing | | Ÿ | Offered quotes (5) | | 64 | - | 106 | | 100 | | 62 | - | 106 | | 99 | | Increase (6) |
Derivatives | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Interest rate | Ÿ | Present value techniques | | Ÿ | Swap yield (7) | | 256 | - | 271 | | | | 278 | - | 297 | | | | Increase (11) |
Credit | Ÿ | Present value techniques | | Ÿ | Credit spreads (8) | | 99 | - | 99 | | | | 99 | - | 99 | | | | Decrease (8) |
| Ÿ | Consensus pricing | | Ÿ | Offered quotes (9) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Equity market | Ÿ | Present value techniques or option pricing models | | Ÿ | Volatility (10) | | 15% | - | 28% | | | | 15% | - | 27% | | | | Increase (11) |
| | | | Ÿ | Correlation (12) | | 70% | - | 70% | | | | 70% | - | 70% | | | | |
Embedded derivatives | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Direct and ceded guaranteed minimum benefits | Ÿ | Option pricing techniques | | Ÿ | Mortality rates: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | Ages 0 - 40 | | 0% | - | 0.09% | | | | 0% | - | 0.10% | | | | Decrease (13) |
| | | | | Ages 41 - 60 | | 0.04% | - | 0.65% | | | | 0.04% | - | 0.65% | | | | Decrease (13) |
| | | | | Ages 61 - 115 | | 0.26% | - | 100% | | | | 0.26% | - | 100% | | | | Decrease (13) |
| | | | Ÿ | Lapse rates: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | Durations 1 - 10 | | 0.50% | - | 100% | | | | 0.50% | - | 100% | | | | Decrease (14) |
| | | | | Durations 11 - 20 | | 3% | - | 100% | | | | 3% | - | 100% | | | | Decrease (14) |
| | | | | Durations 21 - 116 | | 3% | - | 100% | | | | 3% | - | 100% | | | | Decrease (14) |
| | | | Ÿ | Utilization rates | | 0% | - | 30% | | | | 20% | - | 50% | | | | Increase (15) |
| | | | Ÿ | Withdrawal rates | | 0.08% | - | 10% | | | | 0.07% | - | 10% | | | | (16) |
| | | | Ÿ | Long-term equity volatilities | | 17.40% | - | 25% | | | | 17.40% | - | 25% | | | | Increase (17) |
| | | | Ÿ | Nonperformance risk spread | | 0.04% | - | 0.48% | | | | 0.03% | - | 1.39% | | | | Decrease (18) |
____________
| |
(1) | The weighted average for fixed maturity securities is determined based on the estimated fair value of the securities. |
| |
(2) | The impact of a decrease in input would have the opposite impact on the estimated fair value. For embedded derivatives, changes to direct guaranteed minimum benefits are based on liability positions and changes to ceded guaranteed minimum benefits are based on asset positions. |
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
| |
(3) | Significant increases (decreases) in expected default rates in isolation would result in substantially lower (higher) valuations. |
| |
(4) | Range and weighted average are presented in basis points. |
| |
(5) | Range and weighted average are presented in accordance with the market convention for fixed maturity securities of dollars per hundred dollars of par. |
| |
(6) | Changes in the assumptions used for the probability of default is accompanied by a directionally similar change in the assumption used for the loss severity and a directionally opposite change in the assumptions used for prepayment rates. |
| |
(7) | Ranges represent the rates across different yield curves and are presented in basis points. The swap yield curve is utilized among different types of derivatives to project cash flows, as well as to discount future cash flows to present value. Since this valuation methodology uses a range of inputs across a yield curve to value the derivative, presenting a range is more representative of the unobservable input used in the valuation. |
| |
(8) | Represents the risk quoted in basis points of a credit default event on the underlying instrument. Credit derivatives with significant unobservable inputs are primarily comprised of written credit default swaps. |
| |
(9) | At both March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, independent non-binding broker quotations were used in the determination of less than 1% of the total net derivative estimated fair value. |
| |
(10) | Ranges represent the underlying equity volatility quoted in percentage points. Since this valuation methodology uses a range of inputs across multiple volatility surfaces to value the derivative, presenting a range is more representative of the unobservable input used in the valuation. |
| |
(11) | Changes are based on long U.S. dollar net asset positions and will be inversely impacted for short U.S. dollar net asset positions. |
| |
(12) | Ranges represent the different correlation factors utilized as components within the valuation methodology. Presenting a range of correlation factors is more representative of the unobservable input used in the valuation. Increases (decreases) in correlation in isolation will increase (decrease) the significance of the change in valuations. |
| |
(13) | Mortality rates vary by age and by demographic characteristics such as gender. Mortality rate assumptions are based on company experience. A mortality improvement assumption is also applied. For any given contract, mortality rates vary throughout the period over which cash flows are projected for purposes of valuing the embedded derivative. |
| |
(14) | Base lapse rates are adjusted at the contract level based on a comparison of the actuarially calculated guaranteed values and the current policyholder account value, as well as other factors, such as the applicability of any surrender charges. A dynamic lapse function reduces the base lapse rate when the guaranteed amount is greater than the account value, as in the money contracts are less likely to lapse. Lapse rates are also generally assumed to be lower in periods when a surrender charge applies. For any given contract, lapse rates vary throughout the period over which cash flows are projected for purposes of valuing the embedded derivative. |
| |
(15) | The utilization rate assumption estimates the percentage of contract holders with a GMIB or lifetime withdrawal benefit who will elect to utilize the benefit upon becoming eligible. The rates may vary by the type of guarantee, the amount by which the guaranteed amount is greater than the account value, the contract’s withdrawal history and by the age of the policyholder. For any given contract, utilization rates vary throughout the period over which cash flows are projected for purposes of valuing the embedded derivative. |
| |
(16) | The withdrawal rate represents the percentage of account balance that any given policyholder will elect to withdraw from the contract each year. The withdrawal rate assumption varies by age and duration of the contract, and also by other factors such as benefit type. For any given contract, withdrawal rates vary throughout the period over which cash flows are projected for purposes of valuing the embedded derivative. For GMWBs, any increase (decrease) in withdrawal rates results in an increase (decrease) in the estimated fair value of the guarantees. For GMABs and GMIBs, any increase (decrease) in withdrawal rates results in a decrease (increase) in the estimated fair value. |
| |
(17) | Long-term equity volatilities represent equity volatility beyond the period for which observable equity volatilities are available. For any given contract, long-term equity volatility rates vary throughout the period over which cash flows are projected for purposes of valuing the embedded derivative. |
| |
(18) | Nonperformance risk spread varies by duration and by currency. For any given contract, multiple nonperformance risk spreads will apply, depending on the duration of the cash flow being discounted for purposes of valuing the embedded derivative. |
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
The following is a summary of the valuation techniques and significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of assets and liabilities classified within Level 3 that are not included in the preceding table. Generally, all other classes of securities classified within Level 3, including those within separate account assets and embedded derivatives within funds withheld related to certain ceded reinsurance, use the same valuation techniques and significant unobservable inputs as previously described for Level 3 securities. This includes matrix pricing and discounted cash flow methodologies, inputs such as quoted prices for identical or similar securities that are less liquid and based on lower levels of trading activity than securities classified in Level 2, as well as independent non-binding broker quotations. The sensitivity of the estimated fair value to changes in the significant unobservable inputs for these other assets and liabilities is similar in nature to that described in the preceding table. The valuation techniques and significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement for the more significant assets measured at estimated fair value on a nonrecurring basis and determined using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) are summarized in “— Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements.”
The following tables summarize the change of all assets and (liabilities) measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) |
| | Fixed Maturity Securities |
| | U.S. Corporate | | RMBS | | Foreign Corporate | | CMBS | | ABS |
| | (In millions) |
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance, beginning of period | | $ | 1,355 |
| | $ | 716 |
| | $ | 710 |
| | $ | 148 |
| | $ | 181 |
|
Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in: | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income (loss): (1), (2) | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | 1 |
| | 2 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Net investment gains (losses) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Net derivative gains (losses) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Policyholder benefits and claims
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
OCI | | 12 |
| | (1 | ) | | (10 | ) | | — |
| | 1 |
|
Purchases (3) | | 58 |
| | 248 |
| | 2 |
| | 74 |
| | 292 |
|
Sales (3) | | (7 | ) | | (38 | ) | | (11 | ) | | — |
| | (8 | ) |
Issuances (3) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Settlements (3) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Transfers into Level 3 (4) | | 35 |
| | — |
| | 8 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Transfers out of Level 3 (4) | | (2 | ) | | (6 | ) | | — |
| | (35 | ) | | (47 | ) |
Balance, end of period | | $ | 1,452 |
| | $ | 921 |
| | $ | 699 |
| | $ | 187 |
| | $ | 419 |
|
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss): (5) | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | $ | 1 |
| | $ | 2 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
Net investment gains (losses) | | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
Net derivative gains (losses) | | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
Policyholder benefits and claims
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) |
| | Equity Securities | | | | Net Derivatives (6) | | | | |
| | Common Stock | | Non- redeemable Preferred Stock | | Short-term Investments | | Interest Rate | | Credit | | Equity Market | | Net Embedded Derivatives (7) | | Separate Account Assets (8) |
| | (In millions) |
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance, beginning of period | | $ | 29 |
| | $ | 71 |
| | $ | 71 |
| | $ | 45 |
| | $ | 1 |
| | $ | (242 | ) | | $ | (347 | ) | | $ | 158 |
|
Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income (loss): (1), (2) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Net investment gains (losses) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Net derivative gains (losses) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | (1 | ) | | (33 | ) | | (223 | ) | | — |
|
Policyholder benefits and claims
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 1 |
| | 24 |
| | — |
|
OCI | | — |
| | (3 | ) | | — |
| | 10 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Purchases (3) | | — |
| | — |
| | 307 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Sales (3) | | — |
| | — |
| | (16 | ) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | (2 | ) |
Issuances (3) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Settlements (3) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | (7 | ) | | — |
| | 1 |
| | (116 | ) | | — |
|
Transfers into Level 3 (4) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Transfers out of Level 3 (4) | | (1 | ) | | (6 | ) | | (55 | ) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Balance, end of period | | $ | 28 |
| | $ | 62 |
| | $ | 307 |
| | $ | 48 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | (273 | ) | | $ | (662 | ) | | $ | 156 |
|
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss): (5) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
Net investment gains (losses) | | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
Net derivative gains (losses) | | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | (33 | ) | | $ | (224 | ) | | $ | — |
|
Policyholder benefits and claims
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 1 |
| | $ | 25 |
| | $ | — |
|
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) |
| | Fixed Maturity Securities |
| | U.S. Corporate | | RMBS | | Foreign Corporate | | CMBS | | ABS |
| | (In millions) |
Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
| | | | | | | | | | |
Balance, beginning of period | | $ | 1,270 |
| | $ | 450 |
| | $ | 779 |
| | $ | 129 |
| | $ | 426 |
|
Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in: | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income (loss): (1), (2) | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | 1 |
| | 1 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Net investment gains (losses) | | (1 | ) | | 3 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Net derivative gains (losses) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Policyholder benefits and claims
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
OCI | | 29 |
| | 3 |
| | 16 |
| | — |
| | 4 |
|
Purchases (3) | | 23 |
| | 146 |
| | 3 |
| | 34 |
| | 58 |
|
Sales (3) | | (37 | ) | | (35 | ) | | (1 | ) | | (9 | ) | | (6 | ) |
Issuances (3) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Settlements (3) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Transfers into Level 3 (4) | | 197 |
| | 14 |
| | — |
| | 6 |
| | — |
|
Transfers out of Level 3 (4) | | (61 | ) | | (19 | ) | | (40 | ) | | (16 | ) | | (289 | ) |
Balance, end of period | | $ | 1,421 |
| | $ | 563 |
| | $ | 757 |
| | $ | 144 |
| | $ | 193 |
|
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss): (5) | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | $ | 1 |
| | $ | 1 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
Net investment gains (losses) | | $ | (1 | ) | | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
Net derivative gains (losses) | | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
Policyholder benefits and claims
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) |
| | Equity Securities | | | | Net Derivatives (6) | | | | |
| | Common Stock | | Non- redeemable Preferred Stock | | Short-term Investments | | Interest Rate | | Credit | | Equity Market | | Net Embedded Derivatives (7) | | Separate Account Assets (8) |
| | (In millions) |
Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance, beginning of period | | $ | 31 |
| | $ | 100 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 11 |
| | $ | 6 |
| | $ | (309 | ) | | $ | 288 |
| | $ | 153 |
|
Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income (loss): (1), (2) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Net investment gains (losses) | | 4 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 5 |
|
Net derivative gains (losses) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 7 |
| | (2 | ) | | (40 | ) | | (356 | ) | | — |
|
Policyholder benefits and claims
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 4 |
| | 15 |
| | — |
|
OCI | | (2 | ) | | — |
| | — |
| | 20 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 1 |
| | — |
|
Purchases (3) | | — |
| | — |
| | 150 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 4 |
|
Sales (3) | | (6 | ) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | (2 | ) |
Issuances (3) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Settlements (3) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | (1 | ) | | — |
| | — |
| | (210 | ) | | — |
|
Transfers into Level 3 (4) | | 6 |
| | 8 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Transfers out of Level 3 (4) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Balance, end of period | | $ | 33 |
| | $ | 108 |
| | $ | 150 |
| | $ | 37 |
| | $ | 4 |
| | $ | (345 | ) | | $ | (262 | ) | | $ | 160 |
|
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss): (5) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
Net investment gains (losses) | | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
Net derivative gains (losses) | | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 6 |
| | $ | (2 | ) | | $ | (39 | ) | | $ | (349 | ) | | $ | — |
|
Policyholder benefits and claims
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 4 |
| | $ | 16 |
| | $ | — |
|
__________
| |
(1) | Amortization of premium/accretion of discount is included within net investment income. Impairments charged to net income (loss) on securities are included in net investment gains (losses). Lapses associated with net embedded derivatives are included in net derivative gains (losses). |
| |
(2) | Interest and dividend accruals, as well as cash interest coupons and dividends received, are excluded from the rollforward. |
| |
(3) | Items purchased/issued and then sold/settled in the same period are excluded from the rollforward. Fees attributed to embedded derivatives are included in settlements. |
| |
(4) | Gains and losses in net income (loss) and OCI are calculated assuming transfers into and/or out of Level 3 occurred at the beginning of the period. Items transferred into and then out of Level 3 in the same period are excluded from the rollforward. |
| |
(5) | Changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) relate to assets and liabilities still held at the end of the respective periods. |
| |
(6) | Freestanding derivative assets and liabilities are presented net for purposes of the rollforward. |
| |
(7) | Embedded derivative assets and liabilities are presented net for purposes of the rollforward. |
| |
(8) | Investment performance related to separate account assets is fully offset by corresponding amounts credited to contractholders within separate account liabilities. Therefore, such changes in estimated fair value are not recorded in net income. For the purpose of this disclosure, these changes are presented within net investment gains (losses). |
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
Fair Value Option
The following table presents information for certain assets and liabilities of CSEs, which are accounted for under the FVO. These assets and liabilities were initially measured at fair value.
|
| | | | | | | |
| March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
| (In millions) |
Assets (1) | | | |
Unpaid principal balance | $ | 218 |
| | $ | 223 |
|
Difference between estimated fair value and unpaid principal balance | 54 |
| | 57 |
|
Carrying value at estimated fair value | $ | 272 |
| | $ | 280 |
|
Liabilities (1) | | | |
Contractual principal balance | $ | 127 |
| | $ | 133 |
|
Difference between estimated fair value and contractual principal balance | 5 |
| | 6 |
|
Carrying value at estimated fair value | $ | 132 |
| | $ | 139 |
|
____________
| |
(1) | These assets and liabilities are comprised of commercial mortgage loans and long-term debt. Changes in estimated fair value on these assets and liabilities and gains or losses on sales of these assets are recognized in net investment gains (losses). Interest income on commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs — FVO is recognized in net investment income. Interest expense from long-term debt of CSEs — FVO is recognized in other expenses. |
Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements
The following table presents information for assets measured at estimated fair value on a nonrecurring basis during the periods and still held at the reporting dates (for example, when there is evidence of impairment). The estimated fair values for these assets were determined using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3).
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| At March 31, | | Three Months Ended March 31, |
| 2015 | | 2014 | | 2015 | | 2014 |
| Carrying Value After Measurement | | Gains (Losses) |
| (In millions) |
Mortgage loans (1) | $ | 3 |
| | $ | 17 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
Other limited partnership interests (2) | $ | — |
| | $ | 4 |
| | $ | (1 | ) | | $ | (2 | ) |
____________
| |
(1) | Estimated fair values for impaired mortgage loans are based on independent broker quotations or valuation models using unobservable inputs or, if the loans are in foreclosure or are otherwise determined to be collateral dependent, are based on the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral or the present value of the expected future cash flows. |
| |
(2) | For these cost method investments, estimated fair value is determined from information provided in the financial statements of the underlying entities including NAV data. These investments include private equity and debt funds that typically invest primarily in various strategies including domestic and international leveraged buyout funds; power, energy, timber and infrastructure development funds; venture capital funds; and below investment grade debt and mezzanine debt funds. Distributions will be generated from investment gains, from operating income from the underlying investments of the funds and from liquidation of the underlying assets of the funds. It is estimated that the underlying assets of the funds will be liquidated over the next two to 10 years. Unfunded commitments for these investments at both March 31, 2015 and 2014 were not significant. |
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
Fair Value of Financial Instruments Carried at Other Than Fair Value
The following tables provide fair value information for financial instruments that are carried on the balance sheet at amounts other than fair value. These tables exclude the following financial instruments: cash and cash equivalents, accrued investment income, payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions and those short-term investments that are not securities, such as time deposits, and therefore are not included in the three level hierarchy table disclosed in the “— Recurring Fair Value Measurements” section. The estimated fair value of the excluded financial instruments, which are primarily classified in Level 2 and, to a lesser extent, in Level 1, approximates carrying value, as they are short-term in nature such that the Company believes there is minimal risk of material changes in interest rates or credit quality. All remaining balance sheet amounts excluded from the table below are not considered financial instruments subject to this disclosure.
The carrying values and estimated fair values for such financial instruments, and their corresponding placement in the fair value hierarchy, are summarized as follows at:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| March 31, 2015 |
| | | Fair Value Hierarchy | | |
| Carrying Value | Level 1 | | Level 2 | | Level 3 | | Total Estimated Fair Value |
| (In millions) |
Assets | | | | | | | | | |
Mortgage loans | $ | 5,848 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 6,285 |
| | $ | 6,285 |
|
Policy loans | $ | 1,190 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 837 |
| | $ | 455 |
| | $ | 1,292 |
|
Real estate joint ventures | $ | 31 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 81 |
| | $ | 81 |
|
Other limited partnership interests | $ | 61 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 80 |
| | $ | 80 |
|
Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables | $ | 6,233 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 92 |
| | $ | 7,411 |
| | $ | 7,503 |
|
Liabilities | | | | | | | | | |
Policyholder account balances | $ | 20,190 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 21,968 |
| | $ | 21,968 |
|
Long-term debt | $ | 789 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 1,165 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 1,165 |
|
Other liabilities | $ | 1,790 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 1,620 |
| | $ | 170 |
| | $ | 1,790 |
|
Separate account liabilities | $ | 1,414 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 1,414 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 1,414 |
|
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| December 31, 2014 |
| | | Fair Value Hierarchy | | |
| Carrying Value | Level 1 | | Level 2 | | Level 3 | Total Estimated Fair Value |
| (In millions) |
Assets | | | | | | | | | |
Mortgage loans | $ | 5,559 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 6,020 |
| | $ | 6,020 |
|
Policy loans | $ | 1,194 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 834 |
| | $ | 454 |
| | $ | 1,288 |
|
Real estate joint ventures | $ | 37 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 83 |
| | $ | 83 |
|
Other limited partnership interests | $ | 63 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 81 |
| | $ | 81 |
|
Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables | $ | 6,231 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 51 |
| | $ | 7,156 |
| | $ | 7,207 |
|
Liabilities | | | | | | | | | |
Policyholder account balances | $ | 20,554 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 22,079 |
| | $ | 22,079 |
|
Long-term debt | $ | 789 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 1,120 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 1,120 |
|
Other liabilities | $ | 245 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 76 |
| | $ | 169 |
| | $ | 245 |
|
Separate account liabilities | $ | 1,432 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 1,432 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 1,432 |
|
The methods, assumptions and significant valuation techniques and inputs used to estimate the fair value of financial instruments are summarized as follows:
Mortgage Loans
The estimated fair value of mortgage loans is primarily determined by estimating expected future cash flows and discounting them using current interest rates for similar mortgage loans with similar credit risk, or is determined from pricing for similar loans.
Policy Loans
Policy loans with fixed interest rates are classified within Level 3. The estimated fair values for these loans are determined using a discounted cash flow model applied to groups of similar policy loans determined by the nature of the underlying insurance liabilities. Cash flow estimates are developed by applying a weighted-average interest rate to the outstanding principal balance of the respective group of policy loans and an estimated average maturity determined through experience studies of the past performance of policyholder repayment behavior for similar loans. These cash flows are discounted using current risk-free interest rates with no adjustment for borrower credit risk, as these loans are fully collateralized by the cash surrender value of the underlying insurance policy. Policy loans with variable interest rates are classified within Level 2 and the estimated fair value approximates carrying value due to the absence of borrower credit risk and the short time period between interest rate resets, which presents minimal risk of a material change in estimated fair value due to changes in market interest rates.
Real Estate Joint Ventures and Other Limited Partnership Interests
The estimated fair values of these cost method investments are generally based on the Company’s share of the NAV as provided in the financial statements of the investees. In certain circumstances, management may adjust the NAV by a premium or discount when it has sufficient evidence to support applying such adjustments.
Premiums, Reinsurance and Other Receivables
Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables are principally comprised of certain amounts recoverable under reinsurance agreements, amounts on deposit with financial institutions to facilitate daily settlements related to certain derivatives and amounts receivable for securities sold but not yet settled. Embedded derivatives on investment contracts and certain variable annuity guarantees accounted for as embedded derivatives are excluded from this caption in the preceding tables as they are separately presented in “— Recurring Fair Value Measurements.”
Amounts recoverable under ceded reinsurance agreements, which the Company has determined do not transfer significant risk such that they are accounted for using the deposit method of accounting, have been classified as Level 3. The valuation is based on discounted cash flow methodologies using significant unobservable inputs. The estimated fair value is determined using interest rates determined to reflect the appropriate credit standing of the assuming counterparty.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
6. Fair Value (continued)
The amounts on deposit for derivative settlements, classified within Level 2, essentially represent the equivalent of demand deposit balances and amounts due for securities sold are generally received over short periods such that the estimated fair value approximates carrying value.
Policyholder Account Balances
These policyholder account balances include investment contracts. Embedded derivatives on investment contracts and certain variable annuity guarantees accounted for as embedded derivatives are excluded from this caption in the preceding tables as they are separately presented in “— Recurring Fair Value Measurements.”
The investment contracts primarily include certain funding agreements, fixed deferred annuities, modified guaranteed annuities, fixed term payout annuities and total control accounts. The valuation of these investment contracts is based on discounted cash flow methodologies using significant unobservable inputs. The estimated fair value is determined using current market risk-free interest rates adding a spread to reflect the nonperformance risk in the liability.
Long-term Debt
The estimated fair value of long-term debt is principally determined using market standard valuation methodologies. Valuations of instruments are based primarily on quoted prices in markets that are not active or using matrix pricing that use standard market observable inputs such as quoted prices in markets that are not active and observable yields and spreads in the market. Instruments valued using discounted cash flow methodologies use standard market observable inputs including market yield curve, duration, observable prices and spreads for similar publicly traded or privately traded issues.
Other Liabilities
Other liabilities consist primarily of interest payable, amounts due for securities purchased but not yet settled and funds withheld amounts payable, which are contractually withheld by the Company in accordance with the terms of the reinsurance agreements. The Company evaluates the specific terms, facts and circumstances of each instrument to determine the appropriate estimated fair values, which are not materially different from the carrying values.
Separate Account Liabilities
Separate account liabilities represent those balances due to policyholders under contracts that are classified as investment contracts.
Separate account liabilities classified as investment contracts primarily represent variable annuities with no significant mortality risk to the Company such that the death benefit is equal to the account balance and certain contracts that provide for benefit funding.
Since separate account liabilities are fully funded by cash flows from the separate account assets which are recognized at estimated fair value as described in the section “— Recurring Fair Value Measurements,” the value of those assets approximates the estimated fair value of the related separate account liabilities. The valuation techniques and inputs for separate account liabilities are similar to those described for separate account assets.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
7. Equity
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Information regarding changes in the balances of each component of AOCI was as follows:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 |
| Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses), Net of Related Offsets (1) | | Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Derivatives | | Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments | | Total |
| (In millions) |
Balance, beginning of period | $ | 2,250 |
| | $ | 183 |
| | $ | (7 | ) | | $ | 2,426 |
|
OCI before reclassifications | 393 |
| | 92 |
| | (10 | ) | | 475 |
|
Deferred income tax benefit (expense) | (138 | ) | | (31 | ) | | 4 |
| | (165 | ) |
OCI before reclassifications, net of income tax | 2,505 |
| | 244 |
| | (13 | ) | | 2,736 |
|
Amounts reclassified from AOCI | (26 | ) | | 2 |
| | — |
| | (24 | ) |
Deferred income tax benefit (expense) | 9 |
| | (1 | ) | | — |
| | 8 |
|
Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net of income tax | (17 | ) | | 1 |
| | — |
| | (16 | ) |
Balance, end of period | $ | 2,488 |
| | $ | 245 |
| | $ | (13 | ) | | $ | 2,720 |
|
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended March 31, 2014 |
| Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses), Net of Related Offsets (1) | | Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Derivatives | | Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments | | Total |
| (In millions) |
Balance, beginning of period | $ | 916 |
| | $ | 25 |
| | $ | 39 |
| | $ | 980 |
|
OCI before reclassifications | 1,000 |
| | 65 |
| | 11 |
| | 1,076 |
|
Deferred income tax benefit (expense) | (337 | ) | | (23 | ) | | (16 | ) | | (376 | ) |
OCI before reclassifications, net of income tax | 1,579 |
| | 67 |
| | 34 |
| | 1,680 |
|
Amounts reclassified from AOCI | (27 | ) | | — |
| | — |
| | (27 | ) |
Deferred income tax benefit (expense) | 9 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 9 |
|
Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net of income tax | (18 | ) | | — |
| | — |
| | (18 | ) |
Balance, end of period | $ | 1,561 |
| | $ | 67 |
| | $ | 34 |
| | $ | 1,662 |
|
____________
| |
(1) | See Note 4 for information on offsets to investments related to future policy benefits, DAC, VOBA and DSI. |
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
7. Equity (continued)
Information regarding amounts reclassified out of each component of AOCI was as follows:
|
| | | | | | | | | | |
AOCI Components | | Amounts Reclassified from AOCI | | Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) Locations |
| | Three Months Ended March 31, | | |
| | 2015 | | 2014 | | |
| | (In millions) | | |
Net unrealized investment gains (losses): | | | | | | |
Net unrealized investment gains (losses) | | $ | 19 |
| | $ | 19 |
| | Net investment gains (losses) |
Net unrealized investment gains (losses) | | 11 |
| | 6 |
| | Net investment income |
Net unrealized investment gains (losses) | | (4 | ) | | 2 |
| | Net derivative gains (losses) |
Net unrealized investment gains (losses), before income tax | | 26 |
| | 27 |
| | |
Income tax (expense) benefit | | (9 | ) | | (9 | ) | | |
Net unrealized investment gains (losses), net of income tax | | 17 |
| | 18 |
| | |
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives - cash flow hedges: | | | | | | |
Interest rate swaps | | 1 |
| | — |
| | Net derivative gains (losses) |
Interest rate forwards | | 1 |
| | — |
| | Net derivative gains (losses) |
Interest rate forwards | | 1 |
| | — |
| | Net investment income |
Foreign currency swaps | | (4 | ) | | — |
| | Net derivative gains (losses) |
Credit forwards | | (1 | ) | | — |
| | Net derivative gains (losses) |
Gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, before income tax | | (2 | ) | | — |
| | |
Income tax (expense) benefit | | 1 |
| | — |
| | |
Gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, net of income tax | | (1 | ) | | — |
| | |
Total reclassifications, net of income tax | | $ | 16 |
| | $ | 18 |
| | |
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
8. Other Expenses
Information on other expenses was as follows:
|
| | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended March 31, |
| 2015 | | 2014 |
| (In millions) |
Compensation | $ | 125 |
| | $ | 63 |
|
Commissions | 164 |
| | 152 |
|
Volume-related costs | 47 |
| | 29 |
|
Affiliated interest costs on ceded reinsurance | 87 |
| | 66 |
|
Capitalization of DAC | (99 | ) | | (76 | ) |
Amortization of DAC and VOBA | 195 |
| | 273 |
|
Interest expense on debt | 18 |
| | 37 |
|
Rent and related expenses | 17 |
| | 8 |
|
Other | 93 |
| | 125 |
|
Total other expenses | $ | 647 |
| | $ | 677 |
|
Affiliated Expenses
Commissions, capitalization of DAC and amortization of DAC and VOBA include the impact of affiliated reinsurance transactions. See Note 10 for a discussion of affiliated expenses included in the table above.
9. Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees
Contingencies
Litigation
The Company is a defendant in a number of litigation matters. In some of the matters, large and/or indeterminate amounts, including punitive and treble damages, are sought. Modern pleading practice in the U.S. permits considerable variation in the assertion of monetary damages or other relief. Jurisdictions may permit claimants not to specify the monetary damages sought or may permit claimants to state only that the amount sought is sufficient to invoke the jurisdiction of the trial court. In addition, jurisdictions may permit plaintiffs to allege monetary damages in amounts well exceeding reasonably possible verdicts in the jurisdiction for similar matters. This variability in pleadings, together with the actual experience of the Company in litigating or resolving through settlement numerous claims over an extended period of time, demonstrates to management that the monetary relief which may be specified in a lawsuit or claim bears little relevance to its merits or disposition value.
Due to the vagaries of litigation, the outcome of a litigation matter and the amount or range of potential loss at particular points in time may normally be difficult to ascertain. Uncertainties can include how fact finders will evaluate documentary evidence and the credibility and effectiveness of witness testimony, and how trial and appellate courts will apply the law in the context of the pleadings or evidence presented, whether by motion practice, or at trial or on appeal. Disposition valuations are also subject to the uncertainty of how opposing parties and their counsel will themselves view the relevant evidence and applicable law.
The Company establishes liabilities for litigation and regulatory loss contingencies when it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. It is possible that some matters could require the Company to pay damages or make other expenditures or establish accruals in amounts that could not be estimated at March 31, 2015.
Matters as to Which an Estimate Can Be Made
For some loss contingency matters, the Company is able to estimate a reasonably possible range of loss. For such matters where a loss is believed to be reasonably possible, but not probable, no accrual has been made. As of March 31, 2015, the aggregate range of reasonably possible losses in excess of amounts accrued for these matters was not material for the Company.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
9. Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (continued)
Matters as to Which an Estimate Cannot Be Made
For other matters, the Company is not currently able to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss. The Company is often unable to estimate the possible loss or range of loss until developments in such matters have provided sufficient information to support an assessment of the range of possible loss, such as quantification of a damage demand from plaintiffs, discovery from other parties and investigation of factual allegations, rulings by the court on motions or appeals, analysis by experts, and the progress of settlement negotiations. On a quarterly and annual basis, the Company reviews relevant information with respect to litigation contingencies and updates its accruals, disclosures and estimates of reasonably possible losses or ranges of loss based on such reviews.
Unclaimed Property Litigation
On December 28, 2012, the West Virginia Treasurer filed an action (West Virginia ex rel. John D. Perdue v. MetLife Insurance Company of Connecticut, Circuit Court of Putnam County), alleging that MetLife Insurance Company of Connecticut violated the West Virginia Uniform Unclaimed Property Act, seeking to compel compliance with the Act, and seeking payment of unclaimed property, interest, and penalties. On November 14, 2012, the Treasurer filed a substantially identical suit against MLI‑USA. On December 30, 2013, the court granted defendants’ motions to dismiss all of the West Virginia Treasurer’s actions. The Treasurer has appealed the dismissal order.
Sales Practices Claims
Over the past several years, the Company has faced claims and regulatory inquiries and investigations, alleging improper marketing or sales of individual life insurance policies, annuities, mutual funds or other products. The Company continues to defend vigorously against the claims in these matters. The Company believes adequate provision has been made in its consolidated financial statements for all probable and reasonably estimable losses for sales practices matters.
Summary
Various litigation, claims and assessments against the Company, in addition to those discussed previously and those otherwise provided for in the Company’s consolidated financial statements, have arisen in the course of the Company’s business, including, but not limited to, in connection with its activities as an insurer, employer, investor and taxpayer. Further, state insurance regulatory authorities and other federal and state authorities regularly make inquiries and conduct investigations concerning the Company’s compliance with applicable insurance and other laws and regulations.
It is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of all pending investigations and legal proceedings. In some of the matters referred to previously, large and/or indeterminate amounts, including punitive and treble damages, are sought. Although, in light of these considerations it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain cases could have a material effect upon the Company’s financial position, based on information currently known by the Company’s management, in its opinion, the outcomes of such pending investigations and legal proceedings are not likely to have such an effect. However, given the large and/or indeterminate amounts sought in certain of these matters and the inherent unpredictability of litigation, it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain matters could, from time to time, have a material effect on the Company’s net income or cash flows in particular quarterly or annual periods.
Commitments
Mortgage Loan Commitments
The Company commits to lend funds under mortgage loan commitments. The amounts of these mortgage loan commitments were $372 million and $36 million at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively.
Commitments to Fund Partnership Investments and Private Corporate Bond Investments
The Company commits to fund partnership investments and to lend funds under private corporate bond investments. The amounts of these unfunded commitments were $1.1 billion and $918 million at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
9. Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (continued)
Other Commitments
The Company has entered into collateral arrangements with affiliates, which require the transfer of collateral in connection with secured demand notes. At both March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, the Company had agreed to fund up to $32 million of cash upon the request by these affiliates and had transferred collateral consisting of various securities with a fair market value of $60 million and $57 million at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively, to custody accounts to secure the demand notes. Each of these affiliates is permitted by contract to sell or re-pledge this collateral.
10. Related Party Transactions
Service Agreements
The Company has entered into various agreements with affiliates for services necessary to conduct its activities. Typical services provided under these agreements include management, policy administrative functions, personnel, investment advice and distribution services. For certain agreements, charges are based on various performance measures or activity-based costing. The bases for such charges are modified and adjusted by management when necessary or appropriate to reflect fairly and equitably the actual incidence of cost incurred by the Company and/or affiliate. Expenses and fees incurred with affiliates related to these agreements, recorded in other expenses, were $391 million and $333 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Revenues received from affiliates related to these agreements, recorded in universal life and investment-type product policy fees, were $63 million and $67 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Revenues received from affiliates related to these agreements, recorded in other revenues, were $50 million and $53 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
The Company had net receivables from affiliates related to the items discussed above of $100 million and $26 million at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively.
See Note 4 for additional information on related party transactions.
Related Party Reinsurance Transactions
The Company has reinsurance agreements with certain MetLife subsidiaries, including MLIC, MetLife Reinsurance Company of South Carolina, First MetLife Investors Insurance Company, General American Life Insurance Company, MetLife Europe Limited, MetLife Reinsurance Company of Vermont, New England Life Insurance Company, MetLife Reinsurance Company of Delaware (“MRD”), Delaware American Life Insurance Company and American Life Insurance Company, all of which are related parties.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
10. Related Party Transactions (continued)
Information regarding the significant effects of affiliated reinsurance included on the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) was as follows:
|
| | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended March 31, |
| 2015 | | 2014 |
| (In millions) |
Premiums | | | |
Reinsurance assumed | $ | 25 |
| | $ | 10 |
|
Reinsurance ceded | (200 | ) | | (263 | ) |
Net premiums | $ | (175 | ) | | $ | (253 | ) |
Universal life and investment-type product policy fees | | | |
Reinsurance assumed | $ | 31 |
| | $ | 81 |
|
Reinsurance ceded | (87 | ) | | (94 | ) |
Net universal life and investment-type product policy fees | $ | (56 | ) | | $ | (13 | ) |
Other revenues | | | |
Reinsurance assumed | $ | — |
| | $ | 4 |
|
Reinsurance ceded | 58 |
| | 71 |
|
Net other revenues | $ | 58 |
| | $ | 75 |
|
Policyholder benefits and claims | | | |
Reinsurance assumed | $ | 35 |
| | $ | 37 |
|
Reinsurance ceded | (240 | ) | | (310 | ) |
Net policyholder benefits and claims | $ | (205 | ) | | $ | (273 | ) |
Interest credited to policyholder account balances | | | |
Reinsurance assumed | $ | 19 |
| | $ | 23 |
|
Reinsurance ceded | (37 | ) | | (33 | ) |
Net interest credited to policyholder account balances | $ | (18 | ) | | $ | (10 | ) |
Other expenses | | | |
Reinsurance assumed | $ | 15 |
| | $ | 18 |
|
Reinsurance ceded | 50 |
| | 22 |
|
Net other expenses | $ | 65 |
| | $ | 40 |
|
Information regarding the significant effects of affiliated reinsurance included on the consolidated balance sheets was as follows at:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| March 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
| Assumed | | Ceded | | Assumed | | Ceded |
| (In millions) |
Assets | | | | | | | |
Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables | $ | 59 |
| | $ | 12,876 |
| | $ | 45 |
| | $ | 12,718 |
|
Deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired | 171 |
| | (723 | ) | | 164 |
| | (707 | ) |
Total assets | $ | 230 |
| | $ | 12,153 |
| | $ | 209 |
| | $ | 12,011 |
|
Liabilities | | | | | | | |
Future policy benefits | $ | 593 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 593 |
| | $ | — |
|
Policyholder account balances | 893 |
| | — |
| | 827 |
| | — |
|
Other policy-related balances | 1,712 |
| | 754 |
| | 1,689 |
| | 763 |
|
Other liabilities | 20 |
| | 5,307 |
| | 16 |
| | 5,109 |
|
Total liabilities | $ | 3,218 |
| | $ | 6,061 |
| | $ | 3,125 |
| | $ | 5,872 |
|
The Company assumes risks from affiliates related to guaranteed minimum benefit guarantees written directly by the affiliates. These assumed reinsurance agreements contain embedded derivatives and changes in their fair value are also included within net derivative gains (losses). The embedded derivatives associated with the cessions are included within policyholder account balances and were liabilities of $893 million and $827 million at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, net derivative gains (losses) included ($63) million and ($146) million, respectively, in changes in fair value of such embedded derivatives.
MetLife Insurance Company USA
(A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of MetLife, Inc.)
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)
10. Related Party Transactions (continued)
The Company ceded several blocks of business to affiliates on a 90% coinsurance with funds withheld basis. Certain contractual features of this agreement qualify as embedded derivatives, which are separately accounted for at estimated fair value on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. The embedded derivative related to the funds withheld associated with this reinsurance agreement is included within other liabilities and increased the funds withheld balance by $458 million and $382 million at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. Net derivative gains (losses) associated with the embedded derivatives were ($76) million and ($127) million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
In January 2014, prior to the Mergers, the Company entered into an agreement with MLIC which ceded all existing New York insurance policies and annuity contracts that include a separate account feature. Certain contractual features of this agreement qualify as embedded derivatives, which are separately accounted for at fair value on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet. The embedded derivative related to this agreement is included within receivables from affiliates and was $4 million at both March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014. Net derivative gains (losses) associated with the embedded derivative were less than $1 million and $2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. See Note 1 for further information on the Mergers.
In December 2014, the Company entered into a reinsurance agreement to cede two blocks of business to MRD on a 90% coinsurance with funds withheld basis. This agreement covers certain term and certain universal life policies issued in 2014 by the Company. This agreement transfers risk to MRD and, therefore, is accounted for as reinsurance. As a result of the agreement, affiliated reinsurance recoverables, included in premiums, reinsurance and other receivables, were $71 million and $54 million at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. The Company also recorded a funds withheld liability and other reinsurance payables, included in other liabilities, which were $18 million and $118 million at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. The Company’s consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss) includes a loss for this agreement of $3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015.
|
| | |
Item 2. | | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations |
| | |
| | Index to Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations |
Forward-Looking Statements and Other Financial Information
For purposes of this discussion, “MetLife USA,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” and “us” refer to MetLife Insurance Company USA (formerly, MetLife Insurance Company of Connecticut (“MICC”)), a Delaware corporation originally incorporated in Connecticut in 1863, and its subsidiaries. MetLife Insurance Company USA is a wholly-owned subsidiary of MetLife, Inc. (MetLife, Inc., together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, “MetLife”). Management’s narrative analysis of the results of operations is presented pursuant to General Instruction H(2)(a) of Form 10-Q. This narrative analysis should be read in conjunction with MetLife Insurance Company USA’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 (the “2014 Annual Report”), the cautionary language regarding forward-looking statements included below, the “Risk Factors” set forth in Part II, Item 1A, and the additional risk factors referred to therein, and the Company’s interim condensed consolidated financial statements included elsewhere herein.
This narrative analysis may contain or incorporate by reference information that includes or is based upon forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements give expectations or forecasts of future events. These statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They use words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe” and other words and terms of similar meaning, or are tied to future periods, in connection with a discussion of future operating or financial performance. In particular, these include statements relating to future actions, prospective services or products, future performance or results of current and anticipated services or products, sales efforts, expenses, the outcome of contingencies such as legal proceedings, trends in operations and financial results. Any or all forward-looking statements may turn out to be wrong. Actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. See “Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.”
This narrative analysis includes references to our performance measure, operating earnings, that is not based on accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). Operating earnings is the measure of segment profit or loss we use to evaluate segment performance and allocate resources. Consistent with GAAP guidance for segment reporting, operating earnings is our measure of segment performance. See “— Non-GAAP and Other Financial Disclosures” for definitions of this and other measures.
Business
Overview
The Company is organized into two segments: Retail and Corporate Benefit Funding. In addition, the Company reports certain of its results of operations in Corporate & Other. As anticipated, in the first quarter of 2015, the Company implemented certain segment reporting changes related to the measurement of segment operating earnings, which included revising the Company’s capital allocation methodology. These changes were applied retrospectively and did not have an impact on total consolidated operating earnings or net income.
Management continues to evaluate the Company’s segment performance and allocated resources and may adjust related measurements in the future to better reflect segment profitability. See Note 2 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on the Company’s segments and Corporate & Other.
In November 2014, MetLife Insurance Company of Connecticut, a wholly-owned subsidiary of MetLife, Inc., re-domesticated from Connecticut to Delaware, changed its name to MetLife Insurance Company USA and merged with its subsidiary, MetLife Investors USA Insurance Company, and its affiliate, MetLife Investors Insurance Company, each a U.S. insurance company that issued variable annuity products in addition to other products, and Exeter Reassurance Company, Ltd., a former offshore, reinsurance subsidiary of MetLife, Inc. and affiliate of MICC that mainly reinsured guarantees associated with variable annuity products (the “Mergers”). The surviving entity of the Mergers was MetLife USA. The Mergers represent a transaction among entities under common control and have been accounted for in a manner similar to the pooling-of-interests method, which requires that the merged entities be combined at their historical cost. The Company’s consolidated financial statements and related footnotes are presented as if the transaction occurred at the beginning of the earliest date presented and prior periods’ results have been retrospectively adjusted. See Note 3 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2014 Annual Report for further information on the Mergers.
Regulatory Developments
The U.S. insurance industry is regulated primarily at the state level, with some products and services also subject to federal regulation. In addition, we are subject to regulation under the insurance holding company laws of our domicile, Delaware. As a subsidiary of MetLife, Inc., a non-bank systemically important financial institution (“non-bank SIFI”), we are affected by MetLife, Inc.’s regulation by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the “Federal Reserve Board”), the Federal Reserve Bank of New York (“FRB of NY”) and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”). We may also be affected by any additional capital requirements to which MetLife, Inc. may be subject as a global systemically important insurer (“G-SII”). Furthermore, some of our operations, products and services are subject to consumer protection laws, securities regulation, environmental and unclaimed property laws and regulations, and to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”).
The regulation of the global financial services industry has received renewed scrutiny as a result of the disruptions in the financial markets. Significant regulatory reforms have been recently adopted and additional reforms proposed, and these or other reforms could be implemented. See “Risk Factors — Regulatory and Legal Risks — Our Insurance Businesses Are Highly Regulated, and Changes in Regulation and in Supervisory and Enforcement Policies May Reduce Our Profitability and Limit Our Growth” included in the 2014 Annual Report, as amended and supplemented elsewhere herein, and “Business — Regulation,” “Risk Factors — Risks Related to Our Business — Our Statutory Life Insurance Reserve Financings May Be Subject to Cost Increases and New Financings May Be Subject to Limited Market Capacity,” and “Risk Factors — Regulatory and Legal Risks — Changes in U.S. Federal and State Securities Laws and Regulations, and State Insurance Regulations Regarding Suitability of Annuity Product Sales, May Affect Our Operations and Our Profitability” included in the 2014 Annual Report. For example, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (“Dodd-Frank”), which was signed by President Obama in July 2010, effected the most far-reaching overhaul of financial regulation in the U.S. in decades. The full impact of Dodd-Frank on us will depend on the numerous rulemaking initiatives required or permitted by Dodd-Frank which are in various stages of implementation, many of which are not likely to be completed for some time.
Insurance Regulation
Insurance Regulatory Examinations and Other Activities
The International Association of Insurance Supervisors (“IAIS”) has encouraged U.S. insurance supervisors to establish Supervisory Colleges for U.S.-based insurance groups with international operations, including MetLife, to facilitate cooperation and coordination among the insurance groups’ supervisors and to enhance the member regulators’ understanding of an insurance group’s risk profile. MetLife, Inc. was the subject of Supervisory College meetings chaired by the New York Department of Financial Services (the “Department of Financial Services”) and attended by MetLife’s key U.S. and international insurance regulators in January 2013 and March 2014. Because MetLife, Inc. is now supervised as a non-bank SIFI, an April 2015 Supervisory College was co-chaired by the Department of Financial Services and the FRB of NY and attended by MetLife’s key U.S. and international regulators, including the FDIC, which has joint authority with the Federal Reserve Board over MetLife’s resolution plan. See “Regulation of MetLife, Inc. as a Non-Bank SIFI — Enhanced Prudential Standards for Non-Bank SIFIs” below. We have not received any reports or recommendations from the Supervisory College meetings, and we do not expect any outcome of the meetings to have a material adverse effect on our business.
In the first quarter of 2015, the Department of Financial Services announced that it would integrate regular, targeted assessments of cyber-security preparedness at insurance companies as part of its examination process, propose regulations requiring heightened standards for cyber-security and examine stronger measures related to representations and warranties insurance companies receive from third-party vendors. The Department of Financial Services also issued an information request to insurers requiring the submission of detailed information on security policies, procedures and programs, on the basis of which it will perform a comprehensive risk assessment of each institution followed by expanded information technology examinations that focus more attention on cyber-security. MetLife has submitted its response to this request.
Regulation of MetLife, Inc. as a Non-Bank SIFI
Enhanced Prudential Standards for Non-Bank SIFIs
In December 2011, in accordance with Dodd-Frank, the Federal Reserve Board proposed a rule (“Regulation YY”) that would have applied a set of prudential standards to non-bank SIFIs, including enhanced risk-based capital (“RBC”) requirements, leverage limits, liquidity requirements, single counterparty exposure limits, governance requirements for risk management, stress test requirements, special debt-to-equity limits for certain companies and early remediation procedures. The Federal Reserve Board’s proposal contemplated that these standards could be tailored for different companies on an individual basis or by category, taking into consideration their capital structure, riskiness, complexity, financial activities, size, and any other risk-related factors that the Federal Reserve Board deems appropriate. In February 2014, the Federal Reserve Board adopted amendments to Regulation YY to implement certain of the enhanced prudential standards for bank holding companies and foreign banking organizations with total consolidated assets of $50 billion or more. While Regulation YY, as originally proposed, would have applied to non-bank SIFIs, the final rule does not. However, the Federal Reserve Board has indicated that it plans to apply enhanced prudential standards to non-bank SIFIs by rule or order, enabling it to more appropriately tailor the standards to non-bank SIFIs and will provide affected non-bank SIFIs with notice and the opportunity to comment prior to determination of their enhanced prudential standards. Accordingly, the manner in which these proposed standards might apply to MetLife, Inc. and its impact on us remain unclear.
Non-bank SIFIs are required to submit a resolution plan setting forth how the company could be resolved under the Bankruptcy Code in the event of material financial distress. Resolution plans would have to be resubmitted annually and promptly following any event, occurrence, change in conditions or circumstances, or other change that results in, or could reasonably be foreseen to have, a material effect on the resolution plan. A failure to submit a “credible” resolution plan could result in the imposition of a variety of measures, including additional capital, leverage, or liquidity requirements, and forced divestiture of assets or operations. As a non-bank SIFI, MetLife, Inc. will be required to submit a resolution plan by December 31, 2016, unless the Federal Reserve Board and FDIC require a different due date.
ERISA Considerations
We provide products and services to certain employee benefit plans that are subject to ERISA or the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). As such, our activities are subject to the restrictions imposed by ERISA and the Code, including the requirement under ERISA that fiduciaries must perform their duties solely in the interests of ERISA plan participants and beneficiaries, and that fiduciaries may not cause a covered plan to engage in certain prohibited transactions. The prohibited transaction rules of ERISA and the Code generally restrict the provision of investment advice to ERISA plans and participants and Individual Retirement Accounts (“IRAs”) if the investment recommendation results in fees paid to the individual advisor, his or her firm or their affiliates that vary according to the investment recommendation chosen.
The Department of Labor (“DOL”) proposed new regulations in April 2015 that would substantially expand the definition of “investment advice” and thereby broaden the circumstances under which MetLife, in providing investment advice with respect to ERISA plans or IRAs, could be deemed a fiduciary under ERISA or the Code. The DOL also proposed amendments to its prohibited transaction exemption that would apply more onerous disclosure and contract requirements to, and increase fiduciary requirements in respect of, transactions involving ERISA plans, plan participants and IRAs. If the new DOL proposals become final, MetLife may find it necessary to change sales representative and/or broker compensation and may limit the assistance or advice they can provide.
Designation Process and Policy Measures that May Apply to Global Systemically Important Insurers
The IAIS, an association of insurance supervisors and regulators and a member of the Financial Stability Board (“FSB”), an international entity established to coordinate, develop and promote regulatory, supervisory and other financial sector policies in the interest of financial stability, is participating in the FSB’s initiative to identify and manage global systemically important financial institutions and has devised and published a methodology to assess the systemic relevance of global insurers and a framework of policy measures to be applied to G‑SIIs. In July 2013 and November 2014, the FSB published its lists of G-SIIs, based on the IAIS’ assessment methodology, each of which included MetLife, Inc. The FSB will continue to update the list annually.
For G-SIIs which engage in activities deemed to be systemically risky, the framework of policy measures calls for imposition of additional capital (higher loss absorbency (“HLA”)) requirements on those activities. Given the absence of a common global base on which to calculate an HLA for insurers, the FSB directed the IAIS to develop basic capital requirements (“BCR”). G-SIIs will initially report BCR and HLA results to their group-wide supervisors on a confidential basis to allow for refinement of the BCR until fully adopted and implemented in 2019. Work on HLA development is in early stages and how the HLA requirements will be computed remains unclear. It is expected that the IAIS will publish an exposure draft of HLA requirements in June 2015; they are required to be finalized by the end of 2015. HLA requirements are to be applied in 2019 to companies designated as G-SIIs in 2017. In addition, on December 17, 2014, the IAIS released a first exposure draft of a risk-based global insurance capital standard (“ICS”) which will apply to all internationally active insurance groups, including G-SIIs. The IAIS will finalize an Interim ICS by the end of 2018 with the further goal of reaching an Ultimate ICS at some later date. The FSB and IAIS propose that national authorities ensure that any insurers identified as G-SIIs be subject to additional requirements consistent with the framework of policy measures, which include preparation of a systemic risk management plan, preparation of a recovery and resolution plan, enhanced liquidity planning and management, more intensive supervision, closer coordination among regulators through global supervisory colleges led by a regulator with group-wide supervisory authority, and a policy bias in favor of separation of non-traditional insurance and non-insurance activities from traditional insurance activities. The IAIS policy measures would need to be implemented by legislation or regulation in each applicable jurisdiction, and the impact on MetLife, Inc. and other designated G-SIIs is uncertain.
Summary of Critical Accounting Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to adopt accounting policies and make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported in the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. The most critical estimates include those used in determining:
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(i) | liabilities for future policy benefits and the accounting for reinsurance; |
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(ii) | capitalization and amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs (“DAC”) and the establishment and amortization of value of business acquired (“VOBA”); |
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(iii) | estimated fair values of investments in the absence of quoted market values; |
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(iv) | investment impairments; |
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(v) | estimated fair values of freestanding derivatives and the recognition and estimated fair value of embedded derivatives requiring bifurcation; |
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(vi) | measurement of goodwill and related impairment; |
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(vii) | measurement of income taxes and the valuation of deferred tax assets; and |
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(viii) | liabilities for litigation and regulatory matters. |
In applying our accounting policies, we make subjective and complex judgments that frequently require estimates about matters that are inherently uncertain. Many of these policies, estimates and related judgments are common in the insurance and financial services industries; others are specific to our business and operations. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
The above critical accounting estimates are described in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Summary of Critical Accounting Estimates” and Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2014 Annual Report.
Economic Capital
Economic capital is an internally developed risk capital model, the purpose of which is to measure the risk in the business and to provide a basis upon which capital is deployed. The economic capital model accounts for the unique and specific nature of the risks inherent in MetLife’s and the Company’s business.
MetLife’s economic capital model, coupled with considerations of local capital requirements, aligns segment allocated equity with emerging standards and consistent risk principles. The model applies statistics-based risk evaluation principles to the material risks to which the Company is exposed. These consistent risk principles include calibrating required economic capital shock factors to a specific confidence level and time horizon while applying an industry standard method for the inclusion of diversification benefits among risk types. Economic capital-based risk estimation is an evolving science and industry best practices have emerged and continue to evolve. Areas of evolving industry best practices include stochastic liability valuation techniques, alternative methodologies for the calculation of diversification benefits, and the quantification of appropriate shock levels. MetLife management is responsible for the ongoing production and enhancement of the economic capital model and reviews its approach periodically to ensure that it remains consistent with emerging industry practice standards.
Segment net investment income is credited or charged based on the level of allocated equity; however, changes in allocated equity do not impact the Company’s consolidated net investment income, operating earnings or net income (loss).
Net investment income is based upon the actual results of each segment’s specifically identifiable investment portfolios adjusted for allocated equity. Other costs are allocated to each of the segments based upon: (i) a review of the nature of such costs; (ii) time studies analyzing the amount of employee compensation costs incurred by each segment; and (iii) cost estimates included in the Company’s product pricing.
Results of Operations
Consolidated Results
Variable annuity sales increased 7% in response to the introduction of new products and/or enhancements in late 2014 and early 2015. We expect our sales of annuities to continue to increase in the future. Life sales also increased, driven by increases in our term life products, due to pricing actions, and whole life products, as a result of several large cases and continued focused marketing. A significant portion of our operating earnings is driven by separate account values. These separate account balances primarily affect the level of asset-based fee income but they also impact DAC amortization and asset-based commissions. Separate account balances are driven by sales, movements in the market, surrenders, withdrawals, benefit payments, transfers and policy charges. Separate account balances increased compared to the prior period as a result of continued strong market performance, partially offset by negative net flows from our deferred annuities business as surrenders and withdrawals exceeded sales.
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| Three Months Ended March 31, |
| 2015 | | 2014 |
| (In millions) |
Revenues | | | |
Premiums | $ | 283 |
| | $ | 178 |
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Universal life and investment-type product policy fees | 718 |
| | 805 |
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Net investment income | 635 |
| | 735 |
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Other revenues | 120 |
| | 142 |
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Net investment gains (losses) | 42 |
| | (506 | ) |
Net derivative gains (losses) | 85 |
| | (150 | ) |
Total revenues | 1,883 |
| | 1,204 |
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Expenses | | | |
Policyholder benefits and claims | 592 |
| | 568 |
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Interest credited to policyholder account balances | 257 |
| | 269 |
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Capitalization of DAC | (99 | ) | | (76 | ) |
Amortization of DAC and VOBA | 195 |
| | 273 |
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Interest expense on debt | 18 |
| | 37 |
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Other expenses | 533 |
| | 443 |
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Total expenses | 1,496 |
| | 1,514 |
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Income (loss) before provision for income tax | 387 |
| | (310 | ) |
Provision for income tax expense (benefit) | 103 |
| | (111 | ) |
Net income (loss) | $ | 284 |
| | $ | (199 | ) |
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 Compared with the Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
During the three months ended March 31, 2015, income (loss) before provision for income tax increased $697 million ($483 million, net of income tax) from the prior period primarily driven by favorable changes in net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses).
We manage our investment portfolio using disciplined asset/liability management principles, focusing on cash flow and duration to support our current and future liabilities. Our intent is to match the timing and amount of liability cash outflows with invested assets that have cash inflows of comparable timing and amount, while optimizing risk-adjusted net investment income and risk-adjusted total return. Our investment portfolio is heavily weighted toward fixed income investments, with over 80% of our portfolio invested in fixed maturity securities and mortgage loans. These securities and loans have varying maturities and other characteristics which cause them to be generally well suited for matching the cash flow and duration of insurance liabilities. We also use derivatives as an integral part of our management of the investment portfolio to hedge certain risks, including changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, credit spreads and equity market levels.
We purchase investments to support our insurance liabilities and not to generate net investment gains and losses. However, net investment gains and losses are incurred and can change significantly from period to period due to changes in external influences, including changes in market factors such as interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, credit spreads and equity markets; counterparty specific factors such as financial performance, credit rating and collateral valuation; and internal factors such as portfolio rebalancing. Changes in these factors from period to period can significantly impact the levels of both impairments and realized gains and losses on investments sold.
The favorable change in net investment gains (losses) of $548 million ($356 million, net of income tax) was primarily the result of the prior period loss on the disposition of MetLife Assurance Limited (“MAL”). For further information on MAL, see Note 4 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2014 Annual Report.
We use freestanding interest rate, equity, credit and currency derivatives to hedge certain invested assets and insurance liabilities. Certain of these hedges are designated and qualify as accounting hedges, which reduce volatility in earnings. For those hedges not designated as accounting hedges, changes in market factors lead to the recognition of fair value changes in net derivative gains (losses) generally without an offsetting gain or loss recognized in earnings for the item being hedged which creates volatility in earnings.
Certain direct or assumed variable annuity products with guaranteed minimum benefits contain embedded derivatives that are measured at estimated fair value separately from the host variable annuity contract, with changes in estimated fair value recorded in net derivative gains (losses). We hedge the market risks inherent in these variable annuity guarantees through the use of freestanding derivatives. The valuation of these embedded derivatives includes a nonperformance risk adjustment, which is unhedged and can be a significant driver of net derivative gains (losses) and volatility in earnings, but does not have an economic impact on us.
Direct and assumed variable annuity embedded derivatives and associated freestanding derivative hedges are collectively referred to as “VA program derivatives” in the following table. All other derivatives that are economic hedges of certain invested assets and insurance liabilities are referred to as “non-VA program derivatives” in the following table. The table below presents the impact on net derivative gains (losses) from non-VA program derivatives and VA program derivatives:
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| Three Months Ended March 31, |
| 2015 | | 2014 |
| (In millions) |
Non-VA program derivatives | | | |
Interest rate | $ | 231 |
| | $ | 44 |
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Foreign currency exchange rate | 35 |
| | 12 |
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Credit | 5 |
| | 4 |
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Equity | (50 | ) | | (12 | ) |
Non-VA embedded derivatives | (88 | ) | | (109 | ) |
Total non-VA program derivatives | 133 |
| | (61 | ) |
VA program derivatives | | | |
Embedded derivatives-direct/assumed guarantees: | | | |
Market risks | (111 | ) | | (169 | ) |
Nonperformance risk | 16 |
| | 44 |
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Other risks | (53 | ) | | (127 | ) |
Total | (148 | ) | | (252 | ) |
Freestanding derivatives hedging direct/assumed embedded derivatives | 100 |
| | 163 |
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Total VA program derivatives | (48 | ) | | (89 | ) |
Net derivative gains (losses) | $ | 85 |
| | $ | (150 | ) |
The favorable change in net derivative gains (losses) on non-VA program derivatives was $194 million ($126 million, net of income tax). This was primarily due to higher interest rate volatility, increased notional, as well as mid to long-term interest rates, on average, decreasing more in the current period than in the prior period, favorably impacting received-fixed interest rate swaptions primarily hedging long duration liability portfolios. In addition, the strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative to other key currencies favorably impacted foreign currency swaps that primarily hedge foreign denominated fixed maturity securities. A change in the value of underlying assets and the recapture of a certain reinsurance agreement by an affiliate favorably impacted non-VA embedded derivatives related to affiliated ceded reinsurance written on a coinsurance with funds withheld basis. These favorable changes were partially offset by the unfavorable impact of equity indices increasing more in the current period than the prior period on equity options. Because certain of these hedging strategies are not designated or do not qualify as accounting hedges, the changes in the estimated fair value of these freestanding derivatives are recognized in net derivative gains (losses) without an offsetting gain or loss recognized in earnings for the item being hedged.
The favorable change in net derivative gains (losses) on VA program derivatives was $41 million ($27 million, net of income tax). This was due to a favorable change of $74 million ($48 million, net of income tax) on other risks in direct and assumed variable annuity embedded derivatives, partially offset by an unfavorable change of $28 million ($18 million, net of income tax) in the nonperformance risk adjustment on direct and assumed variable annuity embedded derivatives and an unfavorable change of $5 million ($3 million, net of income tax) related to the change in market risks on direct and assumed variable annuity embedded derivatives, net of the impact of freestanding derivatives hedging those risks. Other risks relate primarily to the impact of policyholder behavior and other non-market risks that generally cannot be hedged.
The foregoing $74 million ($48 million, net of income tax) favorable change in other risks in direct and assumed variable annuity embedded derivatives, which includes the impact of the recapture of certain variable annuities reinsurance by affiliates, reflected:
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• | A decrease in the mismatch of fund performance between actual and modeled funds which resulted in a favorable period over period change in the valuation of the direct and assumed variable annuity embedded derivatives. |
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• | In-force changes between actual and modeled funds which resulted in an unfavorable period over period change in the valuation of the direct and assumed variable annuity embedded derivatives. |
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• | A combination of other factors, including reserve changes influenced by benefit features and policyholder behavior, which resulted in a favorable period over period change in the valuation of embedded derivatives. |
The aforementioned $28 million ($18 million, net of income tax) unfavorable change in the nonperformance risk adjustment, which includes the impact of the aforementioned recapture of certain variable annuities reinsurance, was due to an unfavorable change of $17 million, before income tax, related to changes in our own credit spread, as well as an unfavorable change of $11 million, before income tax, as a result of changes in capital market inputs, such as long-term interest rates and key equity index levels, on the variable annuity guarantees.
When equity index levels decrease in isolation, the direct and assumed variable annuity guarantees become more valuable to policyholders, which results in an increase in the undiscounted embedded derivative liability. Discounting this unfavorable change by the risk adjusted rate yields a smaller loss than by discounting at the risk free rate, thus creating a gain from including an adjustment for nonperformance risk on the direct and assumed variable annuity embedded derivatives.
When the risk free interest rate decreases in isolation, discounting the embedded derivative liability produces a higher valuation of the liability than if the risk free interest rate had remained constant. Discounting this unfavorable change by the risk adjusted rate yields a smaller loss than by discounting at the risk free interest rate, thus creating a gain from including an adjustment for nonperformance risk on the direct and assumed variable annuity embedded derivatives.
When our own credit spread increases in isolation, discounting the embedded derivative liability produces a lower valuation of the liability than if our own credit spread had remained constant. As a result, a gain is created from including an adjustment for nonperformance risk on the direct and assumed variable annuity embedded derivatives. For each of these primary market drivers, the opposite effect occurs when they move in the opposite direction.
The foregoing $5 million ($3 million, net of income tax) unfavorable change was due to the impact of the aforementioned recapture of certain variable annuities reinsurance as well as due to the impact of changes in market factors on the direct and assumed variable annuity embedded derivatives, net of the freestanding derivatives hedging those market factors.
The primary changes in market factors are summarized as follows:
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• | Key equity index levels increased more in the current period than in the prior period, contributing to a favorable change in our embedded derivatives and an unfavorable change in our freestanding derivatives. For example, the Russell 2000 Index increased by 4% in the current period and increased by 1% in the prior period. |
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• | Key equity volatility measures increased in the current period and decreased in the prior period, contributing to a favorable change in our freestanding derivatives and an unfavorable change in our embedded derivatives. |
Income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2015 was $103 million, or 27% of income (loss) before provision for income tax, compared with an income tax benefit of $111 million, or 36% of income (loss) before provision for income tax, for the three months ended March 31, 2014. The Company’s current period effective tax rate differs from the U.S. statutory rate of 35% primarily due to non-taxable investment income. The Company’s prior period effective tax rate was different from the U.S. statutory rate of 35% primarily due to non-taxable investment income and the tax effects of the MAL divestiture.
As more fully described in “— Non-GAAP and Other Financial Disclosures,” we use operating earnings, which does not equate to net income (loss), as determined in accordance with GAAP, to analyze our performance, evaluate segment performance, and allocate resources. We believe that the presentation of operating earnings, as we measure it for management purposes, enhances the understanding of our performance by highlighting the results of operations and the underlying profitability drivers of the business. Operating earnings should not be viewed as a substitute for net income (loss). Operating earnings decreased $63 million, net of income tax, to $273 million, net of income tax, for the three months ended March 31, 2015, from $336 million, net of income tax, for the three months ended March 31, 2014.
Reconciliation of net income (loss) to operating earnings
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| Three Months Ended March 31, |
| 2015 | | 2014 |
| (In millions) |
Net income (loss) | $ | 284 |
| | $ | (199 | ) |
Less: Net investment gains (losses) | 42 |
| | (506 | ) |
Less: Net derivative gains (losses) | 85 |
| | (150 | ) |
Less: Other adjustments to net income (1) | (110 | ) | | (131 | ) |
Less: Provision for income tax (expense) benefit | (6 | ) | | 252 |
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Operating earnings | $ | 273 |
| | $ | 336 |
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(1) | See definitions of operating revenues and operating expenses under “— Non-GAAP and Other Financial Disclosures” for the components of such adjustments. |
Reconciliation of GAAP revenues to operating revenues and GAAP expenses to operating expenses
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| Three Months Ended March 31, |
| 2015 | | 2014 |
| (In millions) |
Total revenues | $ | 1,883 |
| | $ | 1,204 |
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Less: Net investment gains (losses) | 42 |
| | (506 | ) |
Less: Net derivative gains (losses) | 85 |
| | (150 | ) |
Less: Adjustments related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses) | — |
| | 8 |
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Less: Other adjustments to revenues (1) | 5 |
| | 95 |
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Total operating revenues | $ | 1,751 |
| | $ | 1,757 |
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Total expenses | $ | 1,496 |
| | $ | 1,514 |
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Less: Adjustments related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses) | 54 |
| | 72 |
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Less: Other adjustments to expenses (1) | 61 |
| | 162 |
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Total operating expenses | $ | 1,381 |
| | $ | 1,280 |
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(1) | See definitions of operating revenues and operating expenses under “— Non-GAAP and Other Financial Disclosures” for the components of such adjustments. |
Consolidated Results – Operating
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| Three Months Ended March 31, |
| 2015 | | 2014 |
| (In millions) |
Operating revenues | | | |
Premiums | $ | 283 |
| | $ | 178 |
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Universal life and investment-type product policy fees | 652 |
| | 722 |
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Net investment income | 696 |
| | 715 |
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Other revenues | 120 |
| | 142 |
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Total operating revenues | 1,751 |
| | 1,757 |
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Operating expenses | | | |
Policyholder benefits and claims | 503 |
| | 428 |
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Interest credited to policyholder account balances | 256 |
| | 269 |
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Capitalization of DAC | (99 | ) | | (76 | ) |
Amortization of DAC and VOBA | 171 |
| | 202 |
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Interest expense on debt | 17 |
| | 19 |
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Other expenses | 533 |
| | 438 |
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Total operating expenses | 1,381 |
| | 1,280 |
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Provision for income tax expense (benefit) | 97 |
| | 141 |
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Operating earnings | $ | 273 |
| | $ | 336 |
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Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 Compared with the Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.
The primary drivers of the decrease in operating earnings were higher expenses, lower fee income and lower net investment income from a decrease in yields, partially offset by lower interest credited expense.
In our deferred annuity business, the impact of negative net flows contributed to a decrease in asset-based fee income and reduced interest credited expense in the general account. Asset-based fee income also declined related to the assumed variable annuity reinsurance agreements recaptured in connection with the Mergers. Direct business expenses were higher however this was offset by lower costs associated with our variable annuity guaranteed minimum death benefits. A decrease in funding agreements in our Corporate Benefit Funding segment and the aforementioned negative net flows in our deferred annuity business were partially offset by positive net flows in our universal life business, which caused a decrease in invested assets, resulting in a slight decrease in net investment income. This was partially offset by the related decrease in interest credited expense in our Corporate Benefit Funding segment. The changes in business growth discussed above resulted in a $48 million decrease in operating earnings.
Operating earnings decreased as a result of the unfavorable impact of changes in market factors on other limited partnership interests and lower yields on fixed maturity securities reflecting reinvestment in the sustained low interest rate environment. These declines were partially offset by improved returns on our interest rate derivatives and increased prepayment fees. In our deferred annuity business, higher average separate account balances drove an increase in asset-based fee income and lower costs associated with our variable annuity guaranteed minimum death benefits. Operating earnings decreased due to higher interest credited expense in our Corporate Benefit Funding segment as a result of higher average interest credited rates, partially offset by lower interest credited expense in our Retail segment as a result of reduced average interest credited rates. The changes in market factors, including equity markets and interest rates, discussed above resulted in a $14 million decrease in operating earnings.
Also contributing to the decline in operating earnings were higher expenses of $36 million, mainly driven by higher interest expense associated with affiliated ceded funds withheld reinsurance treaties and higher employee-related costs.
Favorable claims experience in our traditional life, variable and universal life and immediate annuities businesses, partially offset by unfavorable claims experience in our structured settlement and direct businesses, increased operating earnings by $8 million. DAC amortization decreased due to lower yields, the decrease in our deferred annuity in-force business from the negative net flows and more favorable separate account returns in the current period as compared to the prior period, resulting in a $23 million increase in operating earnings.
Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 1 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Future Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 1 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Non-GAAP and Other Financial Disclosures
Operating earnings is defined as operating revenues less operating expenses, both net of income tax.
Operating revenues and operating expenses exclude results of discontinued operations and other businesses that have been or will be sold or exited by the Company and are referred to as divested businesses. Operating revenues also excludes net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses). Operating expenses also excludes goodwill impairments.
The following additional adjustments are made to GAAP revenues, in the line items indicated, in calculating operating revenues:
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• | Universal life and investment-type product policy fees excludes the amortization of unearned revenue related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses) and certain variable annuity guaranteed minimum income benefits (“GMIBs”) fees (“GMIB Fees”); and |
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• | Net investment income: (i) includes amounts for scheduled periodic settlement payments and amortization of premium on derivatives that are hedges of investments or that are used to replicate certain investments, but do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment, (ii) includes income from discontinued real estate operations, (iii) excludes post-tax operating earnings adjustments relating to insurance joint ventures accounted for under the equity method, (iv) excludes certain amounts related to contractholder-directed unit-linked investments, and (v) excludes certain amounts related to securitization entities that are variable interest entities (“VIEs”) consolidated under GAAP. |
The following additional adjustments are made to GAAP expenses, in the line items indicated, in calculating operating expenses:
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• | Policyholder benefits and claims excludes: (i) amounts associated with periodic crediting rate adjustments based on the total return of a contractually referenced pool of assets, (ii) benefits and hedging costs related to GMIBs (“GMIB Costs”), and (iii) market value adjustments associated with surrenders or terminations of contracts (“Market Value Adjustments”); |
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• | Interest credited to policyholder account balances includes adjustments for scheduled periodic settlement payments and amortization of premium on derivatives that are hedges of policyholder account balances but do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment and excludes amounts related to net investment income earned on contractholder-directed unit-linked investments; |
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• | Amortization of DAC and VOBA excludes amounts related to: (i) net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses), (ii) GMIB Fees and GMIB Costs, and (iii) Market Value Adjustments; |
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• | Interest expense on debt excludes certain amounts related to securitization entities that are VIEs consolidated under GAAP; and |
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• | Other expenses excludes costs related to: (i) implementation of new insurance regulatory requirements, and (ii) acquisition and integration costs. |
We believe the presentation of operating earnings, as we measure it for management purposes, enhances the understanding of our performance by highlighting the results of operations and the underlying profitability drivers of our business. Operating revenues, operating expenses and operating earnings should not be viewed as substitutes for the following financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP: GAAP revenues, GAAP expenses, and net income (loss), respectively. Reconciliations of these measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measures are included in “— Results of Operations.”
In this discussion, we sometimes refer to sales activity for various products. These sales statistics do not correspond to revenues under GAAP, but are used as relevant measures of business activity. The following additional information is relevant to an understanding of our financial results:
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• | Allocated equity is defined as the portion of common stockholders’ equity that management allocates to each of its segments and sub-segments based on MetLife’s economic capital model, coupled with considerations of local capital requirements. See “— Economic Capital.” |
Item 4. Controls and Procedures
Management, with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rule 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, (“Exchange Act”), as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that these disclosure controls and procedures are effective.
There were no changes to the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as defined in Exchange Act Rule 15d-15(f) during the quarter ended March 31, 2015 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Part II — Other Information
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
The following should be read in conjunction with (i) Part I, Item 3, of the 2014 Annual Report; and (ii) Note 9 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I of this report.
Various litigation, claims and assessments against the Company, in addition to those discussed previously and those otherwise provided for in the Company’s consolidated financial statements, have arisen in the course of the Company’s business, including, but not limited to, in connection with its activities as an insurer, employer, investor and taxpayer. Further, state insurance regulatory authorities and other federal and state authorities regularly make inquiries and conduct investigations concerning the Company’s compliance with applicable insurance and other laws and regulations.
It is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of all pending investigations and legal proceedings. In some of the matters referred to previously, large and/or indeterminate amounts, including punitive and treble damages, are sought. Although, in light of these considerations it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain cases could have a material effect upon the Company’s financial position, based on information currently known by the Company’s management, in its opinion, the outcomes of such pending investigations and legal proceedings are not likely to have such an effect. However, given the large and/or indeterminate amounts sought in certain of these matters and the inherent unpredictability of litigation, it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain matters could, from time to time, have a material effect on the Company’s net income or cash flows in particular quarterly or annual periods.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
The following should be read in conjunction with, and supplements and amends, the factors that may affect the Company's business or operations described under “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A, of the 2014 Annual Report. Other than as described in this Item 1A, there have been no other material changes to our risk factors from the risk factors previously disclosed in the 2014 Annual Report.
Regulatory and Legal Risks
Our Insurance Businesses Are Highly Regulated, and Changes in Regulation and in Supervisory and Enforcement Policies May Reduce Our Profitability and Limit Our Growth
The following updates and replaces the similarly named sections of the risk factor entitled “Our Insurance Businesses Are Highly Regulated, and Changes in Regulation and in Supervisory and Enforcement Policies May Reduce Our Profitability and Limit Our Growth” included in the 2014 Annual Report. There have been no material changes to other sections of such risk factor. These sections include: “Insurance Regulation — U.S. Federal Regulation Affecting Insurance” and “General” within such risk factor included in the 2014 Annual Report.
Our insurance operations are subject to a wide variety of insurance and other laws and regulations. See “Business — Regulation — Insurance Regulation” included in the 2014 Annual Report, as supplemented by discussions of regulatory developments elsewhere herein and in our subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q under the caption “Regulatory Developments” within “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” and as further supplemented below.
Insurance Regulation
State insurance regulators and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”) regularly re-examine existing laws and regulations applicable to insurance companies and their products. Changes in these laws and regulations, or in interpretations thereof, that are made for the benefit of the consumer sometimes lead to additional expense for the insurer and, thus, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
State insurance regulators and the NAIC are investigating the use of affiliated captive reinsurers and offshore entities to reinsure insurance risks. Like many life insurance companies, we utilize captive reinsurers to satisfy reserve and capital requirements related to universal life and term life insurance policies. Insurance regulators in a few states, including New York and California, have imposed a moratorium on new reinsurance transactions between life insurers domiciled in those states and captive reinsurers. If insurance regulators in Delaware restrict the use of such captive reinsurers, or if we otherwise are unable to continue to use captive reinsurers in the future, our ability to write certain products and/or our RBC ratios and ability to deploy excess capital, could be adversely affected or we may need to increase prices on those products, which could adversely impact our competitive position and our results of operations.
ERISA Considerations
We provide products and services to certain employee benefit plans that are subject to ERISA or the Code. As such, our activities are subject to the restrictions imposed by ERISA and the Code, including the requirement under ERISA that fiduciaries must perform their duties solely in the interests of ERISA plan participants and beneficiaries, and that fiduciaries may not cause a covered plan to engage in certain prohibited transactions.
The prohibited transaction rules of ERISA and the Code generally restrict the provision of investment advice to ERISA plans and participants and IRAs if the investment recommendation results in fees paid to the individual advisor, his or her firm or their affiliates that vary according to the investment recommendation chosen.
The DOL proposed new regulations in April 2015 that would substantially expand the definition of “investment advice” and thereby broaden the circumstances under which MetLife, in providing investment advice with respect to ERISA plans or IRAs, could be deemed a fiduciary under ERISA or the Code. The DOL also proposed amendments to its prohibited transaction exemption that would apply more onerous disclosure and contract requirements to, and increase fiduciary requirements in respect of, transactions involving ERISA plans, plan participants and IRAs. If the new DOL proposals become final, MetLife may find it necessary to change sales representative and/or broker compensation and may limit the assistance or advice they can provide.
See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Business — Regulatory Developments — ERISA Considerations,” as well as “Business — Regulation — ERISA Considerations” included in the 2014 Annual Report, for additional information regarding ERISA considerations.
Regulation of MetLife, Inc. as a Non-Bank SIFI or as Systemically Important Under Other Regulations Proposed by National or International Authorities Could Adversely Affect Our Ability to Compete and Our Business and Results of Operations
The following updates and replaces the similarly named section of the risk factor entitled “Regulation of MetLife, Inc. as a Non-Bank SIFI or as Systemically Important Under Other Regulations Proposed by National or International Authorities Could Adversely Affect Our Ability to Compete and Our Business and Results of Operations” included in the 2014 Annual Report. There have been no other material changes to such risk factor. See “Global Systemically Important Insurers” within such risk factor included in the 2014 Annual Report.
Regulation of MetLife, Inc. as a Non-Bank SIFI
Many of the regulatory requirements that will apply to MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI have not been specified. The Federal Reserve Board has indicated that it plans to apply enhanced prudential standards to non-bank SIFIs by rule or order. Accordingly, the manner in which these proposed standards might apply to MetLife, Inc. and its impact on us remains unclear. Regulation of MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI could materially and adversely affect our business.
In particular, the Federal Reserve Board has not determined the requirements that will govern the amount and composition of capital that MetLife, Inc. is required to hold. If the Federal Reserve Board requires insurers that are non-bank SIFIs to comply with capital standards or regimes (such as the Basel capital rules that were developed for banks) that do not take into account the insurance business model and the differences between banks and insurers, our business and competitive position could be materially and adversely affected. Enhanced capital requirements could adversely affect our ability to compete with other insurers that are not subject to those requirements, and our ability to issue guarantees could be constrained. We could have to raise the price of the products we offer, reduce the amount of risk we take on, or stop offering certain products altogether. Legislation was signed into law on December 18, 2014 relieving the Federal Reserve Board from certain provisions in Dodd-Frank that it believed constrained its ability to tailor capital rules for insurers that are non-bank SIFIs.
Additional prudential standards that the Federal Reserve Board may promulgate for non-bank SIFIs will likely include enhanced RBC requirements, leverage limits, liquidity requirements, single counterparty exposure limits, governance requirements for risk management, stress test requirements, special debt-to-equity limits for certain companies, and early remediation procedures. In addition, non-bank SIFIs are required to submit a resolution plan setting forth how the company could be resolved under the Bankruptcy Code in the event of material financial distress. The Federal Reserve Board also has the right to require us or any of our insurance company affiliates, to take prompt action to correct any financial weaknesses. In addition, under the Volcker Rule, the Federal Reserve Board could impose additional capital requirements and quantitative limits on certain trading and investment activities of a non-bank SIFI. As a result of MetLife, Inc.’s designation as a non-bank SIFI, MetLife, Inc. will be subject to such requirements and limits as the Federal Reserve Board may impose, which could adversely affect our competitive position.
As a non-bank SIFI, MetLife, Inc. may consider structural and other business alternatives that may be available to it in response to such a designation, and we cannot predict the impact that any such alternatives, if implemented, may have on us.
Non-bank SIFIs and certain other large financial companies can be assessed under Dodd-Frank for any uncovered costs arising in connection with the resolution of a systemically important financial company. In addition, as a non-bank SIFI, MetLife, Inc. must pay, beginning in 2015, certain assessments and other charges.
Moreover, other national and international authorities have also proposed measures intended to increase the intensity of regulation of large financial institutions, requiring greater coordination among regulators and efforts to harmonize regulatory regimes. If such measures were adopted, including as a result of MetLife, Inc.’s designation as a non-bank SIFI, they could materially adversely affect our ability to conduct business, our results of operations and financial condition.
See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Business ��� Regulatory Developments — Regulation of MetLife, Inc. as a Non-Bank SIFI,” as well as “Business — Regulation — Regulation of MetLife, Inc. as a Non-Bank SIFI” included in the 2014 Annual Report, for additional information regarding regulation of MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI.
Item 6. Exhibits
(Note Regarding Reliance on Statements in Our Contracts: In reviewing the agreements included as exhibits to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, please remember that they are included to provide you with information regarding their terms and are not intended to provide any other factual or disclosure information about MetLife Insurance Company USA and its subsidiaries, or the other parties to the agreements. The agreements contain representations and warranties by each of the parties to the applicable agreement. These representations and warranties have been made solely for the benefit of the other parties to the applicable agreement and (i) should not in all instances be treated as categorical statements of fact, but rather as a way of allocating the risk to one of the parties if those statements prove to be inaccurate; (ii) have been qualified by disclosures that were made to the other party in connection with the negotiation of the applicable agreement, which disclosures are not necessarily reflected in the agreement; (iii) may apply standards of materiality in a way that is different from what may be viewed as material to investors; and (iv) were made only as of the date of the applicable agreement or such other date or dates as may be specified in the agreement and are subject to more recent developments. Accordingly, these representations and warranties may not describe the actual state of affairs as of the date they were made or at any other time. Additional information about MetLife Insurance Company USA and its subsidiaries may be found elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and MetLife Insurance Company USA’s other public filings, which are available without charge through the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) website at www.sec.gov.)
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Exhibit No. | | Description |
31.1 | | Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
31.2 | | Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
32.1 | | Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
32.2 | | Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
101.INS | | XBRL Instance Document. |
101.SCH | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document. |
101.CAL | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document. |
101.LAB | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document. |
101.PRE | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document. |
101.DEF | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document. |
Signatures
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
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METLIFE INSURANCE COMPANY USA |
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By: | | | /s/ Peter M. Carlson |
| Name: | | Peter M. Carlson |
| Title: | | Executive Vice President |
| | | and Chief Accounting Officer |
| | | (Authorized Signatory and Principal Accounting Officer) |
Date: May 13, 2015
Exhibit Index
(Note Regarding Reliance on Statements in Our Contracts: In reviewing the agreements included as exhibits to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, please remember that they are included to provide you with information regarding their terms and are not intended to provide any other factual or disclosure information about MetLife Insurance Company USA and its subsidiaries, or the other parties to the agreements. The agreements contain representations and warranties by each of the parties to the applicable agreement. These representations and warranties have been made solely for the benefit of the other parties to the applicable agreement and (i) should not in all instances be treated as categorical statements of fact, but rather as a way of allocating the risk to one of the parties if those statements prove to be inaccurate; (ii) have been qualified by disclosures that were made to the other party in connection with the negotiation of the applicable agreement, which disclosures are not necessarily reflected in the agreement; (iii) may apply standards of materiality in a way that is different from what may be viewed as material to investors; and (iv) were made only as of the date of the applicable agreement or such other date or dates as may be specified in the agreement and are subject to more recent developments. Accordingly, these representations and warranties may not describe the actual state of affairs as of the date they were made or at any other time. Additional information about MetLife Insurance Company USA and its subsidiaries may be found elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and MetLife Insurance Company USA’s other public filings, which are available without charge through the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.)
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Exhibit No. | | Description |
31.1 | | Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
31.2 | | Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
32.1 | | Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
32.2 | | Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
101.INS | | XBRL Instance Document. |
101.SCH | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document. |
101.CAL | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document. |
101.LAB | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document. |
101.PRE | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document. |
101.DEF | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document. |