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Exhibit 13
Portions of Executive Risk Inc. 1996 Annual Report to Stockholders
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated
Financial Statements of the Company and related notes thereto.
GENERAL
Management's discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of
operations compares certain financial results for the year ended December 31,
1996 with the corresponding periods for 1995 and 1994. The results of Executive
Risk Inc. (the "Company" or "ERI") include the consolidated results of Executive
Risk Management Associates ("ERMA"), Executive Re Inc. ("Executive Re") and
Executive Re's insurance subsidiaries, Executive Risk Indemnity Inc. ("ERII")
and Executive Risk Specialty Insurance Company ("ERSIC"). The Company's results
also include its 50% interest in UAP Executive Partners ("UPEX"), a French
insurance underwriting agency which is a joint venture between the Company and
Union des Assurances de Paris - Incendie-Accidents. This investment is reported
using the equity method of accounting. In addition, the Company's 1996 and 1995
results include Executive Risk N.V. ("ERNV"), a Dutch insurance company
incorporated in May 1995 in the Netherlands under the ownership of Executive Re.
On March 22, 1996, ERI entered into a Stock Purchase Agreement (the "Agreement")
with Aetna Life and Casualty Company ("AL&C") and AL&C's wholly-owned
subsidiary, The Aetna Casualty and Surety Company ("Aetna"). Prior to the
closing of the Agreement, Aetna owned 4,511,300 shares of the Company's capital
stock, consisting of (i) 3,286,300 shares of Common Stock and (ii) all 1,225,000
shares of the Class B Common Stock. Through this investment and an option to
purchase 100,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $12 per share,
Aetna controlled approximately 40% of the Company's capital stock. Pursuant to
the Agreement, on March 26, 1996, the Company purchased 1,286,300 shares of
Common Stock and 1,225,000 shares of Class B Common Stock from Aetna at a per
share price of $29.875, or approximately $75 million in the aggregate. In
connection with the Agreement, the Company secured a $70 million senior credit
facility (the "Senior Credit Facility") arranged through The Chase Manhattan
Bank ("Chase"). See "Liquidity and Capital Resources." Upon the closing of the
Agreement, 2,000,000 shares of Common Stock, representing approximately 22% of
the Company's issued and outstanding Common Stock, remained under Aetna
ownership. Subsequently, in connection with the acquisition of Aetna by The
Travelers Insurance Group Inc., Aetna transferred ownership of the remaining
Common Stock to AL&C.
The Agreement also contained provisions requiring the Company to file a
registration statement with respect to the remaining 2,000,000 shares of Common
Stock under AL&C ownership and AL&C was obligated to sell all of these shares in
an underwritten secondary offering. The secondary offering was completed on June
7, 1996. In conjunction with the secondary offering, the Company granted to the
underwriters an option to purchase an additional 300,000 shares of Common Stock,
at $34.00 per share less underwriting discounts and commissions of $1.75 per
share, to cover over-allotments. This over-allotment option was exercised in
full, and the Company received $9.7 million in proceeds which were used for
general corporate purposes. The 300,000 shares of Common Stock for the
over-allotment option were issued from shares held in treasury.
On May 10, 1996, the Board of Directors approved a resolution to retire the
1,225,000 shares of Class B Common Stock in treasury acquired in the Aetna stock
repurchase as described above. On February 5, 1997, in connection with a capital
securities offering by a trust established by the Company, the Company repaid
the $70 million outstanding under the term loan portion of the Senior Credit
Facility. See "Liquidity and Capital Resources."
The Company's financial position and results of operations are subject to
fluctuations due to a variety of factors. Abnormally high severity or frequency
of claims in any period could have a material adverse effect on the Company.
Also, reevaluations of the Company's loss reserves could result in an increase
or decrease in reserves and a corresponding adjustment to earnings.
Additionally, the insurance industry is highly competitive. The Company competes
with domestic and foreign insurers and reinsurers, some of which have greater
financial, marketing and management resources than the Company, and it may
compete with new market entrants in the future. Competition is based on many
factors, including the perceived market strength of the insurer, pricing and
other terms and
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conditions, services provided, the speed of claims payment, the reputation and
experience of the insurer, and ratings assigned by independent rating
organizations (including A.M. Best Company, Inc. ("A.M. Best") and Standard &
Poor's ("S&P")). ERII and ERSIC's current pooled rating from A.M. Best is "A".
ERII and ERSIC's current pooled claims-paying ability rating from S&P is "A+".
These ratings are based upon factors of concern to policyholders, including
financial condition and solvency, and are not directed to the protection of
investors.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
Gross premiums written increased by $121.5 million, or 58%, to $332.1 million in
1996 from $210.6 million in 1995. The increase was partially due to growth in
sales in all of the Company's key lines of business, including domestic and
international directors and officers ("D&O") liability insurance, and lawyers
professional liability and miscellaneous professional liability errors and
omissions ("E&O") insurance. Also contributing to the rise in gross premiums
written was the Company's issuance of ERII and ERSIC D&O policies, rather than
Aetna policies, to both new and renewing insureds. Converting an insured to ERII
or ERSIC from Aetna resulted in the Company receiving 100% of the gross premiums
written (and ceding 12.5% to Aetna) as compared to receiving 50% when reinsuring
Aetna's risks. In 1996, $226.3 million of gross D&O premiums written were issued
on ERII and ERSIC policies as compared to $99.0 million in 1995. As a portion of
the increase in gross premiums written was attributable to conversions from
Aetna to ERII and ERSIC, it is unlikely that the rate of growth achieved in 1996
can be sustained in 1997. Pursuant to a restructuring of the Company's
relationship with Aetna entered into on February 13, 1997 (the "Restructuring"),
effective January 1, 1997, the Company assumes 100% of the D&O written by ERMA
on Aetna policies as compared to the 50% assumed prior to January 1, 1997. See
Note 16 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company. As the
underwriting and issuance of Aetna policies represents a shrinking percentage of
the Company's gross premiums written, the Company does not believe that this
change will have a material effect on 1997 gross premiums written.
Ceded premiums increased $56.2 million, or 86%, to $121.7 million in 1996 from
$65.5 million in 1995. The rise in ceded premiums was due principally to an
increase in direct premium volume, a portion of which is ceded to reinsurers
under the Company's various D&O and E&O treaties. Pursuant to the Restructuring,
also effective January 1, 1997, Aetna is no longer a 12.5% quota share reinsurer
of the Company's direct D&O business. Due to this change, in 1997 the Company
will pay less in ceded premiums, and generally retain slightly more risk, than
if it had continued the reinsurance arrangement with Aetna as in 1996.
As a result of the foregoing, net premiums written increased $65.3 million, or
45%, to $210.4 million in 1996 from $145.1 million in 1995. Over the same
periods, net premiums earned increased to $155.8 million from $116.4 million.
Net investment income increased by $5.9 million, or 22%, to $32.6 million in
1996 from $26.7 million in 1995. This increase resulted principally from growth
in the Company's investment portfolio, measured on an amortized cost basis, from
$520.9 million at December 31, 1995 to $663.1 million at December 31, 1996, as
well as a slight increase in nominal investment yields. The Company's equity
investment balances were $45.9 million and $26.1 million at December 31, 1996
and 1995, respectively, and the cash and short-term investment balances were
$24.7 million and $20.2 million, respectively, for the same periods. The Company
manages its portfolio on a total return basis, and, as such, its investments in
equity securities are made for their perceived superior return potential over
the long term. Growth in invested assets resulted primarily from strong cash
flows from insurance operations. The nominal portfolio yield of the fixed
maturity portfolio at December 31, 1996 was 6.18%, as compared to 6.09% at
December 31, 1995. The tax-equivalent yields on the fixed maturity portfolio
were 8.00% and 8.25% for these periods, respectively. See "Liquidity and Capital
Resources."
The Company's net realized capital gains were $1.0 million in 1996, as compared
to $1.6 million in 1995. In 1996, capital gains were realized from the sale of
fixed maturities to provide available cash for the repurchase of Common Stock
and Class B Common Stock from Aetna. In addition, capital gains were realized
from equity mutual fund distributions and certain equity limited partnership
investments. Partially offsetting the gains were net realized capital losses
from fixed maturities sold at a loss and replaced with higher yielding
securities.
Loss and loss adjustment expenses ("LAE") increased $26.8 million, or 34%, to
$105.3 million in 1996 from $78.5 million in 1995 due to higher premiums earned.
The Company's loss ratio increased slightly to 67.6% in 1996 from 67.4% in 1995.
In connection with the Company's normal reserving review, which includes a
reevaluation of the adequacy of reserve levels for prior years' claims, the
Company reduced its unpaid loss and LAE reserves in 1996
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for prior report years by approximately $6.8 million. In 1995, the Company
reduced its unpaid loss and LAE reserves for prior report years by approximately
$5.2 million. These reductions produced corresponding increases in the Company's
net income of approximately $4.4 million, or $0.42 per share, in 1996 and $3.4
million, or $0.28 per share, in 1995. There is no assurance that reserve
adequacy reevaluations will produce similar reserve reductions and net income
increases in the future.
Policy acquisition costs increased $5.9 million, or 27%, to $27.8 million in
1996 from $21.9 million in 1995. The Company's ratio of policy acquisition costs
to net premiums earned declined to 17.8% in 1996 from 18.8% in 1995. The
decrease in the acquisition cost ratio was primarily due to savings achieved by
paying less in override commissions to Aetna as a result of successfully
converting insureds from Aetna policies to ERII and ERSIC policies. Under the
Amended and Restated Agency and Insurance Services Agreement among Aetna, the
Company and ERMA, ERMA paid Aetna an override commission equal to 3% of gross
written premiums with respect to Aetna D&O policies issued by ERMA through June
30, 1996. Pursuant to this agreement, effective with respect to business written
on or after July 1, 1996, ERMA was no longer required to pay an override
commission to Aetna.
General and administrative ("G&A") expenses increased $6.4 million, or 59%, to
$17.1 million for the year ended December 31, 1996, as compared to $10.7 million
for the year ended December 31, 1995. The increase in G&A costs was due largely
to increased compensation, benefit and related overhead costs associated with
new employees hired to support the growth in premium volume. The ratio of G&A
costs to net premiums earned increased to 11.0% in 1996 from 9.3% in 1995.
As a result of the changes in the aforementioned ratios, the Company's GAAP
combined ratio increased to 96.4% in 1996 from 95.5% in 1995. A combined ratio
below 100% indicates profitable underwriting prior to the consideration of
investment income, capital gains and interest expense. A company with a combined
ratio exceeding 100% can still be profitable due to such factors as investment
income and realized capital gains. Long-term incentive compensation in 1996 and
1995 of $0.2 million and $1.5 million, respectively, consisted of non-cash
charges to earnings for the value of the stock option element of the IPO Stock
Compensation Plan (the "IPO Plan"). See Note 8 of Notes to Consolidated
Financial Statements of the Company for a further discussion of the IPO Plan.
Interest expense was incurred principally on the outstanding balances under the
Company's bank credit agreement. Higher outstanding debt balances in 1996
resulted in an increase in interest expense to $4.5 million in 1996 as compared
to $2.0 million in 1995. The outstanding balances were $25 million for 1995, $25
million from January 1, 1996 through March 26, 1996 and $70 million from March
26, 1996 to December 31, 1996. See "Liquidity and Capital Resources" and Note 6
of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company.
Income tax expense increased $1.7 million, or 37%, to $6.6 million for the year
ended December 31, 1996, as compared to $4.9 million for the year ended December
31, 1995. The Company's effective tax rate increased to 19.1% in 1996 from 16.1%
in 1995. The increase in the effective tax rate was due in part to growth in
pre-tax income outpacing the increase in tax-exempt investment income and an
increase in the Company's state tax liability. See Note 11 of Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company.
As a result of the factors described above, net income increased $2.8 million,
or 11%, to $28.1 million, or $2.67 per fully diluted share, in 1996 from $25.3
million, or $2.11 per fully diluted share, in 1995. The Company's operating
earnings, calculated as net income before realized capital gains or losses, net
of tax, increased $3.1 million, or 13%, to $27.4 million, or $2.60 per fully
diluted share, in 1996 from $24.3 million, or $2.02 per fully diluted share, in
1995.
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995 AND 1994
Gross premiums written increased by $80.4 million, or 62%, to $210.6 million in
1995 from $130.2 million in 1994. The increase was partially due to growth in
sales in all of the Company's key lines of business. Also contributing to the
rise in gross premiums written was the Company's issuance of ERII and ERSIC D&O
policies, rather than Aetna policies, to both new and renewing insureds. In
1995, $99.0 million of gross D&O premiums written were issued on ERII and ERSIC
policies as compared to $7.2 million in 1994.
Ceded premiums increased $43.6 million, or 199%, to $65.5 million in 1995 from
$21.9 million in 1994. The rise in ceded premiums was partly attributable to
increased coverage purchased in 1995 under the Company's D&O reinsurance
arrangement to 100% of losses incurred in excess of $2.5 million up to a limit
of $10 million, subject to
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aggregate limits and other restrictions. In 1994, the D&O reinsurance coverage
purchased provided for 20% reinsurance protection on losses incurred in excess
of $2.5 million up to a limit of $10 million, subject to aggregate limits and
other restrictions. Also contributing to the rise in ceded premiums was the
increase in quota share reinsurance under the Company's various other D&O and
E&O treaties, resulting from an increase in direct premium volume.
As a result of the foregoing, net premiums written increased $36.8 million, or
34%, to $145.1 million in 1995 from $108.3 million in 1994. Over the same
periods, net premiums earned increased to $116.4 million from $95.0 million.
Net investment income increased by $4.2 million, or 19%, to $26.7 million in
1995 from $22.5 million in 1994. This increase resulted principally from growth
in the Company's investment portfolio, measured on an amortized cost basis, from
$436.5 million at December 31, 1994 to $520.9 million at December 31, 1995,
partially offset by a slight decline in investment yields. The Company's equity
investment balances were $26.1 million and $24.3 million at December 31, 1995
and 1994, respectively, and the cash and short-term investment balances were
$20.2 million and $24.6 million, respectively, for the same periods. The nominal
portfolio yield of the fixed maturity portfolio at December 31, 1995 was 6.09%,
as compared to 6.13% at December 31, 1994. The tax-equivalent yields on the
fixed maturity portfolio were 8.25% and 8.56% for these periods, respectively.
See "Liquidity and Capital Resources."
The Company's net realized capital gains were $1.6 million in 1995, as compared
to net realized capital losses of $0.5 million in 1994. During the second
quarter of 1995, the Company realized a $2.8 million gain resulting from the
acquisition by USF&G Corporation ("USF&G") of Discover Re Managers, Inc.
("Discover Re"), of which the Company was a stockholder. In connection with this
transaction, a stock-for-stock swap of Discover Re stock for USF&G stock
occurred as well as the receipt and simultaneous exercise by the Company of a
warrant to purchase USF&G stock. In December 1995, the Company sold its entire
position in USF&G stock. Partially offsetting the gain were net realized capital
losses from fixed maturities sold in order to increase the portfolio's
tax-equivalent yield.
Loss and LAE increased $14.3 million, or 22%, to $78.5 million in 1995 from
$64.2 million in 1994 due to higher premiums earned. The Company's loss ratio
declined slightly to 67.4% in 1995 from 67.6% in 1994. In connection with the
Company's normal reserving review, which includes a reevaluation of the adequacy
of reserve levels for prior years' claims, the Company reduced its unpaid loss
and LAE reserves in 1995 for prior report years by approximately $5.2 million.
In 1994, the Company reduced its unpaid loss and LAE reserves for prior report
years by approximately $4.1 million. These reductions produced corresponding
increases in the Company's net income of approximately $3.4 million, or $0.28
per share, in 1995 and $2.7 million, or $0.24 per share, in 1994.
Policy acquisition costs increased $3.2 million, or 17%, to $21.9 million in
1995 from $18.7 million in 1994. The Company's ratio of policy acquisition costs
to net premiums earned declined to 18.8% in 1995 from 19.7% in 1994. The
decrease in the acquisition cost ratio was primarily due to savings achieved by
paying less in override commissions to Aetna as a result of successfully
converting D&O insureds from Aetna to ERII and ERSIC policies.
G&A expenses increased $1.8 million, or 21%, to $10.7 million for the year ended
December 31, 1995, as compared to $8.9 million for the year ended December 31,
1994. The increase in G&A costs was due largely to increased compensation,
benefit and related overhead costs associated with the growth in premium volume.
The ratio of G&A costs to net premiums earned remained relatively stable at 9.3%
in 1995 versus 9.4% in 1994.
As a result of the declines in the aforementioned ratios, the Company's GAAP
combined ratio decreased to 95.5% in 1995 from 96.7% in 1994. Long-term
incentive compensation in 1995 and 1994 of $1.5 million and $1.0 million,
respectively, consisted of non-cash charges to earnings for the value of the
stock option element of the IPO Plan. Interest expense increased by $0.5
million, or 33%, to $2.0 million in 1995 as compared to $1.5 million in 1994,
due primarily to higher interest rates and a higher average outstanding balance
on the debt during 1995. Income tax expense increased $1.4 million, or 37%, to
$4.9 million for the year ended December 31, 1995, as compared to $3.5 million
for the year ended December 31, 1994. The Company's effective tax rate increased
slightly to 16.1% in 1995 from 15.5% in 1994. The increase in the effective tax
rate was due principally to growth in pre-tax income outpacing the increase in
tax-exempt investment income.
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As a result of the factors described above, net income increased $6.1 million,
or 31%, to $25.3 million, or $2.11 per fully diluted share, in 1995 from $19.2
million, or $1.69 per fully diluted share, in 1994. The Company's operating
earnings increased $4.8 million, or 24%, to $24.3 million, or $2.02 per fully
diluted share, in 1995 from $19.5 million, or $1.72 per fully diluted share, in
1994.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
ERI is a holding company, the principal asset of which is equity in its
subsidiaries. ERI's cash flows depend primarily on dividends and other payments
from its subsidiaries. ERI's sources of funds consist primarily of premiums
received by the insurance subsidiaries, revenues received by ERMA under
insurance agency arrangements, investment income, and proceeds from the sales
and redemptions of investments. Funds are utilized principally to pay claims and
operating expenses, to purchase investments, and to pay interest and principal
under the terms of the Company's indebtedness for borrowed money.
Cash flows from operating activities were $169.5 million, $86.0 million and
$78.7 million for 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. The increase in operating
cash flows in 1996 resulted principally from the increase in net premiums
received and the settlement of fewer losses than anticipated in 1996. The losses
that were not settled in 1996 could be settled in 1997. Such rising loss
payments are expected of a maturing professional liability underwriter. The
primary components of the cash flow increase in 1995 over 1994 were increased
net premiums received coupled with lower than anticipated loss payments.
The Company believes that it has sufficient liquidity to meet its anticipated
insurance obligations as well as its operating and capital expenditure needs.
Consistent with the Company's emphasis on total return, the Company's investment
strategy emphasizes quality, liquidity and diversification. With respect to
liquidity, the Company considers liability durations, specifically loss
reserves, when determining investment maturities. In addition, maturities have
been staggered to produce a pre-planned pattern of cash flows for purposes of
loss payments and reinvestment opportunities. Average investment duration of the
fixed maturity portfolio at December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 was approximately
4.6, 4.6 and 4.1 years, respectively, as compared to an expected loss reserve
duration of 5.0 to 5.5 years. The Company's short-term investment pool was $24.7
million (3.6% of the total investment portfolio) at December 31, 1996 and $20.2
million (3.7%) at December 31, 1995. Cash and publicly traded fixed income
securities constituted 91% of the Company's total investment portfolio at
December 31, 1996.
The Company's entire investment portfolio is classified as available for sale
under the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No.
115, "Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities," and is
reported at fair value, with the resulting unrealized gains or losses included
as a separate component of stockholders' equity until realized. Due to the
overall rise in interest rates, the market value of the portfolio at December
31, 1996 was 103% of amortized cost versus 105% of amortized cost at December
31, 1995. At December 31, 1996 and 1995, stockholders' equity was increased by
$11.7 million and $15.4 million, respectively, to record the Company's fixed
maturity investment portfolio at fair value. At December 31, 1996 and 1995, the
Company owned no derivative instruments, except for certain mortgage and other
asset backed securities and an interest rate protection agreement, discussed
below, which was used to effectively convert a portion of its floating rate debt
to a fixed rate basis, thus reducing the impact of interest rate changes on
future income.
Prior to the closing of the Agreement with AL&C, the Company maintained a credit
agreement with Chase, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York and The Fleet
National Bank of Connecticut to borrow up to $50 million, of which $25 million
was outstanding through March 26, 1996 (the "Closing Date"). In connection with
the Agreement, the Company borrowed $70 million on the Closing Date under the
terms of the Senior Credit Facility arranged through Chase. The proceeds of the
loan were utilized as follows: $38 million to partially finance the repurchase
of Common Stock and Class B Common Stock from Aetna, $25 million to refinance
the Company's previously existing debt, and $7 million for general corporate
purposes. In addition, the Company obtained through Chase a $25 million
revolving credit facility. The Company has no plans to draw funds under the
revolving credit facility. On February 5, 1997, in connection with a capital
securities offering by a trust established by the Company as discussed below,
the Company repaid the $70 million outstanding under the term loan portion of
the Senior Credit Facility.
Interest accrued on the principal balances outstanding under the term loan at a
rate per annum equal to (a) the higher of (i) the federal funds rate plus a
stipulated percentage and (ii) Chase's prime rate or (b) for London Interbank
Offered Rate ("LIBOR") based loans, LIBOR plus a stipulated percentage over
LIBOR based on the Company's debt-to-capital ratio and its then effective S&P
claims-paying ability rating.
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On May 31, 1996, as required under the term loan agreement in connection with
the Senior Credit Facility, the Company entered into an interest rate protection
agreement providing interest rate protection for an aggregate notional amount
equal to 50% of the principal outstanding under the term loan. This interest
rate protection agreement effectively converted a portion of the Company's
floating rate debt to a fixed rate basis. Including the interest rate protection
agreement, the all-in borrowing rate for the Company at December 31, 1996 was
7.09%. The fair value of the interest rate protection agreement was not
recognized in the financial statements.
On February 5, 1997, the Company formed Executive Risk Capital Trust (the
"Trust"), a Delaware statutory business trust, the common securities of which
are owned by the Company. The Trust sold 125,000 8.675% Series A Capital
Securities ($1,000 per Capital Security) (the "Capital Securities") to certain
institutional accredited investors pursuant to SEC Rule 144A and Regulation S.
The Trust used the $125 million of proceeds received from the sale of the
Capital Securities to purchase Junior Subordinated Debentures (the "Debentures")
from the Company. The Company utilized the $123.5 million of net proceeds as
follows: $70 million to repay the amount outstanding under the term loan portion
of the Senior Credit Facility, $45 million to make a surplus contribution to
ERII and $8.5 million for general corporate purposes. The interest rate
protection agreement on the Senior Credit Facility was terminated in February
1997, concurrent with the repayment of the amounts outstanding under that
facility. Holders of the Capital Securities will be entitled to receive
cumulative cash distributions, accumulating from the date of original issuance
and payable semi-annually in arrears on February 1 and August 1 of each year at
an annual rate of 8.675%. Interest on the Debentures, and hence distributions on
the Capital Securities, may be deferred to the extent set forth in the
applicable instrument. The Capital Securities are subject to mandatory
redemption on February 1, 2027, at a redemption price equal to the principal
amount of, plus accrued but unpaid distributions on, the Debentures. The Capital
Securities are also prepayable in certain other specified circumstances at a
prepayment price which includes a make-whole premium and in certain other cases
without a make-whole premium. Payments of distributions and other amounts due on
the Capital Securities have been guaranteed by the Company to the extent set
forth in the applicable guarantee instrument.
In each of March, June, September and December of 1996, the Company paid
dividends to common stockholders of record of $0.02 per share. Such common stock
dividends totaled $0.8 million.
ERII and ERSIC are subject to state regulatory restrictions which limit the
amount of dividends payable by these companies. Subject to certain net income
carryforward provisions, ERII must obtain approval of the Insurance Commissioner
of the State of Delaware in order to pay, in any 12-month period, dividends
which exceed the greater of 10% of surplus as regards policyholders as of the
preceding December 31 and statutory net income less realized capital gains for
the preceding calendar year. Dividends may be paid by ERII only out of earned
surplus. ERSIC must obtain approval of the Insurance Commissioner of the State
of Connecticut in order to pay, in any 12-month period, dividends which exceed
the greater of 10% of surplus with respect to policyholders as of the preceding
December 31 and statutory net income for the preceding calendar year. In
addition, ERSIC may not pay any dividend or distribution in excess of the amount
of its earned surplus, as reflected in its most recent statutory annual
statement on file with the Connecticut Insurance Commissioner, without such
Commissioner's approval. Both ERII and ERSIC are required to provide notice to
the Insurance Commissioners of the States of Delaware and Connecticut,
respectively, of all dividends to shareholders. Additionally, both Delaware and
Connecticut law require that the statutory surplus of ERII or ERSIC, as
applicable, following any dividend or distribution be reasonable in relation to
its outstanding liabilities and adequate for its financial needs.
OTHER
Delaware and Connecticut, the respective states of domicile of ERII and ERSIC,
impose minimum risk-based capital requirements on all insurance companies that
were developed by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners ("NAIC").
The formulas for determining the amount of risk-based capital specify various
weighting factors that are applied to financial balances or various levels of
activity based on the perceived degree of risk. Regulatory compliance is
determined by a ratio of the insurance company's regulatory total adjusted
capital to its authorized control level risk-based capital, both as defined by
the NAIC. At December 31, 1996, the total adjusted capital (as defined by the
NAIC) of ERII and ERSIC was in excess of the risk-based capital regulatory
action level. The application of the proceeds from the February 1997 Capital
Securities offering caused the total adjusted capital of ERII and ERSIC to
exceed the risk-based capital company action level, which is a higher standard.
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Report of Independent Auditors
To the Stockholders and Board of Directors
Executive Risk Inc.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Executive
Risk Inc. and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 1996 and 1995, and the related
consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each
of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1996. These financial
statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used
and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall
financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a
reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly,
in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Executive Risk
Inc. and its subsidiaries at December 31, 1996 and 1995, and the consolidated
results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in
the period ended December 31, 1996, in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Stamford, Connecticut
February 7, 1997
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EXECUTIVE RISK INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31,
(In thousands, except share data) 1996 1995
ASSETS
Fixed maturities available for sale, at fair value
(amortized cost: 1996 - $602,589
and 1995 - $480,135) $ 620,392 $ 503,485
Equity securities available for sale, at fair value
(cost: 1996 - $35,820 and 1995 - $20,474) 45,877 26,123
Cash and short-term investments, at cost
which approximates market 24,706 20,244
Total Cash And Invested Assets 690,975 549,852
Premiums receivable 26,757 28,735
Reinsurance recoverables 77,724 33,781
Accrued investment income 10,126 9,409
Investment in UPEX 1,087 990
Deferred acquisition costs 22,696 16,244
Prepaid reinsurance premiums 66,088 32,303
Deferred income taxes 26,269 18,337
Other assets 19,525 16,269
Total Assets $ 941,247 $ 705,920
LIABILITIES
Loss and loss adjustment expenses $ 457,063 $ 324,416
Unearned premiums 205,348 116,971
Note payable to bank 70,000 25,000
Ceded balances payable 26,402 18,083
Accrued expenses and other liabilities 37,659 43,725
Total Liabilities 796,472 528,195
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Common Stock, $.01 par value;
authorized - 52,500,000 shares;
issued - 1996 - 10,439,628 shares and
1995 - 11,626,766 shares;
outstanding - 1996 - 9,325,207 and
1995 - 11,497,816 104 116
Additional paid-in capital 93,651 87,228
Unrealized gains on investments, net of tax 18,382 19,156
Currency translation adjustments (186) 29
Retained earnings 65,384 74,315
Cost of shares in treasury, at cost:
1996 - 1,114,421 shares and 1995 - 128,950 shares (32,560) (3,119)
Total Stockholders' Equity 144,775 177,725
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity $ 941,247 $ 705,920
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial
statements.
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9
EXECUTIVE RISK INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Year Ended December 31,
(In thousands, except per 1996 1995 1994
share data)
REVENUES
Gross premiums written $ 332,085 $ 210,640 $ 130,199
Premiums ceded (121,709) (65,519) (21,914)
Net premiums written 210,376 145,121 108,285
Change in unearned premiums (54,592) (28,687) (13,324)
Net Premiums Earned 155,784 116,434 94,961
Net investment income 32,646 26,706 22,497
Net realized capital
gains (losses) 1,047 1,588 (455)
Other income 166 83 82
Total Revenues 189,643 144,811 117,085
EXPENSES
Loss and loss
adjustment expenses 105,335 78,530 64,171
Policy acquisition costs 27,803 21,931 18,723
General and administrative
expenses 17,068 10,730 8,890
Long-term incentive
compensation 187 1,458 1,009
Interest expense 4,511 2,022 1,519
Total Expenses 154,904 114,671 94,312
Income Before Income Taxes 34,739 30,140 22,773
Income tax expense (benefit)
Current 14,201 9,890 8,755
Deferred (7,567) (5,036) (5,222)
6,634 4,854 3,533
NET INCOME $ 28,105 $ 25,286 $ 19,240
Earnings per common
and common equivalent share $ 2.67 $ 2.11 $ 1.80
Earnings per common share -
assuming full dilution $ 2.67 $ 2.11 $ 1.69
The Company engages in transactions with related parties. See Notes 5 and 9.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial
statements.
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EXECUTIVE RISK INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
December 31,
(In thousands) 1996 1995 1994
PREFERRED STOCK:
Balance, beginning of year $ 0 $ 0 $ 6
Preferred stock conversion -- -- (6)
Balance, end of year 0 0 0
COMMON STOCK:
Balance, beginning of year 116 115 26
Options exercised -- 1 --
Preferred stock conversion -- -- 61
Common shares issued
pursuant to the Transaction:
Common Stock -- -- 12
Class B Common Stock -- -- 12
Common shares issued/warrants exercised
pursuant to IPO, net of related expenses 10
Treasury shares retired (12) -- (2)
Cashless exercise of warrants -- -- (4)
Balance, end of year 104 116 115
ADDITIONAL PAID-IN CAPITAL:
Balance, beginning of year 87,228 84,725 72,369
Options exercised 730 2,418 --
Directors' options fees granted 66 85 163
Secondary offering over-allotment
option exercised 713 -- --
Secondary offering related expenses (192) -- --
Employee stock-based
compensation plans 5,444 -- --
Common shares issued pursuant
to the Transaction -- -- 706
Common shares issued/warrants
exercised pursuant to IPO,
net of related expenses -- -- 13,825
Class B Common Stock shares
in treasury retired (338) -- (2,338)
Balance, end of year 93,651 87,228 84,725
UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES):
on Investments:
Balance, beginning of year 19,156 (3,958) 12,399
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments (774) 23,114 (16,357)
Balance, end of year 18,382 19,156 (3,958)
CURRENCY TRANSLATION ADJUSTMENTS:
Balance, beginning of year 29 24 (52)
Currency translation adjustments (215) 5 76
Balance, end of year (186) 29 24
RETAINED EARNINGS:
Balance, beginning of year 74,315 49,948 32,429
Net Income 28,105 25,286 19,240
Preferred Stock dividends -- -- (1,031)
Common Stock dividends (789) (919) (690)
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Treasury shares retired (36,247) -- --
Balance, end of year 65,384 74,315 49,948
COMMON STOCK IN TREASURY:
Balance, beginning of year (3,119) 0 (2,340)
Common Stock repurchase (38,428) -- --
Class B Common Stock repurchase (36,597) -- --
Secondary offering over-allotment
option exercised 8,962 -- --
Treasury shares reissued 25 -- --
Treasury shares repurchased -- (3,119) --
Treasury shares retired 36,597 -- 2,340
Balance, end of year (32,560) (3,119) 0
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 144,775 $ 177,725 $ 130,854
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial
statements.
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EXECUTIVE RISK INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Year Ended December 31,
(In thousands) 1996 1995 1994
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income $ 28,105 $ 25,286 $ 19,240
Adjustments to reconcile net income to
net cash provided by operating activities:
Amortization and depreciation 1,729 935 435
Share of income of UPEX (166) (83) (82)
Deferred income taxes (7,567) (5,036) (5,222)
Amortization of bond premium 1,019 1,541 2,027
Net realized (gains) losses on investments (1,047) (1,588) 455
Other (1,672) (2,477) (598)
Change in:
Premiums receivable, net of ceded balances payable 10,297 (289) (2,198)
Accrued investment income (717) (1,544) (891)
Deferred acquisition costs (6,452) (5,384) (1,020)
Loss and loss adjustment expenses, net
of reinsurance recoverables 88,704 44,841 36,696
Unearned premiums, net
of prepaid reinsurance premiums 54,592 28,687 13,324
Accrued expenses and other liabilities 2,649 1,099 16,557
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities 169,474 85,988 78,723
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from sales of fixed maturities
available for sale 179,510 76,721 74,527
Proceeds from sales of equity securities
available for sale -- 12,880 2,732
Proceeds from maturities of investment securities 34,586 32,113 21,918
Purchase of investment securities (354,339) (204,159) (167,239)
Net capital expenditures (2,881) (4,069) (7,411)
Net assets acquired in acquisition of ERMA -- -- 1,716
Net Cash Used in Investing Activities (143,124) (86,514) (73,757)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from exercise of options 423 241 --
Cost of repurchase of Common Stock (75,025) (3,119) --
Placement fees and other (192)
Repayment of note payable to bank (25,000) -- (25,000)
Note payable to bank 70,000 -- 25,000
Loan arrangement fees (980) -- --
Proceeds from over-allotment option exercise 9,675 -- --
Dividends paid on Common Stock (789) (919) (690)
Dividends paid on Preferred Stock (1,031)
Proceeds from issuance of Common Stock -- -- 11,160
Proceeds from conversion of warrants -- -- 4,200
Offering costs -- -- (912)
Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Financing Activities (21,888) (3,797) 12,727
Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash and
Short-Term Investments 4,462 (4,323) 17,693
Cash and short-term investments at beginning of period 20,244 24,567 6,874
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Cash and Short-Term Investments at End of Period $ 24,706 $ 20,244 $ 24,567
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial
statements.
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FOOTNOTES
NOTE 1 - ORGANIZATION AND PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION
Executive Risk Inc. (the "Company" or "ERI") was formed under the laws of the
State of Delaware. As of December 31, 1996, the Company owns all of the
outstanding stock of Executive Re Inc. ("Executive Re"), and Executive Re owns
all of the outstanding stock of Executive Risk Indemnity Inc. ("ERII") and
Executive Risk N.V. ("ERNV"). ERII owns all of the outstanding stock of
Executive Risk Specialty Insurance Company ("ERSIC"). In addition, the Company
and Executive Re own 100% of Executive Risk Management Associates ("ERMA"), a
Connecticut general partnership. ERII, a Delaware corporation, commenced
insurance operations under the ownership of Executive Re in 1986. ERSIC, a
Connecticut corporation, commenced insurance operations in 1992. ERNV, a Dutch
insurance company, was incorporated in May 1995 in the Netherlands to
participate in professional liability insurance opportunities.
The Company develops, markets and underwrites specialty line insurance products.
The Company's primary business is directors and officers liability insurance
("D&O"). The Company markets its D&O products in three principal sectors:
Commercial Entities, Financial Institutions and Not-for-Profit Institutions. The
Company also offers professional liability insurance, known as errors and
omissions insurance ("E&O"), to a variety of professions, principal among which
are large law firms, insurance agents, psychologists, mortgage brokers and real
estate and title professionals. Through ERII and ERSIC, the Company writes, on a
direct basis, D&O and E&O throughout the United States, and reinsures D&O and
certain ancillary lines of insurance written by The Aetna Casualty and Surety
Company ("Aetna") (Note 5), a stockholder of the Company until March 1996 (Note
3). The Company's products are distributed through licensed independent property
and casualty brokers, excess and surplus lines brokers and licensed wholesalers.
The following summarizes gross premiums written by the Company's key lines of
business:
Year Ended December 31,
(In thousands) 1996 1995 1994
D&O $254,965 $170,247 $107,082
E&O 77,120 40,393 23,117
Total $332,085 $210,640 $130,199
The 1996 and 1995 consolidated financial statements include the Company,
Executive Re, ERII, ERSIC, ERMA and ERNV. All references made herein to the
Company include ERI and all of its subsidiaries unless otherwise noted. The 1994
consolidated financial statements include the Company, Executive Re, ERII, ERSIC
and ERMA. All significant intercompany amounts are eliminated in consolidation.
Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform with the 1996
presentation.
NOTE 2 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Presentation: The accompanying consolidated financial statements have
been prepared in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles
("GAAP"), some of which require the use of management's estimates. Actual
results could differ from those estimates. Accounting Standards: In December
1996, the Company implemented the supplemental pro forma provisions of Statement
of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based
Compensation" ("SFAS 123"). SFAS 123, if adopted, requires companies to
recognize compensation expense for grants of stock, stock options and other
equity instruments to employees and
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directors based on their respective fair values at the date of grant. However,
the provisions of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for
Stock Issued to Employees" ("APB 25") may still be utilized with supplemental
pro forma disclosures of net income and earnings per share being made in the
footnotes as if the provisions of SFAS 123 had been applied. SFAS 123 is
effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 1995. The Company
continues to apply the requirements of APB 25 in the accompanying financial
statements with supplemental pro forma disclosures provided in the notes to the
consolidated financial statements (Note 8). Investments: In accordance with the
provisions of SFAS No. 115, "Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and
Equity Securities," the Company has classified its entire portfolio of fixed
maturities and equity securities as available for sale and reports such
investments at fair value. Fair values are determined by quoted market prices
when available or, in the case of private placements, are estimated by
discounting expected future cash flows using a market rate on fixed maturities
with similar terms and credit worthiness. The Company's classification of its
portfolio as available for sale provides the Company with the flexibility to
adjust its portfolio as needed in response to changes in operating, tax and
regulatory conditions. Short-term investments are carried at cost which
approximates market. The amortized cost of fixed maturities is adjusted for
amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity which are
included in investment income.
Unrealized gains and losses resulting from changes in fair values of fixed
maturities and equity securities are reflected in stockholders' equity, net of
applicable deferred income taxes. Realized capital gains and losses are reported
in revenues and are determined based on the specific identification of the
investments sold.
Investment in UPEX: The Company's 50% interest in UAP Executive Partners
("UPEX"), a French underwriting agency which is a joint venture between the
Company and Union des Assurances de Paris - Incendie-Accidents ("UAP"), is
reported using the equity method of accounting. Financial results are reported
to the Company in French francs. The Company's share of income and losses has
been calculated using the average exchange rate in effect during the period.
Resulting translation gains and losses are reported as a separate component of
stockholders' equity. Consolidation of ERMA Results: As the majority of ERMA's
activities relate to the marketing and underwriting of insurance policies, a
substantial portion of the revenues ERMA received from Aetna for underwriting
and management services during the years 1994 through 1996 offset the Company's
policy acquisition costs. The remaining portion of the revenues received from
Aetna related to the general and administrative ("G&A") costs of running the
business, and were therefore offset against the Company's G&A expenses (Note
16).
Premium Income and Unearned Premiums: Gross premiums written are recognized as
premiums earned principally on a pro rata basis over the in-force period of the
policies. Ceded reinsurance premiums are charged against premiums earned on the
same basis. Unearned premiums and prepaid reinsurance premiums represent the
portions of premiums written and ceded applicable to the unexpired terms of the
related policies.
Deferred Acquisition Costs: Deferred acquisition costs, including commissions
net of allowances on ceded reinsurance, and the portion of ERMA's revenues
relating to the acquisition of premiums, are deferred and amortized on a pro
rata basis over the period that the related premiums are earned.
Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves: As
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16
substantially all of the Company's business is written on a claims-made form of
coverage, the reserves for loss and loss adjustment expenses represent the
estimated liability on outstanding claims, based on an evaluation of reported
claims. Although considerable variability is inherent in such estimates,
management believes that the recorded reserves for loss and loss adjustment
expenses are adequate in the aggregate to cover the ultimate resolution of
reported claims. These estimates are continually reviewed and any required
adjustments are reflected in current operations.
Reinsurance Recoverables: In the normal course of business, the Company seeks to
manage its exposure to potential losses arising from risks it assumes or writes
by reinsuring certain levels of risk with various reinsurers (Note 5). Amounts
recoverable from reinsurers are estimated in a manner consistent with the loss
and loss adjustment expense reserves associated with the outstanding claims.
Income Taxes: The provision for federal and state income taxes excludes the
effect of permanent differences between income before taxes and taxable income.
Deferred income taxes are provided for the tax effects of temporary differences
between amounts reported for financial reporting and for income tax purposes.
Statements of Cash Flows: In the accompanying statements of cash flows, the
Company considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months
or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents are
classified as cash and short-term investments in the accompanying balance
sheets.
Earnings Per Share: Earnings per common and common equivalent share are
based on the weighted average common and common equivalent shares outstanding
during the period. Common equivalents consist of options and warrants to
purchase common stock, and their impact on earnings per share is measured by
application of the "treasury stock" method. Earnings per common and common
equivalent share represent earnings attributable to common stockholders (net
income less preferred stock dividends) divided by common and common equivalent
shares. Fully diluted earnings per share include the effect of all dilutive
securities, which include common equivalent shares, by application of the
"if-converted" method. The number of shares used for computing primary and fully
diluted earnings per share were as follows:
(In thousands) 1996 1995 1994
Primary 10,509 11,956 10,108
Fully diluted 10,542 11,978 11,365
NOTE 3 - TRANSACTION, STOCK REPURCHASE AND OFFERINGS
On November 5, 1993, Executive Re, Aetna and ERI entered into an Exchange
Agreement (the "Exchange Agreement") providing for Aetna to assign its 70%
interest in ERMA to ERI in exchange for (a) 1,225,000 shares of Common Stock,
(b) 1,225,000 shares of Class B Common Stock and (c) an option (the "Aetna Stock
Option"), which is an option to purchase 100,000 shares of Common Stock at $12
per share, the price at which shares were offered to the public in an
underwritten initial public offering (the "Offering"). The Exchange Agreement
provided for a restructuring (the "1994 Restructuring") in which Executive Re
merged with a subsidiary of ERI, with the former stockholders of Executive Re
(including Aetna) receiving 10 shares of Common Stock and 1 share of Class A
Preferred Stock of ERI in exchange for each share of common stock and preferred
stock, respectively, of Executive
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Re. As a result of the 1994 Restructuring, Executive Re became a subsidiary of
ERI. The Exchange and the 1994 Restructuring, referred to herein collectively as
the "Transaction," occurred on January 1, 1994. The Transaction was accounted
for at ERMA's historical basis. In March 1994, ERI sold three million shares of
its Common Stock in the Offering at a price of $12 per share. The Company
received net proceeds of approximately $9.7 million from the sale of shares by
the Company, after deducting underwriting commissions and expenses of
approximately $2.3 million, and $4.2 million from the exercise of warrants in
connection with the Offering. The Company contributed $12.0 million of these
proceeds to ERII to support future growth and increase underwriting capacity. On
March 22, 1996, the Company entered into a Stock Purchase Agreement (the
"Agreement") with Aetna Life and Casualty Company ("AL&C") and AL&C's
wholly-owned subsidiary, Aetna. Prior to the closing of the Agreement, Aetna
owned 4,511,300 shares of the Company's capital stock, consisting of (i)
3,286,300 shares of Common Stock and (ii) all 1,225,000 shares of the Class B
Common Stock. Through this investment and the Aetna Stock Option, Aetna
controlled approximately 40% of the Company's capital stock. Pursuant to the
Agreement, on March 26, 1996, the Company purchased 1,286,300 shares of Common
Stock and 1,225,000 shares of Class B Common Stock from Aetna at a per share
price of $29.875, or approximately $75 million in the aggregate. In connection
with the Agreement, the Company secured a $70 million senior credit facility
(the "Senior Credit Facility") arranged through The Chase Manhattan Bank
("Chase") (Note 6). Upon the closing of the Agreement, 2,000,000 shares of
Common Stock, representing approximately 22% of the Company's issued and
outstanding Common Stock, remained under Aetna ownership. Subsequently, in
connection with the acquisition of Aetna by The Travelers Insurance Group Inc.,
Aetna transferred ownership of the remaining Common Stock to AL&C. The Agreement
also contained provisions requiring the Company to file a registration statement
with respect to the remaining 2,000,000 shares of Common Stock under AL&C
ownership and AL&C was obligated to sell all of these shares in an underwritten
secondary offering (the "Secondary Offering"). The Secondary Offering was
completed on June 7, 1996. In conjunction with the Secondary Offering, the
Company granted to the underwriters an option to purchase an additional 300,000
shares of Common Stock, at $34.00 per share less underwriting discounts and
commissions of $1.75 per share, to cover over-allotments. This over-allotment
option was exercised in full, and the Company received $9.7 million in proceeds.
The proceeds were used for general corporate purposes.
NOTE 4 - PRO FORMA FINANCIAL DATA
The following table presents consolidated pro forma income statement data for
the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995, as adjusted to give pro forma effect
to the stock repurchase of 2,511,300 shares of the Company's capital stock at
$29.875 per share and the exercise of the 300,000 share over-allotment option in
the Secondary Offering, at $32.25 per share, as if they had occurred on January
1, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
Year Ended December 31,
(In thousands, except per share data) 1996 1995
Total revenues $189,483 $143,639
Net income 27,482 22,187
Weighted average shares outstanding -
assuming full dilution 9,936 9,767
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Earnings per common share -
assuming full dilution $ 2.77 $ 2.27
NOTE 5 - UNDERWRITING AND REINSURANCE
ERMA and Aetna entered into an insurance services agreement under which ERMA was
appointed Aetna's underwriting manager. Under this agreement, ERMA received a
commission, net of reimbursement to Aetna for its payment of substantially all
general and administrative costs incurred by ERMA, of 3% of gross premiums
written reported by ERMA to Aetna. This agreement was amended and restated
effective January 1, 1994, pursuant to the Transaction. This agreement was again
amended effective January 1, 1995, changing commission rates charged by ERMA to
Aetna. Under this amended and restated insurance services agreement among the
Company, ERMA and Aetna, ERMA was appointed as Aetna's underwriting manager and
received a commission in 1996 and 1995 of 24% (23% in 1994) of the portion of
premiums written reported by ERMA to Aetna. The Company paid a commission to
ERMA equal to ERMA's costs of producing business for the Company. Additionally,
ERMA paid an override to Aetna of 3% of gross premiums written with respect to
Aetna D&O policies issued through ERMA. As the Company met certain financial
tests, the 3% override was discontinued on July 1, 1996. The business
underwritten by ERMA on behalf of Aetna generally was reinsured 50% by ERII
through December 31, 1996. ERII paid a ceding commission of 3% of premiums
reinsured for premium taxes plus ERII's share of certain costs of ERMA related
to this business. ERII entered into several quota share reinsurance treaties
with Aetna. Under the largest reinsurance treaty, ERII assumed 50% of the risk
associated with the first $20 million of coverage provided by each D&O policy
issued by Aetna. Under the other reinsurance treaties, ERII assumed a portion of
the risk associated with up to $10 million of coverage provided by various D&O
and ancillary line coverages issued by Aetna. During 1996, 1995 and 1994, gross
premiums written assumed by ERII under the various agreements with Aetna were
approximately $13.8 million, $60.5 million and $97.7 million, respectively. On
February 13, 1997, the Company and Aetna entered into a series of agreements
whereby the Company released Aetna from its contractual obligation to issue D&O
exclusively through ERMA until December 31, 1999. As part of these agreements,
effective January 1, 1997, the Company assumes 100% of the D&O written by ERMA
on Aetna policies issued through ERMA (Note 16). UPEX underwrites, on behalf of
UAP, policies providing D&O coverage up to a maximum policy limit of $25
million, subject to certain foreign currency adjustments, of which the Company
generally assumed a 50% participation in 1996 and 1995 and a 15% participation
in 1994. The Company, through ERII and ERSIC, cedes reinsurance to manage its
exposure to potential losses arising from risks it assumes or writes. The
largest reinsurance programs include the following: ERII and ERSIC entered into
quota share reinsurance treaties with Aetna, similar to those discussed above,
pursuant to which Aetna generally assumed 12.5% in 1996 and 1995 and 50% in 1994
of the risk associated with D&O policies issued by ERII and ERSIC. Gross
premiums written ceded by ERII and ERSIC under the various agreements with Aetna
were approximately $28.2 million, $13.4 million and $3.9 million in 1996, 1995
and 1994, respectively. In connection with the Company releasing Aetna from its
contractual obligation to issue D&O exclusively through ERMA, effective January
1, 1997, Aetna is no longer a 12.5% quota share reinsurer of D&O policies issued
by ERII and ERSIC (Note 16). ERII and ERSIC have entered into an excess of loss
reinsurance arrangement
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principally with Underwriters at Lloyd's ("Lloyd's").
The Company's D&O reinsurance provides for 100% reinsurance protection (20% in
1994) on losses incurred in excess of $2.5 million up to a limit of $10 million,
subject to aggregate limits and other restrictions. For 1996 and 1995, ERII and
ERSIC also have entered into a D&O quota share reinsurance treaty, with various
reinsurers, generally covering 90% of losses in excess of $10 million up to a
limit of $25 million, subject to certain limitations. For the Company's D&O
coverages assumed from UAP in 1996 and 1995, ERII has entered into a quota share
reinsurance treaty, with various reinsurers, which generally provides for 70%
reinsurance protection on losses incurred, subject to certain restrictions.
Effective January 1, 1996 and subject to certain limitations, the Company's
Lawyers Professional Liability product is reinsured, through a number of
domestic and international markets, in a combination quota share and excess of
loss reinsurance program whereby the Company retains more of the risk insured on
lower limit policies and cedes more of the risk insured on higher limit
policies. This program limits the Company's exposure to slightly under $5
million on a policy with a maximum limit of $50 million. For the Company's other
E&O and ancillary D&O coverages, ERII and ERSIC have entered into quota share
reinsurance treaties, with various reinsurers, which generally provide for
between 75% and 90% reinsurance protection on losses incurred, subject to
certain restrictions. Entering into reinsurance arrangements does not discharge
the Company's obligation to pay policy claims on the reinsured business. The
ceding insurer remains responsible for policy claims without regard to the
extent the reinsurer pays such claims.
The components of the Company's premiums written and earned were as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
(In thousands) 1996 1995 1994
Premiums Written
Direct $ 305,265 $ 134,312 $ 25,735
Assumed 26,820 76,328 104,464
Ceded (121,709) (65,519) (21,914)
Net Premiums Written $ 210,376 $ 145,121 $ 108,285
Premiums Earned
Direct $ 195,201 $ 71,071 $ 12,529
Assumed 48,463 91,604 93,486
Ceded (87,880) (46,241) (11,054)
Net Premiums Earned $ 155,784 $ 116,434 $ 94,961
Ceded loss and loss adjustment expenses amounted to $48.3 million, $25.1 million
and $2.9 million in 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. A portion of the
Company's ceded reinsurance is placed with Lloyd's syndicates. To date, the
Company has not experienced any reinsurance recoverable defaults. Further,
Lloyd's syndicates have established trust funds securing their obligations to
U.S. cedants.
NOTE 6 - CREDIT AGREEMENT
On November 9, 1994, the Company entered into a credit facility agreement with
Chase, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York and The Fleet National Bank of
Connecticut (formerly Shawmut Bank Connecticut, N.A.) (the "Banks"). Proceeds of
the loan were used to repay $20 million outstanding under a previously existing
facility, and the balance was used for general corporate purposes. At December
31, 1994, the interest rate on the loan was 6.83%.
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During December 1995, the Company renegotiated certain terms of the above
agreement, and a new agreement was signed on December 20, 1995 (the "Closing
Date"). The facility was structured in two parts as follows: The term loan of
$25 million remained fully drawn on the Closing Date. An additional $25 million
of borrowings was available to the Company under a revolving credit facility.
This facility terminated 364 days from the Closing Date but was renewable,
subject to the approval of the Banks, at the Company's option, for four
additional 364-day periods. A fee was assessed on the unborrowed portion of the
revolving credit facility.
During the second quarter of 1995, the Company entered into an interest rate
swap agreement to modify the interest characteristics of the $25 million
outstanding debt from a floating to a semi-fixed interest rate basis. Under the
terms of the swap transaction, the borrowing rate for the Company was 6.92% at
December 31, 1995. The fair value of the swap agreement was not recognized in
the financial statements. The swap was effective from May 15, 1995 through March
26, 1996.
On March 26, 1996, in connection with the repurchase of Common Stock from Aetna,
the Company borrowed $70 million under the terms of the Senior Credit Facility
arranged through Chase. The proceeds of the loan were utilized as follows: $38
million to partially finance the repurchase of Common Stock and Class B Common
Stock from Aetna (Note 3), $25 million to refinance the Company's previously
existing debt, and $7 million for general corporate purposes. In addition, the
Company has obtained through Chase a $25 million revolving credit facility. The
Company has no current plans to draw funds under the revolving credit facility.
On May 31, 1996, as required under the term loan agreement in connection with
the Senior Credit Facility, the Company entered into an interest rate protection
agreement providing interest rate protection for an aggregate notional amount
equal to 50% of the principal outstanding under the term loan. This interest
rate protection agreement effectively converted a portion of the Company's
floating rate debt to a fixed rate basis. Including the interest rate protection
agreement, the all-in borrowing rate for the Company was 7.09% at December 31,
1996. The fair value of the interest rate protection agreement was not
recognized in the financial statements.
In connection with the Senior Credit Facility, the Company pledged the stock of
its direct subsidiary, Executive Re, and Executive Re pledged the stock of its
direct subsidiary, ERII. The terms of the credit agreements required, among
other things, that the Company maintain certain defined minimum consolidated net
worth and combined statutory surplus levels, and certain debt leverage,
premiums-to-surplus and fixed charge ratios, and placed restrictions on the
payment of dividends, the incurrence of additional debt, the sale of assets, the
making of acquisitions and the incurrence of liens.
Interest paid on debt totaled $3.9 million, $1.8 million and $1.3 million in
1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.
The carrying value of the loan approximates its fair value. On February 5, 1997,
in connection with a capital securities offering by a trust established by the
Company, the Company repaid the $70 million outstanding under the term loan
portion of the Senior Credit Facility and terminated the associated interest
rate protection agreement on the term loan (Note 16).
NOTE 7 - INVESTMENT INFORMATION
Fixed Maturities: The amortized cost and fair value of investments in fixed
maturities as of December 31, 1996 and 1995 were as follows:
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Gross Gross
Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Fair
(In thousands) Cost Gains Losses Value
1996
United States Government
or agency securities $ 24,621 $ 178 ($ 65) $ 24,734
Obligations of states and political
subdivisions 424,012 15,403 (134) 439,281
Corporate securities 91,528 1,463 (136) 92,855
Mortgage and other
asset backed securities 60,911 1,168 (124) 61,955
Foreign governments 1,517 50 -- 1,567
$ 602,589 $ 18,262 ($ 459) $ 620,392
1995
United States Government
or agency securities $ 20,955 $ 477 ($ 1) $ 21,431
Obligations of states and political
subdivisions 390,161 19,463 (4) 409,620
Corporate securities 50,360 2,276 -- 52,636
Mortgage and other
asset backed securities 17,015 1,083 -- 18,098
Foreign governments 1,644 56 -- 1,700
$ 480,135 $ 23,355 ($ 5) $ 503,485
Realized capital gains and losses on sales of fixed maturities were as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
(In thousands) 1996 1995 1994
Gross realized
capital gains $ 1,913 $ 175 $ 544
Gross realized
capital losses (2,071) (1,649) (1,092)
The amortized cost and fair value of investments in fixed maturities at December
31, 1996 are shown below by effective maturity dates except that for mortgage
and other asset backed securities, maturities are calculated using expected
maturity dates, which are based on historic cash flow patterns. Effective
maturities will differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have
the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment
penalties.
Amortized Fair
(In thousands) Cost Value
Due in one year or less $ 39,828 $ 40,326
Due after one year through five years 186,136 190,586
Due after five years through ten years 355,725 368,075
Due after ten years 20,900 21,405
$602,589 $620,392
Changes in unrealized gains and losses were as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
(In thousands) 1996 1995 1994
Fixed maturities ($ 5,547) $ 27,369 ($22,790)
Equity securities 4,408 6,320 (685)
Investment Income: The components of net investment income were as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
(In thousands) 1996 1995 1994
Fixed maturities
Taxable $ 8,672 $ 5,052 $ 4,916
Tax-exempt 22,400 20,242 16,701
Dividends 637 868 409
Short-term investments 1,714 1,132 1,019
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33,423 27,294 23,045
Investment expenses 777 588 548
Net investment income $32,646 $26,706 $22,497
NOTE 8 - STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Preferred Stock: The Company has 4,000,000 preferred shares authorized at
December 31, 1996 and 1995, with no shares issued or outstanding.
Treasury Shares: On November 3, 1995, the Board of Directors approved a one-year
stock repurchase program to repurchase shares of the Company's Common Stock up
to a maximum of $6.0 million (200,000 shares), at prevailing prices in open
market or negotiated transactions. Under this program, in 1995 the Company
purchased 128,950 shares at an average price of $24.185 per share. These
repurchased shares are held in treasury at December 31, 1996, generally for use
in connection with employee stock option exercises and other employee benefit
plans. Pursuant to the Aetna stock repurchase (Note 3), all 1,225,000 shares of
Class B Common Stock and 1,286,300 shares of Common Stock were repurchased at a
per share price of $29.875 and held in treasury during the first quarter of
1996. In connection with the Secondary Offering, the 300,000 shares of Common
Stock for the over-allotment option (at a net per share price of $32.25) were
issued from shares held in treasury. On May 10, 1996, the Board of Directors
approved a resolution to retire all 1,225,000 shares of Class B Common Stock
held in treasury.
Common Stock Purchase Warrants: There were 1,000,000 Common Stock Purchase
Warrants outstanding prior to the 30,000 warrants previously owned by ERMA being
retired in connection with the Transaction discussed in Note 3. In connection
with the Offering, all of the remaining Warrants were exercised. The exercise
price in respect of Warrants to purchase 550,000 shares of Common Stock was paid
by the delivery to the Company of 458,336 shares of Common Stock, valued for its
purpose at a per share price equal to the per share price to the public of
Common Stock sold in the Offering (i.e., $12). The remaining Warrants were
exercised by the payment to the Company of cash, resulting in proceeds to the
Company of $4.2 million during 1994. There were no warrants outstanding at
December 31, 1996 and 1995. Stock Option Plans: The Company applies APB 25 and
related interpretations in accounting for its stock-based compensation plans.
Under APB 25, compensation expense for stock option and award plans is
recognized as the difference between the fair value of the stock at the date of
grant less the amount, if any, the employee or director is required to pay. The
Company has a Nonqualified Stock Option Plan and an Employee Incentive
Nonqualified Stock Option Plan whereby key employees may be granted options to
purchase shares of the Company's Common Stock at a price not less than the fair
market value of such shares (as determined by the Committee on Directors and
Compensation of the Company's Board of Directors) at the date on which the
options are granted.
In November 1990, the Company adopted the IPO Stock Compensation Plan (the "IPO
Plan") under which Share Units were granted to certain key employees. On the
date of the closing of the Offering, the Share Units were converted into the
right to receive 161,905 stock options to purchase Common Stock at an exercise
price equal to 30% of the average closing price of the Common Stock for the
30-day period immediately preceding that date. Options representing one-half of
the total award were granted on March 22, 1995 to those specified employees
employed by the Company on that date. The other half were granted on March 22,
1996 to those specified employees still employed by the Company on that date.
Information with respect to the employee stock options was as follows:
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1996 1995
Weighted Weighted
Average Average
Number of Exercise Number of Exercise
Shares Price Shares Price
Outstanding at beginning of year 1,292,304 $12.77 1,329,350 $13.33
Granted 219,202 20.54 101,104 7.42
Exercised (31,137) 12.53 (131,312) 14.29
Forfeited (15,075) 17.95 (6,838) 13.44
Outstanding at end of year 1,465,294 $13.89 1,292,304 12.77
Options exercisable at end of year 1,066,418 $12.26 768,042 12.20
Shares reserved under option plans 2,847,551 -- 2,878,688 --
Weighted average fair value of
options granted during the year $18.92 -- $12.52 --
In connection with the majority of options exercised in 1995, promissory
notes were issued in favor of the Company. In 1994, the Company had 3,010,000
shares reserved under the employee stock option plans, with 583,050 shares
exercisable at December 31, 1994. 1,340,550 options were outstanding at January
1, 1994 and 11,200 options were forfeited during the year. 1,329,350 options
were outstanding at December 31, 1994, at a weighted average exercise price of
$13.33.
The following table summarizes information about the Company's employee stock
options outstanding at December 31, 1996.
Options Outstanding Options Exercisable
Average
Remaining
Range of Number of Average Contractual Number of Average
Exercise Prices Options Price Life (Years) Options Price
$ 4.88 - $10.00 229,044 $ 7.80 6.3 229,044 $ 7.80
$12.00 - $20.00 1,102,500 13.52 5.8 837,374 13.49
$26.00 - $34.00 133,750 27.36 9.3 -- --
$ 4.88 - $34.00 1,465,294 $13.89 6.2 1,066,418 $12.26
The Company has adopted a Nonemployee Directors Option Plan (the "Directors
Plan") to provide its nonemployee directors with stock-based incentive
compensation. The Directors Plan is intended to relate director compensation to
the financial performance of the Company and the market value of the Common
Stock. Information with respect to the Directors Plan options was as follows:
1996 1995
Weighted Weighted
Average Average
Number of Exercise Number of Exercise
Shares Price Shares Price
Outstanding at beginning of year 83,026 $ 10.89 59,798 $ 9.48
Granted 11,242 24.25 24,148 14.43
Exercised (6,725) 4.89 (920) 12.00
Forfeited (5,258) 15.22 -- --
Outstanding at end of year 82,285 $ 12.93 83,026 $ 10.89
Options exercisable at end of year 72,176 $ 11.12 58,878 $ 9.44
Shares reserved under
option plans 492,355 -- 499,080 --
Weighted average fair value of
options granted during the year $ 18.92 -- $ 10.02 --
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In 1994, the Company had 500,000 shares reserved under the Directors Plan,
with 42,020 shares exercisable at December 31, 1994. 59,798 options were granted
and outstanding at December 31, 1994, at a weighted average exercise price of
$9.48. The following table summarizes information about the Directors Plan stock
options outstanding at December 31, 1996.
Options Outstanding Options Exercisable
Average
Remaining
Range of Number of Average Contractual Number of Average
Exercise Prices Options Price Life (Years) Options Price
$ 3.32 - $11.51 20,058 $ 4.78 7.8 17,726 $ 4.16
$12.00 40,100 12.00 7.3 40,100 12.00
$17.25 - $30.75 22,127 21.99 8.7 14,350 17.25
$ 3.32 - $30.75 82,285 $ 12.93 7.8 72,176 $ 11.12
In connection with the aforementioned employee and director stock option plans,
the Company accrued compensation expense, under APB 25, for the years ended
December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, of approximately $0.7 million, $1.5 million
and $1.2 million, respectively. Stock Incentive and Performance Share Plans: In
November 1995, the Board of Directors approved two long-term stock-based
incentive compensation plans, the Stock Incentive Plan (the "SIP") and the
Performance Share Plan (the "PSP"), together referred to herein as the "1995
Plans." The SIP became effective as of January 1, 1996 and the PSP as of January
1, 1995. The Company has reserved 250,000 shares of Common Stock for issuance
under the SIP and 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock for issuance under the PSP,
subject to the restrictions set forth in each of the respective Plans, and to
the approval of the Committee on Directors and Compensation of the Board of
Directors. Under the SIP, employees are eligible to be granted stock "units,"
bearing a relationship to their respective cash bonuses under the Company's
Incentive Compensation Plan, which convert into shares of Common Stock upon
completion of the applicable vesting period (generally three years). Virtually
all employees are eligible to receive awards under the SIP with respect to any
fiscal year, other than those employees receiving awards under the PSP with
respect to that year. Under the PSP, certain key employees designated by the
Committee on Directors and Compensation are eligible to receive awards of
"performance share units" which convert into Common Stock and/or cash, as
determined by the Committee on Directors and Compensation, upon completion of
the performance period to which such awards relate. The amount of Common Stock
and/or cash, if any, to be received by participants in the PSP is dependent
upon, among other things, the financial performance of the Company during the
relevant performance period. The first performance period under the PSP is the
three year period beginning on January 1, 1995 and ending on December 31, 1997.
8,525 share units were granted in 1996 under the SIP, of which 500 share units
were subsequently forfeited. 83,050 performance share units were granted under
the PSP in 1996, of which 2,850 performance share units were subsequently
forfeited. The weighted average fair value of the share units and performance
share units granted during 1996 was $30.48 per share unit. The Company accrued
compensation expense, under APB 25, for the years ended December 31, 1996
and 1995 of approximately $1.8 million and $0.6 million, respectively, in
connection with the SIP and PSP. Supplemental and Pro Forma Disclosures: The
following pro forma information regarding net income and earnings per share,
required by SFAS 123, have been determined as if the Company had accounted for
its stock-based compensation plans under the fair value methods described in
that statement. The fair value of options and other awards granted under the
Company's stock-based compensation plans were estimated at the date of
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grant using a Black-Scholes option pricing model. The Black-Scholes option
pricing model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded
options which have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. In
addition, option pricing models require the input of highly subjective
assumptions including the expected dividend yield, the expected life of the
options, the expected price volatility and the risk-free interest rate. The
weighted average dividend yield for stock option grants during 1996 and 1995 was
.26% and .47%, respectively. The weighted average expected life for 1996 and
1995 was 8.8 years and 9.3 years, respectively. The weighted average volatility
for 1996 and 1995 was .27% and .28%, respectively. The weighted average
risk-free interest rate for 1996 and 1995 was 6.36% and 7.10%, respectively.
For purposes of pro forma disclosures, the estimated fair value of the options
and stock awards is amortized to expense over the options' and awards' vesting
period and does not include grants prior to January 1, 1995. As such, the pro
forma net income and earnings per share are not indicative of future years. The
Company's pro forma information was as follows:
(In thousands, except per share data)
1996 1995
Net income As reported $ 28,105 $ 25,286
Pro forma 27,040 25,665
Primary earnings
per share As reported $ 2.67 $ 2.11
Pro forma 2.60 2.20
Fully diluted earnings
per share As reported $ 2.67 $ 2.11
Pro forma 2.58 2.17
Rights Plan: The Company has adopted a Shareholder Rights Plan (the "Rights
Plan"). When exercisable, each Right entitles the registered holder to purchase
from ERI one share of Common Stock at a price of $60.32 per share, subject to
adjustment. The Rights Plan has certain anti-takeover effects. The Rights will
cause substantial dilution to a person or group that attempts to acquire the
Company on terms not approved by the Board of Directors.
Retained Earnings: ERII and ERSIC are subject to state regulatory restrictions
which limit the maximum amount of dividends payable. Subject to certain net
income carryforward provisions as described below, ERII must obtain approval of
the Insurance Commissioner of the State of Delaware in order to pay, in any
12-month period, "extraordinary" dividends which are defined as those in excess
of the greater of 10% of surplus as regards policyholders as of the prior
year-end and statutory net income less realized capital gains for such prior
year. Dividends may be paid by ERII only out of earned surplus. In addition,
ERII must provide notice to the Insurance Commissioner of the State of Delaware
of all dividends and other distributions to shareholders within five business
days after declaration and at least ten days prior to payment. Further, ERII may
not pay an "extraordinary" dividend until thirty days after the Delaware
Commissioner has received notice of such dividend and has either (i) not
disapproved such dividend within such 30-day period or (ii) approved such
dividend within such 30-day period. ERSIC must obtain approval of the Insurance
Commissioner of the State of Connecticut in order to pay, in any 12-month
period, "extraordinary" dividends which are defined as those in excess of the
greater of 10% of surplus as regards policyholders as of the prior year-end and
statutory net income for such prior year. The Connecticut law further provides
that (i) ERSIC must report to the Connecticut Commissioner, for informational
purposes, all dividends and other distributions within fifteen business days
after the declaration thereof and (ii) ERSIC may not pay any dividend or
29
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distribution in excess of its earned surplus, as reflected in its most recent
statutory annual statement on file with the Connecticut Commissioner, without
such Commissioner's approval. Under applicable insurance law, the retained
exposure of ERII or ERSIC on any one risk cannot exceed 10% of its statutory
capital and surplus.
NOTE 9 - RELATED PARTIES The investments of the Company have been managed by
Conning & Company), a stockholder of the Company. The related agreement
associated with this service stipulates annual fees based on the aggregate
invested assets of the Company. The management contract with Conning & Company
expires in June 1997. The aggregate payments by the Company under this agreement
were approximately $0.6 million in 1996 and $0.5 million in each of 1995 and
1994.
Note 10 - Retirement Plans The Company maintains a defined contribution
retirement plan (the "Plan") covering substantially all employees. Under the
Plan, the Company contributes 4% of total compensation up to the social security
wage base. Thereafter, the Company contributes 8% of the total compensation that
exceeds this wage base. In addition, employees may contribute up to 10% of total
compensation to the Plan. This employee contribution is matched by the Company
according to several factors, including the Company's average return on equity
for the three preceding years and whether the employee is an officer of the
Company and/or its subsidiaries. The Company also maintains the Benefit
Equalization Plan (the "BEP"), a supplemental, nonqualified defined contribution
plan. The BEP covers certain officers of the Company for the portion of
retirement contributions, as determined by the provisions of the Plan, which
exceed IRS limitations on contributions and eligible compensation. Amounts
contributed by the Company to these retirement plans were $1.7 million, $1.3
million and $1.1 million in 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. These amounts
include contributions in respect of service in prior years with the Company.
The Company has entered into a Supplemental Pension Agreement (the "SPA") with
its Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") and AL&C which replaced the 1988 retirement
arrangement among the parties, under which the Company had previously accrued an
unfunded, non-tax qualified defined benefit. Under the SPA and the CEO's
Employment Agreement, (i) the CEO participates in the Plan and the BEP, to the
same extent as other Company employees and (ii) the Company has an obligation to
make premium payments on a life insurance policy in the initial amount of $1
million owned by an irrevocable trust established by the CEO, a so-called
"split-dollar" arrangement. On January 21, 1997, the Company announced that its
CEO (and Chairman) will retire as an officer and director on May 30, 1997. The
current Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer has been elected by the Board
of Directors to become Chairman effective May 30, 1997. The current President
and Chief Underwriting Officer of the Company will succeed the CEO, retaining
his title as President. The Company's obligation to make additional
contributions to the Plan and the BEP on behalf of the retiring CEO will end
with his retirement. The Company's obligation to make premium payments on the
life insurance policy as described above will continue.
Note 11 - Income Taxes Income tax expense (benefit) is comprised of the
following:
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Year Ended December 31,
(In thousands) 1996 1995 1994
Paid or payable on
currently taxable
income:
Federal $ 13,240 $ 9,875 $ 8,435
State 961 15 320
Net decrease due to
deferred income taxes (7,567) (5,036) (5,222)
Income tax expense $ 6,634 $ 4,854 $ 3,533
The provision for income taxes varies from the amount which would be computed
using the federal statutory income tax rate as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
(In thousands) 1996 1995 1994
Pre-tax income $ 34,739 $ 30,140 $ 22,773
Application of the federal
statutory tax rate - 35% $ 12,159 $ 10,549 $ 7,970
Tax effect of:
Tax-exempt interest (6,676) (6,059) (4,973)
State income taxes 625 10 208
Dividends received
and other 526 354 328
Total income tax provision $ 6,634 $ 4,854 $ 3,533
Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences
between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial statement
reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Significant
components of the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities are summarized
as follows:
December 31,
(In thousands) 1996 1995 1994
Deferred tax assets:
Loss reserve
discounting $ 30,871 $ 24,178 $ 21,134
Unearned premiums 9,462 5,750 3,807
Unrealized losses
on investments -- -- 1,595
Other 4,518 4,544 2,166
Total deferred tax assets 44,851 34,472 28,702
Valuation allowance -- -- (854)
Deferred tax liabilities:
Deferred acquisition
costs 7,707 5,510 3,692
Unrealized gains
on investments 9,475 9,842 --
Other 1,400 783 273
Total deferred tax liabilities 18,582 16,135 3,965
Net deferred tax assets $ 26,269 $ 18,337 $ 23,883
Income taxes paid were $12.4 million, $10.6 million and $7.3 million in
1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.
NOTE 12 - UNPAID LOSS AND LOSS ADJUSTMENT EXPENSES The following table sets
forth the activity in unpaid loss and loss adjustment expenses ("LAE"), net of
reserves for reinsured loss and LAE, for the years indicated.
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Year Ended December 31,
(In thousands) 1996 1995 1994
Reserves for losses and LAE
at beginning of period,
gross $ 324,416 $ 254,758 $ 215,151
Reinsurance recoverable
at beginning of period (33,531) (8,958) (6,053)
Reserves for losses and LAE
at beginning of period, net 290,885 245,800 209,098
Provision for losses and LAE for
current year claims 112,107 83,775 68,304
Decrease in estimated ultimate
losses and LAE
for prior year claims (6,772) (5,245) (4,133)
Total incurred losses and LAE 105,335 78,530 64,171
Adjustment for foreign exchange
loss on unpaid loss and LAE (23) 58 27
Loss and LAE payments for
claims attributable to:
Current year 2,239 792 587
Prior years 13,811 32,711 26,909
Total payments 16,050 33,503 27,496
Reserves for losses and LAE
at end of period, net 380,147 290,885 245,800
Reinsurance recoverable
at end of period 76,916 33,531 8,958
Reserves for losses and LAE
at end of period,
gross $ 457,063 $ 324,416 $ 254,758
NOTE 13 - PRESCRIBED OR PERMITTED STATUTORY PRACTICES ERII and ERSIC, which are
domiciled in Delaware and Connecticut, respectively, prepare their statutory
financial statements in accordance with accounting principles and practices
prescribed or permitted by their respective state insurance departments.
Prescribed statutory accounting practices include state laws, regulations and
general administrative rules, as well as a variety of publications of the
National Association of Insurance Commissioners ("NAIC"). Permitted statutory
accounting practices encompass all accounting practices that are not prescribed;
such practices differ from state to state, may differ from company to company
within a state and may change in the future. Furthermore, the NAIC has a project
to codify statutory accounting practices, the result of which is expected to
constitute the only source of "prescribed" statutory accounting practices.
Accordingly, that project will likely change the definitions of what comprises
prescribed versus permitted statutory accounting practices and may result in
changes to the accounting policies that insurance companies use to prepare their
statutory financial statements. ERII and ERSIC follow prescribed accounting
practices in preparing their statutory financial statements, in all material
respects.
NOTE 14 - RECONCILIATION - GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES BASIS TO
STATUTORY BASIS The following table reconciles consolidated net income and
stockholders' equity as reported herein on the basis of GAAP with ERII's
consolidated statutory basis income and consolidated statutory basis capital and
surplus. ERII's consolidated results include those of its wholly owned
subsidiary, ERSIC.
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Year Ended December 31,
(In thousands) 1996 1995 1994
Consolidated GAAP income $ 28,105 $ 25,286 $ 19,240
Eliminate parent company loss 5,037 2,183 867
ERII consolidated GAAP income 33,142 27,469 20,107
Add (subtract) GAAP adjustments:
Deferred acquisition costs (11,754) (3,221) (4,275)
Deferred income tax benefits (6,213) (4,348) (3,182)
Other 13 24 17
ERII consolidated statutory income $ 15,188 $ 19,924 $ 12,667
Consolidated GAAP stockholders'
equity $ 144,775 $ 177,725 $ 130,854
Eliminate parent company deficit 64,843 663 9,973
ERII consolidated GAAP
stockholders' equity 209,618 178,388 140,827
Add (subtract) GAAP adjustments:
Deferred acquisition costs (29,090) (17,336) (14,115)
Deferred income tax benefits (22,207) (16,109) (21,843)
Adjust invested assets
to statutory value (17,753) (21,824) 3,883
Other (2,163) (1,654) (1,351)
ERII consolidated statutory
capital and surplus $ 138,405 $ 121,465 $ 107,401
NOTE 15 - CONSOLIDATED QUARTERLY DATA (UNAUDITED)
First Second Third Fourth
(In thousands, except per share data) Quarter Quarter Quarter Quarter Year
1996
Net premiums earned $ 33,913 $ 36,425 $ 41,066 $ 44,380 $155,784
Net investment income 7,375 7,450 8,389 9,432 32,646
Income before income taxes 8,763 6,722 8,103 11,151 34,739
Federal and state income tax expense 1,538 1,162 1,359 2,575 6,634
Net Income 7,225 5,560 6,744 8,576 28,105
Earnings per common share
- assuming full dilution(1) 0.60 0.56 0.67 0.85 2.67
Common Stock price range (2)
- High 33 38 1/4 38 1/2 42 42
- Low 26 1/4 29 1/4 33 3/8 34 1/8 26 1/4
1995
Net premiums earned $ 25,287 $ 28,012 $ 30,549 $ 32,586 $116,434
Net investment income 6,284 6,406 6,761 7,255 26,706
Income before income taxes 6,041 8,774 7,490 7,835 30,140
Federal and state income tax expense 743 1,705 1,298 1,108 4,854
Net Income 5,298 7,069 6,192 6,727 25,286
Earnings per common share
- assuming full dilution 0.45 0.59 0.51 0.56 2.11
Common Stock price range (2)
- High 17 1/8 19 23 7/8 29 29
- Low 13 5/8 16 5/8 18 1/2 22 13 5/8
(1) The sum of the 1996 quarters' earnings per share does not equal the full
year's per share amount. (2) The stock price range is based on closing prices
reported by Bloomberg L.P. The Company paid quarterly dividends of $0.02 per
share in 1996 and 1995. The Company currently intends to continue paying regular
cash dividends on a quarterly basis. See Notes 6 and 8 for information on
potential restrictions on the payment of future dividends. As of February 26,
1997, the approximate number of common shareholders of
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record was 94.
NOTE 16 - SUBSEQUENT EVENT
On February 5, 1997, the Company formed Executive Risk Capital Trust (the
"Trust"), a Delaware statutory business trust, the common securities of which
are owned by the Company. The Trust sold 125,000 8.675% Series A Capital
Securities ($1,000 per Capital Security) (the "Capital Securities") to certain
institutional accredited investors pursuant to SEC Rule 144A and Regulation S.
The Trust used the $125 million of proceeds received from the sale of the
Capital Securities to purchase Junior Subordinated Debentures (the "Debentures")
from the Company. The Company utilized the $123.5 million of net proceeds as
follows: $70 million to repay the amount outstanding under the term loan portion
of the Senior Credit Facility, $45 million to make a surplus contribution to
ERII and $8.5 million for general corporate purposes.
Holders of the Capital Securities will be entitled to receive cumulative cash
distributions, accumulating from the date of original issuance and payable
semi-annually in arrears on February 1 and August 1 of each year at an annual
rate of 8.675%. Interest on the Debentures, and hence distributions on the
Capital Securities, may be deferred to the extent set forth in the applicable
instrument. The Capital Securities are subject to mandatory redemption on
February 1, 2027, at a redemption price equal to the principal amount of, plus
accrued but unpaid distributions on, the Debentures.
The Capital Securities are also prepayable in certain other specified
circumstances at a prepayment price which includes a make-whole premium and in
certain other cases without a make-whole premium. Payments of distributions and
other amounts due on the Capital Securities have been guaranteed by the Company
to the extent set forth in the applicable guarantee instrument.
On February 13, 1997, the Company and Aetna entered into a series of agreements
whereby the Company released Aetna from its contractual obligation to issue D&O
exclusively through ERMA until December 31, 1999, and Aetna may therefore begin
to compete with the Company on D&O sooner than it otherwise could have. In
exchange, Aetna has agreed that, effective January 1, 1997, Aetna is no longer a
12.5% quota share reinsurer of the Company's direct D&O business. Additionally,
effective January 1, 1997, the Company assumes 100% of the D&O written by ERMA
on Aetna policies as compared to 50% in 1996 and prior years. Due to these
changes, in 1997 the Company will pay less in ceded premiums, and generally
retain slightly more risk, than if it had continued the prior reinsurance
arrangements with Aetna.
34