SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
X QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
- OF THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED JUNE 30, 2001
OR
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
- OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Commission file number 1-7933
Aon Corporation
---------------
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
DELAWARE 36-3051915
-------- ----------
(State or Other Jurisdiction of (IRS Employer
Incorporation or Organization) Identification No.)
200 E. RANDOLPH ST., CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60601
- -------------------------------------- -----
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
(312) 381-1000
--------------
(Registrant's Telephone Number)
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant: (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities and Exchange Act
of 1934 during the preceding 3 months (or for such shorter period that the
Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days. YES X NO
--- ---
Number of shares of common stock outstanding:
No. Outstanding
Class as of 6-30-01
----- -------------
$1.00 par value Common 266,485,865
PART 1
Financial Information
Aon CORPORATION
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position
(millions) AS OF AS OF
JUNE 30, 2001 DEC. 31, 2000
---------------------------------
ASSETS (Unaudited)
Investments
Fixed maturities at fair value $ 2,252 $ 2,337
Equity securities at fair value 529 492
Short-term investments 2,414 2,325
Other investments 769 865
--------------- ---------------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS 5,964 6,019
CASH 765 1,118
RECEIVABLES
Insurance brokerage and consulting
services 7,227 6,952
Premiums and other 1,246 1,278
--------------- ---------------
TOTAL RECEIVABLES 8,473 8,230
EXCESS OF COST OVER NET ASSETS PURCHASED 3,449 3,427
OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS 481 489
OTHER ASSETS 3,334 2,968
--------------- ---------------
TOTAL ASSETS $ 22,466 $ 22,251
=============== ===============
AS OF AS OF
JUNE 30, 2001 DEC. 31, 2000
---------------------------------
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (Unaudited)
INSURANCE PREMIUMS PAYABLE $ 8,643 $ 8,212
POLICY LIABILITIES
Future policy benefits 1,064 1,054
Policy and contract claims 911 801
Unearned and advance premiums 1,947 1,935
Other policyholder funds 942 1,069
--------------- ---------------
TOTAL POLICY LIABILITIES 4,864 4,859
GENERAL LIABILITIES
General expenses 1,684 1,619
Short-term borrowings 204 309
Notes payable 1,746 1,798
Other liabilities 1,005 1,216
--------------- ---------------
TOTAL LIABILITIES 18,146 18,013
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
REDEEMABLE PREFERRED STOCK 50 50
COMPANY-OBLIGATED MANDATORILY REDEEMABLE
PREFERRED CAPITAL SECURITIES OF SUBSIDIARY
TRUST HOLDING SOLELY THE COMPANY'S JUNIOR
SUBORDINATED DEBENTURES 800 800
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Common stock - $1 par value 268 264
Paid-in additional capital 799 706
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (413) (377)
Retained earnings 3,056 3,127
Less - Treasury stock at cost (42) (118)
Deferred compensation (198) (214)
--------------- ---------------
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY 3,470 3,388
--------------- ---------------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 22,466 $ 22,251
=============== ===============
See the accompanying notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.
- 2 -
AON CORPORATION
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
(Unaudited)
SECOND QUARTER ENDED SIX MONTHS ENDED
-------------------------------- -------------------------------
(millions except per share data) JUNE 30, 2001 JUNE 30, 2000 JUNE 30, 2001 JUNE 30, 2000
--------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------
REVENUE
Brokerage commissions and fees .............................. $ 1,347 $ 1,203 $ 2,628 $ 2,408
Premiums and other .......................................... 492 491 1,000 959
Investment income ........................................... 78 125 100 262
--------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------
TOTAL REVENUE ............................................ 1,917 1,819 3,728 3,629
--------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------
EXPENSES
General expenses ............................................ 1,523 1,262 2,919 2,533
Benefits to policyholders ................................... 260 257 552 509
Interest expense ............................................ 31 33 67 64
Amortization of intangible assets ........................... 39 39 78 77
--------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------
TOTAL EXPENSES ........................................... 1,853 1,591 3,616 3,183
--------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAX, MINORITY INTEREST AND ACCOUNTING CHANGE 64 228 112 446
Provision for income tax .................................... 25 89 44 174
--------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------
INCOME BEFORE MINORITY INTEREST AND ACCOUNTING CHANGE .......... 39 139 68 272
Minority interest - 8.205% trust preferred capital securities (10) (10) (20) (20)
--------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------
INCOME BEFORE ACCOUNTING CHANGE ................................ 29 129 48 252
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, net of tax - - - (7)
--------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------
NET INCOME ..................................................... $ 29 $ 129 $ 48 $ 245
=============== =============== =============== ===============
Preferred stock dividends ................................... - - (1) (1)
--------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------
NET INCOME AVAILABLE FOR COMMON STOCKHOLDERS ................... $ 29 $ 129 $ 47 $ 244
=============== =============== =============== ===============
BASIC NET INCOME PER SHARE:
Before accounting change .................................... $ 0.11 $ 0.50 $ 0.18 $ 0.97
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle ......... - - - (0.03)
--------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------
Basic net income per share ...................... $ 0.11 $ 0.50 $ 0.18 $ 0.94
=============== =============== =============== ===============
DILUTIVE NET INCOME PER SHARE:
Before accounting change .................................... $ 0.11 $ 0.49 $ 0.17 $ 0.96
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle ......... - - - (0.03)
--------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------
Dilutive net income per share ................... $ 0.11 $ 0.49 $ 0.17 $ 0.93
=============== =============== =============== ===============
CASH DIVIDENDS PER SHARE PAID ON COMMON STOCK .................. $ 0.225 $ 0.22 $ 0.445 $ 0.43
=============== =============== =============== ===============
Dilutive average common and common equivalent shares outstanding 270.2 261.7 268.7 261.1
=============== =============== =============== ===============
See the accompanying notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.
- 3 -
AON CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(UNAUDITED)
SIX MONTHS ENDED
-------------------------------
JUNE 30, JUNE 30,
(millions) 2001 2000
-------------- -------------
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income ........................................................................... $ 48 $ 245
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, net of tax ................. - 7
Insurance operating assets and liabilities net of reinsurance ................... (45) 18
Amortization of intangible assets ............................................... 78 77
Depreciation and amortization of property, equipment and software ............... 90 88
Income taxes .................................................................... (87) 62
Special charge and purchase accounting liabilities .............................. 114 (73)
Valuation changes on investments, income on disposals and impairments ........... 96 (48)
Other receivables and liabilities - net ......................................... 2 (114)
-------------- -------------
CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES ....................................... 296 262
-------------- -------------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Sale of investments
Fixed maturities
Maturities .................................................................. 58 42
Calls and prepayments ....................................................... 47 80
Sales ....................................................................... 605 170
Equity securities ............................................................... 158 83
Other investments ............................................................... 27 183
Purchase of investments
Fixed maturities ................................................................ (630) (245)
Equity securities ............................................................... (146) (41)
Other investments ............................................................... (53) (260)
Sale / (purchase) of short-term investments - net .................................... (162) (2)
Acquisition of subsidiaries .......................................................... (70) (41)
Property and equipment and other - net ............................................... (112) (73)
-------------- -------------
CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES ........................................... (278) (104)
-------------- -------------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Treasury stock transactions - net ................................................... 19 (63)
Issuance (payments) of short-term borrowings - net .................................. (105) 101
Issuance of long-term debt .......................................................... - 250
Repayment of long-term debt ......................................................... (33) (31)
Interest sensitive, annuity and investment-type contracts
Deposits ........................................................................ 5 35
Withdrawals ..................................................................... (134) (239)
Cash dividends to stockholders ...................................................... (118) (111)
-------------- -------------
CASH USED IN FINANCING ACTIVITIES ........................................... (366) (58)
-------------- -------------
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH ................................................ (5) (7)
-------------- -------------
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH ............................................................ (353) 93
CASH AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD ............................................................ 1,118 837
-------------- -------------
CASH AT END OF PERIOD .................................................................. $ 765 $ 930
============== =============
See the accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
- 4 -
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. Statement of Accounting Principles
----------------------------------
The financial results included in this report are stated in conformity
with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States and
are unaudited but include all normal recurring adjustments which the
Registrant ("Aon") considers necessary for a fair presentation of the
results for such periods. These interim figures are not necessarily
indicative of results for a full year as further discussed below.
Refer to the consolidated financial statements and notes in the Annual
Report to Stockholders for the year ended December 31, 2000 for
additional details of Aon's financial position, as well as a
description of the accounting policies which have been continued
without material change. The details included in the notes have not
changed except as a result of normal transactions in the interim and
the events mentioned in the footnotes below.
2. Accounting and Disclosure Changes
---------------------------------
In December 1999, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) issued
Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) No. 101, which provides guidance for
applying generally accepted accounting principles relating to the
timing of revenue recognition in financial statements filed with the
SEC. Effective January 1, 2000, in accordance with the provisions of
SAB 101, Aon established a provision for estimated returned commissions
from policy cancellations. In 1999 and previous years, Aon recognized
returned commissions when they occurred. The cumulative effect of this
accounting change was an after-tax charge of $7 million or $0.03 per
share in the first quarter of 2000.
In September 2000, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB)
issued Statement No. 140, Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of
Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities. Statement No. 140
replaces Statement No. 125 and revises the standards for accounting for
securitizations and other transfers of financial assets and collateral
and requires certain disclosures. Statement No. 140 became effective
for all transfers of financial assets occurring after March 31, 2001.
Implementation of Statement No. 140 did not have a material impact on
the consolidated financial statements.
In June 2001, the FASB approved the issuance of Statement No. 142,
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. Statement No. 142 supercedes
Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 17. Under this statement,
goodwill and indefinite lived intangible assets are no longer amortized
but are reviewed annually, or more frequently if impairment indicators
arise, for impairment. Separable intangible assets that have finite
lives will continue to be amortized over their useful lives. The
amortization provisions of Statement No. 142 apply to goodwill and
intangible assets acquired after June 30, 2001. With respect to
goodwill and intangible assets acquired prior to July 1, 2001,
amortization will be discontinued effective as of January 1, 2002. The
full impact of applying this statement is yet to be determined.
However, reported earnings for Aon are expected to increase by at least
$0.36 per share on an annualized basis beginning in 2002.
- 5 -
3. Spin-Off of Underwriting Business
---------------------------------
On April 20, 2001, Aon's Board of Directors approved, in principle, a
plan to spin-off its underwriting business to Aon's common
stockholders, creating two independent, publicly-traded companies. The
spin-off would take the form of a tax-free stock dividend to Aon's
common stockholders, pending a favorable Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
ruling. The transaction is subject to final Board approval, a favorable
IRS ruling, and certain insurance regulatory approvals.
4. Comprehensive Income
--------------------
The components of comprehensive income, net of related tax, for the
second quarter and six months ended June 30, 2001 and 2000 are as
follows:
Second Quarter Ended Six Months Ended
-------------------- ----------------
(millions) June 30, 2001 June 30, 2000 June 30, 2001 June 30, 2000
------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Net income $ 29 $ 129 $ 48 $ 245
Net derivative losses - - (12) -
Net unrealized investment gains (losses) 3 (8) 22 (5)
Net foreign exchange losses (3) (48) (46) (80)
------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Comprehensive income $ 29 $ 73 $ 12 $ 160
============= ============= ============= =============
The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of related
tax, at June 30, 2001 and December 31, 2000, are as follows:
(millions) June 30, 2001 December 31, 2000
------------- -----------------
Net derivative gains (losses) $ (6) $ 6
Net unrealized investment losses (50) (72)
Net foreign exchange losses (313) (267)
Net additional minimum pension liability (44) (44)
----------- -------------
Accumulated other comprehensive loss $ (413) $ (377)
=========== =============
5. Business Segments
-----------------
Aon classifies its businesses into three operating segments based on
the types of services and/or products delivered. There is also a fourth
non-operating segment, Corporate and Other. The Insurance Brokerage and
Other Services segment consists primarily of Aon's retail, reinsurance
and wholesale brokerage operations, as well as managing general
underwriting, actuarial, loss control, claims, alternative risk
transfer and premium financing services. Certain service businesses
related to insurance underwriting operations are also reflected in this
segment. The Consulting segment is Aon's human capital consulting
organization which utilizes four practice groups: employee benefits,
compensation, management consulting and employment practices
outsourcing. The Insurance
- 6 -
Underwriting segment is comprised of accident and health and life
coverages and extended warranty and specialty property and casualty
insurance products. Corporate and Other segment revenues consist
primarily of investment income from equity investments that are assets
of the underwriting subsidiaries. Revenues are derived from valuation
changes in limited partnerships, investment income from certain other
investments (which include non-income producing equities) and income
and losses on disposals of all securities, including those pertaining
to assets maintained by the operating segments. Corporate and Other
expenses include general expenses, administrative and certain
information technology costs, interest expense and goodwill
amortization.
Amounts reported in the tables for the four segments, when aggregated,
total to the amounts in the accompanying condensed consolidated
financial statements. Revenues are attributed to geographic areas based
on the location of the resources producing the revenues. There are no
material inter-segment amounts to be eliminated.
Selected information reflecting Aon's operating segments follows.
Second Quarter ended June 30: Insurance Brokerage Insurance
(millions) and Other Services Consulting Underwriting
------------------- ---------- ------------
2001 2000 2001 2000 2001 2000
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
Revenue
United States $ 602 $ 545 $ 157 $ 109 $ 393 $ 394
United Kingdom 238 238 37 40 70 81
Continent of Europe 161 143 16 14 33 28
Rest of World 153 139 19 17 52 49
- ------------------------------------------- --------------- -------------- -- ------------ ----------- -- ------------ -----------
Total revenue $ 1,154 $ 1,065 $ 229 $ 180 $ 548 $ 552
- ------------------------------------------- --------------- -------------- -- ------------ ----------- -- ------------ -----------
Income before income taxes
excluding special charges $ 195 $ 182 $ 30 $ 23 $ 79 $ 79
Special charges 117 - 6 - 23 -
- ------------------------------------------- --------------- -------------- -- ------------ ----------- -- ------------ -----------
Income before income taxes $ 78 $ 182 $ 24 $ 23 $ 56 $ 79
- ------------------------------------------- --------------- -------------- -- ------------ ----------- -- ------------ -----------
Six Months ended June 30: Insurance Brokerage Insurance
(millions) and Other Services Consulting Underwriting
------------------ ---------- ------------
2001 2000 2001 2000 2001 2000
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
Revenue
United States $ 1,143 $ 1,069 $ 292 $ 208 $ 799 $ 770
United Kingdom 443 442 73 79 150 159
Continent of Europe 401 369 38 36 61 54
Rest of World 284 259 38 33 105 99
- ------------------------------------------- --------------- -------------- -- ------------ ----------- -- ------------ -----------
Total revenue $ 2,271 $ 2,139 $ 441 $ 356 $ 1,115 $ 1,082
- ------------------------------------------- --------------- -------------- -- ------------ ----------- -- ------------ -----------
Income before income taxes
excluding special charges $ 391 $ 362 $ 55 $ 42 $ 147 $ 146
Special charges 187 - 7 - 24 -
- ------------------------------------------- --------------- -------------- -- ------------ ----------- -- ------------ -----------
Income before income taxes $ 204 $ 362 $ 48 $ 42 $ 123 $ 146
- ------------------------------------------- --------------- -------------- -- ------------ ----------- -- ------------ -----------
- 7 -
Selected information for Aon's non-operating segment follows:
Corporate and Other Second Quarter ended June 30, Six Months ended June 30,
----------------------------- ----------------------------
(millions) 2001 2000 2001 2000
- ----------------------------------------------------- ------------- --------------- --------------- ------------
Corporate and other revenue:
Change in valuation of private limited
partnership investments $ (7) $ 32 $ (63) $ 60
Income from marketable equity securities
and other investments 3 1 4 4
------------- --------------- --------------- ------------
Corporate and other revenue before loss
on disposals and related expenses (4) 33 (59) 64
Gain (loss) on disposals and related
expenses* (10) (11) (40) (12)
- ----------------------------------------------------- ------------- --------------- --------------- ------------
Corporate and other revenue $ (14) $ 22 $ (99) $ 52
- ----------------------------------------------------- ------------- --------------- --------------- ------------
Non-operating expenses:
Amortization of goodwill $ 29 $ 29 $ 58 $ 56
Interest expense 31 33 67 64
General expenses 20 16 39 36
- ----------------------------------------------------- ------------- --------------- --------------- ------------
Loss before income taxes $ (94) $ (56) $ (263) $ (104)
- ----------------------------------------------------- ------------- --------------- --------------- ------------
<FN>
* Six months 2001 includes impairment write-downs of $29 million.
</FN>
6. Capital Stock
-------------
During the first six months of 2001, Aon reissued 2,216,600 shares of
common stock from treasury for employee benefit plans and 331,500
shares in connection with the employee stock purchase plan. Aon
acquired 114,900 shares of its common stock at a total value of $3.9
million during the first half of 2001. There were 1.3 million shares of
common stock held in treasury at June 30, 2001.
7. Capital Securities
------------------
In 1997, Aon Capital A, a subsidiary trust of Aon, issued $800 million
of 8.205% mandatorily redeemable preferred capital securities (capital
securities). The sole asset of Aon Capital A is $824 million aggregate
principal amount of Aon's 8.205% Junior Subordinated Deferrable
Interest Debentures due January 1, 2027.
8. Business Combinations
---------------------
For the second quarter and six months of 2001, Aon made payments of $4
million and $8 million, respectively, on restructuring charges and
purchase accounting liabilities relating to business combinations.
In 1996 and 1997, Aon recorded pretax special charges of $60 million
and $145 million, respectively, related to management's commitment to a
formal plan of restructuring Aon's brokerage operations as
- 8 -
a result of the acquisition of Alexander & Alexander Services, Inc.
(A&A). Also in 1997, following management's commitment to a formal plan
of restructuring the A&A and Bain Hogg brokerage operations, Aon
recorded $264 million in costs to restructure those acquisitions.
These charges primarily related to termination benefits of $152
million, lease abandonments and other exit costs of $280 million, and
asset impairments of $37 million. As of December 31, 2000, all
termination benefits have been paid. The remaining liability of $70
million is for lease abandonments that will be paid through 2009.
The following table demonstrates recent activity regarding the lease
abandonments and other exit costs associated with the A&A and Bain Hogg
acquisitions:
(millions) Lease Abandonments and Other
Exit Costs
-----------------------------
Balance at December 31, 1998 $ 155
Cash payments in 1999 and 2000 (77)
Charge to expense in 1999 and 2000 6
Cash payments in 2001 (6)
Foreign currency revaluation (8)
-------------
Balance at June 30, 2001 $ 70
=============
The combination of 1998 acquisitions and the finalization of purchase
accounting for the 1997 Jauch & Hubener acquisition resulted in $70
million of purchase accounting liabilities. In 1999, a charge of $120
million was recorded for a plan to restructure Aon's operations as a
result of business combination activity. These charges primarily
related to termination benefits of $107 million, the related pension
expense of $32 million, lease abandonments and other exit costs of $41
million, and asset impairments of $10 million. As of June 30, 2001
these liabilities have been reduced to termination benefits of $3
million and lease abandonments and other costs to exit an activity of
$3 million.
All of Aon's unpaid liabilities relating to acquisitions are reflected
in general expense liabilities in the condensed consolidated statements
of financial position.
9. Business Transformation Plan
----------------------------
In fourth quarter 2000, Aon commenced a business transformation plan.
This plan has been implemented during the fourth quarter of 2000 and
the first half of 2001 and will continue throughout 2001 and 2002.
Pretax special charges of $82 million, $72 million and $146 million
were recorded in fourth quarter 2000, and the first and second quarters
of 2001, respectively, and are recorded in general expenses in the
condensed consolidated statements of income. The charge in second
quarter 2001 included costs related to termination benefits of $85
million, other costs to exit an activity of $18 million and other
charges of $43 million, primarily relating to costs for the abandonment
of systems and equipment. For the six months 2001, charges included
costs related to termination benefits of $108 million, other costs to
exit an activity of $21 million and other charges of $89 million
primarily relating to costs for the abandonment of systems and
equipment as well as to end Aon's involvement in certain joint ventures
and service partner relationships that did not meet profitability
hurdles.
Since the beginning of the plan in the fourth quarter of 2000, nearly
4,000 employees have been notified that their positions have been or
will be eliminated. Over half of those have already departed
- 9 -
Aon. Most of these positions were related to the Insurance Brokerage
and Other Services segment in the U.S. and the U.K.
For the second quarter and first six months of 2001, Aon made payments
of $27 million and $49 million, respectively, related to the business
transformation plan.
The following demonstrates the activity related to the liability for
termination benefits and other costs to exit an activity for the
business transformation plan.
Other Costs
Termination to Exit an
(millions) Benefits Activity Total
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expense charged in 2000 $ 54 $ 6 $ 60
Cash payments in 2000 (13) (3) (16)
Expense charged in 2001 108 21 129
Cash payments in 2001 (37) (12) (49)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance at June 30, 2001 $ 112 $ 12 $ 124
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
All of Aon's unpaid liabilities relating to the business transformation
plan are reflected in general expense liabilities in the condensed
consolidated statements of financial position.
10. Income Per Share
----------------
Income per share is calculated as follows:
Second Quarter ended June 30, Six Months ended June 30,
----------------------------- -------------------------
(millions) 2001 2000 2001 2000
-------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------- ------------- -----------
Net income $ 29 $ 129 $ 48 $ 245
Redeemable preferred stock dividends - - 1 1
-------------- -------------- ------------- -----------
Net income for dilutive and basic $ 29 $ 129 $ 47 $ 244
============== ============== ============= ===========
Basic shares outstanding 268 259 266 259
Common stock equivalents 2 3 3 2
-------------- -------------- ------------- -----------
Dilutive potential common shares 270 262 269 261
-------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------- ------------- -----------
Basic net income per share $ 0.11 $ 0.50 $ 0.18 $ 0.94
Dilutive net income per share $ 0.11 $ 0.49 $ 0.17 $ 0.93
-------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------- ------------- -----------
11. Alexander & Alexander Services Inc. (A&A) Discontinued Operations
-----------------------------------------------------------------
A&A discontinued its property and casualty insurance underwriting
operations in 1985, some of which were then placed into run-off, with
the remainder sold in 1987. In connection with those sales, A&A
provided indemnities to the purchasers for various estimated and
potential liabilities, including provisions to cover future losses
attributable to insurance pooling arrangements, a stop-loss reinsurance
agreement, and actions or omissions by various underwriting agencies
previously managed by an A&A subsidiary. As of June 30, 2001, the
liabilities associated with the foregoing
- 10 -
indemnities and liabilities of insurance underwriting subsidiaries that
are currently in run-off were included in other liabilities in the
accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial position.
Such liabilities amounted to $120 million, net of reinsurance
recoverables and other assets of $161 million, and would be
substantially reduced if a February, 2000 ruling from the Court of
Appeal in England favorable to A&A, in respect of which right to appeal
has been granted, were upheld in a decision expected in or around 2002.
12. Contingencies
-------------
Aon and its subsidiaries are subject to numerous claims, tax
assessments and lawsuits that arise in the ordinary course of business.
The damages that may be claimed are substantial, including in many
instances claims for punitive or extraordinary damages. Accruals for
these items have been provided to the extent that losses are deemed
probable and are estimable.
In 1998, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) proposed adjustments to the
tax of certain Aon subsidiaries for the period of 1990 through 1993.
Most of these adjustments should be resolved through factual
substantiation of certain accounting matters. However, the IRS has
contended that retro-rated extended warranty contracts do not
constitute insurance for tax purposes. Accordingly, the IRS has
proposed a deferral of deductions for obligations under those
contracts. The effect of such deferral would be to increase the current
tax obligations of certain Aon subsidiaries by approximately $74
million, $3 million, $5 million and $12 million (plus interest) in
years 1990, 1991, 1992, and 1993, respectively. Aon believes that the
IRS's position is without merit and inconsistent with numerous previous
IRS private letter rulings. Aon has commenced an administrative appeal
and intends to contest vigorously such treatment. Aon believes that if
the contracts are deemed not to be insurance for tax purposes, they
would be recharacterized in such a way that the increased taxes for the
years in question would be far less than the proposed assessments.
In the second quarter of 1999, Allianz Life Insurance Company of North
America, Inc. ("Allianz") filed an amended complaint in Minnesota
adding a brokerage subsidiary of Aon as a defendant in an action which
Allianz brought against three insurance carriers reinsured by Allianz.
These three carriers provided certain types of workers' compensation
reinsurance to a pool of insurers and to certain facilities managed by
Unicover Managers, Inc. ("Unicover"), a New Jersey corporation not
affiliated with Aon. Allianz alleges that the Aon subsidiary acted as
an agent of the three carriers when placing reinsurance coverage on
their behalf. Allianz claims that the reinsurance it issued should be
rescinded or that it should be awarded damages, based on alleged
fraudulent, negligent and innocent misrepresentations by the carriers,
through their agents, including the Aon subsidiary defendant. Aon
believes that the Aon subsidiary has meritorious defenses and the Aon
subsidiary intends to vigorously defend this claim.
Except for an action filed to compel Aon to produce documents, which
has been settled, the Allianz lawsuit is the only lawsuit or
arbitration relating to Unicover in which any Aon-related entity is
currently a party.
Certain U.K. subsidiaries of Aon have been required by their regulatory
body, the Personal Investment Authority (PIA), to review advice given
by those subsidiaries to individuals who bought pension plans during
the period from April 1988 to June 1994. These reviews have resulted in
a requirement to pay compensation to clients based on guidelines issued
by the PIA. Aon's ultimate exposure from the private pension plan
review, as presently calculated, is subject
- 11 -
to a number of variable factors including, among others, general level
of pricing in the equity markets, the interest rate established
quarterly for calculating compensation, and the precise scope, duration
and methodology of the review, including whether recent regulatory
guidance will have to be applied to previously settled claims.
Although the ultimate outcome of all matters referred to above cannot
be ascertained and liabilities in indeterminate amounts may be imposed
on Aon or its subsidiaries, on the basis of present information,
amounts already provided, availability of insurance coverages and legal
advice received, it is the opinion of management that the disposition
or ultimate determination of such claims will not have a material
adverse effect on the consolidated financial position of Aon. However,
it is possible that future results of operations or cash flows for any
particular quarterly or annual period could be materially affected by
an unfavorable resolution of these matters.
13. Acquisitions
------------
In February 2001, Aon announced that it had entered into a definitive
agreement to acquire ASI Solutions Incorporated (ASI), a worldwide
provider of human resources administration and compensation consulting
services. The transaction involved an exchange of Aon common stock and
was completed on May 9, 2001. ASI has been accounted for as a purchase.
In May 2001, Aon announced that it had entered into a definitive
agreement to acquire First Extended, Inc., an administrator of extended
contract products. The transaction involved an exchange of
approximately 2 million shares of Aon common stock and was completed
on July 24, 2001. It will be accounted for as a purchase in accordance
with the new authoritative guidance on business combinations and
goodwill.
14. Subsequent Event
----------------
In July 2001, Aon acquired the common stock of two entities controlled
by Aon's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. The acquisition was
financed by the issuance of approximately 22 million shares of Aon
common stock and has been accounted for as a purchase. The two acquired
entities owned, in the aggregate, approximately 22 million shares of
Aon common stock, which will be included in Treasury Stock, and had
additional net assets totaling $6 million. This transaction did not
have a material effect on total assets, liabilities or stockholders'
equity.
- 12 -
AON CORPORATION
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
SECOND QUARTER ENDED JUNE 30, 2001
GENERAL
- -------
Aon has three operating segments: Insurance Brokerage and Other Services,
Consulting and Insurance Underwriting. These segments are based on the type of
client and the services or products delivered. Aon has a fourth, non-operating
segment, Corporate and Other.
References to organic revenue growth exclude the impact of acquisitions,
dispositions, transfers, investment income, foreign exchange and other unusual
items. Within the Insurance Underwriting segment, written premiums are the basis
for the measurement of organic growth. References to income before income tax
are before minority interest related to the issuance of 8.205% mandatorily
redeemable preferred capital securities and the cumulative effect of a change in
accounting principle. For purposes of operating segment discussions, comparisons
against 2000 results exclude special charges.
INFORMATION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------
This quarterly report may contain certain statements relating to future results,
which are forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private
Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are
subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to
differ materially from historical results or those anticipated, depending on a
variety of factors such as general economic conditions in different countries
around the world, fluctuations in global equity and fixed income markets,
changes in commercial property and casualty premium rates, the competitive
environment, the actual cost of resolution of contingent liabilities, the final
form of the business transformation plan, the ultimate cost and timing of the
implementation thereof, the actual cost savings and other benefits resulting
therefrom, whether the Company ultimately implements the proposed spin-off of
its underwriting operations, and the timing and terms associated therewith.
SPIN-OFF OF UNDERWRITING BUSINESS
- ---------------------------------
As previously disclosed, on April 20, 2001, Aon's Board of Directors approved,
in principle, a plan to spin-off its underwriting business to Aon's common
stockholders, creating two independent, publicly traded companies. The spin-off
would take the form of a tax-free stock dividend to Aon's common stockholders.
The transaction is subject to final Board approval, a favorable Internal Revenue
Service ruling, and certain insurance regulatory approvals.
BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION PLAN
- ----------------------------
In November 2000, Aon's Board of Directors approved a comprehensive business
transformation plan designed to enhance client service, significantly improve
the way Aon conducts business and improve profitability primarily through
utilization of technology and process redesign.
Implementation of the business transformation plan began in fourth quarter 2000
and will continue throughout 2001 and into 2002. As originally projected, total
plan costs, which include transition expenses, are expected to be less than $325
million on a pretax basis. The majority of the plan costs and
- 13 -
savings are related to the Insurance Brokerage and Other Services segment,
principally in the U.S. and the United Kingdom, where most of Aon's offices and
employees are located. Slightly more than half of the total charges involve cash
outlays for severance payments related to job eliminations. The net reductions
of approximately 3,000 positions are in line with our previous announcements
after considering new hires resulting from Aon's evaluation of work
processes, changing job functions and service center locations.
In connection with the plan, Aon recorded pretax special charges of $146 million
($89 million after tax or $0.33 per share) during second quarter 2001. For six
months, pretax special charges were $218 million ($133 million after tax or
$0.49 per share). For the quarter, special charges of $85 million were incurred
which related to termination benefits and involved notification to approximately
2,000 employees. Charges of $61 million were incurred for asset impairment,
primarily relating to the abandonment of systems and equipment, and other
charges. Year-to-date, charges of $108 million were taken which related to
termination benefits and involved about 3,200 employees. As part of the business
transformation, Aon examined its marginal return non-core business alliances and
took a pretax charge of $50 million, of which $38 million was taken in the first
quarter, to end Aon's involvement in certain joint ventures and service partner
relationships that did not meet profitability hurdles. It also allowed Aon to
further reduce headcounts. Charges of $60 million were incurred for asset
impairments, primarily relating to the abandonment of systems and equipment, and
other charges. Transition costs, primarily related to our core operating
businesses, were approximately $2 million in the second quarter and $5 million
for the first six months 2001 and consisted of consulting fees and employee
benefits. Future transition costs, that are not expected to exceed $25 million
in total, are related to the transition phase from previous operating models to
reconfigured operating platforms and will impact future periods.
Annualized pretax savings from the plan are estimated to be approximately $150
million to $200 million. The annualized savings are expected to begin at the
lower end of the range in fourth quarter 2001, and increase within the range in
2002 as transition costs related to the business transformation plan are
eliminated. Savings generated to date in 2001 were offset, in part, by
transition costs. As Aon progresses through the next several quarters, more
business process change and additional position eliminations will drive cost
savings. As expected, temporary revenue growth rate declines occurred related to
the transformation and may continue to occur during the implementation of the
plan.
CONSOLIDATED RESULTS
- --------------------
Total revenue increased $98 million or 5% when compared to second quarter 2000.
Excluding the effect of foreign exchange rates, revenues rose 8% over second
quarter 2000, attributable to growth in brokerage commissions and fees, which
more than offset a decline in investment income. Consolidated revenue for the
operating segments grew approximately 8% on an organic basis over last year. For
the first six months, revenue rose $99 million or 3% over last year. Excluding
the effects of foreign exchange rates, revenues increased 6%. Improvements in
brokerage commissions and fees as well as premiums earned were somewhat negated
by a decline in investment income.
Brokerage commissions and fees increased $144 million or 12% in second quarter
2001 and $220 million or 9% on a year-to-date basis. This improvement was
primarily from organic growth, business combination activity, especially
Actuarial Sciences Associates, Inc. (ASA) which was acquired in the fourth
quarter 2000, increased new business and the impact of increased property and
casualty premium rates.
Premiums and other is primarily related to insurance underwriting operations.
Premiums and other improved $1 million over second quarter 2000, and increased
$41 million or 4% in the first six months of 2001, compared with the same period
last year. In the second quarter, growth in the accident and health lines was
offset by loss of some accounts in the warranty business, a general slowdown of
the market and unfavorable
- 14 -
foreign exchange rates. The increase in premiums earned for the first six months
primarily reflects new business initiatives, continued organic growth and the
impact of acquisitions.
Investment income, which includes related expenses and income or loss on
disposals and impairments, decreased significantly in both the second quarter
and six months 2001 when compared to prior year, primarily reflecting reduced
valuations of equity investments in limited partnerships for both the quarter
and year-to-date. The six-month comparison is also negatively impacted by the
impairment recorded for certain directly owned equity investments in the first
quarter 2001. Revenues from private equity investments fluctuate due to the
inherent volatility of equity investments. Investment income from insurance
brokerage and other services, and consulting operations, primarily relating to
fiduciary funds, decreased $7 million and $3 million in second quarter and six
months 2001, respectively, compared to similar periods in 2000, primarily as a
result of declines in interest rates.
Total expenses increased $262 million or 16% over second quarter 2000 due
partially to the inclusion of special charges in 2001. Total expenses, excluding
the special charges, rose 7%. General expenses increased $261 million or 21% in
the quarter primarily reflecting special charges of $146 million related to the
business transformation plan, along with investments in new business initiatives
and technology. Interest expense declined $2 million or 6%, driven by lower
average debt levels and lower short-term interest rates.
For six months, total expenses increased $433 million or 14% over 2000, driven
by the inclusion of special charges this year. Excluding these charges, total
expenses rose $215 million or 7%. General expenses grew $386 million or 15%,
reflecting special charges of $218 million, along with expenditures for new
business initiatives and technology. Benefits to policyholders rose $43 million
or 8% as a result of new underwriting initiatives along with an unusual increase
in warranty claims during the first quarter 2001 related to an isolated program
that will not affect future quarters. Interest expense increased $3 million or
5% compared to prior year attributed to the substitution of short-term debt with
long-term debt in second quarter 2000.
For the quarter, income before income tax declined significantly from $228
million in 2000 to $64 million in 2001, due principally to the inclusion of 2001
special charges ($146 million) with no comparable amount in second quarter 2000
as well as non-cash investment results (a negative $36 million change on a
period-to-period comparison). Similarly, six month 2001 results declined from
2000 by 75% to $112 million from $446 million due to 2001 special charges of
$218 million and a decline in consolidated investment income of $162 million.
As a result of these factors, second quarter 2001 net income declined to $29
million ($0.11 per dilutive share) compared to $129 million ($0.49 per dilutive
share) in 2000. Basic net income per share was $0.11 and $0.50 in second quarter
2001 and 2000, respectively. For the first six months 2001 net income declined
to $48 million ($0.17 per dilutive share) compared to $245 million ($0.93 per
dilutive share) in 2000. In 2000, the company adopted the Securities and
Exchange Commission's Staff Accounting Bulletin 101, which resulted in a
one-time cumulative non-cash charge of $7 million after-tax ($0.03 per share).
Basic net income per share, was $0.18 and $0.94 for the first six months 2001
and 2000, respectively. Dividends on the redeemable preferred stock have been
deducted from net income to compute income per share. The effective tax rate was
39% for both second quarter and six months 2001 and 2000, respectively.
- 15 -
OPERATING SEGMENTS
- ------------------
INSURANCE BROKERAGE AND OTHER SERVICES
- --------------------------------------
The Insurance Brokerage and Other Services segment consists principally of Aon's
retail, reinsurance and wholesale brokerage operations as well as managing
underwriting, actuarial, loss control, claims, alternative risk transfer and
premium financing services. This segment represented 60% and 61% of Aon's total
revenues for the second quarter and first six months of 2001, respectively.
Second quarter 2001 Insurance Brokerage and Other Services revenue was $1.2
billion, up 8% over last year. Excluding foreign exchange, revenues rose 11%.
Year-to-date, revenues of $2.3 billion improved 6% over the previous year. The
increase in both periods reflects strong organic growth, especially in the claim
services, international, wholesale and reinsurance brokerage sectors. Lower
investment income, driven by lower interest rates, negatively impacted the
quarter and year-to-date comparisons by $7 million and $4 million, respectively.
U.S. revenue of $602 million for the quarter was up 10% from 2000. For the first
six months, revenues climbed 7% to $1.1 billion. For both periods, the increase
reflects increased new business, growth in U.S. specialty operations, improved
pricing and acquisitions, which more than offset the direct and indirect impact
of the business transformation plan. As anticipated, new account generation
during 2001 grew at a slower rate in certain retail brokerage units as
operational changes were implemented to achieve long-term benefits of the plan.
Commercial property and casualty premium rate increases were evident for most
lines of coverage and client demand for risk retention programs and services has
risen along with the upward trend in premium rates. U. K. and Continent of
Europe revenues of $399 million for the second quarter and $844 million for the
first six months 2001 increased 5% and 4%, respectively, from 2000, primarily
due to organic growth and acquisitions. The impact of foreign exchange rates
partially offset this revenue growth. Rest of world revenue increased $14
million or 10% over second quarter 2000 and $25 million or 10% over the first
six months 2000 reflecting strong organic growth, new business, and to a lesser
extent, the impact of acquisitions. In the international retail brokerage
operations, premium rate comparisons have improved slightly over last quarter.
Pretax income was $78 million for the second quarter 2001. Excluding this year's
special charges, pretax income of $195 million rose 7% over 2000. Pretax
margins, excluding the charges, were 16.9% in the quarter compared to 17.1% in
2000. The margin decline was driven by lower interest rates on investment
income, along with significant growth in our claims service business, which has
lower margins. These items more than offset business transformation savings,
which includes a pension curtailment pretax gain of $8 million. Year-to-date,
pretax income was $204 million. Excluding special charges, pretax income rose 8%
to $391 million. Pretax margins excluding the charges were 17.2% for 2001,
versus 16.9% last year. The margin improvement was driven in part from business
transformation savings, but was negatively impacted by an increasing percentage
of lower margin claims service business and somewhat lower investment income.
CONSULTING
- ----------
The consulting segment provides a full range of services related to the
management of human capital, benefits and business processes. These services are
delivered to a predominately corporate clientele utilizing four practice groups:
employee benefits, compensation, management consulting and employment practices
outsourcing. The acquisition of ASI Solutions Incorporated (ASI) further
strengthened Aon's employment practices outsourcing and compensation consulting
services. This segment accounted for 12% of Aon's total revenues for both the
quarter and first six months of 2001.
- 16 -
Second quarter 2001 revenue increased 27% to $229 million. Excluding the impact
of a strong U.S. dollar, revenues grew 30%. For the first six months, revenues
of $441 million represent a 24% increase over 2001. Excluding the impact of
foreign exchange rates, the growth rate was 27%. For the second quarter 2001,
revenue grew 9% on an organic basis. On a global basis, the improvement in
revenue for both periods was influenced by acquisition activity, especially the
inclusion of ASA acquired in fourth quarter 2000, and to a lesser extent, ASI,
acquired in the second quarter 2001, as well as organic growth. Client demand
for solutions that enhance workforce productivity continued.
For the quarter, U.S. revenue of $157 million was up 44% from 2000, while
year-to-date revenue of $292 represents a 40% increase. In both periods, the
improvement reflects the acquisition of ASA and strong fundamental operating
performance, particularly in the employee benefits area. U.K. revenue declined
from 2000 by 7% and 8% for the second quarter and six months, respectively,
reflecting the sale of the financial planning consulting business last year,
along with unfavorable foreign exchange rates. Continent of Europe revenue rose
$2 million for the quarter and $2 million for six months compared to 2000.
Pretax income was $24 million for the quarter. Excluding this year's special
charges, pretax income improved 30% to $30 million. Year-to-date, pretax income
was $48 million. Excluding special charges, pretax income of $55 million was 31%
better than 2000. Pretax margins in this segment were 13.1% in the quarter
before special charges compared to 12.8% in 2000. For six months, pretax margins
before special charges rose from 11.8% in 2000 to 12.5% in 2001. Revenue growth
outpaced higher staffing costs, driven by the inclusion of the ASA and ASI
acquisitions, as well as expenses due to the growth of the business and higher
technology costs.
INSURANCE UNDERWRITING
- ----------------------
The Insurance Underwriting segment provides accident and health and life
insurance coverage through distribution networks, most of which are directly
owned by Aon's subsidiaries, and extended warranty and property and casualty
insurance products. This segment represented 29% and 30% of Aon's total revenues
for the second quarter and first six months of 2001, respectively.
Revenue was $548 million in second quarter 2001, down 1% from 2000. Excluding
the impact of foreign exchange, revenue growth was 2%. Year-to-date, revenues of
$1.1 billion in 2001 were a 3% increase over 2000. Excluding the impact of
exchange rates, revenues rose 6%. For both periods, improvement over last year
was driven by the development of new product initiatives and higher volume of
business in accident and health products, which continued to expand distribution
through worksite marketing programs. This growth more than offset the loss of
certain accounts in the electronics and special warranty businesses, declines in
other policyholder liabilities and the slowing general economy.
U.S. revenue declined $1 million in the second quarter 2001 to $393 million as
growth in revenues for accident and health products, due in part to acquired
business, as well as new product initiatives, were offset by declines in the
mechanical and electronic warranty products along with declines in other
policyholder liabilities. For six months 2001, revenues rose 4% from 2000 to
$799 million, reflecting higher revenues for accident and health products, due
in part to acquired business, as well as new product initiatives, which more
than offset a decline in mechanical warranty products. United Kingdom and
Continent of Europe revenue of $103 million fell 6% during the quarter, while
year-to-date, revenues fell 1% to $211 million. Unfavorable foreign exchange
rates and the slowdown of business in the warranty area offset organic growth in
the accident and health sector. Rest of world revenue was $52 million and $105
million for the second quarter and first six months 2001, up 6% over both the
second quarter and year-to-date periods in 2000, driven principally by growth in
Latin America.
- 17 -
Pretax income was $56 million for the quarter. Excluding this year's special
charges, pretax income was flat to last year at $79 million. Year-to-date,
pretax income was $123 million. Excluding special charges, pretax income of $147
million was 1% better than 2000. Pretax margins in this segment were 14.4% in
the quarter before special charges compared to 14.3% in 2000. For six months,
pretax margins before special charges fell from 13.5% in 2000 to 13.2% in 2001.
For both periods in 2001, new underwriting initiatives drove premium growth but
also resulted in increased benefits to policyholders. For the year-to-date
comparison, an unusual increase in warranty claims occurred during the first
quarter 2001 related to an isolated program that will not affect future
quarters.
NON-OPERATING SEGMENT
- ---------------------
CORPORATE AND OTHER
- -------------------
Revenue in this category consists primarily of investment income (including
income or loss on disposals, along with impairment losses) which is not
otherwise reflected in the results of the operating segments. Invested assets
and related investment income not directly required to support the insurance
brokerage and consulting businesses, together with the assets in excess of net
policyholder liabilities of the underwriting businesses and related income, are
allocated to the Corporate and Other segment. Corporate and Other expenses
include general expenses, administrative and certain information technology
costs, interest expense and goodwill amortization.
Corporate and Other revenue for the second quarter 2001 was a negative $14
million, versus positive revenue of $22 million in the second quarter 2000. For
six months 2001, revenue was a negative $99 million, versus positive revenue of
$52 million last year. The falloff in revenue in both periods primarily reflects
reduced valuations for equity investments in limited partnerships. The
year-to-date comparison is also affected by the write-down of certain directly
owned equity investments in the first quarter 2001. Revenues from private equity
investments fluctuate due to the inherent volatility of equity investments.
Limited partnership investments require longer time horizons to generate income.
Corporate and Other expenses for the quarter were $80 million, up $2 million
from the same period last year. Expenses in this segment are composed of
goodwill amortization, interest expense and general expenses. Interest expense
fell $2 million or 6% compared to prior year, reflecting lower interest rates as
well as lower debt levels. General expenses rose $4 million or 25% due to higher
occupancy costs, professional fees and human resource initiatives. For the first
six months of 2001, expenses were $164 million, an increase of $8 million from
the comparable period in 2000. Goodwill amortization rose $2 million as a result
of new acquisitions. Interest expense increased $3 million compared to prior
year, reflecting an extension of debt duration in second quarter 2000, while
general expenses rose $3 million, resulting from higher occupancy costs,
professional fees and human resource initiatives.
The revenue and expense comparisons discussed above contributed to the overall
Corporate and Other pretax loss of $94 million in the quarter versus a loss of
$56 million last year. The year-to-date loss of $263 million was $159 million
worse than 2000.
- 18 -
CASH FLOW AND FINANCIAL POSITION
AT THE END OF FIRST HALF 2001
Cash flows from operating activities represent the net income earned by Aon in
the reported periods adjusted for non-cash charges as well as changes in assets
and liabilities. Cash flows provided by operating activities for the first six
months 2001 were $296 million, a $34 million increase over the same period in
2000. The increase represents, in part, the net cash flow impact of special
charges and purchase accounting liabilities which was less than last year. First
half 2001 reflects after-tax special charges of $133 million, adjusted for
actual cash expended. First half 2000 reflects only actual payments on special
charge and purchase accounting liabilities previously established. Other
receivables and liabilities improved due to the timing of sold receivables at
our premium financing group. This was partially offset by the timing of income
tax payments and refunds. The non-cash effect of lower valuations on the
company's limited partnership portfolio, coupled with impairments on investments
and loss on disposals, was offset partially by lower net income.
Investing activities used cash of $278 million. Cash of $66 million was
provided during first half 2001 from the net sale of investments. This was
offset by the net purchase of short-term investments of $162 million. Cash used
for acquisition activity during the first six months 2001 was $70 million,
reflecting both brokerage and consulting acquisitions.
Cash of $366 million was used during the first six months 2001 for financing
activities, which was $308 million more than was utilized in 2000. The higher
usage of cash from last year is primarily due a reduction of short-term
borrowings in 2001 versus increasing short-term debt during last year's first
half. In addition, $250 million of long-term debt was issued in the second
quarter 2000. Cash was used to pay dividends of $117 million on common stock and
$1 million on redeemable preferred stock during first half 2001.
Aon's operating subsidiaries anticipate that there will be adequate liquidity to
meet their needs in the foreseeable future. Aon's liquidity needs are primarily
for servicing its debt and for the payment of dividends on stock issues and
capital securities. The businesses of Aon's operating subsidiaries continue to
provide substantial positive cash flow. Brokerage cash flow has been used
primarily for business reinvestment, acquisition financing and payments of
special charge and purchase accounting liabilities. Aon anticipates continuation
of the company's positive cash flow, the ability of the parent company to access
adequate short-term lines of credit, and sufficient cash flow.
Due to the contractual nature of its insurance policyholder liabilities, which
are primarily intermediate to long-term in nature, Aon has invested primarily in
fixed maturities. With a carrying value of $2.2 billion, Aon's total fixed
maturity portfolio is invested primarily in investment grade holdings (95%) and
has a fair value, which is 98.2% of amortized cost at June 30, 2001.
Total assets increased $215 million to $22.5 billion since year-end 2000.
Invested assets at June 30, 2001 decreased $55 million from year-end levels as
higher levels of short-term investments and equity securities were offset by
lower fixed maturity investments as well as lower valuations and impairment
charges in other investments. The amortized cost and fair value of less than
investment grade fixed maturity investments at June 30, 2001 were $129 million
and $116 million, respectively. The carrying value of non-income producing
investments in Aon's portfolio at June 30, 2001 was $63 million, or 1.1% of
total invested assets.
- 19 -
Short-term borrowings decreased at the end of second quarter 2001 by $105
million when compared to year-end 2000. Notes payable decreased at the end of
second quarter 2001 by $52 million when compared to year-end 2000 , reflecting
repayment of foreign debt.
Stockholders' equity increased $82 million in first half 2001, reflecting an
increase in paid-in additional capital of $93 million, as a result of shares
issued for the ASI acquisition. In addition, equity rose because of a net
decrease in treasury stock of $76 million, reflecting shares issued, and net
income of $48 million. Partially offsetting this increase were net foreign
exchange losses of $46 million and dividends paid to stockholders of $118
million. Unrealized investment gains and losses and foreign exchange gains and
losses fluctuations from period to period are largely based on market
conditions.
Stockholders' equity per share of $13.02 was unchanged from December 31, 2000.
The higher equity balance was offset by the increase in the number of shares
outstanding.
REVIEW BY INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
- ------------------------------
The condensed consolidated financial statements at June 30, 2001, and for the
six months then ended have been reviewed, prior to filing, by Ernst & Young LLP,
Aon's independent auditors, and their report is included herein.
- 20 -
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS' REVIEW REPORT
Board of Directors and Stockholders
Aon Corporation
We have reviewed the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of financial
position of Aon Corporation as of June 30, 2001, and the related condensed
consolidated statements of income for the three-month and six-month periods
ended June 30, 2001 and 2000, and the condensed consolidated statements of cash
flows for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2001 and 2000. These financial
statements are the responsibility of the Company's management.
We conducted our reviews in accordance with standards established by the
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. A review of interim
financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures to
financial data, and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and
accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in
accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States,
which will be performed for the full year with the objective of expressing an
opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do
not express such an opinion.
Based on our reviews, we are not aware of any material modifications that should
be made to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements referred
to above for them to be in conformity with accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States.
We have previously audited, in accordance with auditing standards generally
accepted in the United States, the consolidated statement of financial position
of Aon Corporation as of December 31, 2000, and the related consolidated
statements of income, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for the year then
ended, not presented herein, and in our report dated February 8, 2001, we
expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. In
our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying condensed
consolidated statement of financial position as of December 31, 2000, is fairly
stated, in all material respects, in relation to the consolidated statement of
financial position from which it has been derived.
ERNST & YOUNG LLP
Chicago, Illinois
August 9, 2001
- 21 -
PART II
-------
OTHER INFORMATION
-----------------
ITEM 2. CHANGES IN SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
Pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Merger dated July 16, 2001 (the "Merger
Agreement") among Aon, Holdco #1, Inc., a Delaware corporation and wholly owned
subsidiary of Aon ("Holdco #1"), Holdco #2, Inc., a Delaware corporation and
wholly owned subsidiary of Aon ("Holdco #2"), Ryan Holding Corporation of
Illinois, a Delaware corporation ("RHC"), Ryan Enterprises Corporation of
Illinois, a Delaware corporation ("REC"), Patrick G. Ryan, Shirley W. Ryan and
the stockholders of RHC and REC, who consisted solely of members of the Ryan
family or trusts controlled by members of the Ryan family, (1) Holdco #1 merged
with and into RHC (the "RHC Merger") with the result that the surviving
corporation became a wholly owned subsidiary of Aon and the stock of RHC
outstanding immediately prior to the RHC Merger was converted into an aggregate
13,992,089 shares of Aon Common Stock, and (2) Holdco #2 merged with and into
REC (the "REC Merger" and together with the RHC Merger, the "Mergers") with the
result that the surviving corporation became a wholly owned subsidiary of Aon
and the outstanding stock of REC outstanding immediately prior to the REC Merger
was converted into an aggregate 8,372,348 shares of Aon Common Stock. At the
time of the RHC Merger and the REC Merger, the sole assets of RHC and REC
consisted of an aggregate of 22,364,437 shares of Aon Common Stock and cash
aggregating $6 million more than the balance sheet liabilities of RHC and REC,
which consisted solely of bank indebtedness. The number of shares beneficially
owned by the Ryan family after the Mergers is the same as the number
beneficially owned by them prior to such Mergers.
The Mergers did not involve any underwriters, underwriting discounts or
commissions, or any public offering, and Aon believes that each transaction was
exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 by
virtue of Section 4(2) thereof regarding transactions not involving a public
offering and Rule 506 of Regulation D promulgated thereunder. The recipients of
securities in the Mergers represented their intention to acquire the securities
for investment only and not with a view to or for sale in connection with any
distribution therefor, such securities were restricted as to transfers and
appropriate legends were affixed to the share certificates issued for the
Mergers.
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) Exhibits - The exhibits filed with this report are listed on
--------
the attached Exhibit Index.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K - The Registrant filed one current report
-------------------
on Form 8-K dated April 20, 2001 for the quarter ended June
30, 2001, announcing that the company's Board of Directors had
approved, in principle, a plan to spin off its underwriting
business to its common shareholders. The following exhibit was
included in the report: Exhibit 99 - Press Release.
- 22 -
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
Aon Corporation
(Registrant)
August 14, 2001 /s/ Harvey N. Medvin
--------------------
HARVEY N. MEDVIN
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer and
authorized signatory on behalf of Registrant)
- 23 -
AON CORPORATION
- ---------------
Exhibit Number
In Regulation S-K
Item 601 Exhibit Table
- ----------------------
(10.1) Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated July 16, 2001 among Aon
Corporation, Ryan Holding Corporation of Illinois, Ryan Enterprises
Corporation of Illinois, Holdco #1, Inc., Holdco #2, Inc., Patrick G.
Ryan, Shirley W. Ryan and the stockholders of Ryan Holding Corporation
of Illinois and of Ryan Enterprises Corporation of Illinois set forth
on the signature pages thereto.
(10.2) Stock Restriction Agreement dated July 16, 2001 among Aon Corporation,
Patrick G. Ryan, Shirley W. Ryan, Patrick G. Ryan, Jr., Robert J.W.
Ryan, the Corbett M.W. Ryan Living Trust dated July 13, 2001, the
Patrick G. Ryan Living Trust dated July 10, 2001, the Shirley W. Ryan
Living Trust dated July 10, 2001, the 2001 Ryan Annuity Trust dated
April 20, 2001 and the Family GST Trust under the PGR 2000 Trust dated
November 22, 2000.
(10.3) Escrow Agreement dated July 16, 2001 among Aon Corporation, Patrick G.
Ryan, Shirley W. Ryan, Patrick G. Ryan, Jr., Robert J.W. Ryan, the
Corbett M.W. Ryan Living Trust dated July 13, 2001, the Patrick G. Ryan
Living Trust dated July 10, 2001, the Shirley W. Ryan Living Trust
dated July 10, 2001, the 2001 Ryan Annuity Trust dated April 20, 2001
and the Family GST Trust under the PGR 2000 Trust dated November 22,
2000 and American National Bank and Trust Company of Chicago, as escrow
agent.
(12) Statements regarding Computation of Ratios.
(a) Statement regarding Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed
Charges.
(b) Statement regarding Computation of Ratio of Earnings to
Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Stock Dividends.
(15) Letter re: Unaudited Interim Financial Information
- 24 -
EXHIBIT 12(a)
AON CORPORATION AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
COMBINED WITH UNCONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
COMPUTATION OF RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES
SIX MONTHS ENDED
JUNE 30, YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
--------------------- --------------------------------------------------------
(millions except ratios) 2001 2000 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996
--------- ---------- ---------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Income from continuing operations
before provision for income taxes
and minority interest (1) $ 112 $ 446 $ 854 $ 635 $ 931 $ 542 $ 446
ADD BACK FIXED CHARGES:
Interest on indebtedness 67 64 140 105 87 70 45
Interest on ESOP - - - 1 2 3 4
Portion of rents representative of
interest factor 27 25 54 49 51 44 29
--------- ---------- ---------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
INCOME AS ADJUSTED $ 206 $ 535 $ 1,048 $ 790 $ 1,071 $ 659 $ 524
========= ========== ========== ========= ========== ========= ==========
FIXED CHARGES:
Interest on indebtedness $ 67 $ 64 $ 140 $ 105 $ 87 $ 70 $ 45
Interest on ESOP - - - 1 2 3 4
Portion of rents representative of
interest factor 27 25 54 49 51 44 29
--------- ---------- ---------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
TOTAL FIXED CHARGES $ 94 $ 89 $ 194 $ 155 $ 140 $ 117 $ 78
========= ========== ========== ========= ========== ========= ==========
RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES 2.2 6.0 5.4 5.1 7.6 5.6 6.7
========= ========== ========== ========= ========== ========= ==========
<FN>
(1) Income from continuing operations before provision for income taxes and
minority interest includes special charges of $218 million for the six
months ended June 30, 2001 and $82 million, $313 million, $172 million and
$90 million for the years ended December 31, 2000, 1999, 1997 and 1996,
respectively.
</FN>
EXHIBIT 12(b)
AON CORPORATION AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
COMBINED WITH UNCONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
COMPUTATION OF RATIO OF EARNINGS TO COMBINED FIXED CHARGES
AND PREFERRED STOCK DIVIDENDS
SIX MONTHS ENDED
JUNE 30, YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
---------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------
(millions except ratios) 2001 2000 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996
---------- ---------- ----------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -----------
Income from continuing operations
before provision for income taxes
and minority interest (1) $ 112 $ 446 $ 854 $ 635 $ 931 $ 542 $ 446
ADD BACK FIXED CHARGES:
Interest on indebtedness 67 64 140 105 87 70 45
Interest on ESOP - - - 1 2 3 4
Portion of rents representative of
interest factor 27 25 54 49 51 44 29
---------- ---------- ----------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -----------
INCOME AS ADJUSTED $ 206 $ 535 $ 1,048 $ 790 $ 1,071 $ 659 $ 524
========== ========== =========== ========== ========== ========== ===========
FIXED CHARGES AND PREFERRED STOCK DIVIDENDS:
Interest on indebtedness $ 67 $ 64 $ 140 $ 105 $ 87 $ 70 $ 45
Preferred stock dividends 35 35 70 70 70 82 29
---------- ---------- ----------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -----------
INTEREST AND DIVIDENDS 102 99 210 175 157 152 74
Interest on ESOP - - - 1 2 3 4
Portion of rents representative of
interest factor 27 25 54 49 51 44 29
---------- ---------- ----------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -----------
TOTAL FIXED CHARGES AND PREFERRED
STOCK DIVIDENDS $ 129 $ 124 $ 264 $ 225 $ 210 $ 199 $ 107
========== ========== =========== ========== ========== ========== ===========
RATIO OF EARNINGS TO COMBINED FIXED
CHARGES AND PREFERRED STOCK DIVIDENDS (2) 1.6 4.3 4.0 3.5 5.1 3.3 4.9
========== ========== =========== ========== ========== ========== ===========
<FN>
(1) Income from continuing operations before provision for income taxes and
minority interest includes special charges of $218 million for the six
months ended June 30, 2001 and $82 million, $313 million, $172 million and
$90 million for the years ended December 31, 2000, 1999, 1997 and 1996,
respectively.
(2) Included in total fixed charges and preferred stock dividends are $33
million for the six months ended June 30, 2001 and 2000, $66 million for
the years ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998, and $64 million for the
year ended December 31, 1997, of pretax distributions on the 8.205%
mandatorily redeemable preferred capital securities which are classified
as "minority interest" on the condensed consolidated statements of income.
</FN>
Exhibit 15
Board of Directors and Stockholders
Aon Corporation
We are aware of the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements of
Aon Corporation ("Aon") described in the following table of our report dated
August 9, 2001 relating to the unaudited condensed consolidated interim
financial statements of Aon Corporation that are included in its Form 10-Q for
the quarter ended June 30, 2001:
Registration Statement
----------------------
Form Number Purpose
---- ------ -------
S-8 33-27984 Pertaining to Aon's savings plan
S-8 33-42575 Pertaining to Aon's stock award plan and
stock option plan
S-8 33-59037 Pertaining to Aon's stock award plan and
stock option plan
S-4 333-21237 Offer to exchange Capital Securities of
Aon Capital A
S-3 333-50607 Pertaining to the registration of
369,000 shares of common stock
S-8 333-55773 Pertaining to Aon's stock award plan,
stock option plan and employee
stock purchase plan
S-3 333-78723 Pertaining to the registration of debt
securities, preferred stock and
common stock
S-3 333-49300 Pertaining to the registration of
3,864,824 shares of common stock
S-4 333-57706 Pertaining to the registration of up to
3,852,184 shares of common stock
S-3 333-65624 Pertaining to the registration of
2,000,000 shares of common stock
Pursuant to Rule 436(c) of the Securities Act of 1933, our report is not a part
of the registration statements prepared or certified by accountants within the
meaning of Section 7 or 11 of the Securities Act of 1933.
ERNST & YOUNG LLP
Chicago, Illinois
August 9, 2001