10-Q 1 d359498d10q.htm FORM 10-Q Form 10-Q
Table of Contents

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

 

x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Quarterly Period Ended June 30, 2012

OR

 

¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Transition Period from             to             

Commission File No. 1-11778

ACE LIMITED

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Switzerland   98-0091805

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

Baerengasse 32

Zurich, Switzerland CH-8001

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

+41 (0)43 456 76 00

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

                                                         YES   x                                                 NO  ¨

Indicate by checkmark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

                                                         YES  x                                                 NO  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer  x

  Accelerated filer  ¨   Non-accelerated filer  ¨   Smaller reporting company  ¨

                                                 (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

                                                         YES   ¨                                                 NO  x

The number of registrant’s Common Shares (CHF 29.79 par value) outstanding as of July 18, 2012 was 339,092,347.


Table of Contents

ACE LIMITED

INDEX TO FORM 10-Q

 

              Page No.  

Part I.

  FINANCIAL INFORMATION   

Item 1.

 

Financial Statements:

  
 

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)
June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011

     3   
 

Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)
Three and Six Months Ended June 30, 2012 and 2011

     4   
 

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity (Unaudited)
Six Months Ended June 30, 2012 and 2011

     5   
 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
Six Months Ended June 30, 2012 and 2011

     7   
 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

  
 

Note 1.

  

Summary of significant accounting policies

     8   
 

Note 2.

  

Acquisitions

     9   
 

Note 3.

  

Investments

     10   
 

Note 4.

  

Fair value measurements

     15   
 

Note 5.

   Assumed life reinsurance programs involving minimum benefit guarantees under annuity contracts      26   
 

Note 6.

  

Commitments, contingencies, and guarantees

     29   
 

Note 7.

  

Shareholders’ equity

     35   
 

Note 8.

  

Share-based compensation

     36   
 

Note 9.

  

Segment information

     36   
 

Note 10.

  

Earnings per share

     40   
 

Note 11.

  

Information provided in connection with outstanding debt of subsidiaries

     41   

Item 2.

 

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

     47   

Item 3.

 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

     86   

Item 4.

 

Controls and Procedures

     92   

Part II.

 

OTHER INFORMATION

  

Item 1.

 

Legal Proceedings

     93   

Item 1A.

 

Risk Factors

     93   

Item 2.

 

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds and Issuer Repurchases of Equity Securities

     93   

Item 6.

 

Exhibits

     93   

 

2


Table of Contents

PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item  1. Financial Statements

ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Unaudited)

 

     June 30
2012
    December 31
2011
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars, except
share and per share data)
 

Assets

    

Investments

    

Fixed maturities available for sale, at fair value (amortized cost – $42,316 and $40,450) (includes hybrid financial instruments of $381 and $357)

   $ 44,386     $ 41,967  

Fixed maturities held to maturity, at amortized cost (fair value – $8,062 and $8,605)

     7,782       8,447  

Equity securities, at fair value (cost – $724 and $671)

     729       647  

Short-term investments, at fair value and amortized cost

     2,260       2,301  

Other investments (cost – $2,297 and $2,112)

     2,524       2,314  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investments

     57,681       55,676  

Cash

     617       614  

Securities lending collateral

     2,247       1,375  

Accrued investment income

     542       547  

Insurance and reinsurance balances receivable

     4,985       4,387  

Reinsurance recoverable on losses and loss expenses

     11,752       12,389  

Reinsurance recoverable on policy benefits

     257       249  

Deferred policy acquisition costs

     1,710       1,548  

Value of business acquired

     637       676  

Goodwill and other intangible assets

     4,826       4,799  

Prepaid reinsurance premiums

     1,775       1,541  

Deferred tax assets

     557       673  

Investments in partially-owned insurance companies (cost – $333 and $345)

     339       352  

Other assets

     2,776       2,495  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

   $ 90,701     $ 87,321  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities

    

Unpaid losses and loss expenses

   $ 36,850     $ 37,477  

Unearned premiums

     7,044       6,334  

Future policy benefits

     4,436       4,274  

Insurance and reinsurance balances payable

     3,490       3,542  

Deposit liabilities

     687       663  

Securities lending payable

     2,253       1,385  

Payable for securities purchased

     692       287  

Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other liabilities

     4,255       3,948  

Income taxes payable

     162       159  

Short-term debt

     1,401       1,251  

Long-term debt

     3,360       3,360  

Trust preferred securities

     309       309  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     64,939       62,989  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Commitments and contingencies

    

Shareholders’ equity

    

Common Shares (CHF 29.79 and CHF 30.27 par value; 342,832,412 shares issued; 339,060,885 and 336,927,276 shares outstanding)

     9,927       10,095  

Common Shares in treasury (3,771,527 and 5,905,136 shares)

     (206     (327

Additional paid-in capital

     5,075       5,326  

Retained earnings

     8,628       7,327  

Accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI)

     2,338       1,911  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total shareholders’ equity

     25,762       24,332  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

   $ 90,701     $ 87,321  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

 

3


Table of Contents

ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(Unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended
June  30
    Six Months Ended
June 30
 
         2012             2011             2012             2011      
    

(in millions of U.S. dollars,

except per share data)

 

Revenues

        

Net premiums written

   $ 4,130     $ 3,953     $ 7,702     $ 7,399  

Change in unearned premiums

     (347     (196     (538     (333
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net premiums earned

     3,783       3,757       7,164       7,066  

Net investment income

     537       569       1,081       1,113  

Net realized gains (losses):

        

Other-than-temporary impairment (OTTI) losses gross

     (10     (9     (20     (14

Portion of OTTI losses recognized in other comprehensive income (OCI)

     —          1       —          2  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net OTTI losses recognized in income

     (10     (8     (20     (12

Net realized gains (losses) excluding OTTI losses

     (384     (65     (114     (106
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total net realized gains (losses)

     (394     (73     (134     (118
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total revenues

     3,926       4,253       8,111       8,061  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Expenses

        

Losses and loss expenses

     2,119       2,226       3,923       4,489  

Policy benefits

     102       108       249       199  

Policy acquisition costs

     619       612       1,201       1,171  

Administrative expenses

     514       518       1,024       1,017  

Interest expense

     62       62       124       125  

Other (income) expense

     34       12       31       (1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total expenses

     3,450       3,538       6,552       7,000  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income before income tax

     476       715       1,559       1,061  

Income tax expense

     148       121       258       217  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income

   $ 328     $ 594     $ 1,301     $ 844  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other comprehensive income

        

Unrealized appreciation

   $ 313     $ 303     $ 638     $ 369  

Reclassification adjustment for net realized gains included in net income

     (58     (78     (91     (134
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
     255       225       547       235  

Change in:

        

Cumulative translation adjustment

     (116     69       (28     301  

Pension liability

     1       1       (1     (5
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other comprehensive income, before income tax

     140       295       518       531  

Income tax expense related to OCI items

     (11     (88     (91     (136
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other comprehensive income

     129       207       427       395  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Comprehensive income

   $ 457     $ 801     $ 1,728     $ 1,239  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Earnings per share

        

Basic earnings per share

   $ 0.96     $ 1.75     $ 3.83     $ 2.50  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Diluted earnings per share

   $ 0.96     $ 1.74     $ 3.80     $ 2.48  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

 

4


Table of Contents

ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(Unaudited)

 

     Six Months Ended
June 30
 
     2012     2011  
     (in millions of U.S.
dollars)
 

Common Shares

    

Balance – beginning of period

   $ 10,095     $ 10,161  

Exercise of stock options

     —          50  

Dividends declared on Common Shares-par value reduction

     (168     (113
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance – end of period

     9,927       10,098  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Common Shares in treasury

    

Balance – beginning of period

     (327     (330

Common Shares repurchased

     (7     —     

Common Shares issued in treasury, net of net shares redeemed under employee share-based compensation plans

     128       80  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance – end of period

     (206     (250
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Additional paid-in capital

    

Balance – beginning of period

     5,326       5,623  

Net shares redeemed under employee share-based compensation plans

     (100     (111

Exercise of stock options

     (12     20  

Share-based compensation expense and other

     61       71  

Funding of dividends declared to Retained earnings

     (200     (119
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance – end of period

     5,075       5,484  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Retained earnings

    

Balance – beginning of period, as reported

     7,327       5,926  

Cumulative effect of adjustment resulting from adoption of new accounting guidance

     —          (139
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance – beginning of period, as adjusted

     7,327       5,787  

Net income

     1,301       844  

Funding of dividends declared from Additional paid-in capital

     200       119  

Dividends declared on Common Shares

     (200     (119
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance – end of period

     8,628       6,631  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Deferred compensation obligation

    

Balance – beginning and end of period

   $ —        $ 2  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

 

5


Table of Contents

ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (continued)

(Unaudited)

 

 

     Six Months Ended
June 30
 
     2012     2011  
     (in millions of U.S.
dollars)
 

Accumulated other comprehensive income

    

Net unrealized appreciation on investments

    

Balance – beginning of period

   $ 1,715     $ 1,399  

Change in period, net of income tax expense of $(96) and $(60)

     451       175  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance – end of period

     2,166       1,574  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cumulative translation adjustment

    

Balance – beginning of period

     258       262  

Change in period, net of income tax benefit (expense) of $5 and $(77)

     (23     224  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance – end of period

     235       486  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Pension liability adjustment

    

Balance – beginning of period

     (62     (67

Change in period, net of income tax benefit of nil and $1

     (1     (4
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance – end of period

     (63     (71
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income

     2,338       1,989  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Common Shares issued to employee trust

    

Balance – beginning and end of period

     —          (2
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total shareholders’ equity

   $ 25,762     $ 23,952  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

 

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Table of Contents

ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

 

     Six Months Ended
June 30
 
     2012     2011  
     (in millions of U.S.
dollars)
 

Cash flows from operating activities

    

Net income

   $ 1,301     $ 844  

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities

    

Net realized (gains) losses

     134       118  

Amortization of premiums/discounts on fixed maturities

     103       63  

Deferred income taxes

     1       45  

Unpaid losses and loss expenses

     (644     1,001  

Unearned premiums

     780       478  

Future policy benefits

     54       37  

Insurance and reinsurance balances payable

     (60     449  

Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other liabilities

     (9     3  

Income taxes payable

     —          (91

Insurance and reinsurance balances receivable

     (551     (578

Reinsurance recoverable on losses and loss expenses

     626       (296

Reinsurance recoverable on policy benefits

     48       29  

Deferred policy acquisition costs

     (159     (137

Prepaid reinsurance premiums

     (283     (156

Other

     42       254  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash flows from operating activities

     1,383       2,063  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities

    

Purchases of fixed maturities available for sale

     (11,522     (13,041

Purchases of to be announced mortgage-backed securities

     (165     (642

Purchases of fixed maturities held to maturity

     (136     (234

Purchases of equity securities

     (93     (170

Sales of fixed maturities available for sale

     7,840       9,346  

Sales of to be announced mortgage-backed securities

     192       639  

Sales of equity securities

     33       347  

Maturities and redemptions of fixed maturities available for sale

     2,280       1,758  

Maturities and redemptions of fixed maturities held to maturity

     739       656  

Net derivative instruments settlements

     (133     (46

Acquisition of subsidiaries (net of cash acquired of $95 in 2011)

     (30     (380

Other

     (255     (132
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash flows used for investing activities

     (1,250     (1,899
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities

    

Dividends paid on Common Shares

     (318     (223

Common Shares repurchased

     (11     (68

Proceeds from issuance of short-term debt

     1,532       3,311  

Repayment of short-term debt

     (1,381     (3,211

Proceeds from share-based compensation plans

     55       76  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash flows used for financing activities

     (123     (115
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Effect of foreign currency rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

     (7     12  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase in cash

     3       61  

Cash – beginning of period

     614       772  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash – end of period

   $ 617     $ 833  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Supplemental cash flow information

    

Taxes paid

   $ 259     $ 265  

Interest paid

   $ 119     $ 112  

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

 

7


Table of Contents

ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

1. Summary of significant accounting policies

a) Basis of presentation

ACE Limited is a holding company incorporated in Zurich, Switzerland. ACE Limited, through its various subsidiaries, provides a broad range of insurance and reinsurance products to insureds worldwide. ACE operates through the following business segments: Insurance – North American, Insurance – Overseas General, Global Reinsurance, and Life. Refer to Note 9 for additional information.

The interim unaudited consolidated financial statements, which include the accounts of ACE and its subsidiaries (collectively, ACE, we, us, or our), have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) and, in the opinion of management, reflect all adjustments (consisting of normally recurring accruals) necessary for a fair statement of the results and financial position for such periods. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

The results of operations and cash flows for any interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results for the full year. These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes included in our 2011 Form 10-K.

Effective January 1, 2012, we retrospectively adopted new accounting guidance for costs associated with acquiring or renewing insurance contracts. Under the new guidance, the definition of acquisition costs was modified to specify that a cost must be directly related to the successful acquisition of a new or renewal insurance contract in order to be deferred. Prior year amounts contained in these consolidated financial statements have been adjusted to reflect the impact of retrospective adjustments as a result of applying this new accounting guidance.

b) Deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired (VOBA)

Policy acquisition costs consist of commissions, premium taxes, and certain underwriting costs related directly to the successful acquisition of a new or renewal insurance contract. A VOBA intangible asset is established upon the acquisition of blocks of long duration contracts and represents the present value of estimated net cash flows for the contracts in force at the time of the acquisition. Acquisition costs and VOBA, collectively policy acquisition costs, are deferred and amortized. Policy acquisition costs on property and casualty (P&C) contracts are generally amortized ratably over the period in which premiums are earned. Policy acquisition costs on long duration contracts are amortized over the estimated life of the contracts, generally in proportion to premium revenue recognized. Policy acquisition costs are reviewed to determine if they are recoverable from future income, including investment income. Unrecoverable costs are expensed in the period identified.

Advertising costs are expensed as incurred except for direct-response campaigns that meet the criteria of the new guidance, principally related to accident and health (A&H) business produced by the Insurance – Overseas General segment, which are deferred and recognized as a component of policy acquisition costs. For individual direct-response marketing campaigns that we can demonstrate have specifically resulted in incremental sales to customers and such sales have probable future economic benefits, incremental costs directly related to the marketing campaigns are capitalized. Deferred marketing costs are reviewed regularly for recoverability from future income, including investment income, and amortized in proportion to premium revenue recognized, primarily over a ten year period.

 

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Table of Contents

ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

c) Accounting guidance adopted

Accounting for costs associated with acquiring or renewing insurance contracts

In October 2010, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued new guidance related to the accounting for costs associated with acquiring or renewing insurance contracts. Under the new guidance, the definition of acquisition costs was modified to specify that a cost must be directly related to the successful acquisition of a new or renewal insurance contract in order to be deferred. We adopted this guidance retrospectively effective January 1, 2012 and reduced Retained earnings as of January 1, 2011 by $139 million which represents the cumulative effect of adjustment resulting from adoption of new accounting guidance. We adjusted prior year amounts contained in these consolidated financial statements to reflect the effect of adjustment from adoption of new accounting guidance including reducing Deferred policy acquisition costs and Retained earnings by $213 million and $181 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2011. The reduction to Deferred policy acquisition costs is primarily due to lower deferrals associated with unsuccessful efforts. We also reduced Net income by $12 million, or $0.03 per share, and $22 million, or $0.06 per share, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, respectively.

Fair value measurements

In May 2011, the FASB issued new guidance on fair value measurements to revise the wording used to describe the requirements for measuring fair value and for disclosing information about fair value measurements. The guidance is not necessarily intended to result in a significant change in the application of the current requirements. Instead, it is intended to clarify the intended application of existing fair value measurement requirements. It also changes certain principles or requirements for measuring fair value and disclosing information about fair value measurements. We adopted this guidance prospectively effective January 1, 2012. The application of this guidance resulted in additional fair value measurements disclosures only and did not impact our financial condition or results of operations.

2. Acquisitions

On June 13, 2012, we announced that we and our local partner had signed a definitive agreement to acquire PT Asuransi Jaya Proteksi (JaPro), one of Indonesia’s leading general insurers. This transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals and other closing conditions, is expected to be completed by the end of 2012.

We acquired New York Life’s Korea operations on February 1, 2011 and New York Life’s Hong Kong operations on April 1, 2011 for approximately $450 million in cash. These acquired businesses operate under our Life segment, expand our presence in the North Asia market and complement our life insurance business established in that region. In 2012, we finalized purchase price allocations resulting in $91 million of goodwill, none of which is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes, and $163 million of intangible assets. The most significant intangible asset is VOBA.

We acquired Penn Millers Holding Corporation (PMHC) on November 30, 2011 for approximately $107 million in cash. PMHC’s primary insurance subsidiary, Penn Millers Insurance Company, is a well-established underwriter in the agribusiness market since 1887. PMHC operates under our Insurance – North American segment.

We acquired Rio Guayas Compania de Seguros y Reaseguros (Rio Guayas), a general insurance company in Ecuador on December 28, 2011. Rio Guayas sells a range of insurance products, including auto, life, property, and A&H. The acquisition of Rio Guayas expands our capabilities in terms of geography, products, and distribution. Rio Guayas operates under our Insurance – Overseas General segment.

 

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Table of Contents

ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

3. Investments

a) Fixed maturities

The following tables present the amortized cost and fair value of fixed maturities and related OTTI recognized in AOCI:

 

    June 30, 2012  
    Amortized
Cost
    Gross
Unrealized
Appreciation
    Gross
Unrealized
Depreciation
    Fair
Value
    OTTI Recognized
in AOCI
 
    (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Available for sale

         

U.S. Treasury and agency

  $ 3,106     $ 188     $ —        $ 3,294     $ —     

Foreign

    12,745       571       (48     13,268       (1

Corporate securities

    14,432       938       (71     15,299       (12

Mortgage-backed securities

    9,815       446       (80     10,181       (93

States, municipalities, and political subdivisions

    2,218       128       (2     2,344       —     
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $ 42,316     $ 2,271     $ (201   $ 44,386     $ (106
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Held to maturity

         

U.S. Treasury and agency

  $ 1,091     $ 45     $ —        $ 1,136     $ —     

Foreign

    921       32       (4     949       —     

Corporate securities

    2,207       82       (7     2,282       —     

Mortgage-backed securities

    2,448       98       (2     2,544       —     

States, municipalities, and political subdivisions

    1,115       40       (4     1,151       —     
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $ 7,782     $ 297     $ (17   $ 8,062     $ —     
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
    December 31, 2011  
    Amortized
Cost
    Gross
Unrealized
Appreciation
    Gross
Unrealized
Depreciation
    Fair
Value
    OTTI Recognized
in AOCI
 
    (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Available for sale

         

U.S. Treasury and agency

  $ 2,774     $ 186     $ —        $ 2,960     $ —     

Foreign

    12,025       475       (99     12,401       (2

Corporate securities

    14,055       773       (135     14,693       (22

Mortgage-backed securities

    9,979       397       (175     10,201       (151

States, municipalities, and political subdivisions

    1,617       96       (1     1,712       —     
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $ 40,450     $ 1,927     $ (410   $ 41,967     $ (175
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Held to maturity

         

U.S. Treasury and agency

  $ 1,078     $ 48     $ —        $ 1,126     $ —     

Foreign

    935       18       (23     930       —     

Corporate securities

    2,338       44       (45     2,337       —     

Mortgage-backed securities

    2,949       90       (3     3,036       —     

States, municipalities, and political subdivisions

    1,147       32       (3     1,176       —     
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $ 8,447     $ 232     $ (74   $ 8,605     $ —     
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

As discussed in Note 3 c), if a credit loss is indicated on an impaired fixed maturity, an OTTI is considered to have occurred and the portion of the impairment not related to credit losses (non-credit OTTI) is recognized in OCI. Included in the “OTTI Recognized in AOCI” columns above are the cumulative amounts of non-credit OTTI recognized in OCI adjusted for subsequent sales, maturities, and redemptions. OTTI recognized in AOCI does not include the impact of subsequent changes in fair value of the related securities. In periods subsequent to a recognition of OTTI in OCI, changes in the fair value of the related fixed maturities are reflected in Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the consolidated statement of shareholders’ equity. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, $16 million and $84 million, respectively, of net unrealized appreciation related to such securities is included in OCI. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, $25 million and $8 million, respectively, of net unrealized depreciation related to such securities is included in OCI. At June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, AOCI includes net unrealized depreciation of $74 million and $155 million, respectively, related to securities remaining in the investment portfolio at those dates for which ACE has recognized a non-credit OTTI.

Mortgage-backed securities (MBS) issued by U.S. government agencies are combined with all other to be announced mortgage derivatives held (refer to Note 6 a) (iv)) and are included in the category, “Mortgage-backed securities”. Approximately 86 percent and 84 percent of the total mortgage-backed securities at June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, are represented by investments in U.S. government agency bonds. The remainder of the mortgage exposure consists of collateralized mortgage obligations and non-government mortgage-backed securities, the majority of which provide a planned structure for principal and interest payments and carry a rating of AAA by the major credit rating agencies.

The following table presents fixed maturities by contractual maturity:

 

     June 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     Amortized
Cost
     Fair
Value
     Amortized
Cost
     Fair
Value
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Available for sale

           

Due in 1 year or less

   $ 2,299      $ 2,329      $ 2,321      $ 2,349  

Due after 1 year through 5 years

     12,330        12,802        12,325        12,722  

Due after 5 years through 10 years

     13,839        14,694        12,379        12,995  

Due after 10 years

     4,033        4,380        3,446        3,700  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
     32,501        34,205        30,471        31,766  

Mortgage-backed securities

     9,815        10,181        9,979        10,201  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 42,316      $ 44,386      $ 40,450      $ 41,967  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Held to maturity

           

Due in 1 year or less

   $ 669      $ 676      $ 393      $ 396  

Due after 1 year through 5 years

     1,811        1,858        2,062        2,090  

Due after 5 years through 10 years

     2,202        2,296        2,376        2,399  

Due after 10 years

     652        688        667        684  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
     5,334        5,518        5,498        5,569  

Mortgage-backed securities

     2,448        2,544        2,949        3,036  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 7,782      $ 8,062      $ 8,447      $ 8,605  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Expected maturities could differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations, with or without call or prepayment penalties.

 

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ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

b) Equity securities

The following table presents the cost and fair value of equity securities:

 

     June 30
2012
    December 31
2011
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Cost

   $ 724     $ 671  

Gross unrealized appreciation

     29       18  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (24     (42
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Fair value

   $ 729     $ 647  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

c) Net realized gains (losses)

In accordance with guidance related to the recognition and presentation of OTTI, when an impairment related to a fixed maturity has occurred, OTTI is required to be recorded in net income if management has the intent to sell the security or it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before the recovery of its amortized cost. Further, in cases where we do not intend to sell the security and it is more likely than not that we will not be required to sell the security, ACE must evaluate the security to determine the portion of the impairment, if any, related to credit losses. If a credit loss is indicated, an OTTI is considered to have occurred and any portion of the OTTI related to credit losses must be reflected in net income while the portion of OTTI related to all other factors is recognized in OCI. For fixed maturities held to maturity, OTTI recognized in OCI is accreted from AOCI to the amortized cost of the fixed maturity prospectively over the remaining term of the securities.

Each quarter, securities in an unrealized loss position (impaired securities), including fixed maturities, securities lending collateral, equity securities, and other investments, are reviewed to identify impaired securities to be specifically evaluated for a potential OTTI.

For all non-fixed maturities, OTTI is evaluated based on the following:

 

   

the amount of time a security has been in a loss position and the magnitude of the loss position;

 

   

the period in which cost is expected to be recovered, if at all, based on various criteria including economic conditions and other issuer-specific developments; and

 

   

ACE’s ability and intent to hold the security to the expected recovery period.

As a general rule, we also consider that equity securities in an unrealized loss position for twelve consecutive months are impaired.

We review each fixed maturity in an unrealized loss position to assess whether the security is a candidate for credit loss. Specifically, we consider credit rating, market price, and issuer-specific financial information, among other factors, to assess the likelihood of collection of all principal and interest as contractually due. Securities for which we determine that credit loss is likely are subjected to further analysis to estimate the credit loss recognized in net income, if any. In general, credit loss recognized in net income equals the difference between the security’s amortized cost and the net present value of its projected future cash flows discounted at the effective interest rate implicit in the debt security. All significant assumptions used in determining credit losses are subject to change as market conditions evolve.

 

12


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ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Projected cash flows for corporate securities (principally senior unsecured bonds) are driven primarily by assumptions regarding probability of default and also the timing and amount of recoveries associated with defaults. We develop these estimates using information based on market observable data, issuer-specific information, and credit ratings. ACE developed its default assumption by using historical default data by Moody’s Investors Service (Moody’s) rating category to calculate a 1-in-100 year probability of default, which results in a default assumption in excess of the historical mean default rate. We believe that use of a default assumption in excess of the historical mean is reasonable in light of current market conditions.

For the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, credit losses recognized in net income for corporate securities were $1 million and $4 million, respectively. There were no credit losses recognized in net income for corporate securities in 2011.

For mortgage-backed securities, credit impairment is assessed using a cash flow model that estimates the cash flows on the underlying mortgages, using the security-specific collateral and transaction structure. The model estimates cash flows from the underlying mortgage loans and distributes those cash flows to various tranches of securities, considering the transaction structure and any subordination and credit enhancements that exist in that structure. The cash flow model incorporates actual cash flows on the mortgage-backed securities through the current period and then projects the remaining cash flows using a number of assumptions, including default rates, prepayment rates, and loss severity rates (the par value of a defaulted security that will not be recovered) on foreclosed properties.

For the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, credit losses recognized in net income for mortgage-backed securities were nil and $3 million, respectively. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, credit losses recognized in net income for mortgage-backed securities were $2 million and $3 million, respectively.

The following table presents the Net realized gains (losses) and the losses included in Net realized gains (losses) and OCI as a result of conditions which caused us to conclude the decline in fair value of certain investments was “other-than-temporary”:

 

     Three Months Ended
June  30
    Six Months Ended
June  30
 
           2012                 2011                 2012                 2011        
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Fixed maturities:

        

OTTI on fixed maturities, gross

   $ (1   $ (6   $ (8   $ (11

OTTI on fixed maturities recognized in OCI (pre-tax)

     —          1       —          2  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

OTTI on fixed maturities, net

     (1     (5     (8     (9

Gross realized gains excluding OTTI

     104       108       216       217  

Gross realized losses excluding OTTI

     (35     (29     (106     (85
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total fixed maturities

     68       74       102       123  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Equity securities:

        

OTTI on equity securities

     (4     —          (5     —     

Gross realized gains excluding OTTI

     —          4       2       12  

Gross realized losses excluding OTTI

     (1     —          (1     (1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total equity securities

     (5     4       (4     11  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

OTTI on other investments

     (5     (3     (7     (3

Foreign exchange losses

     (9     (30     (14     (109

Investment and embedded derivative instruments

     (49     (48     (7     (68

Fair value adjustments on insurance derivative

     (467     (70     (39     1  

S&P put options and futures

     70       3       (161     (68

Other derivative instruments

     1       (2     (4     (3

Other

     2       (1     —          (2
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains (losses)

   $ (394   $ (73   $ (134   $ (118
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

The following table presents a roll-forward of pre-tax credit losses related to fixed maturities for which a portion of OTTI was recognized in OCI:

 

     Three Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
     June 30     June 30  
           2012                 2011                 2012                 2011        
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Balance of credit losses related to securities still held – beginning of period

   $ 55     $ 96     $ 74     $ 137  

Additions where no OTTI was previously recorded

     1       2       2       2  

Additions where an OTTI was previously recorded

     —          —          5       1  

Reductions for securities sold during the period

     (9     (4     (34     (46
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance of credit losses related to securities still held – end of period

   $ 47     $ 94     $ 47     $ 94  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

d) Gross unrealized loss

At June 30, 2012, there were 2,574 fixed maturities out of a total of 22,842 fixed maturities in an unrealized loss position. The largest single unrealized loss in the fixed maturities was $6 million. There were approximately 81 equity securities out of a total of 191 equity securities in an unrealized loss position. The largest single unrealized loss in the equity securities was $19 million. Fixed maturities in an unrealized loss position at June 30, 2012 comprised both investment grade and below investment grade securities for which fair value declined primarily due to widening credit spreads since the date of purchase. Equity securities in an unrealized loss position include foreign fixed income securities held in a commingled fund structure for which fair value declined primarily due to widening credit spreads since the date of purchase.

The following tables present, for all securities in an unrealized loss position (including securities on loan), the aggregate fair value and gross unrealized loss by length of time the security has continuously been in an unrealized loss position:

 

     0 – 12 Months     Over 12 Months     Total  
     Fair Value      Gross
Unrealized
Loss
    Fair Value      Gross
Unrealized
Loss
    Fair Value      Gross
Unrealized
Loss
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

June 30, 2012

               

Foreign

   $ 1,231      $ (34.4   $ 350      $ (18.0   $ 1,581      $ (52.4

Corporate securities

     1,800        (57.2     331        (21.2     2,131        (78.4

Mortgage-backed securities

     280        (1.9     437        (80.2     717        (82.1

States, municipalities, and political subdivisions

     289        (2.2     57        (3.3     346        (5.5
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total fixed maturities

     3,600        (95.7     1,175        (122.7     4,775        (218.4

Equity securities

     511        (24.0     —           —          511        (24.0

Other investments

     69        (6.6     —           —          69        (6.6
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 4,180      $ (126.3   $ 1,175      $ (122.7   $ 5,355      $ (249.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

14


Table of Contents

ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

     0 – 12 Months     Over 12 Months     Total  
     Fair Value      Gross
Unrealized
Loss
    Fair Value      Gross
Unrealized
Loss
    Fair Value      Gross
Unrealized
Loss
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

December 31, 2011

               

Foreign

   $ 1,801      $ (82.2   $ 529      $ (40.0   $ 2,330      $ (122.2

Corporate securities

     3,084        (148.2     268        (32.2     3,352        (180.4

Mortgage-backed securities

     440        (7.5     586        (170.2     1,026        (177.7

States, municipalities, and political subdivisions

     30        (0.4     98        (3.5     128        (3.9
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total fixed maturities

     5,355        (238.3     1,481        (245.9     6,836        (484.2

Equity securities

     484        (42.3     —           —          484        (42.3

Other investments

     88        (8.3     —           —          88        (8.3
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 5,927      $ (288.9   $ 1,481      $ (245.9   $ 7,408      $ (534.8
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

e) Restricted assets

ACE is required to maintain assets on deposit with various regulatory authorities to support its insurance and reinsurance operations. These requirements are generally promulgated in the statutory regulations of the individual jurisdictions. The assets on deposit are available to settle insurance and reinsurance liabilities. ACE is also required to restrict assets pledged under reverse repurchase agreements. We also use trust funds in certain large reinsurance transactions where the trust funds are set up for the benefit of the ceding companies and generally take the place of letter of credit (LOC) requirements. We also have investments in segregated portfolios primarily to provide collateral or guarantees for LOCs and derivative transactions. Included in restricted assets at June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, are fixed maturities and short-term investments totaling $15.9 billion and $14.9 billion, respectively, and cash of $246 million and $179 million, respectively.

The following table presents the components of restricted assets:

 

     June 30
2012
     December 31
2011
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Trust funds

   $ 10,807      $ 9,940  

Deposits with non-U.S. regulatory authorities

     2,141        2,240  

Deposits with U.S. regulatory authorities

     1,340        1,307  

Assets pledged under reverse repurchase agreements

     1,401        1,251  

Other pledged assets

     480        364  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 16,169      $ 15,102  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

4. Fair value measurements

a) Fair value hierarchy

Fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities is estimated based on the framework established in the fair value accounting guidance. The guidance defines fair value as the price to sell an asset or transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants and establishes a three-level valuation hierarchy in which inputs into valuation techniques used to measure fair value are classified. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets and the lowest priority to unobservable data.

 

15


Table of Contents

ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

The three levels of the hierarchy are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – Unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets;

 

   

Level 2 – Includes, among other items, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability such as interest rates and yield curves, quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active; and

 

   

Level 3 – Inputs that are unobservable and reflect management’s judgments about assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability.

We categorize financial instruments within the valuation hierarchy at the balance sheet date based upon the lowest level of inputs that are significant to the fair value measurement. Accordingly, transfers between levels within the valuation hierarchy occur when there are significant changes to the inputs, such as increases or decreases in market activity, changes to the availability of current prices, changes to the transparency to underlying inputs, and whether there are significant variances in quoted prices. Transfers in and/or out of any level are assumed to occur at the end of the period.

We use one or more pricing services to obtain fair value measurements for the majority of the investment securities we hold. Based on management’s understanding of the methodologies used, these pricing services only produce an estimate of fair value if there is observable market information that would allow them to make a fair value estimate. Based on our understanding of the market inputs used by the pricing services, all applicable investments have been valued in accordance with GAAP. We do not typically adjust prices obtained from pricing services. The following is a description of the valuation techniques and inputs used to determine fair values for financial instruments carried at fair value, as well as the general classification of such financial instruments pursuant to the valuation hierarchy.

Fixed maturities

We use pricing services to estimate fair value measurements for the majority of our fixed maturities. The pricing services use market quotations for fixed maturities that have quoted prices in active markets; such securities are classified within Level 1. For fixed maturities other than U.S. Treasury securities that generally do not trade on a daily basis, the pricing services prepare estimates of fair value measurements using their pricing applications, which include available relevant market information, benchmark curves, benchmarking of like securities, sector groupings, and matrix pricing. Additional valuation factors that can be taken into account are nominal spreads, dollar basis, and liquidity adjustments. The pricing services evaluate each asset class based on relevant market and credit information, perceived market movements, and sector news. The market inputs used in the pricing evaluation, listed in the approximate order of priority include: benchmark yields, reported trades, broker/dealer quotes, issuer spreads, two-sided markets, benchmark securities, bids, offers, reference data, and industry and economic events. The extent of the use of each input is dependent on the asset class and the market conditions. Given the asset class, the priority of the use of inputs may change or some market inputs may not be relevant. Additionally, the valuation of fixed maturity investments is more subjective when markets are less liquid due to the lack of market based inputs (i.e., stale pricing), which may increase the potential that the estimated fair value of an investment is not reflective of the price at which an actual transaction would occur. The overwhelming majority of fixed maturities are classified within Level 2 because the most significant inputs used in the pricing techniques are observable. For a small number of fixed maturities, we obtain a quote from a broker (typically a market maker). Due to the disclaimers on the quotes that indicate that the price is indicative only, we include these fair value estimates in Level 3.

 

16


Table of Contents

ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Equity securities

Equity securities with active markets are classified within Level 1 as fair values are based on quoted market prices. For non-public equity securities, fair values are based on market valuations and are classified within Level 2. Equity securities for which pricing is unobservable are classified within Level 3.

Short-term investments

Short-term investments, which comprise securities due to mature within one year of the date of purchase that are traded in active markets, are classified within Level 1 as fair values are based on quoted market prices. Securities such as commercial paper and discount notes are classified within Level 2 because these securities are typically not actively traded due to their approaching maturity and, as such, their cost approximates fair value.

Other investments

Fair values for the majority of Other investments including investments in partially-owned investment companies, investment funds, and limited partnerships are based on their respective net asset values or equivalent (NAV). The majority of these investments, for which NAV was used as a practical expedient to measure fair value, are classified within Level 3 because either ACE will never have the contractual option to redeem the investments or will not have the contractual option to redeem the investments in the near term. The remainder of such investments is classified within Level 2. Certain of our long duration contracts have assets that do not qualify for separate account reporting under GAAP. These assets comprise mutual funds classified within Level 1 in the valuation hierarchy on the same basis as other equity securities traded in active markets. Other investments also includes equity securities and fixed maturities held in rabbi trusts maintained by ACE for deferred compensation plans, which are classified within the valuation hierarchy on the same basis as other equity securities and fixed maturities.

Securities lending collateral

The underlying assets included in Securities lending collateral in the consolidated balance sheets are fixed maturities which are classified in the valuation hierarchy on the same basis as other fixed maturities. Excluded from the valuation hierarchy is the corresponding liability related to ACE’s obligation to return the collateral plus interest as it is reported at contract value and not fair value on the consolidated balance sheets.

Investment derivative instruments

Actively traded investment derivative instruments, including futures, options, and exchange-traded forward contracts are classified within Level 1 as fair values are based on quoted market prices. The fair value of cross-currency swaps are based on market valuations and are classified within Level 2. Investment derivative instruments are recorded in Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.

Other derivative instruments

We maintain positions in other derivative instruments including exchange-traded equity futures contracts and option contracts designed to limit exposure to a severe equity market decline, which would cause an increase in expected claims and, therefore, reserves for our guaranteed minimum death benefits (GMDB) and guaranteed living benefits (GLB) reinsurance business. Our position in exchange-traded equity futures contracts is classified within Level 1. The fair value of the majority of the remaining positions in other derivative instruments is based on significant observable inputs including equity security and interest rate indices. Accordingly, these are classified within Level 2. Our position in credit default swaps is typically included within Level 3. Other derivative instruments are recorded in Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.

 

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ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Separate account assets

Separate account assets represent segregated funds where investment risks are borne by the customers, except to the extent of certain guarantees made by ACE. Separate account assets comprise mutual funds classified in the valuation hierarchy on the same basis as other equity securities traded in active markets and are classified within Level 1. Separate account assets also include fixed maturities classified within Level 2 because the most significant inputs used in the pricing techniques are observable. Excluded from the valuation hierarchy are the corresponding liabilities as they are reported at contract value and not fair value in the consolidated balance sheets. Separate account assets are recorded in Other assets in the consolidated balance sheets.

Guaranteed living benefits

The GLB arises from life reinsurance programs covering living benefit guarantees whereby we assume the risk of guaranteed minimum income benefits (GMIB) and guaranteed minimum accumulation benefits (GMAB) associated with variable annuity contracts. GLB’s are recorded in Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other liabilities and Future policy benefits in the consolidated balance sheets. For GLB reinsurance, ACE estimates fair value using an internal valuation model which includes current market information and estimates of policyholder behavior. All of the treaties contain claim limits, which are factored into the valuation model. The fair value depends on a number of inputs, including changes in interest rates, changes in equity markets, credit risk, current account value, changes in market volatility, expected annuitization rates, changes in policyholder behavior, and changes in policyholder mortality.

The most significant policyholder behavior assumptions include lapse rates and the GMIB annuitization rates. Assumptions regarding lapse rates and GMIB annuitization rates differ by treaty but the underlying methodologies to determine rates applied to each treaty are comparable. The assumptions regarding lapse and GMIB annuitization rates determined for each treaty are based on a dynamic calculation that uses several underlying factors.

A lapse rate is the percentage of in-force policies surrendered in a given calendar year. All else equal, as lapse rates increase, ultimate claim payments will decrease. In general, the base lapse function assumes low lapse rates (ranging from about 1 percent to 6 percent per annum) during the surrender charge period of the GMIB contract, followed by a “spike” lapse rate (ranging from about 10 percent to 30 percent per annum) in the year immediately following the surrender charge period, and then reverting to an ultimate lapse rate (generally around 10 percent per annum), typically over a 2-year period. This base rate is adjusted downward for policies with more valuable guarantees (policies with guaranteed values far in excess of their account values) by multiplying the base lapse rate by a factor ranging from 15 percent to 75 percent. Additional lapses due to partial withdrawals and older policyholders with tax-qualified contracts (due to required minimum distributions) are also included.

The GMIB annuitization rate is the percentage of policies for which the policyholder will elect to annuitize using the guaranteed benefit provided under the GMIB. All else equal, as GMIB annuitization rates increase, ultimate claim payments will increase, subject to treaty claim limits. In general ACE assumes that GMIB annuitization rates will be higher for policies with more valuable guarantees (policies with guaranteed values far in excess of their account values). In addition, we also assume that GMIB annuitization rates are higher in the first year immediately following the waiting period (the first year the policies are eligible to annuitize using the GMIB) in comparison to all subsequent years. We do not yet have a robust set of annuitization experience because most of our clients’ policyholders are not yet eligible to annuitize using the GMIB. However, for certain clients representing approximately 36 percent of the total GMIB guaranteed value there are several years of annuitization experience. For these clients the annuitization function reflects the actual experience and has a maximum annuitization rate per annum of 8 percent (a higher maximum applies in the first year a policy is

 

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ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

eligible to annuitize using the GMIB—it is over 13 percent). For most clients, there is not a credible amount of observable relevant behavior data and so we use a weighted-average (with a heavier weighting on the observed experience noted previously) of three different annuitization functions with maximum annuitization rates per annum of 8 percent, 12 percent, and 30 percent, respectively (with significantly higher rates in the first year a policy is eligible to annuitize using the GMIB). The GMIB reinsurance treaties include claim limits to protect ACE in the event that actual annuitization behavior is significantly higher than expected.

The effect of changes in key market factors on assumed lapse and annuitization rates reflect emerging trends using data available from cedants. For treaties with limited experience, rates are established in line with data received from other ceding companies adjusted, as appropriate, with industry estimates. The model and related assumptions are continuously re-evaluated by management and enhanced, as appropriate, based upon additional experience obtained related to policyholder behavior and availability of more information, such as market conditions, market participant assumptions, and demographics of in-force annuities. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, no material changes were made to actuarial or behavioral assumptions.

We view the variable annuity reinsurance business as having a similar risk profile to that of catastrophe reinsurance, with the probability of a cumulative long-term economic net loss relatively small at the time of pricing. However, adverse changes in market factors and policyholder behavior will have an adverse impact on net income, which may be material. Because of the significant use of unobservable inputs including policyholder behavior, GLB reinsurance is classified within Level 3.

The following tables present, by valuation hierarchy, the financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis:

 

     Level 1     Level 2      Level 3      Total  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

June 30, 2012

          

Assets:

          

Fixed maturities available for sale

          

U.S. Treasury and agency

   $1,884       $ 1,406      $ 4      $ 3,294  

Foreign

     204       13,044        20        13,268  

Corporate securities

     20       15,142        137        15,299  

Mortgage-backed securities

     —          10,154        27        10,181  

States, municipalities, and political subdivisions

     —          2,343        1        2,344  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
     2,108       42,089        189        44,386  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Equity securities

     713       4        12        729  

Short-term investments

     1,322       938        —           2,260  

Other investments

     230       247        2,047        2,524  

Securities lending collateral

     —          2,247        —           2,247  

Investment derivative instruments

     (4     —           —           (4

Other derivative instruments

     (85     41        1        (43

Separate account assets

     830       59        —           889  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets measured at fair value

   $5,114       $ 45,625      $ 2,249      $ 52,988  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Liabilities:

          

GLB(1)

   $—          $ —         $ 1,354      $ 1,354  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) 

Our GLB reinsurance product meets the definition of a derivative instrument for accounting purposes and is accordingly carried at fair value. Excluded from the table above is the portion of the GLB derivative liability classified as Future policy benefits in the consolidated balance sheets. Refer to Note 5 for additional information.

 

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ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

     Level 1     Level 2      Level 3      Total  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

December 31, 2011

          

Assets:

          

Fixed maturities available for sale

          

U.S. Treasury and agency

   $ 1,691      $ 1,264       $ 5       $ 2,960  

Foreign

     212        12,156         33         12,401  

Corporate securities

     20        14,539         134         14,693  

Mortgage-backed securities

     —          10,173         28         10,201  

States, municipalities, and political subdivisions

     —          1,711         1         1,712  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
     1,923        39,843         201         41,967  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Equity securities

     632        2         13         647  

Short-term investments

     1,246        1,055         —           2,301  

Other investments

     208        229         1,877         2,314  

Securities lending collateral

     —          1,375         —           1,375  

Investment derivative instruments

     10        —           —           10  

Other derivative instruments

     (16     54         3         41  

Separate account assets

     607        53         —           660  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets measured at fair value

   $ 4,610      $ 42,611       $ 2,094       $ 49,315  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Liabilities:

          

GLB(1)

   $ —        $ —         $ 1,319       $ 1,319  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) 

Our GLB reinsurance product meets the definition of a derivative instrument for accounting purposes and is accordingly carried at fair value. Excluded from the table above is the portion of the GLB derivative liability classified as Future policy benefits in the consolidated balance sheets. Refer to Note 5 for additional information.

The transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011 were not material.

Fair value of alternative investments

Included in Other investments in the fair value hierarchy at June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011 are investment funds, limited partnerships, and partially-owned investment companies measured at fair value using NAV as a practical expedient. At June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, there were no probable or pending sales related to any of the investments measured at fair value using NAV.

 

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ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

The following table presents, by investment category, the expected liquidation period, fair value, and maximum future funding commitments of alternative investments:

 

     Expected
Liquidation
Period
     June 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
        Fair
Value
     Maximum
Future
Funding
Commitments
     Fair
Value
     Maximum
Future
Funding
Commitments
 
            (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Financial

     5 to 9 Years       $ 206      $ 127      $ 205      $ 141  

Real estate

     3 to 9 Years         289        95        270        96  

Distressed

     6 to 9 Years         188        149        182        57  

Mezzanine

     6 to 9 Years         271        297        195        282  

Traditional

     3 to 8 Years         621        515        565        200  

Vintage

     1 to 3 Years         17        1        18        1  

Investment funds

     Not Applicable         383        —           378        —     
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
      $ 1,975      $ 1,184      $ 1,813      $ 777  
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Included in all categories in the above table except for Investment funds are investments for which ACE will never have the contractual option to redeem but receives distributions based on the liquidation of the underlying assets. Included in the “Expected Liquidation Period” column above is the range in years over which ACE expects the majority of underlying assets in the respective categories to be liquidated. Further, for all categories except for Investment funds, ACE does not have the ability to sell or transfer the investments without the consent from the general partner of individual funds.

Financial

Financial consists of investments in private equity funds targeting financial services companies such as financial institutions and insurance services around the world.

Real estate

Real estate consists of investments in private equity funds targeting global distress opportunities, value added U.S. properties, and global mezzanine debt securities in the commercial real estate market.

Distressed

Distressed consists of investments in private equity funds targeting distressed debt/credit and equity opportunities in the U.S.

Mezzanine

Mezzanine consists of investments in private equity funds targeting private mezzanine debt of large-cap and mid-cap companies in the U.S. and worldwide.

Traditional

Traditional consists of investments in private equity funds employing traditional private equity investment strategies such as buyout and venture with different geographical focuses including Brazil, Asia, Europe, and the U.S.

 

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ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Vintage

Vintage consists of investments in private equity funds made before 2002 and where the funds’ commitment periods had already expired.

Investment funds

ACE’s investment funds employ various investment strategies such as long/short equity and arbitrage/distressed. Included in this category are investments for which ACE has the option to redeem at agreed upon value as described in each investment fund’s subscription agreement. Depending on the terms of the various subscription agreements, investment fund investments may be redeemed monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually. If ACE wishes to redeem an investment fund investment, it must first determine if the investment fund is still in a lock-up period (a time when ACE cannot redeem its investment so that the investment fund manager has time to build the portfolio). If the investment fund is no longer in its lock-up period, ACE must then notify the investment fund manager of its intention to redeem by the notification date prescribed by the subscription agreement. Subsequent to notification, the investment fund can redeem ACE’s investment within several months of the notification. Notice periods for redemption of the investment funds range between 5 and 120 days. ACE can redeem its investment funds without consent from the investment fund managers.

Level 3 financial instruments

The fair value of assets and liabilities measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) consist of various inputs and assumptions that management makes when determining the fair value. Management analyzes changes in fair value measurements classified within Level 3 by comparing pricing and returns of our investments to benchmarks, including month-over-month movements, investment credit spreads, interest rate movements, and credit quality of securities.

The following table presents the significant unobservable inputs used in the Level 3 liability valuations. Excluded from the table below are inputs used to fair value Level 3 assets which are based on single broker quotes or net asset value and contain no quantitative unobservable inputs developed by management.

 

(in millions of U.S. dollars)

   Fair
Value at
June 30,
2012
     Valuation
Technique
     Significant
Unobservable Inputs
   Ranges  

GLB(1)

   $1,354          Actuarial model       Lapse rate      1% - 30%   
         Annuitization rate      0% - 50%   

 

(1) 

Discussion of the most significant inputs used in the fair value measurement of GLB and the sensitivity of those assumptions is included within Note 5 Guaranteed living benefits.

 

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ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

The following tables present a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of financial instruments measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):

 

    Three Months Ended June 30, 2012  
    Assets     Liabilities  
    Available-for-Sale Debt Securities     Equity
securities
    Other
investments
    Other
derivative
instruments
    GLB(1)  
    U.S.
Treasury
and
Agency
    Foreign     Corporate
securities
    MBS     States,
municipalities,
and political
subdivisions
         
          (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Balance- Beginning of Period

  $ —        $ 49     $ 117     $ 19     $ 1     $ 10     $ 1,954     $ (1   $ 863    

Transfers into Level 3

    5       1       28       12       1       —          —          —          —     

Transfers out of Level 3

    —          —          (2     (3     —          —          —          —          —     

Change in Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) included in OCI

    —          —          1       —          —          —          16       —          —     

Net Realized Gains/Losses

    —          —          (1     —          —          —          (5     (1     491    

Purchases

    —          6       5       —          —          2       132       3       —     

Sales

    —          (35     (7     —          —          —          —         —          —     

Settlements

    (1     (1     (4     (1     (1     —          (50     —          —     
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance-End of Period

  $ 4     $ 20     $ 137     $ 27     $ 1     $ 12     $ 2,047     $ 1     $ 1,354    
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Realized Gains/Losses Attributable to Changes in Fair Value at the Balance Sheet Date

  $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ (5   $ —        $ 491    

 

(1) 

Our GLB reinsurance product meets the definition of a derivative instrument for accounting purposes and is accordingly carried at fair value. Excluded from the table above is the portion of the GLB derivative liability classified as Future policy benefits in the consolidated balance sheets. Refer to Note 5 for additional information.

 

     Three Months Ended June 30, 2011  
    Assets      Liabilities  
    Available-for-Sale Debt Securities      Equity
securities
    Other
investments
    Other
derivative
instruments
     GLB(1)  
    Foreign     Corporate
securities
    MBS     States,
municipalities,
and political
subdivisions
           
    (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Balance- Beginning of Period

  $ 26     $ 113     $ 81     $ 1      $ 10     $ 1,564     $ 4      $ 449   

Transfers into Level 3

    5       29       3       —           —          —          —           —     

Transfers out of Level 3

    (6     —          (35     —           —          —          —           —     

Change in Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) included in OCI

    —          —          —          —           —          9       —           —     

Net Realized Gains/Losses

    1       (1     —          —           2       (3     —           75   

Purchases

    5       3       —          —           2       243       —           —     

Sales

    (2     (1     (12     —           (4     (55     —           —     

Settlements

    (2     (1     (3     —           —          (78     —           —     
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Balance-End of Period

  $ 27     $ 142     $ 34     $ 1      $ 10     $ 1,680     $ 4      $ 524   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net Realized Gains/Losses Attributable to Changes in Fair Value at the Balance Sheet Date

  $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —         $ —        $ (3   $ —         $ 75   

 

(1) 

Our GLB reinsurance product meets the definition of a derivative instrument for accounting purposes and is accordingly carried at fair value. Excluded from the table above is the portion of the GLB derivative liability classified as Future policy benefits in the consolidated balance sheets. The liability for GLB reinsurance was $676 million at June 30, 2011, and $596 million at March 31, 2011, which includes a fair value derivative adjustment of $524 million and $449 million, respectively.

 

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ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

    Six Months Ended June 30, 2012  
    Assets     Liabilities  
    Available-for-Sale Debt Securities     Equity
securities
    Other
investments
    Other
derivative
instruments
    GLB(1)  
    U.S.
Treasury
and
Agency
    Foreign     Corporate
securities
    MBS     States,
municipalities,
and political
subdivisions
         
          (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Balance-Beginning of Period

  $ 5     $ 33     $ 134     $ 28     $ 1     $ 13     $ 1,877     $ 3     $ 1,319    

Transfers into Level 3

    —          1       28       12       1       —          —          —          —     

Transfers out of Level 3

    —          (1     (9     (15     —          —          —          —          —     

Change in Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) included in OCI

    —          —          3       —          —          1       24       —          —     

Net Realized Gains/Losses

    —          —          (1     —          —          —          (7     (4     35    

Purchases

    —          40       8       4       —          3       245       3       —     

Sales

    —          (52     (15     —          —          (5     (1     —          —     

Settlements

    (1     (1     (11     (2     (1     —          (91     (1     —     
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance-End of Period

  $ 4     $ 20     $ 137     $ 27     $ 1     $ 12     $ 2,047     $ 1     $ 1,354    
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Realized Gains/Losses Attributable to Changes in Fair Value at the Balance Sheet Date

  $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ (7   $ (1   $ 35    

 

(1) 

Our GLB reinsurance product meets the definition of a derivative instrument for accounting purposes and is accordingly carried at fair value. Excluded from the table above is the portion of the GLB derivative liability classified as Future policy benefits in the consolidated balance sheets. Refer to Note 5 for additional information.

 

     Six Months Ended June 30, 2011  
     Assets     Liabilities  
     Available-for-Sale Debt Securities     Equity
securities
    Other
investments
    Other
derivative
instruments
    GLB(1)  
     Foreign     Corporate
securities
    MBS     States,
municipalities,
and political
subdivisions
         
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Balance- Beginning of Period

   $ 26     $ 115     $ 39     $ 2     $ 13     $ 1,432     $ 4     $ 507    

Transfers into Level 3

     9       34       4       —          —          —          —          —     

Transfers out of Level 3

     (7     (4     (35     —          —          —          —          —     

Change in Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) included in OCI

     (1     1       —          —          (1     51       —          —     

Net Realized Gains/Losses

     1       (2     —          —          4       (3     1       17    

Purchases

     5       22       46       —          2       333       —          —     

Sales

     (3     (20     (15     —          (8     (55     —          —     

Settlements

     (3     (4     (5     (1     —          (78     (1     —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance-End of Period

   $ 27     $ 142     $ 34     $ 1     $ 10     $ 1,680     $ 4     $ 524    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Realized Gains/Losses Attributable to Changes in Fair Value at the Balance Sheet Date

   $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ (3   $ 1     $ 17    

 

(1) 

Our GLB reinsurance product meets the definition of a derivative instrument for accounting purposes and is accordingly carried at fair value. Excluded from the table above is the portion of the GLB derivative liability classified as Future policy benefits in the consolidated balance sheets. The liability for GLB reinsurance was $676 million at June 30, 2011, and $648 million at December 31, 2010, which includes a fair value derivative adjustment of $524 million and $507 million, respectively.

 

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(Unaudited)

 

b) Financial instruments disclosed, but not measured, at fair value

ACE uses various financial instruments in the normal course of its business. Our insurance contracts are excluded from fair value of financial instruments accounting guidance, and therefore, are not included in the amounts discussed below.

The carrying values of cash, other assets, other liabilities, and other financial instruments not included below approximated their fair values.

Investments in partially-owned insurance companies

Fair values for investments in partially-owned insurance companies are based on ACE’s share of the net assets based on the financial statements provided by those companies.

Short- and long-term debt and trust preferred securities

Where practical, fair values for short-term debt, long-term debt, and trust preferred securities are estimated using discounted cash flow calculations based principally on observable inputs including incremental borrowing rates, which reflect ACE’s credit rating, for similar types of borrowings with maturities consistent with those remaining for the debt being valued.

The following table presents carrying values and fair values of financial instruments not measured at fair value:

 

     June 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     Carrying
Value
     Fair
Value
     Carrying
Value
     Fair
Value
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Assets:

           

Fixed maturities held to maturity

           

U.S. Treasury and agency

   $ 1,091      $ 1,136      $ 1,078      $ 1,126  

Foreign

     921        949        935        930  

Corporate securities

     2,207        2,282        2,338        2,337  

Mortgage-backed securities

     2,448        2,544        2,949        3,036  

States, municipalities, and political subdivisions

     1,115        1,151        1,147        1,176  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
     7,782        8,062        8,447        8,605  

Partially-owned insurance companies

     339        339        352        352  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets

   $ 8,121      $ 8,401      $ 8,799      $ 8,957  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Liabilities:

           

Short-term debt

   $ 1,401      $ 1,401      $ 1,251      $ 1,251  

Long-term debt

     3,360        3,918        3,360        3,823  

Trust preferred securities

     309        422        309        404  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total liabilities

   $ 5,070      $ 5,741      $ 4,920      $ 5,478  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

The following table presents, by valuation hierarchy, the financial instruments not measured at fair value:

 

      Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

June 30, 2012

           

Assets:

           

Fixed maturities held to maturity

           

U.S. Treasury and agency

   $601        $ 528      $ 7      $ 1,136  

Foreign

     —           949        —           949  

Corporate securities

     —           2,266        16        2,282  

Mortgage-backed securities

     —           2,544        —           2,544  

States, municipalities, and political subdivisions

     —           1,151        —           1,151  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
     601        7,438        23        8,062  

Partially-owned insurance companies

     —           —           339        339  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets

   $601        $ 7,438      $ 362      $ 8,401  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Liabilities:

           

Short-term debt

   $—           $ 1,401      $ —         $ 1,401  

Long-term debt

     —           3,918        —           3,918  

Trust preferred securities

     —           422        —           422  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total liabilities

   $—           $ 5,741      $ —         $ 5,741  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

5. Assumed life reinsurance programs involving minimum benefit guarantees under annuity contracts

The following table presents income and expenses relating to GMDB and GLB reinsurance. GLBs include GMIBs as well as some GMABs originating in Japan.

 

     Three Months Ended
June  30
    Six Months Ended
June  30
 
     2012     2011     2012     2011  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

GMDB

        

Net premiums earned

   $ 21     $ 25     $ 44     $ 51  

Policy benefits and other reserve adjustments

   $ 12     $ 21     $ 39     $ 43  

GLB

        

Net premiums earned

   $ 40     $ 41     $ 81     $ 82  

Policy benefits and other reserve adjustments

     16       6       23       12  

Net realized gains (losses)

     (494     (75     (34     (17
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(Loss) gain recognized in income

   $ (470   $ (40   $ 24     $ 53  

Net cash received

   $ 38     $ 40     $ 79     $ 81  

Net increase in liability

   $ (508   $ (80   $ (55   $ (28

At June 30, 2012, reported liabilities for GMDB and GLB reinsurance were $117 million and $1.6 billion, respectively, compared with $138 million and $1.5 billion, respectively, at December 31, 2011. The reported liability for GLB reinsurance of $1.6 billion at June 30, 2012, and $1.5 billion at December 31, 2011, includes a fair value derivative adjustment of $1.4 billion and $1.3 billion, respectively. Included in Net realized gains (losses) in the table above are gains (losses) related to foreign exchange and other fair value derivative adjustments. Reported liabilities for both GMDB and GLB reinsurance are determined using internal valuation models. Such valuations require considerable judgment and are subject to significant uncertainty. The valuation of these products is subject to fluctuations arising from, among other factors, changes in interest rates, changes in equity markets, changes in credit markets, changes in the allocation of the investments underlying annuitants’

 

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(Unaudited)

 

account values, and assumptions regarding future policyholder behavior. These models and the related assumptions are continually reviewed by management and enhanced, as appropriate, based upon improvements in modeling assumptions and availability of more information, such as market conditions and demographics of in-force annuities.

Variable Annuity Net Amount at Risk

(i) Reinsurance covering the GMDB risk only

At June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the net amount at risk from reinsurance programs covering the GMDB risk only was $1.5 billion and $1.8 billion, respectively.

For reinsurance programs covering the GMDB risk only, the net amount at risk is defined as the present value of future claim payments under the following assumptions:

 

   

policy account values and guaranteed values are fixed at the valuation date (June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively);

 

   

there are no lapses or withdrawals;

 

   

mortality according to 100 percent of the Annuity 2000 mortality table;

 

   

future claims are discounted in line with the discounting assumption used in the calculation of the benefit reserve averaging between 1.0 and 2.0 percent; and

 

   

reinsurance coverage ends at the earlier of the maturity of the underlying variable annuity policy or the reinsurance treaty.

The total claim amount payable on reinsurance programs covering the GMDB risk only, if all the cedants’ policyholders were to die immediately at June 30, 2012 was approximately $442 million. This takes into account all applicable reinsurance treaty claim limits.

(ii) Reinsurance covering the GLB risk only

At June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the net amount at risk from reinsurance programs covering the GLB risk only was $442 million and $380 million, respectively.

For reinsurance programs covering the GLB risk only, the net amount at risk is defined as the present value of future claim payments under the following assumptions:

 

   

policy account values and guaranteed values are fixed at the valuation date (June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively);

 

   

there are no deaths, lapses, or withdrawals;

 

   

policyholders annuitize at a frequency most disadvantageous to ACE (in other words, annuitization at a level that maximizes claims taking into account the treaty limits) under the terms of the reinsurance contracts;

 

   

for annuitizing policyholders, the GMIB claim is calculated using interest rates in line with those used in calculating the reserve;

 

   

future claims are discounted in line with the discounting assumption used in the calculation of the benefit reserve averaging between 3.0 and 4.0 percent; and

 

   

reinsurance coverage ends at the earlier of the maturity of the underlying variable annuity policy or the reinsurance treaty.

 

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(Unaudited)

 

(iii) Reinsurance covering both the GMDB and GLB risks on the same underlying policyholders

At June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the GMDB net amount at risk from reinsurance programs covering both the GMDB and GLB risks on the same underlying policyholders was $160 million and $182 million, respectively.

At June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the GLB net amount at risk from reinsurance programs covering both the GMDB and GLB risks on the same underlying policyholders was $934 million and $998 million, respectively.

These net amounts at risk reflect the interaction between the two types of benefits on any single policyholder (eliminating double-counting), and therefore the net amounts at risk should be considered additive.

For reinsurance programs covering both the GMDB and GLB risks on the same underlying policyholders, the net amount at risk is defined as the present value of future claim payments under the following assumptions:

 

   

policy account values and guaranteed values are fixed at the valuation date (June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively);

 

   

there are no lapses, or withdrawals;

 

   

mortality according to 100 percent of the Annuity 2000 mortality table;

 

   

policyholders annuitize at a frequency most disadvantageous to ACE (in other words, annuitization at a level that maximizes claims taking into account the treaty limits) under the terms of the reinsurance contracts;

 

   

for annuitizing policyholders, the GMIB claim is calculated using interest rates in line with those used in calculating the reserve;

 

   

future claims are discounted in line with the discounting assumption used in the calculation of the benefit reserve averaging between 1.0 and 2.0 percent; and

 

   

reinsurance coverage ends at the earlier of the maturity of the underlying variable annuity policy or the reinsurance treaty.

The total claim amount payable on reinsurance programs covering both the GMDB and GLB risks on the same underlying policyholders, if all of the cedants’ policyholders were to die immediately at June 30, 2012 was approximately $1.0 billion. This takes into account all applicable reinsurance treaty claim limits. Although there would be an increase in death claims resulting from 100 percent immediate mortality of all policyholders, the GLB claims would be zero.

The average attained age of all policyholders under sections i), ii), and iii) above, weighted by the guaranteed value of each reinsured policy, is approximately 67 years.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

6. Commitments, contingencies, and guarantees

a) Derivative instruments

Derivative instruments employed

ACE maintains positions in derivative instruments such as futures, options, swaps, and foreign currency forward contracts for which the primary purposes are to manage duration and foreign currency exposure, yield enhancement, or to obtain an exposure to a particular financial market. Along with convertible bonds and to be announced mortgage-backed securities (TBA), discussed below, these are the most numerous and frequent derivative transactions.

ACE maintains positions in convertible bond investments that contain embedded derivatives. In addition, we purchase TBAs as part of our investing activities. These securities are included within the fixed maturities available for sale (FM AFS) portfolio.

Under reinsurance programs covering GLBs, ACE assumes the risk of GLBs, including GMIB and GMAB, associated with variable annuity contracts. The GMIB risk is triggered if, at the time the contract holder elects to convert the accumulated account value to a periodic payment stream (annuitize), the accumulated account value is not sufficient to provide a guaranteed minimum level of monthly income. The GMAB risk is triggered if, at contract maturity, the contract holder’s account value is less than a guaranteed minimum value. The GLB reinsurance product meets the definition of a derivative instrument. Benefit reserves in respect of GLBs are classified as Future policy benefits (FPB) while the fair value derivative adjustment is classified within Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other liabilities (AP). ACE also maintains positions in exchange-traded equity futures contracts and options on equity market indices to limit equity exposure in the GMDB and GLB blocks of business.

In relation to certain debt issuances, ACE, from time to time, has entered into interest rate swap transactions for the purpose of either fixing or reducing borrowing costs. Although the use of these interest rate swaps has the economic effect of fixing or reducing borrowing costs on a net basis, gross interest expense on the related debt issuances is included in Interest expense while the settlements related to the interest rate swaps are reflected in Net realized gains (losses) in the consolidated statements of operations. At June 30, 2012, ACE had no in-force interest rate swaps.

ACE buys credit default swaps to mitigate global credit risk exposure, primarily related to reinsurance recoverables.

All derivative instruments are carried at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in Net realized gains (losses) in the consolidated statements of operations. None of the derivative instruments are designated as hedges for accounting purposes.

 

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(Unaudited)

 

The following table presents the balance sheet locations, fair values in an asset or (liability) position, and notional values/payment provisions of our derivative instruments:

 

            June 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     Consolidated
Balance
Sheet
Location
     Fair
Value
    Notional
Value/
Payment
Provision
     Fair
Value
    Notional
Value/
Payment
Provision
 
            (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Investment and embedded derivative instruments

            

Foreign currency forward contracts

     AP       $ (4   $ 771      $ 7     $ 674  

Cross-currency swaps

     AP         —          50        —          —     

Futures contracts on money market instruments

     AP         3       2,077        7       10,476  

Futures contracts on notes and bonds

     AP         (3     802        (4     1,055  

Options on money market instruments

     AP         —          3,030        —          292  

Convertible bonds

     FM AFS         381       364        357       353  

TBAs

     FM AFS         34       32        60       56  
     

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 
      $ 411     $ 7,126      $ 427     $ 12,906  
     

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other derivative instruments

            

Futures contracts on equities(1)

     AP       $ (85   $ 2,125      $ (16   $ 1,367  

Options on equity market indices(1)

     AP         41       250        54       250  

Credit default swaps

     AP         1       50        3       350  

Other

     AP         —          6        —          6  
     

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 
      $ (43   $ 2,431      $ 41     $ 1,973  
     

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

GLB(2)

     AP/FPB       $ (1,560   $ 1,376      $ (1,505   $ 1,378  
     

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) 

Related to GMDB and GLB blocks of business.

(2) 

Includes both future policy benefits reserves and fair value derivative adjustment. Refer to Note 5 for additional information. Note that the payment provision related to GLB is the net amount at risk. The concept of a notional value does not apply to the GLB reinsurance contracts.

The following table presents net realized gains (losses) related to derivative instrument activity in the consolidated statements of operations:

 

       Three Months Ended         Six Months Ended    
           June 30                 June 30        
     2012     2011     2012     2011  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Investment and embedded derivative instruments

        

Foreign currency forward contracts

   $ 8     $ (3   $ 1     $ (18

All other futures contracts and options

     (45     (24     (20     (27

Convertible bonds

     (12     (21     12       (22

TBAs

     —          —          —          (1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment and embedded derivative instruments

   $ (49   $ (48   $ (7   $ (68
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

GLB and other derivative instruments

        

GLB(1)

   $ (467   $ (70   $ (39   $ 1  

Futures contracts on equities(2)

     65       —          (148     (63

Options on equity market indices(2)

     5       3       (13     (5

Credit default swaps

     1       (2     (4     (3
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total GLB and other derivative instruments

   $ (396   $ (69   $ (204   $ (70
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
   $ (445   $ (117   $ (211   $ (138
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) 

Excludes foreign exchange gains (losses) related to GLB.

(2) 

Related to GMDB and GLB blocks of business.

 

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(Unaudited)

 

Derivative instrument objectives

(i) Foreign currency exposure management

A foreign currency forward contract (forward) is an agreement between participants to exchange specific foreign currencies at a future date. ACE uses forwards to minimize the effect of fluctuating foreign currencies.

(ii) Duration management and market exposure

Futures

Futures contracts give the holder the right and obligation to participate in market movements, determined by the index or underlying security on which the futures contract is based. Settlement is made daily in cash by an amount equal to the change in value of the futures contract times a multiplier that scales the size of the contract. Exchange-traded futures contracts on money market instruments, notes and bonds are used in fixed maturity portfolios to more efficiently manage duration, as substitutes for ownership of the money market instruments, bonds and notes without significantly increasing the risk in the portfolio. Investments in futures contracts may be made only to the extent that there are assets under management not otherwise committed.

Exchange-traded equity futures contracts are used to limit exposure to a severe equity market decline, which would cause an increase in expected claims and therefore, reserves for GMDB and GLB reinsurance business.

Options

An option contract conveys to the holder the right, but not the obligation, to purchase or sell a specified amount or value of an underlying security at a fixed price. Option contracts are used in the investment portfolio as protection against unexpected shifts in interest rates, which would affect the duration of the fixed maturity portfolio. By using options in the portfolio, the overall interest rate sensitivity of the portfolio can be reduced. Option contracts may also be used as an alternative to futures contracts in the synthetic strategy as described above.

Another use for option contracts is to limit exposure to a severe equity market decline, which would cause an increase in expected claims and therefore, reserves for GMDB and GLB reinsurance business.

The price of an option is influenced by the underlying security, expected volatility, time to expiration, and supply and demand.

The credit risk associated with the above derivative financial instruments relates to the potential for non-performance by counterparties. Although non-performance is not anticipated, in order to minimize the risk of loss, management monitors the creditworthiness of its counterparties and obtains collateral. The performance of exchange-traded instruments is guaranteed by the exchange on which they trade. For non-exchange-traded instruments, the counterparties are principally banks which must meet certain criteria according to our investment guidelines.

Cross-currency swaps

We use cross-currency swaps to manage specific foreign currency denominated investments. These swaps enable us to reduce the duration gap between assets and liabilities by more closely matching the liabilities with the maturities of the underlying bonds.

 

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Interest rate swaps

We use interest rate swaps related to certain debt issuances for the purpose of either fixing and/or reducing borrowing costs.

Credit default swaps

A credit default swap is a bilateral contract under which two counterparties agree to isolate and separately trade the credit risk of at least one third-party reference entity. Under a credit default swap agreement, a protection buyer pays a periodic fee to a protection seller in exchange for a contingent payment by the seller upon a credit event (such as a default or failure to pay) related to the reference entity. When a credit event is triggered, the protection seller pays the protection buyer the difference between the fair value of assets and the principal amount. We have purchased a credit default swap to mitigate our global credit risk exposure to one of our reinsurers.

(iii) Convertible security investments

A convertible bond is a debt instrument that can be converted into a predetermined amount of the issuer’s equity at certain times prior to the bond’s maturity. The convertible option is an embedded derivative within the fixed maturity host instruments which are classified in the investment portfolio as available for sale. ACE purchases convertible bonds for their total return and not specifically for the conversion feature.

(iv) TBA

By acquiring a TBA, we make a commitment to purchase a future issuance of mortgage-backed securities. For the period between purchase of the TBA and issuance of the underlying security, we account for our position as a derivative in the consolidated financial statements. ACE purchases TBAs both for their total return and for the flexibility they provide related to our mortgage-backed security strategy.

(v) GLB

Under the GLB program, as the assuming entity, ACE is obligated to provide coverage until the expiration or maturity of the underlying annuities. Premiums received under the reinsurance treaties are classified as premium. Expected losses allocated to premiums received are classified as Future policy benefits and valued similar to GMDB reinsurance. Other changes in fair value, principally arising from changes in expected losses allocated to expected future premiums, are classified as Net realized gains (losses). Fair value represents management’s estimate of exit price and thus, includes a risk margin. We may recognize a realized loss for other changes in fair value due to adverse changes in the capital markets (e.g., declining interest rates and/or declining equity markets) and changes in actual or estimated future policyholder behavior (e.g., increased annuitization or decreased lapse rates) although we expect the business to be profitable. We believe this presentation provides the most meaningful disclosure of changes in the underlying risk within the GLB reinsurance programs for a given reporting period.

b) Other investments

At June 30, 2012, included in Other investments in the consolidated balance sheet are investments in limited partnerships and partially-owned investment companies with a carrying value of $1,592 million. In connection with these investments, we have commitments that may require funding of up to $1,184 million over the next several years.

 

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c) Taxation

In April 2012, ACE reached final settlement with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Appeals Division regarding several issues raised by the IRS Examination Division in its federal tax returns for 2005, 2006 and 2007. The settlement of these issues had no net impact on our results of operations. In addition, the IRS completed its field examination of ACE’s federal tax returns for 2008 and 2009 during June 2012. No material adjustments resulted from this examination. It is reasonably possible that over the next twelve months, the amount of unrecognized tax benefits may change resulting from the re-evaluation of unrecognized tax benefits arising from examinations of taxing authorities and the closing of tax statutes of limitations. With few exceptions, ACE is no longer subject to state and local or non-U.S. income tax examinations for years before 2005.

d) Legal proceedings

(i) Claims and other litigation

Our insurance subsidiaries are subject to claims litigation involving disputed interpretations of policy coverages and, in some jurisdictions, direct actions by allegedly-injured persons seeking damages from policyholders. These lawsuits, involving claims on policies issued by our subsidiaries which are typical to the insurance industry in general and in the normal course of business, are considered in our loss and loss expense reserves. In addition to claims litigation, we are subject to lawsuits and regulatory actions in the normal course of business that do not arise from or directly relate to claims on insurance policies. This category of business litigation typically involves, among other things, allegations of underwriting errors or misconduct, employment claims, regulatory activity, or disputes arising from our business ventures. In the opinion of management, our ultimate liability for these matters is not likely to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition, although it is possible that the effect could be material to our consolidated results of operations for an individual reporting period.

(ii) Business practices litigation

ACE Limited, ACE INA Holdings Inc., and ACE USA, Inc., along with a number of other insurers and brokers, were named in a series of federal putative nationwide class actions brought by insurance policyholders. The Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) consolidated these cases in the District of New Jersey. On August 1, 2005, plaintiffs in the New Jersey consolidated proceedings filed two consolidated amended complaints – one concerning commercial insurance and the other concerning employee benefit plans. The employee benefit plans litigation against ACE Limited has been dismissed.

In the commercial insurance complaint, the plaintiffs named ACE Limited, ACE INA Holdings Inc., ACE USA, Inc., ACE American Insurance Co., Illinois Union Insurance Co., and Indemnity Insurance Co. of North America. They allege that certain brokers and insurers, including certain ACE entities, conspired to increase premiums and allocate customers through the use of “B” quotes and contingent commissions. In addition, they allege that the broker defendants received additional income by improperly placing their clients’ business with insurers through related wholesale entities that acted as intermediaries between brokers and insurers. Plaintiffs also allege that broker defendants tied the purchase of primary insurance to the placement of such coverage with reinsurance carriers through the broker defendants’ reinsurance broker subsidiaries. The complaint asserts the following causes of action against the ACE defendants: Federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), federal antitrust law, state antitrust law, aiding and abetting breach of fiduciary duty, and unjust enrichment.

In 2006 and 2007, the Court dismissed plaintiffs’ first two attempts to properly plead a case without prejudice and permitted plaintiffs one final opportunity to re-plead. The amended complaint, filed on May 22, 2007, purported to add several new ACE defendants: ACE Group Holdings, Inc., ACE US Holdings, Inc., Westchester

 

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(Unaudited)

 

Fire Insurance Company, INA Corporation, INA Financial Corporation, INA Holdings Corporation, ACE Property and Casualty Insurance Company, and Pacific Employers Insurance Company. Plaintiffs also added a new antitrust claim against Marsh, the ACE defendants, and other insurers based on the same allegations as the other claims but limited to excess casualty insurance. In 2007, the Court granted defendants’ motions to dismiss plaintiffs’ antitrust and RICO claims with prejudice. The Court also declined to exercise supplemental jurisdiction over plaintiffs’ state law claims and dismissed those claims without prejudice. Plaintiffs appealed to the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. On August 16, 2010, the Third Circuit affirmed, in part, and vacated, in part, the District Court’s previous dismissals with instructions for further briefing at the District Court on remand. Defendants renewed their motions consistent with the Third Circuit’s instructions. On June 28, 2011, the District Court administratively terminated defendants’ motions without prejudice to re-file after adjudication of issues related to a proposed class settlement involving a number of other parties and stayed the case. On October 17, 2011 the Court lifted the stay and indicated that it will issue a new scheduling order in the coming months. On April 30, 2012 the Court entered a discovery scheduling order; discovery is ongoing.

As of July 31, 2012, plaintiffs have not specified an amount of alleged damages and the Court has not decided defendants’ renewed motions to dismiss. The Court has also not determined if this case may proceed as a class action and has, therefore, not determined the size or scope of any class. As a result, ACE is unable to reasonably estimate the potential loss or range of losses, if any, arising from this litigation.

There are a number of federal actions brought by policyholders based on allegations similar to the allegations in the consolidated federal actions that were filed in, or transferred to, the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey for coordination (“tag-along cases”). On October 17, 2011 the Court lifted the stay and indicated that it will issue a new scheduling order. On April 30, 2012 the Court entered a discovery scheduling order; discovery is ongoing.

 

   

New Cingular Wireless Headquarters LLC et al. v. Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. et al. (Case No. 06-5120; D.N.J.), was originally filed in the Northern District of Georgia on April 4, 2006. ACE Limited, ACE American Ins. Co., ACE USA, Inc., ACE Bermuda Insurance Ltd., Illinois Union Ins. Co., Pacific Employers Ins. Co., and Lloyd’s of London Syndicate 2488 AGM, along with a number of other insurers and brokers, are named.

 

   

Avery Dennison Corp. v. Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. et al. (Case No. 07-00757; D.N.J.) was filed on February 13, 2007. ACE Limited, ACE INA Holdings Inc., ACE USA, Inc., and ACE American Insurance Co., along with a number of other insurers and brokers, are named.

 

   

Henley Management Co., Inc. et al. v. Marsh, Inc. et al. (Case No. 07-2389; D.N.J.) was filed on May 27, 2007. ACE USA, Inc., along with a number of other insurers and Marsh, Inc., are named.

 

   

Sears, Roebuck & Co. et al. v. Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. et al. (Case No. 07-2535; D.N.J.) was originally filed in the Northern District of Georgia on October 12, 2007. ACE American Insurance Co., ACE Bermuda Insurance Ltd., and Westchester Surplus Lines Insurance Co., along with a number of other insurers and brokers, are named.

 

   

Lincoln Adventures LLC et al. v. Those Certain Underwriters at Lloyd’s, London Members of Syndicates 0033 et al. (Case No. 07-60991; D.N.J.) was originally filed in the Southern District of Florida on July 13, 2007. Supreme Auto Transport LLC et al. v. Certain Underwriters of Lloyd’s of London, et al. (Case No. 07-6703; D.N.J.) (Supreme Auto) was originally filed in the Southern District of New York on July 25, 2007. Lloyd’s of London Syndicate 2488 AGM, along with a number of other Lloyd’s of London Syndicates and various brokers, are named in both actions. The allegations in these putative class-action lawsuits are similar to the allegations in the consolidated federal actions identified above, although these lawsuits focus on alleged conduct within the London insurance market. On May 29, 2012 the Supreme Auto case was voluntarily dismissed without prejudice by the plaintiffs.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

As of July 31, 2012, plaintiffs have not specified an amount of alleged damages in any of the remaining tag-along cases. The proceedings in the tag-along cases were stayed at a very early stage, before the ACE defendants could challenge the sufficiency of the claims with, for example, motions to dismiss. Also, the scope of the tag-along cases, in large part, will be affected by the outcome of the Multidistrict Litigation Court’s decision on defendants’ renewed motions to dismiss. As a result, ACE is unable to reasonably estimate the potential loss or range of losses, if any, arising from these litigations.

In addition to the related federal cases, there are two state cases with allegations similar to those in the consolidated federal actions described above:

 

   

Van Emden Management Corporation v. Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc., et al. (Case No. 05-0066A; Superior Court of Massachusetts), a class action in Massachusetts, was filed on January 13, 2005. Illinois Union Insurance Company is named. The Van Emden case has been stayed pending resolution of the consolidated proceedings in the District of New Jersey or until further order of the Court.

As of July 31, 2012, plaintiffs have not specified an amount of alleged damages in this case. The proceedings were stayed at a very early stage, before Illinois Union could challenge the sufficiency of the claims with, for example, a motion to dismiss. As a result, ACE is unable to reasonably estimate the potential loss or range of losses, if any, arising from this litigation.

 

   

State of Ohio, ex. rel. Marc E. Dann, Attorney General v. American Int’l Group, Inc. et al. (Case No. 07-633857; Court of Common Pleas in Cuyahoga County, Ohio) is an Ohio state action filed by the Ohio Attorney General on August 24, 2007. ACE INA Holdings Inc., ACE American Insurance Co., ACE Property & Casualty Insurance Co., Insurance Company of North America, and Westchester Fire Insurance Co., along with a number of other insurance companies and Marsh, are named. In December 2011 the ACE parties agreed to settle the case for $1.97 million. On December 27, 2011 the case was voluntarily dismissed with prejudice.

In all of the lawsuits described above, except where specifically noted, plaintiffs seek compensatory and in some cases special damages without specifying an amount. As a result, ACE cannot at this time estimate its potential costs related to these legal matters and, accordingly, no liability for compensatory damages has been established in the consolidated financial statements.

ACE’s ultimate liability for these matters is not likely to have a material adverse effect on ACE’s consolidated financial condition, although it is possible that the effect could be material to ACE’s consolidated results of operations for an individual reporting period.

7. Shareholders’ equity

All of ACE’s Common Shares are authorized under Swiss corporate law. Though the par value of Common Shares is stated in Swiss francs, ACE continues to use U.S. dollars as its reporting currency for preparing the consolidated financial statements. Under Swiss corporate law, dividends, including distributions through a reduction in par value (par value distributions) or from legal reserves, must be declared by ACE in Swiss francs though dividend payments are made by ACE in U.S. dollars. At our May 2011 annual general meeting, our shareholders approved a dividend for the following year, payable in four quarterly installments after the May 2011 annual general meeting from our capital contributions reserves (Additional paid-in capital), a subaccount of legal reserves. At our May 2012 annual general meeting, our shareholders approved a dividend for the following year, payable in four quarterly installments after the May 2012 annual general meeting in the form of a distribution by way of a par value reduction. We have determined this procedure is more appropriate for us at this

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

time due to current Swiss law. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, dividends per Common Share amounted to CHF 0.48 ($0.49) and CHF 1.01 ($1.08), including a par value reduction of CHF 0.48 per Common Share that had the effect of reducing par value per Common Share to CHF 29.79. Dividends for the six months ended June 30, 2012 included a $0.12 per Common Share increase (approved by our shareholders at the January 9, 2012 extraordinary general meeting) to the third and fourth installments of the dividend approved at the May 2011 annual general meeting.

For the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, dividends per Common Share amounted to CHF 0.29 ($0.35) and CHF 0.59 ($0.68), including a par value reduction of CHF 0.30 per Common Share.

Common Shares in treasury are used principally for issuance upon the exercise of employee stock options, grants of restricted stock, and purchases under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP). At June 30, 2012, 3,771,527 Common Shares remain in treasury after net shares redeemed under employee share-based compensation plans.

ACE Limited securities repurchase authorization

In August 2011, the Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $303 million of ACE’s Common Shares through December 31, 2012. The amount authorized in August 2011 was in addition to the $197 million balance remaining under a $600 million share repurchase program approved in November 2010. These authorizations were granted to allow ACE to repurchase Common Shares to partially offset potential dilution from the exercise of stock options and the granting of restricted stock under share-based compensation plans. Such repurchases may be made in the open market, in privately negotiated transactions, block trades, accelerated repurchases and/or through option or other forward transactions. In January 2012, ACE repurchased an additional 100,000 Common Shares for a cost of $7 million. At June 30, 2012, $461 million in share repurchase authorization remained through December 31, 2012 pursuant to the November 2010 and August 2011 Board authorizations.

8. Share-based compensation

The ACE Limited 2004 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the 2004 LTIP) provides for grants of both incentive and non-qualified stock options principally at an option price per share equal to the fair value of ACE’s Common Shares on the date of grant. Stock options are generally granted with a 3-year vesting period and a 10-year term. The stock options vest in equal annual installments over the respective vesting period, which is also the requisite service period. On February 23, 2012, ACE granted 1,452,605 stock options with a weighted-average grant date fair value of $15.58 each. The fair value of the options issued is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.

The 2004 LTIP also provides for grants of restricted stock and restricted stock units. ACE generally grants restricted stock and restricted stock units with a 4-year vesting period, based on a graded vesting schedule. The restricted stock is granted at market close price on the day of grant. On February 23, 2012, ACE granted 1,462,230 restricted stock awards and 255,850 restricted stock units to employees and officers of ACE and its subsidiaries with a grant date fair value of $73.35 each. Each restricted stock unit represents our obligation to deliver to the holder one Common Share upon vesting.

9. Segment information

ACE operates through the following business segments: Insurance – North American, Insurance – Overseas General, Global Reinsurance, and Life. These segments distribute their products through various forms of brokers, agencies, and direct marketing programs. All business segments have established relationships with reinsurance intermediaries.

 

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ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

For segment reporting purposes, certain items have been presented in a different manner than in the consolidated financial statements. Management uses underwriting income as the main measure of segment performance. ACE calculates underwriting income by subtracting Losses and loss expenses, Policy benefits, Policy acquisition costs, and Administrative expenses from Net premiums earned. For the Life business, management also includes Net investment income and (Gains) losses from fair value changes in separate account assets that do not qualify for separate account reporting as components of underwriting income. For example, for the three months ended June 30, 2012, Life underwriting income of $103 million includes Net investment income of $62 million and (Gains) losses from fair value changes in separate account assets of $14 million.

Effective January 1, 2012, we reclassified prior year segment operating results in order to conform to certain organizational realignments. These realignments resulted in a transfer of operating revenue and underwriting results of our international direct-marketed and credit life businesses from the Insurance – Overseas General segment to the Life segment. These realignments have no impact on consolidated operating results; however, prior year amounts contained in these consolidated financial statements have been adjusted to conform to the current year presentation.

The following tables present the operations by segment:

Statement of Operations by Segment

For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2012

(in millions of U.S. dollars)

 

     Insurance –
North
American
     Insurance –
Overseas
General
     Global
Reinsurance
    Life     Corporate
and Other
    ACE
Consolidated
 

Net premiums written

   $ 1,860      $ 1,475      $ 309     $ 486     $ —        $ 4,130  

Net premiums earned

     1,652        1,420        237       474       —          3,783  

Losses and loss expenses

     1,163        703        102       151       —          2,119  

Policy benefits

     —           —           —          102       —          102  

Policy acquisition costs

     157        332        42       88       —          619  

Administrative expenses

     153        233        13       78       37       514  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Underwriting income (loss)

     179        152        80       55       (37     429  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net investment income

     271        128        70       62       6       537  

Net realized gains (losses) including OTTI

     18        26        (17     (421     —          (394

Interest expense

     3        1        1       3       54       62  

Other (income) expense:

              

(Gains) losses from fair value changes in separate account assets

     —           —           —          14       —          14  

Other

     10        6        3       5       (4     20  

Income tax expense (benefit)

     107        51        —          19       (29     148  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

   $ 348      $ 248      $ 129     $ (345   $ (52   $ 328  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Statement of Operations by Segment

For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2011

(in millions of U.S. dollars)

 

     Insurance –
North
American
     Insurance –
Overseas
General
    Global
Reinsurance
    Life     Corporate
and Other
    ACE
Consolidated
 

Net premiums written

   $ 1,735      $ 1,443     $ 282     $ 493     $ —        $ 3,953  

Net premiums earned

     1,604        1,415       254       484       —          3,757  

Losses and loss expenses

     1,233        721       112       159       1       2,226  

Policy benefits

     —           —          —          108       —          108  

Policy acquisition costs

     145        335       47       85       —          612  

Administrative expenses

     147        239       14       78       40       518  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Underwriting income (loss)

     79        120       81       54       (41     293  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net investment income

     300        137       71       60       1       569  

Net realized gains (losses) including OTTI

     21        (10     (14     (68     (2     (73

Interest expense

     3        1       1       3       54       62  

Other (income) expense

     3        (5     1       11       2       12  

Income tax expense (benefit)

     95        39       8       14       (35     121  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

   $ 299      $ 212     $ 128     $ 18     $ (63   $ 594  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Statement of Operations by Segment

For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2012

(in millions of U.S. dollars)

 

     Insurance –
North
American
     Insurance –
Overseas
General
     Global
Reinsurance
    Life     Corporate
and Other
    ACE
Consolidated
 

Net premiums written

   $ 3,153      $ 3,003      $ 572     $ 974     $ —        $ 7,702  

Net premiums earned

     2,939        2,811        467       947       —          7,164  

Losses and loss expenses

     2,012        1,408        204       299       —          3,923  

Policy benefits

     —           —           —          249       —          249  

Policy acquisition costs

     284        667        85       164       1       1,201  

Administrative expenses

     300        462        25       156       81       1,024  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Underwriting income (loss)

     343        274        153       79       (82     767  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net investment income

     545        259        141       123       13       1,081  

Net realized gains (losses) including OTTI

     17        46        (4     (190     (3     (134

Interest expense

     6        2        2       6       108       124  

Other (income) expense:

              

(Gains) losses from fair value changes in separate account assets

     —           —           —          (4     —          (4

Other

     9        6        (2     14       8       35  

Income tax expense (benefit)

     198        89        6       30       (65     258  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

   $ 692      $ 482      $ 284     $ (34   $ (123   $ 1,301  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Statement of Operations by Segment

For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2011

(in millions of U.S. dollars)

 

     Insurance –
North
American
    Insurance –
Overseas
General
    Global
Reinsurance
    Life     Corporate
and Other
    ACE
Consolidated
 

Net premiums written

   $ 3,020     $ 2,853     $ 597     $ 929     $ —        $ 7,399  

Net premiums earned

     2,950       2,693       514       909       —          7,066  

Losses and loss expenses

     2,227       1,573       391       297       1       4,489  

Policy benefits

     —          —          —          199       —          199  

Policy acquisition costs

     281       636       93       161       —          1,171  

Administrative expenses

     295       462       26       152       82       1,017  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Underwriting income (loss)

     147       22       4       100       (83     190  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net investment income

     595       268       143       106       1       1,113  

Net realized gains (losses) including OTTI

     10       (19     (27     (81     (1     (118

Interest expense

     7       2       1       6       109       125  

Other (income) expense

     (13     (7     (5     17       7       (1

Income tax expense (benefit)

     184       56       18       28       (69     217  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

   $ 574     $ 220     $ 106     $ 74     $ (130   $ 844  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Underwriting assets are reviewed in total by management for purposes of decision-making. Other than goodwill, ACE does not allocate assets to its segments.

The following table presents the net premiums earned for each segment by product:

 

     Property &
All Other
     Casualty      Life,
Accident &
Health
     ACE
Consolidated
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2012

  

     

Insurance – North American

   $ 731      $ 828      $ 93      $ 1,652  

Insurance – Overseas General

     552        338        530        1,420  

Global Reinsurance

     114        123        —           237  

Life

     —           —           474        474  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 1,397      $ 1,289      $ 1,097      $ 3,783  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2011

           

Insurance – North American

   $ 648      $ 865      $ 91      $ 1,604  

Insurance – Overseas General

     533        348        534        1,415  

Global Reinsurance

     115        139        —           254  

Life

     —           —           484        484  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 1,296      $ 1,352      $ 1,109      $ 3,757  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

    Property &
All Other
    Casualty     Life,
Accident &
Health
    ACE
Consolidated
 
    (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2012

       

Insurance – North American

  $ 1,112     $ 1,645     $ 182     $ 2,939  

Insurance – Overseas General

    1,090       671       1,050       2,811  

Global Reinsurance

    224       243       —          467  

Life

    —          —          947       947  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $ 2,426     $ 2,559     $ 2,179     $ 7,164  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2011

       

Insurance – North American

  $ 1,018     $ 1,755     $ 177     $ 2,950  

Insurance – Overseas General

    964       690       1,039       2,693  

Global Reinsurance

    227       287       —          514  

Life

    —          —          909       909  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $ 2,209     $ 2,732     $ 2,125     $ 7,066  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

10. Earnings per share

The following table presents the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share:

 

     Three Months Ended      Six Months Ended  
     June 30      June 30  
     2012      2011      2012      2011  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)  

Numerator:

           

Net income

   $ 328      $ 594      $ 1,301      $ 844  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Denominator for basic earnings per share:

           

Weighted-average shares outstanding

     339,766,067        338,920,580        339,164,449        338,021,487  

Denominator for diluted earnings per share:

           

Share-based compensation plans

     2,907,971        2,768,388        3,006,950        2,596,909  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Adjusted weighted-average shares outstanding and assumed conversions

     342,674,038        341,688,968        342,171,399        340,618,396  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Basic earnings per share

   $ 0.96      $ 1.75      $ 3.83      $ 2.50  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Diluted earnings per share

   $ 0.96      $ 1.74      $ 3.80      $ 2.48  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Excluded from adjusted weighted-average shares outstanding and assumed conversions is the impact of securities that would have been anti-dilutive during the respective periods. For the three months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011, the potential anti-dilutive share conversions were 1,471,035 shares and 1,212 shares, respectively. The potential anti-dilutive share conversions for the six months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011 were 1,051,182 shares and 81,718 shares, respectively.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

11. Information provided in connection with outstanding debt of subsidiaries

The following tables present condensed consolidating financial information at June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, and for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011, for ACE Limited (the Parent Guarantor) and ACE INA Holdings Inc. (the Subsidiary Issuer). The Subsidiary Issuer is an indirect 100 percent-owned subsidiary of the Parent Guarantor. Investments in subsidiaries are accounted for by the Parent Guarantor under the equity method for purposes of the supplemental consolidating presentation. Earnings of subsidiaries are reflected in the Parent Guarantor’s investment accounts and earnings. The Parent Guarantor fully and unconditionally guarantees certain of the debt of the Subsidiary Issuer. Condensed consolidating financial information of the Subsidiary Issuer is presented on a consolidated basis and consists principally of the net assets, results of operations, and cash flows of operating insurance company subsidiaries.

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet at June 30, 2012

(in millions of U.S. dollars)

 

     ACE
Limited
(Parent
Guarantor)
    ACE INA
Holdings Inc.
(Subsidiary
Issuer)
    Other ACE
Limited
Subsidiaries
and
Eliminations(1)
    Consolidating
Adjustments(2)
    ACE Limited
Consolidated
 

Assets

         

Investments

  $36       $ 29,670     $ 27,975      $ —        $ 57,681  

Cash(3)

    (30     508       139        —          617  

Insurance and reinsurance balances receivable

    —          4,409       576        —          4,985  

Reinsurance recoverable on losses and loss expenses

    —          16,432       (4,680 )       —          11,752  

Reinsurance recoverable on policy benefits

    —          1,181       (924 )       —          257  

Value of business acquired

    —          637       —          —          637  

Goodwill and other intangible assets

    —          4,274       552        —          4,826  

Investments in subsidiaries

    25,660       —          —          (25,660     —     

Due from subsidiaries and affiliates, net

    327       —          —          (327 )       —     

Other assets

    7       7,678       2,261        —          9,946  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

  $26,000       $ 64,789     $ 25,899      $ (25,987   $ 90,701  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities

         

Unpaid losses and loss expenses

  $—          $ 30,321     $ 6,529      $ —        $ 36,850  

Unearned premiums

    —          5,916       1,128        —          7,044  

Future policy benefits

    —          3,845       591        —          4,436  

Due to subsidiaries and affiliates, net

    —          604       (277 )       (327 )       —     

Short-term debt

    —          851       550        —          1,401  

Long-term debt

    —          3,360       —          —          3,360  

Trust preferred securities

    —          309       —          —          309  

Other liabilities

    238       8,255       3,046        —          11,539  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    238       53,461       11,567        (327 )       64,939  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total shareholders’ equity

    25,762       11,328       14,332         (25,660     25,762  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

  $26,000       $ 64,789     $ 25,899       $ (25,987   $ 90,701  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1)

Includes all other subsidiaries of ACE Limited and intercompany eliminations.

(2) 

Includes ACE Limited parent company eliminations.

(3)

ACE maintains two notional multicurrency cash pools (Pools) with a third-party bank. Various ACE entities participate in one or the other of the Pools, pursuant to which credit and debit balances in individual ACE accounts are translated daily into a single currency and pooled on a notional basis. Individual ACE entities are permitted to overdraw on their individual accounts provided the overall Pool balances do not fall below zero. At June 30, 2012, the cash balance of one or more entities was negative; however, the overall Pool balances were positive.

 

41


Table of Contents

ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet at December 31, 2011

(in millions of U.S. dollars)

 

      ACE
Limited
(Parent
Guarantor)
     ACE INA
Holdings Inc.
(Subsidiary
Issuer)
     Other ACE
Limited
Subsidiaries
and
Eliminations(1)
    Consolidating
Adjustments(2)
    ACE Limited
Consolidated
 

Assets

            

Investments

   $33        $ 28,848      $ 26,795      $ —        $ 55,676  

Cash

     106        382        126        —          614  

Insurance and reinsurance balances receivable

     —           3,944        443        —          4,387  

Reinsurance recoverable on losses and loss expenses

     —           17,146        (4,757 )       —          12,389  

Reinsurance recoverable on policy

benefits

     —           941        (692 )       —          249  

Value of business acquired

     —           676        —          —          676  

Goodwill and other intangible assets

     —           4,248        551        —          4,799  

Investments in subsidiaries

     23,871        —           —          (23,871     —     

Due from subsidiaries and affiliates, net

     498        —           —          (498 )       —     

Other assets

     8        7,018        1,505        —          8,531  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

   $24,516        $ 63,203      $ 23,971      $ (24,369   $ 87,321  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities

            

Unpaid losses and loss expenses

   $—           $ 30,837      $ 6,640      $ —        $ 37,477  

Unearned premiums

     —           5,416        918        —          6,334  

Future policy benefits

     —           3,673        601        —          4,274  

Due to subsidiaries and affiliates, net

     —           316        182        (498 )       —     

Short-term debt

     —           850        401        —          1,251  

Long-term debt

     —           3,360        —          —          3,360  

Trust preferred securities

     —           309        —          —          309  

Other liabilities

     184        7,769        2,031        —          9,984  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     184        52,530        10,773        (498 )       62,989  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total shareholders’ equity

     24,332        10,673        13,198        (23,871     24,332  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

   $24,516        $ 63,203      $ 23,971      $ (24,369   $ 87,321  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) 

Includes all other subsidiaries of ACE Limited and intercompany eliminations.

(2) 

Includes ACE Limited parent company eliminations.

 

42


Table of Contents

ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations

For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2012

(in millions of U.S. dollars)

 

     ACE
Limited
(Parent
Guarantor)
    ACE INA
Holdings Inc.
(Subsidiary
Issuer)
     Other ACE
Limited
Subsidiaries
and
Eliminations(1)
    Consolidating
Adjustments(2)
    ACE
Limited
Consolidated
 

Net premiums written

   $ —        $ 2,327      $ 1,803      $ —        $ 4,130  

Net premiums earned

     —          2,196        1,587        —          3,783  

Net investment income

     1       257        279        —          537  

Equity in earnings of subsidiaries

     301       —           —          (301     —     

Net realized gains (losses) including OTTI

     2       34        (430 )       —          (394

Losses and loss expenses

     —          1,325        794        —          2,119  

Policy benefits

     —          54        48        —          102  

Policy acquisition costs and administrative expenses

     14       656        463        —          1,133  

Interest (income) expense

     (8     58        12        —          62  

Other (income) expense

     (33     9        58        —          34  

Income tax expense

     3       119        26        —          148  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income

   $ 328     $ 266      $ 35      $ (301   $ 328  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Comprehensive income (loss)

   $ 457     $ 323      $ (22 )     $ (301   $ 457  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations

For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2011

(in millions of U.S. dollars)

 

      ACE
Limited
(Parent
Guarantor)
    ACE INA
Holdings Inc.
(Subsidiary
Issuer)
     Other ACE
Limited
Subsidiaries
and
Eliminations(1)
    Consolidating
Adjustments(2)
    ACE
Limited
Consolidated
 

Net premiums written

   $ —        $ 2,306      $ 1,647      $ —        $ 3,953  

Net premiums earned

     —          2,225        1,532        —          3,757  

Net investment income

     —          282        287        —          569  

Equity in earnings of subsidiaries

     566       —           —          (566     —     

Net realized gains (losses) including OTTI

     (1     17        (89 )       —          (73

Losses and loss expenses

     —          1,438        788        —          2,226  

Policy benefits

     —          59        49        —          108  

Policy acquisition costs and administrative expenses

     18       620        492        —          1,130  

Interest (income) expense

     (10     66        6        —          62  

Other (income) expense

     (40     23        29        —          12  

Income tax expense

     3       109        9        —          121  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income

   $ 594     $ 209      $ 357      $ (566   $ 594  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Comprehensive income

   $ 801     $ 382      $ 184       $ (566   $ 801  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) 

Includes all other subsidiaries of ACE Limited and intercompany eliminations.

(2) 

Includes ACE Limited parent company eliminations.

 

43


Table of Contents

ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations

For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2012

(in millions of U.S. dollars)

 

     ACE
Limited
(Parent
Guarantor)
    ACE INA
Holdings Inc.
(Subsidiary
Issuer)
     Other ACE
Limited
Subsidiaries
and
Eliminations(1)
    Consolidating
Adjustments(2)
    ACE
Limited
Consolidated
 

Net premiums written

   $ —        $ 4,425      $ 3,277      $ —        $ 7,702  

Net premiums earned

     —          4,148        3,016        —          7,164  

Net investment income

     1       522        558        —          1,081  

Equity in earnings of subsidiaries

     1,229       —           —          (1,229     —     

Net realized gains (losses) including OTTI

     22       60        (216 )       —          (134

Losses and loss expenses

     —          2,507        1,416        —          3,923  

Policy benefits

     —          140        109        —          249  

Policy acquisition costs and administrative expenses

     26       1,296        903        —          2,225  

Interest (income) expense

     (17     124        17        —          124  

Other (income) expense

     (63     34        60        —          31  

Income tax expense

     5       204        49        —          258  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income

   $ 1,301     $ 425      $ 804      $ (1,229   $ 1,301  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Comprehensive income

   $ 1,728     $ 610      $ 619      $ (1,229   $ 1,728  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations

For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2011

(in millions of U.S. dollars)

 

     ACE
Limited
(Parent
Guarantor)
    ACE INA
Holdings Inc.
(Subsidiary
Issuer)
     Other ACE
Limited
Subsidiaries
and
Eliminations(1)
    Consolidating
Adjustments(2)
    ACE
Limited
Consolidated
 

Net premiums written

   $ —        $ 4,329      $ 3,070      $ —        $ 7,399  

Net premiums earned

     —          4,163        2,903        —          7,066  

Net investment income

     1       544        568        —          1,113  

Equity in earnings of subsidiaries

     805       —           —          (805     —     

Net realized gains (losses) including OTTI

     (2     4        (120 )       —          (118

Losses and loss expenses

     —          2,739        1,750        —          4,489  

Policy benefits

     —          99        100        —          199  

Policy acquisition costs and administrative expenses

     36       1,208        944        —          2,188  

Interest (income) expense

     (18     133        10        —          125  

Other (income) expense

     (62     36        25        —          (1

Income tax expense

     4       177        36        —          217  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income

   $ 844     $ 319      $ 486      $ (805   $ 844  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Comprehensive income

   $ 1,239     $ 592      $ 213      $ (805   $ 1,239  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) 

Includes all other subsidiaries of ACE Limited and intercompany eliminations.

(2) 

Includes ACE Limited parent company eliminations.

 

44


Table of Contents

ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows

For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2012

(in millions of U.S. dollars)

 

     ACE
Limited
(Parent
Guarantor)
    ACE INA
Holdings Inc.
(Subsidiary
Issuer)
    Other ACE
Limited
Subsidiaries
and
Eliminations(1)
    Consolidating
Adjustments(2)
    ACE
Limited
Consolidated
 

Net cash flows from operating activities

   $ 49     $ 540     $ 794      $ —        $ 1,383  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities

          

Purchases of fixed maturities available for sale

     —          (5,614     (6,073     —          (11,687

Purchases of fixed maturities held to maturity

     —          (134     (2 )       —          (136

Purchases of equity securities

     —          (57     (36 )       —          (93

Sales of fixed maturities available for

sale

     —          3,750       4,282        —          8,032  

Sales of equity securities

     —          28       5        —          33  

Maturities and redemptions of fixed maturities available for sale

     —          1,158       1,122        —          2,280  

Maturities and redemptions of fixed maturities held to maturity

     —          527       212        —          739  

Net derivative instruments settlements

     (1     (6     (126 )       —          (133

Advances from (to) affiliates

     131       —          —          (131     —     

Acquisition of subsidiaries

     —          (30     —          —          (30

Capital contribution to subsidiary

     —          —          (90 )       90        —     

Other

     —          (140     (115 )       —          (255
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash flows from (used for) investing activities

     130       (518     (821 )       (41 )       (1,250
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities

          

Dividends paid on Common Shares

     (318     —          —          —          (318

Common Shares repurchased

     —          —          (11 )       —          (11

Net proceeds from issuance of short-term debt

     —          —          151        —          151  

Proceeds from share-based compensation plans

     3       —          52        —          55  

Advances (to) from affiliates

     —          23       (154 )       131        —     

Capital contribution from subsidiary

     —          90       —          (90 )       —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash flows (used for) from financing activities

     (315     113       38        41        (123
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Effect of foreign currency rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

     —          (9     2        —          (7
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash

     (136     126       13        —          3  

Cash – beginning of period

     106       382       126        —          614  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash – end of period(3)

   $(30)        $ 508     $ 139      $ —        $ 617  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1)

Includes all other subsidiaries of ACE Limited and intercompany eliminations.

(2) 

Includes ACE Limited parent company eliminations.

(3) 

ACE maintains two notional multi-currency cash pools (Pools) with a third-party bank. Various ACE entities participate in one or the other of the Pools, pursuant to which credit and debit balances in individual ACE accounts are translated daily into a single currency and pooled on a notional basis. Individual ACE entities are permitted to overdraw on their individual accounts provided the overall Pool balances do not fall below zero. At June 30, 2012 one or more entities was negative; however, the overall Pool balances were positive.

 

45


Table of Contents

ACE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows

For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2011

(in millions of U.S. dollars)

 

    ACE
Limited
(Parent
Guarantor)
    ACE INA
Holdings Inc.
(Subsidiary
Issuer)
    Other ACE
Limited
Subsidiaries
and
Eliminations(1)
    Consolidating
Adjustments(2)
    ACE
Limited
Consolidated
 

Net cash flows from operating activities

  $ 623     $ 677     $ 1,443      $ (680   $ 2,063  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities

         

Purchases of fixed maturities available for sale

    —          (6,330     (7,353     —          (13,683

Purchases of fixed maturities held to maturity

    —          (233     (1 )       —          (234

Purchases of equity securities

    —          (138     (32 )       —          (170

Sales of fixed maturities available for sale

    8       5,022       4,955        —          9,985  

Sales of equity securities

    —          332       15        —          347  

Maturities and redemptions of fixed maturities available for sale

    —          847       911        —          1,758  

Maturities and redemptions of fixed maturities held to maturity

    —          475       181        —          656  

Net derivative instruments settlements

    (1     (7     (38 )       —          (46

Capital contribution to subsidiary

    (385     —          —          385        —     

Advances from (to) affiliates

    (291 )     —          —          291        —     

Acquisition of subsidiaries (net of cash acquired of $95)

    —          (343     (37 )       —          (380

Other

    —          (449     317        —          (132
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash flows used for investing activities

    (669     (824     (1,082     676        (1,899
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities

         

Dividends paid on Common Shares

    (223     —          —          —          (223

Common Shares repurchased

    —          —          (68 )       —          (68

Net proceeds from (repayments) issuance of short-term debt

    (300     —          400        —          100  

Proceeds from share-based compensation plans

    76       —          —          —          76  

Advances from (to) affiliates

    —          226       65        (291     —     

Dividends to parent company

    —          —          (680 )       680        —     

Capital contribution from parent

    —          —          385        (385     —     
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash flows (used for) from financing activities

    (447     226       102        4        (115
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Effect of foreign currency rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

    —          12       —          —          12  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net (decrease) increase in cash

    (493     91       463        —          61  

Cash – beginning of period(3)

    308       573       (109 )       —          772  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash – end of period(3)

  $(185)        $ 664     $ 354      $ —        $ 833  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) 

Includes all other subsidiaries of ACE Limited and intercompany eliminations.

(2) 

Includes ACE Limited parent company eliminations.

(3) 

ACE maintains two notional multi-currency cash pools (Pools) with a third-party bank. Various ACE entities participate in one or the other of the Pools, pursuant to which credit and debit balances in individual ACE accounts are translated daily into a single currency and pooled on a notional basis. Individual ACE entities are permitted to overdraw on their individual accounts provided the overall Pool balances do not fall below zero. At June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, the cash balance of one or more entities was negative; however, the overall Pool balances were positive.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following is a discussion of our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity and capital resources as of and for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012.

All comparisons in this discussion are to the corresponding prior year periods unless otherwise indicated.

Our results of operations and cash flows for any interim period are not necessarily indicative of our results for the full year. This discussion should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and related notes and our Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011 (2011 Form 10-K).

Effective January 1, 2012, we retrospectively adopted new accounting guidance for costs associated with acquiring or renewing insurance contracts. Under the new guidance, the definition of acquisition costs was modified to specify that a cost must be directly related to the successful acquisition of a new or renewal insurance contract in order to be deferred. Prior year amounts and ratios contained in these consolidated financial statements have been adjusted to reflect the impact of retrospective adjustments as a result of applying this new accounting guidance.

In addition, effective January 1, 2012, we reclassified prior year segment operating results in order to conform to certain organizational realignments. These realignments resulted in a transfer of operating revenue and underwriting results of our international direct-marketed and credit life businesses from the Insurance – Overseas General segment to the Life segment. These realignments have no impact on consolidated operating results; however, prior year amounts and underwriting ratios contained in these consolidated financial statements have been adjusted to conform to the current year presentation.

 

MD&A Index

   Page
No.
 

Forward-Looking Statements

     48  

Overview

     50  

Financial Highlights

     50  

Consolidated Operating Results

     51  

Prior Period Development

     55  

Segment Operating Results

     58  

Other Income and Expense Items

     66  

Net Investment Income

     66  

Net Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses)

     67  

Investments

     69  

Critical Accounting Estimates

     76  

Reinsurance Recoverable on Ceded Reinsurance

     76  

Unpaid Losses and Loss Expenses

     76  

Asbestos and Environmental (A&E) and Other Run-off Liabilities

     77  

Fair Value Measurements

     77  

Guaranteed Living Benefits (GLB) Derivatives

     78  

Catastrophe Management

     82  

Natural Catastrophe Property Reinsurance Program

     83   

Crop Insurance

     83  

Liquidity

     83  

Capital Resources

     85  

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

     86  

 

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Forward-Looking Statements

The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a “safe harbor” for forward-looking statements. Any written or oral statements made by us or on our behalf may include forward-looking statements that reflect our current views with respect to future events and financial performance. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could, should potential events occur, cause actual results to differ materially from such statements. These risks, uncertainties, and other factors (which are described in more detail elsewhere herein and in other documents we file with the SEC) include but are not limited to:

 

   

developments in global financial markets, including changes in interest rates, stock markets, and other financial markets, increased government involvement or intervention in the financial services industry, the cost and availability of financing, and foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations (which we refer to in this report as foreign exchange and foreign currency exchange), which could affect our statement of operations, investment portfolio, financial position, and financing plans;

 

   

general economic and business conditions resulting from volatility in the stock and credit markets and the depth and duration of recession;

 

   

losses arising out of natural or man-made catastrophes such as hurricanes, typhoons, earthquakes, floods, climate change (including effects on weather patterns, greenhouse gases, sea, land and air temperatures, sea levels, rain and snow), nuclear accidents or terrorism which could be affected by:

 

   

the number of insureds and ceding companies affected;

 

   

the amount and timing of losses actually incurred and reported by insureds;

 

   

the impact of these losses on our reinsurers and the amount and timing of reinsurance recoverable actually received;

 

   

the cost of building materials and labor to reconstruct properties or to perform environmental remediation following a catastrophic event; and

 

   

complex coverage and regulatory issues such as whether losses occurred from storm surge or flooding and related lawsuits;

 

   

actions that rating agencies may take from time to time, such as financial strength or credit ratings downgrades or placing these ratings on credit watch negative or the equivalent;

 

   

global political conditions, the occurrence of any terrorist attacks, including any nuclear, radiological, biological, or chemical events, or the outbreak and effects of war, and possible business disruption or economic contraction that may result from such events;

 

   

the ability to collect reinsurance recoverable, credit developments of reinsurers, and any delays with respect thereto and changes in the cost, quality, or availability of reinsurance;

 

   

actual loss experience from insured or reinsured events and the timing of claim payments;

 

   

the uncertainties of the loss-reserving and claims-settlement processes, including the difficulties associated with assessing environmental damage and asbestos-related latent injuries, the impact of aggregate-policy-coverage limits, and the impact of bankruptcy protection sought by various asbestos producers and other related businesses and the timing of loss payments;

 

   

changes to our assessment as to whether it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell, or have the intent to sell, available for sale fixed maturities before their anticipated recovery;

 

   

infection rates and severity of pandemics and their effects on our business operations and claims activity;

 

   

judicial decisions and rulings, new theories of liability, legal tactics, and settlement terms;

 

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the effects of public company bankruptcies and/or accounting restatements, as well as disclosures by and investigations of public companies relating to possible accounting irregularities, and other corporate governance issues, including the effects of such events on:

 

   

the capital markets;

 

   

the markets for directors and officers (D&O) and errors and omissions (E&O) insurance; and

 

   

claims and litigation arising out of such disclosures or practices by other companies;

 

   

uncertainties relating to governmental, legislative and regulatory policies, developments, actions, investigations and treaties, which, among other things, could subject us to insurance regulation or taxation in additional jurisdictions or affect our current operations;

 

   

the actual amount of new and renewal business, market acceptance of our products, and risks associated with the introduction of new products and services and entering new markets, including regulatory constraints on exit strategies;

 

   

the competitive environment in which we operate, including trends in pricing or in policy terms and conditions, which may differ from our projections and changes in market conditions that could render our business strategies ineffective or obsolete;

 

   

acquisitions made by us performing differently than expected, our failure to realize anticipated expense-related efficiencies or growth from acquisitions, the impact of acquisitions on our pre-existing organization or announced acquisitions not closing;

 

   

risks associated with being a Swiss corporation, including reduced flexibility with respect to certain aspects of capital management and the potential for additional regulatory burdens;

 

   

the potential impact from government-mandated insurance coverage for acts of terrorism;

 

   

the availability of borrowings and letters of credit under our credit facilities;

 

   

the adequacy of collateral supporting funded high deductible programs;

 

   

changes in the distribution or placement of risks due to increased consolidation of insurance and reinsurance brokers;

 

   

material differences between actual and expected assessments for guaranty funds and mandatory pooling arrangements;

 

   

the effects of investigations into market practices in the property and casualty (P&C) industry;

 

   

changing rates of inflation and other economic conditions, for example, recession;

 

   

the amount of dividends received from subsidiaries;

 

   

loss of the services of any of our executive officers without suitable replacements being recruited in a reasonable time frame;

 

   

the ability of our technology resources to perform as anticipated; and

 

   

management’s response to these factors and actual events (including, but not limited to, those described above).

The words “believe,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project,” “should,” “plan,” “expect,” “intend,” “hope,” “feel,” “foresee,” “will likely result,” or “will continue,” and variations thereof and similar expressions, identify forward-looking statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of their dates. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

 

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Overview

ACE Limited is the Swiss-incorporated holding company of the ACE Group of Companies. ACE opened its business office in Bermuda in 1985 and continues to maintain operations in Bermuda. ACE, which is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, and its direct and indirect subsidiaries, is a global insurance and reinsurance organization, serving the needs of a diverse group of clients around the world. We are predominantly a global property and casualty insurance company with both a commercial and specialty product orientation. We offer commercial insurance, specialty products and accident and health (A&H) solutions and are expanding our personal lines and international life insurance businesses. As we have grown, we have developed products and diversified our offerings to meet the needs of our customers. At June 30, 2012, ACE had total assets of $91 billion and shareholders’ equity of $26 billion.

We operate through the following business segments: Insurance – North American, Insurance—Overseas General, Global Reinsurance, and Life.

The Insurance – North American segment includes retail divisions ACE USA (including ACE Canada), ACE Commercial Risk Services and ACE Private Risk Services; our wholesale and specialty divisions ACE Westchester, ACE Agriculture and ACE Bermuda; and various run-off operations, including Brandywine Holdings Corporation (Brandywine). Our retail products range from commercial lines with service offerings such as risk management, loss control and engineering programs, and specialty commercial P&C and A&H to personal lines homeowners, automobiles, liability, valuable articles and marine coverages. Our wholesale and specialty products include excess and surplus property, professional liability, inland marine, specialty property, specialty casualty, political risk, and comprehensive multiple-peril crop and hail insurance products.

The Insurance – Overseas General segment comprises ACE International, our retail business serving territories outside the U.S., Bermuda, and Canada; the international A&H and life business of Combined Insurance (Combined); and the wholesale insurance business of ACE Global Markets. ACE International has a presence in major developed markets and growing economies serving multinational clients and local customers. A significant amount of our global business is with local companies, offering traditional and specialty P&C products including D&O and professional liability, specialty personal lines, and energy products. Our international A&H business primarily focuses on personal accident and supplemental medical. ACE Global Markets offers specialty products including aviation, marine, financial lines, energy, and political risk.

The Global Reinsurance segment represents our reinsurance operations, comprising ACE Tempest Re Bermuda, ACE Tempest Re USA, ACE Tempest Re International, ACE Tempest Re Canada, and the reinsurance operation of ACE Global Markets. Global Reinsurance provides solutions for customers ranging from small commercial insureds to multinational ceding companies. Global Reinsurance offers products such as property and workers’ compensation catastrophe, D&O, professional liability, specialty casualty and specialty property.

The Life segment includes our international life operations (ACE Life), ACE Tempest Life Re (ACE Life Re), and the North American supplemental A&H and life business of Combined Insurance. For more information on each of our segments refer to “Segment Information” in our 2011 Form 10-K.

On June 13, 2012, we announced that we and our local partner had signed a definitive agreement to acquire PT Asuransi Jaya Proteksi (JaPro), one of Indonesia’s leading general insurers. This transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals and other closing conditions, is expected to be completed by the end of 2012.

Financial Highlights for the Three Months Ended June 30, 2012

 

   

Total company net premiums written increased 4.5 percent. On a constant-dollar basis, total company net premiums written increased 6.5 percent.

 

   

The P&C combined ratio was 88.7 percent compared with 92.7 percent in the prior year period.

 

   

Favorable prior period development pre-tax was $113 million, representing 3.4 percentage points of the combined ratio, compared with $146 million in the prior year period.

 

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Total pre-tax and after-tax catastrophe losses including reinstatement premiums were $55 million and $41 million, respectively, compared with $134 million and $101 million, respectively, in the prior year period.

 

   

The current accident year combined ratio was 92.1 percent compared with 97.2 percent in the prior year period. Adjusting for catastrophe losses, current accident year combined ratio was 90.4 percent compared with 93.1 percent.

 

   

The P&C expense ratio for the quarter was 29.2 percent compared with 29.6 percent in the prior year period.

 

   

Operating cash flow was $811 million for the quarter.

 

   

Net investment income for the quarter decreased six percent to $537 million due to lower yields on new investments and the negative impact of foreign exchange.

 

   

Net realized losses from derivative accounting related to variable annuity reinsurance were $397 million.

Consolidated Operating Results – Three and Six Months Ended June 30, 2012 and 2011

 

    Three Months Ended
June 30
    % Change     Six Months
Ended

June 30
    % Change  
        2012             2011         Q-12 vs.
Q-11
    2012     2011     YTD-12 vs.
YTD-11
 
    (in millions of U.S. dollars, except for percentages)  

Net premiums written

  $ 4,130     $ 3,953       4   $ 7,702     $ 7,399       4

Net premiums earned

    3,783       3,757       1     7,164       7,066       1

Net investment income

    537       569       (6 )%      1,081       1,113       (3 )% 

Net realized gains (losses)

    (394     (73     NM        (134     (118     (14 )% 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total revenues

    3,926       4,253       (8 )%      8,111       8,061       1
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Losses and loss expenses

    2,119       2,226       (5 )%      3,923       4,489       (13 )% 

Policy benefits

    102       108       (6 )%      249       199       25

Policy acquisition costs

    619       612       1     1,201       1,171       3

Administrative expenses

    514       518       (1 )%      1,024       1,017       1

Interest expense

    62       62       0     124       125       (1 )% 

Other (income) expense

    34       12       183     31       (1     NM   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total expenses

    3,450       3,538       (2 )%      6,552       7,000       (6 )% 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income before income tax

    476       715       (33 )%      1,559       1,061       47

Income tax expense

    148       121       22     258       217       19
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income

  $ 328     $ 594       (45 )%    $ 1,301     $ 844       54
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

NM – not meaningful

           

The following table summarizes, by major product line, the approximate effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on the growth of net premiums written and earned for the periods indicated:

 

     Three Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
     June 30, 2012     June 30, 2012  
     P&C     Life     A&H     Total     P&C     Life     A&H     Total  

Net premiums written:

                

Growth in original currency

     7.8     2.1     3.5     6.5     5.6     15.1     2.7     5.5

Foreign exchange effect

     (1.5 )%      (2.9 )%      (3.4 )%      (2.0 )%      (1.1 )%      (2.4 )%      (2.1 )%      (1.4 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Growth as reported in U.S. dollars

     6.3     (0.8 )%      0.1     4.5     4.5     12.7     0.6     4.1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net premiums earned:

                

Growth in original currency

     3.2     0.0     2.7     2.9     2.1     13.4     2.7     2.9

Foreign exchange effect

     (1.8 )%      (2.2 )%      (3.5 )%      (2.2 )%      (1.6 )%      (2.2 )%      (2.2 )%      (1.5 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Growth as reported in U.S. dollars

     1.4     (2.2 )%      (0.8 )%      0.7     0.5     11.2     0.5     1.4
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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Net premiums written, which reflect the premiums we retain after purchasing reinsurance protection, increased four percent in both the three and six months ended June 30, 2012. In our Insurance – North American segment, retail premiums grew primarily from new business opportunities, strong renewal retention, increases in rates and exposure basis. This growth was partially offset by our continued planned reductions in our U.S. general market risk transfer workers’ compensation business. The North American wholesale and specialty division grew from increases in property, casualty and inland marine lines, partially offset by lower agriculture premiums driven by reduced crop hail production. Our Insurance – Overseas General segment reported an increase in international retail premiums due to continued growth in our P&C and A&H lines of business. This growth was partially offset by decreases in certain retail A&H production in Combined’s United Kingdom (U.K.) and Ireland regions. Combined Insurance premiums continue to be hampered by the economic recession in its target markets. Additionally, Combined’s business in the U.K. and Ireland has been impacted by changes in the regulatory environment as regulators in these two countries have adopted a new stance regarding sales practices and customer service. This has resulted in a need for us to re-evaluate our sales model and to re-engineer our processes. We have put these two operations on a sales moratorium while continuing to renew and service in-force policyholders. We have decided to cease sales in our small Spanish branch indefinitely. We have received regulatory approval to integrate all European operations of Combined into our ACE European Group Limited subsidiary, incorporated in the U.K. We expect to seek regulatory approval to re-commence sales in the U.K. and Ireland in 2012. For the six months ended June 30, 2012, our Insurance – Overseas General segment also benefited from the favorable impact of reinstatement premiums expensed in the prior year related to first quarter 2011 catastrophe activity. Our Global Reinsurance segment reported an increase in net premiums written for the three months ended June 30, 2012 primarily due to improving pricing conditions in our U.S. property catastrophe business. For the six months ended June 30, 2012, this improvement was more than offset by competitive market conditions experienced in the first quarter as well as from a non-recurring loss portfolio transfer treaty written in the prior year. Our Life segment reported a slight decrease in net premiums written for the three months ended June 30, 2012 primarily driven by the run-off of our Life reinsurance variable annuity business and from lower A&H production. This decrease was offset by growth in our Life insurance business primarily in our Asian markets. For the six months ended June 30, 2012, our Life insurance business also benefited from prior year acquisitions.

Net premiums earned reflect the portion of net premiums written that were recorded as revenues for the period as the exposure periods expire. Net premiums earned increased one percent in both the three and six months ended June 30, 2012. Our Insurance-North American segment reported an increase in net premiums earned for the three months ended June 30, 2012 from growth in commercial and personal lines in our retail division and growth in commercial and agriculture lines in our wholesale and specialty division. This growth was partially offset by our continued planned reduction of our U.S. general market risk transfer workers’ compensation business and by lower premiums associated with a couple of large structured prospective risk management programs. Results for the six months ended June 30, 2012 were relatively flat. In our Insurance – Overseas General segment, results for the three months ended June 30, 2012 grew on a constant-dollar basis driven by continued strong written premium production in Latin American and Asia, though results reported in U.S. dollars were relatively flat. Results for the six months ended June 30, 2012 increased on both a constant-dollar and reported U.S. dollar basis from growth in retail P&C and A&H lines and from the favorable impact of reinstatement premiums expensed in the prior year. Our Global Reinsurance segment reported a decline in net premiums earned due to consecutive lower net premiums written in prior quarters and to the effect of a non-recurring loss portfolio transfer treaty written in the prior year. Our Life segment reported decreased net premiums earned for the three months ended June 30, 2012 due to the run off of our Life reinsurance variable annuity business and from lower A&H premiums due to the effects of the economy resulting in lower new business. Net premiums earned increased for the six months ended June 30, 2012 primarily from business generated from prior year acquisitions.

 

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The following table provides a consolidated breakdown of net premiums earned by line of business for the periods indicated:

 

     Three Months Ended     % Change     Six Months Ended     % Change  
     June 30     Q-12 vs.     June 30     YTD-12 vs.  
         2012             2011         Q-11         2012             2011         YTD-11  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars, except for percentages)  

Property and all other

   $ 1,013     $ 940       8   $ 1,983     $ 1,775       12

Agriculture

     384       356       8     443       434       2

Casualty

     1,289       1,352       (5 )%      2,559       2,732       (6 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Subtotal

     2,686       2,648       1     4,985       4,941       1

Personal accident (A&H)

     871       878       (1 )%      1,723       1,715       0

Life

     226       231       (2 )%      456       410       11
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net premiums earned

   $ 3,783     $ 3,757       1   $ 7,164     $ 7,066       1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
     2012
% of  total
    2011
% of  total
          2012
% of  total
    2011
% of  total
       

Property and all other

     27     25       28     25  

Agriculture

     10     9       6     6  

Casualty

     34     36       36     39  
  

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Subtotal

     71     70       70     70  

Personal accident (A&H)

     23     23       24     24  

Life

     6     7       6     6  
  

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Net premiums earned

     100     100       100     100  
  

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

In evaluating our segments excluding Life, we use the combined ratio, the loss and loss expense ratio, the policy acquisition cost ratio, and the administrative expense ratio. We calculate these ratios by dividing the respective expense amounts by net premiums earned. We do not calculate these ratios for the Life segment as we do not use these measures to monitor or manage that segment. The combined ratio is determined by adding the loss and loss expense ratio, the policy acquisition cost ratio, and the administrative expense ratio. A combined ratio under 100 percent indicates underwriting income and a combined ratio exceeding 100 percent indicates underwriting loss.

The following table shows our consolidated loss and loss expense ratio, policy acquisition cost ratio, administrative expense ratio, and combined ratio for the periods indicated:

 

     Three Months Ended
June  30
    Six Months Ended
June  30
 
         2012             2011             2012             2011      

Loss and loss expense ratio

     59.5     63.1     58.3     68.1

Policy acquisition cost ratio

     16.1     16.1     16.7     16.3

Administrative expense ratio

     13.1     13.5     13.9     14.1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Combined ratio

     88.7     92.7     88.9     98.5
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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The following table shows the impact of catastrophe losses and related reinstatement premiums and the impact of prior period development on our consolidated loss and loss expense ratio for the periods indicated:

 

     Three Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
     June 30     June 30  
         2012             2011             2012             2011      

Loss and loss expense ratio, as reported

     59.5     63.1     58.3     68.1

Catastrophe losses and related reinstatement premiums

     (1.7 )%      (4.2 )%      (1.2 )%      (9.7 )% 

Prior period development

     3.4     4.5     3.3     3.9
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss and loss expense ratio, adjusted

     61.2     63.4     60.4     62.3
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total net pre-tax catastrophe losses, excluding related reinstatement premiums, were $55 million and $74 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, compared with $142 million and $557 million for the prior year periods, respectively. Catastrophe losses through June 30, 2012 were primarily related to severe weather related events in the U.S. Catastrophe losses through June 30, 2011 included earthquakes in Japan and New Zealand, storms in Australia, and severe weather-related events in the U.S.

Prior period development arises from changes to loss estimates recognized in the current year that relate to loss reserves first reported in previous calendar years and excludes the effect of losses from the development of earned premium from previous accident years. We experienced net favorable prior period development of $113 million and $206 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, respectively. This compares with net favorable prior period development of $146 million and $239 million in the prior year periods, respectively. Refer to “Prior Period Development” for additional information.

Net investment income for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 was $537 million and $1.1 billion, compared with $569 million and $1.1 billion for the prior year periods, respectively. Refer to “Net Investment Income” and “Investments” for additional information.

Policy acquisition costs consist of commissions, premium taxes, and certain underwriting costs related directly to the successful acquisition of a new or renewal insurance contract. Administrative expenses include all other operating costs. Our policy acquisition cost ratio was flat for the three months ended June 30, 2012. Our policy acquisition cost ratio increased for the six months ended June 30, 2012 primarily from growth in personal lines and A&H business that carry a higher acquisition cost ratio as well as increased spending to support future growth opportunities in our Insurance – North America segment. This increase was partially offset by lower costs in our Global Reinsurance segment. Our administrative expense ratio decreased in the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 primarily driven by lower regulatory costs in the Insurance – Overseas General segment.

Our effective income tax rate, which we calculate as income tax expense divided by income before income tax, is dependent upon the mix of earnings from different jurisdictions with various tax rates. A change in the geographic mix of earnings would change the effective income tax rate. Our effective income tax rate was 31 percent and 17 percent for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, respectively, compared with 17 percent and 20 percent for the prior year periods, respectively. The increase in our effective income tax rate for the three months ended June 30, 2012 was primarily due to net realized losses on derivatives generated in lower tax-paying jurisdictions during the current year period. The decrease in our effective income tax rate for the six months ended June 30, 2012 was primarily due to a smaller percentage of net realized losses on derivatives generated in lower tax-paying jurisdictions and a higher percentage of earnings being generated in lower tax-paying jurisdictions during the current year.

 

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Prior Period Development

The favorable prior period development of $113 million and $206 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, respectively, was the net result of several underlying favorable and adverse movements. In the sections following the tables below, significant prior period movements within each reporting segment are discussed in more detail. Long-tail lines include lines such as workers’ compensation, general liability, and professional liability; while short-tail lines include lines such as most property lines, energy, personal accident, aviation, and marine (including associated liability-related exposures).

The following table summarizes (favorable) and adverse prior period development by segment:

 

Three Months Ended June 30        Long-tail         Short-tail     Total     % of net
unpaid
reserves*
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars, except for percentages)  

2012

        

Insurance – North American

   $ (24   $ (35   $ (59     0.4

Insurance – Overseas General

     —          (39     (39     0.5

Global Reinsurance

     (15     —          (15     0.7
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   $ (39   $ (74   $ (113     0.4
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

2011

        

Insurance – North American

   $ (46   $ (25   $ (71     0.4

Insurance – Overseas General

     —          (40     (40     0.5

Global Reinsurance

     (35     —          (35     1.4
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   $ (81   $ (65   $ (146     0.6
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

* Calculated based on the segment/total beginning of period net unpaid loss and loss expenses reserves.
Six Months Ended June 30        Long-tail             Short-tail         Total     % of net
unpaid
reserves*
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars, except for percentages)  

2012

        

Insurance – North American

   $ (74   $ (45   $ (119     0.7

Insurance – Overseas General

     —          (61     (61     0.8

Global Reinsurance

     (16     (10     (26     1.1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   $ (90   $ (116   $ (206     0.8
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

2011

        

Insurance – North American

   $ (38   $ (68   $ (106     0.7

Insurance – Overseas General

     (1     (83     (84     1.2

Global Reinsurance

     (43     (6     (49     2.2
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   $ (82   $ (157   $ (239     0.9
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

* Calculated based on the segment/total beginning of period net unpaid loss and loss expenses reserves.

Insurance – North American

Insurance – North American’s operations experienced net favorable prior period development of $59 million in the three months ended June 30, 2012, which was the net result of several underlying favorable and adverse movements driven by the following principal changes:

 

   

Net favorable development of $24 million on long-tail business, including:

 

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Net favorable development of $38 million on our national accounts portfolios which consist of commercial auto liability, general liability, and workers’ compensation lines of business. This favorable development was the net impact of favorable and adverse movements, including:

 

   

Favorable development of $41 million on the 2011 accident year related to our annual assessment of multi-claimant events including industrial accidents. Consistent with prior years, we reviewed these potential exposures after the close of the accident year to allow for late reporting or identification of significant losses.

 

   

Favorable development of $34 million in the 2007 accident year, primarily in workers’ compensation. Loss activity through March 31, 2012 was lower than expected and was included in the review completed during the three months ended June 30, 2012, in which we have increased the weighting on experienced-based methods. The favorable development was the combined effect of this lower than expected incurred loss activity and our change in method weights.

 

   

Adverse development of $37 million affecting the 2006 and prior accident years largely in workers’ compensation. The causes for this adverse movement were numerous and included large increases in a small number of claims, higher than expected loss activity in a few accident years, changes in our weighting of experience-based methods, and a refinement of our treatment of ceded reinsurance recoveries on a few select treaties due to information which became known since our prior review.

 

   

Adverse development of $14 million in other long-tail business across a number of lines and accident years, none of which was significant individually or in the aggregate.

 

   

Favorable development of $35 million on short-tail business, including:

 

   

Favorable development of $23 million in our general aviation product lines (both hull and liability) affecting the 2009 and prior accident years. Actual paid and incurred loss activity continues to be lower than expected based on long term historical averages leading to a reduction in our estimate of ultimate losses; and

 

   

Favorable development of $12 million in other short-tail business across a number of lines and accident years, none of which was significant individually or in the aggregate.

Insurance – North American experienced net favorable prior period development of $71 million in the three months ended June 30, 2011, which was the net result of several underlying favorable and adverse movements, driven by the following principal changes:

 

   

Net favorable development of $46 million on long-tail business, including:

 

   

Favorable development of $56 million on our national accounts portfolios which consist of commercial auto liability, general liability, and workers’ compensation lines of business. The favorable development was the net impact of favorable and adverse movements, including:

 

   

Favorable development of $40 million on the 2010 accident year relating to our annual assessment of multi-claimant events including industrial accidents. Consistent with prior years, we reviewed these potential exposures after the close of the accident year to allow for late reporting or identification of significant losses.

 

   

Favorable development of $41 million on the 2003 through 2006 accident years, primarily in workers’ compensation. Case activity in these portfolios, especially in our excess and high deductible products, has continued to be lower than expected. As these accident years matured, greater weight has been given to experience-based methods. The combination of this lower than expected activity and shift in weighting methodology have produced this favorable development.

 

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Adverse development of $25 million on the 2002 and prior accident years, primarily in workers’ compensation. This adverse activity is due in part to data refinements and analysis relating to these accident periods.

 

   

Adverse development of $10 million in other long-tail business across a number of lines and accident years, none of which was significant individually or in the aggregate.

 

   

Favorable development of $25 million on short-tail business, including:

 

   

Favorable development of $16 million in our general aviation product lines (both hull and liability) primarily for the 2008 accident year. Actual paid and incurred loss activity continues to be lower than expected based on long term historical averages leading to a reduction in our estimate of ultimate losses.

 

   

Favorable development of $9 million in other short-tail business across a number of lines and accident years, none of which was significant individually or in the aggregate.

Insurance – Overseas General

Insurance – Overseas General experienced net favorable prior period development of $39 million in the three months ended June 30, 2012, which was the net result of several underlying favorable and adverse movements, driven by the following principal changes:

 

   

There was no prior period development on long-tail business in the three months ended June 30, 2012.

 

   

Net favorable development of $39 million on short-tail business, including:

 

   

Favorable development of $20 million on wholesale marine business. Favorable loss emergence across much of the short-tail first party marine business in accident years 2010 and 2011 led to lower experienced-based indications. In addition, case reductions on specific claims in older accident years drove reserve releases.

 

   

Net favorable development of $15 million on short-tail property and technical lines in Continental Europe, excluding catastrophes. Favorable loss emergence in the boiler and machinery (B&M) business, driven by better than expected loss activity on large accounts, primarily in accident years 2010 and 2011 drove most of the reserve release. Adverse movement in fire business in accident year 2011 driven by unfavorable loss emergence across the region mitigated the impact of the favorable B&M reserve release.

 

   

Favorable development of $4 million in other short-tail business across a number of lines and accident years, none of which was significant individually or in the aggregate.

Insurance – Overseas General experienced net favorable prior period development of $40 million in the three months ended June 30, 2011, which was the net result of several underlying favorable and adverse movements, driven by the following principal changes:

 

   

There was no prior period development on long-tail business in the three months ended June 30, 2011.

 

   

Net favorable development of $40 million on short-tail business, including:

 

   

Favorable development of $61 million in accident years 2009 and prior for property, technical, and marine lines. Given the short-tail nature of these lines and the additional credibility and maturity provided by the experience in the three months ended June 30, 2011, the observed favorable development led to lower experience-based indications that were recognized in the quarter.

 

   

Adverse development of $31 million in accident year 2010 for property and technical lines. This indication was driven predominantly by individual large case reserve increases and higher claim estimates for the December 2010 Australian floods.

 

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Favorable development of $10 million in other short-tail business across a number of lines and accident years, none of which was significant individually or in the aggregate.

Global Reinsurance

Global Reinsurance experienced net favorable prior period development of $15 million in the three months ended June 30, 2012, which was the net result of several underlying favorable and adverse movements, driven by the following principal changes:

 

   

Net favorable development of $15 million on long-tail business, including:

 

   

Favorable development of $36 million in the casualty line of business principally in treaty years 2007 and prior. Following the reserve studies completed in the three months ended June 30, 2012, we reflected a greater weighting towards experience-based methods. Since experience has tended to be generally favorable compared with assumptions, the changes resulted in the favorable development referenced above.

 

   

Net adverse development of $18 million in the professional liability/D&O line of business. There was $26 million of adverse development related to treaty years 2006 to 2010 where the loss experience has been unfavorable recently due to higher than expected reported claims and greater reliance on experience-based methods. There was also favorable development of $8 million in treaty years 2004 and prior, where experience has tended to be generally more favorable.

 

   

Adverse development of $3 million in other long-tail business across a number of treaty years, none of which was significant individually or in the aggregate.

 

   

There was no prior period development on short-tail business in the three months ended June 30, 2012.

Global Reinsurance experienced net favorable prior period development of $35 million in the three months ended June 30, 2011, which was the net result of several underlying favorable and adverse movements, driven by the following principal changes:

 

   

Net favorable development of $35 million on long-tail business, including:

 

   

Favorable development of $27 million in the casualty line of business principally in treaty years 2002 to 2007. Following the reserve studies completed in the three months ended June 30, 2011, we reflected a greater weighting towards experience-based methods. Since experience has tended to be generally favorable compared with assumptions, the changes resulted in the favorable development referenced above.

 

   

Favorable development of $13 million in the D&O line of business. $6 million relates to treaty years 2002 to 2004 where the loss experience has been generally more favorable than previously anticipated, while the remainder relates to treaty years 2006 to 2008, where the potential subprime exposure has not materialized into reported losses to the degree anticipated.

 

   

Adverse development of $5 million in other long-tail business across a number of treaty years, none of which was significant individually or in the aggregate.

 

   

There was no prior period development on short-tail business in the three months ended June 30, 2011.

Segment Operating Results – Three and Six Months Ended June 30, 2012 and 2011

The discussions that follow include tables that show our segment operating results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011.

We operate through the following business segments: Insurance – North American, Insurance – Overseas General, Global Reinsurance, and Life. For additional information on each of our segments refer to “Segment Information” in our 2011 Form 10-K.

 

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Insurance – North American

The Insurance – North American segment comprises our operations in the U.S., Canada, and Bermuda. This segment includes our retail divisions ACE USA (including ACE Canada), ACE Commercial Risk Services, and ACE Private Risk Services; our wholesale and specialty divisions ACE Westchester, ACE Agriculture and ACE Bermuda; and various run-off operations, including Brandywine Holdings Corporation (Brandywine).

 

     Three Months Ended     % Change     Six Months Ended     % Change  
     June 30     Q-12 vs.     June 30     YTD-12 vs.  
     2012     2011     Q-11     2012     2011     YTD-11  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars, except for percentages)  

Net premiums written

   $ 1,860     $ 1,735       7   $ 3,153     $ 3,020       4

Net premiums earned

     1,652       1,604       3     2,939       2,950       0

Losses and loss expenses

     1,163       1,233       (6 )%      2,012       2,227       (10 )% 

Policy acquisition costs

     157       145       8     284       281       1

Administrative expenses

     153       147       4     300       295       2
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Underwriting income

     179       79       127     343       147       133

Net investment income

     271       300       (10 )%      545       595       (8 )% 

Net realized gains (losses)

     18       21       (14 )%      17       10       70

Interest expense

     3       3       0     6       7       (14 )% 

Other (income) expense

     10       3       233     9       (13     NM   

Income tax expense

     107       95       13     198       184       8
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income

   $ 348     $ 299       16   $ 692     $ 574       21
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss and loss expense ratio

     70.4     76.9       68.5     75.5  

Policy acquisition cost ratio

     9.5     9.0       9.7     9.5  

Administrative expense ratio

     9.3     9.2       10.1     10.0  
  

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Combined ratio

     89.2     95.1       88.3     95.0  
  

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Insurance – North American reported an increase in net premiums written of seven percent and four percent for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, respectively. Our retail business grew as a result of several factors including rate increases, strong renewal retention, increased new business opportunities and higher exposure base. These factors contributed to growth in most of our businesses, primarily in property, inland marine, professional, risk management, specialty casualty, and A&H lines of business. In addition, we continued to generate higher personal lines production from homeowner and automobile business offered through ACE Private Risk Services. Growth in our retail division was partially offset by lower premiums in certain casualty and program business from adherence to our underwriting standards; in particular, we continued our planned reduction in our U.S. general market workers’ compensation business. Our wholesale and specialty division reported growth in property, casualty and inland marine lines. This growth was partially offset by reduced agriculture premiums from lower crop hail production. The overall decrease in agriculture premiums was partially offset by increased premiums from the November 2011 acquisition of Penn Millers Insurance Company (Penn Millers).

Insurance – North American reported a three percent increase in net premiums earned for the three months ended June 30, 2012. Net premiums earned for the six months ended June 30, 2012 was relatively flat. Net premiums earned increased for the three months ended June 30, 2012 due to growth in our retail division from higher premiums earned in our property, risk management, specialty casualty and A&H lines of business, along with growth in our personal lines business from continued expansion of the ACE Private Risk Services product offerings. These increases were partially offset by lower premiums associated with a couple of large structured prospective risk management programs and the continued planned reduction in our U.S. general market workers’ compensation business. Our wholesale and specialty division also generated higher premiums earned primarily in our agriculture business from the acquisition of Penn Millers in November 2011, as well as from higher premiums in wholesale property and inland marine lines. For the six months ended June 30, 2012, the growth in premiums from these retail and wholesale and specialty businesses was more than offset by the decline in premiums from our U.S. general market workers’ compensation business and a couple of large structured prospective risk management programs.

 

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The following two tables provide a line of business breakdown of Insurance – North American’s net premiums earned for the periods indicated:

 

     Three Months Ended     % Change     Six Months Ended     % Change  
     June 30     Q-12 vs.     June 30     YTD-12 vs.  
     2012     2011     Q-11     2012     2011     YTD-11  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars, except for percentages)  

Property and all other

   $ 347     $ 292       19   $ 669     $ 584       15

Agriculture

     384       356       8     443       434       2

Casualty

     828       865       (4 )%      1,645       1,755       (6 )% 

Personal accident (A&H)

     93       91       2     182       177       3
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net premiums earned

   $ 1,652     $ 1,604       3   $ 2,939     $ 2,950       (0 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
            
     2012
% of
Total
    2011
% of
Total
          2012
% of
Total
    2011
% of
Total
       

Property and all other

     21     18       23     20  

Agriculture

     23     22       15     15  

Casualty

     50     54       56     59  

Personal accident (A&H)

     6     6       6     6  
  

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Net premiums earned

     100     100       100     100  
  

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

The following table shows the impact of catastrophe losses and related reinstatement premiums, and prior period development on our loss and loss expense ratio for the periods indicated:

 

     Three Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
     June 30     June 30  
     2012     2011     2012     2011  

Loss and loss expense ratio, as reported

     70.4     76.9     68.5     75.5

Catastrophe losses and related reinstatement premiums

     (2.9 )%      (6.9 )%      (2.2 )%      (6.6 )% 

Prior period development

     3.6     4.4     4.0     3.6
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss and loss expense ratio, adjusted

     71.1     74.4     70.3     72.5
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Insurance – North American’s net catastrophe losses, excluding reinstatement premiums, were $49 million and $65 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, compared with $110 million and $186 million for the prior year periods, respectively. Catastrophe losses through June 30, 2012 were primarily related to severe weather-related events in the U.S. Catastrophe losses through June 30, 2011 were primarily related to severe weather-related events in the U.S., including flooding in the Midwest, and the earthquake in Japan. Insurance – North American experienced net favorable prior period development of $59 million and $119 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, compared with net favorable prior period development of $71 million and $106 million in the prior year periods, respectively. Refer to “Prior Period Development” for additional information. The adjusted loss and loss expense ratio decreased for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 primarily due to a reduction in the current accident year loss ratio for several of our property, casualty and professional lines where execution of detailed portfolio management plans has resulted in improved loss ratio performance.

Insurance – North American’s policy acquisition cost ratio increased for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 due to growth in certain businesses, including personal lines and A&H that carry a higher acquisition rate than our other businesses, and increased spending for strategic initiatives to support future growth opportunities.

Insurance – North American’s administrative expense ratio increased slightly for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 primarily due to increased spending required to support business growth primarily in our retail businesses, including ACE Private Risk Services, and growth in spending due to the Penn Millers acquisition.

 

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Insurance – Overseas General

The Insurance – Overseas General segment comprises ACE International, our retail business serving territories outside the U.S., Bermuda, and Canada; the international A&H and life business of Combined Insurance; and the wholesale insurance business of ACE Global Markets, our London-based excess and surplus lines business that includes Lloyd’s Syndicate 2488. The reinsurance operation of ACE Global Markets is included in the Global Reinsurance segment.

 

     Three Months Ended     % Change     Six Months Ended     % Change  
     June 30     Q-12 vs.
Q-11
    June 30     YTD-12  vs.
YTD-11
 
     2012     2011       2012     2011    
     (in millions of U.S. dollars, except for percentages)  

Net premiums written

   $ 1,475     $ 1,443       2   $ 3,003     $ 2,853       5

Net premiums earned

     1,420       1,415       0     2,811       2,693       4

Losses and loss expenses

     703       721       (2 )%      1,408       1,573       (10 )% 

Policy acquisition costs

     332       335       (1 )%      667       636       5

Administrative expenses

     233       239       (3 )%      462       462       0
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Underwriting income

     152       120       27     274       22       NM   

Net investment income

     128       137       (7 )%      259       268       (3 )% 

Net realized gains (losses)

     26       (10     NM        46       (19     NM   

Interest expense

     1       1       0     2       2       0

Other (income) expense

     6       (5     NM        6       (7     NM   

Income tax expense

     51       39       31     89       56       59
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income

   $ 248     $ 212       17   $ 482     $ 220       119
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss and loss expense ratio

     49.6     51.0       50.1     58.4  

Policy acquisition cost ratio

     23.4     23.6       23.7     23.6  

Administrative expense ratio

     16.3     17.0       16.5     17.2  
  

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Combined ratio

     89.3     91.6       90.3     99.2  
  

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Insurance – Overseas General conducts business internationally and in most major foreign currencies.

The following table summarizes by major product line the approximate effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on the growth of net premiums written and earned for the periods indicated:

 

     Three Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
     June 30, 2012     June 30, 2012  
     P&C     A&H     Total     P&C     A&H     Total  

Net premiums written:

            

Growth in original currency

     7.5     5.4     6.7     10.6     4.4     8.3

Foreign exchange effect

     (4.4 )%      (4.9 )%      (4.5 )%      (3.0 )%      (3.1 )%      (3.1 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Growth as reported in U.S. dollars

     3.1     0.5     2.2     7.6     1.3     5.2
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net premiums earned:

            

Growth in original currency

     6.2     4.3     5.5     10.0     4.4     7.9

Foreign exchange effect

     (5.1 )%      (5.3 )%      (5.2 )%      (3.5 )%      (3.4 )%      (3.5 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Growth as reported in U.S. dollars

     1.1     (1.0 )%      0.3     6.5     1.0     4.4
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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Insurance – Overseas General’s net premiums written increased two percent and five percent for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, respectively. Retail P&C net premiums written increased due to new business opportunities and rate increases in Latin America, Asia, and Europe. In addition, A&H business continues to experience strong growth primarily in Asia and Latin America. For the six months ended June 30, 2012, net premiums written also benefited from favorable impact of reinstatement premiums expensed related to the first quarter 2011 catastrophe activity. Growth in the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 was partially offset by continued decreases in certain retail A&H business due to suspension of Combined sales in the U.K. and Ireland.

Insurance – Overseas General’s net premiums earned grew six percent in original currencies for the three months ended June 30, 2012, though growth in reported U.S. dollars was relatively flat. The constant-dollar growth was driven by continued strong written premium performance in Latin America and Asia Pacific. Net premiums earned grew eight percent in original currencies and four percent in reported U.S. dollars for the six months ended June 30, 2012, driven by growth noted in Latin America and Asia Pacific as well as reinstatement premiums expensed in the prior year period.

The following tables provide a line of business breakdown of Insurance – Overseas General’s net premiums earned for the periods indicated:

 

     Three Months Ended     % Change     Six Months Ended     % Change  
     June 30     Q-12 vs.     June 30     YTD-12 vs.  
     2012     2011     Q-11     2012     2011     YTD-11  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars, except for percentages)  

Property and all other

   $ 552     $ 533       4   $ 1,090     $ 964       13

Casualty

     338       348       (3 )%      671       690       (3 )% 

Personal accident (A&H)

     530       534       (1 )%      1,050       1,039       1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net premiums earned

   $ 1,420     $ 1,415       0   $ 2,811     $ 2,693       4
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
     Three Months Ended
June 30
          Six Months Ended
June 30
       
     2012
% of
Total
    2011
% of
Total
          2012
% of
Total
    2011
% of
Total
       

Property and all other

     39     38       39     36  

Casualty

     24     24       24     26  

Personal accident (A&H)

     37     38       37     38  
  

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Net premiums earned

     100     100       100     100  
  

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

The following table shows the impact of catastrophe losses and related reinstatement premiums and prior period development on our loss and loss expense ratio for the periods indicated:

 

     Three Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
     June 30     June 30  
     2012     2011     2012     2011  

Loss and loss expense ratio, as reported

     49.6     51.0     50.1     58.4

Catastrophe losses and related reinstatement premiums

     (0.4 )%      (0.6 )%      (0.2 )%      (8.4 )% 

Prior period development

     2.7     2.8     2.1     3.1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss and loss expense ratio, adjusted

     51.9     53.2     52.0     53.1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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Net catastrophe losses, excluding reinstatement premiums, were $5 million and $7 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, compared with $10 million and $197 million in the prior year, respectively. Catastrophe losses through June 30, 2012 were primarily as a result of flooding in the U.K. Catastrophe losses through June 30, 2011 included earthquakes in New Zealand and Japan and Australian storm events. Insurance – Overseas General experienced net favorable prior period development of $39 million and $61 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 compared with $40 million and $84 million in the prior year periods, respectively. Refer to “Prior Period Development” for additional information. The adjusted loss and loss expense ratio decreased for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 due to the reduction in the current accident year loss ratio across several lines of business in several regions.

Insurance – Overseas General’s policy acquisition cost ratio decreased slightly for the three months ended June 30, 2012. Insurance – Overseas General’s policy acquisition cost ratio remained relatively flat for the six months ended June 30, 2012.

Insurance – Overseas General’s administrative expense ratio decreased for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 due to lower regulatory costs for Combined in the U.K. and Ireland.

Global Reinsurance

The Global Reinsurance segment represents our reinsurance operations comprising ACE Tempest Re Bermuda, ACE Tempest Re USA, ACE Tempest Re International, and ACE Tempest Re Canada. Global Reinsurance markets its reinsurance products worldwide under the ACE Tempest Re brand name and provides a broad range of coverage to a diverse array of primary P&C companies.

 

     Three Months Ended     % Change     Six Months Ended     % Change  
     June 30     Q-12 vs.     June 30     YTD-12 vs.  
     2012     2011     Q-11     2012     2011     YTD-11  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars, except for percentages)  

Net premiums written

   $ 309     $ 282       9   $ 572     $ 597       (4 )% 

Net premiums earned

     237       254       (7 )%      467       514       (9 )% 

Losses and loss expenses

     102       112       (9 )%      204       391       (48 )% 

Policy acquisition costs

     42       47       (11 )%      85       93       (9 )% 

Administrative expenses

     13       14       (7 )%      25       26       (4 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Underwriting income

     80       81       (1 )%      153       4       NM   

Net investment income

     70       71       (1 )%      141       143       (1 )% 

Net realized gains (losses)

     (17     (14     21     (4     (27     (85 )% 

Interest expense

     1       1       0     2       1       100

Other (income) expense

     3       1       200     (2     (5     (60 )% 

Income tax expense

     —          8       NM        6       18       (67 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income

   $ 129     $ 128       1   $ 284     $ 106       168
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss and loss expense ratio

     42.5     44.1       43.5     76.1  

Policy acquisition cost ratio

     17.8     18.5       18.3     18.1  

Administrative expense ratio

     5.8     5.3       5.3     4.9  
  

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Combined ratio

     66.1     67.9       67.1     99.1  
  

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Global Reinsurance reported a nine percent increase and a four percent decrease in net premiums written for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, respectively. The increase in the three months ended June 30, 2012 was primarily due to improving pricing conditions in our property catastrophe business. This improvement is more than offset in our six months ended June 30, 2012 results due to lower production in the three months ended March 31, 2012 from competitive market conditions, adherence to underwriting standards and a non-recurring loss portfolio transfer treaty written in the prior year.

 

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The following tables provide a line of business breakdown of Global Reinsurance’s net premiums earned for the periods indicated:

 

     Three Months Ended     % Change     Six Months Ended     % Change  
     June 30     Q-12 vs.     June 30     YTD-12 vs.  
     2012     2011     Q-11     2012     2011     YTD-11  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars, except for percentages)  

Property and all other

   $ 42     $ 40       5   $ 84     $ 85       (1 )% 

Casualty

     123       139       (12 )%      243       287       (15 )% 

Property catastrophe

     72       75       (4 )%      140       142       (1 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net premiums earned

   $ 237     $ 254       (7 )%    $ 467     $ 514       (9 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
     2012
% of
Total
    2011
% of
Total
          2012
% of
Total
    2011
% of
Total
       

Property and all other

     18     16       18     17  

Casualty

     52     54       52     56  

Property catastrophe

     30     30       30     27  
  

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Net premiums earned

     100     100       100     100  
  

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Global Reinsurance reported a decrease in net premiums earned of seven percent and nine percent for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, respectively, primarily due to consecutive annual net decreases in production resulting from competitive market conditions, particularly in casualty and other long-tail lines.

The following table shows the impact of catastrophe losses and related reinstatement premiums and prior period development on our loss and loss expense ratio for the periods indicated:

 

     Three Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
     June 30     June 30  
     2012     2011     2012     2011  

Loss and loss expense ratio, as reported

     42.5     44.1     43.5     76.1

Catastrophe losses and related reinstatement premiums

     (0.7 )%      (8.0 )%      (0.5 )%      (33.5 )% 

Prior period development

     6.5     14.0     5.5     9.6
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss and loss expense ratio, adjusted

     48.3     50.1     48.5     52.2
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Global Reinsurance recorded net catastrophe losses, excluding reinstatement premiums, of $1 million and $2 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, compared with net catastrophe losses of $22 million and $174 million in the prior year periods, respectively. The catastrophe losses in the prior year were primarily related to earthquakes in Japan and New Zealand, natural catastrophes in Australia and severe weather related events in the U.S. Global Reinsurance experienced net favorable prior period development of $15 million and $26 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, respectively. This compares with net favorable prior period development of $35 million and $49 million in the prior year periods, respectively. Refer to “Prior Period Development” for additional information. The adjusted loss and loss expense ratio decreased through June 30, 2012 primarily due to an increase in lower loss ratio property catastrophe business and the period over period impact of a loss portfolio transfer treaty written in the prior year.

Global Reinsurance’s policy acquisition cost ratio decreased for the three months ended June 30, 2012 and remained relatively flat for the six months ended June 30, 2012. Results for the three months ended June 30, 2012 reflected net favorable adjustments on loss sensitive contract provisions.

Global Reinsurance’s administrative expense ratio increased for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 as a result of the decline in net premiums earned.

 

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Life

The Life segment includes our international life operations (ACE Life), ACE Tempest Life Re (ACE Life Re) and the North American supplemental A&H and life business of Combined Insurance. We assess the performance of our life business based on life underwriting income, which includes net investment income and (gains) losses from fair value changes in separate account assets that do not qualify for separate account reporting under GAAP.

 

     Three Months Ended     % Change     Six Months Ended     % Change  
     June 30     Q-12 vs.     June 30     YTD-12 vs.  
     2012      2011     Q-11     2012     2011     YTD-11  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars, except for percentages)  

Net premiums written

   $486       $ 493       (1 )%    $ 974     $ 929       5

Net premiums earned

     474       484       (2 )%      947       909       4

Losses and loss expenses

     151       159       (5 )%      299       297       1

Policy benefits

     102       108       (6 )%      249       199       25

(Gains) losses from fair value changes in separate account assets(1)

     14       —          NM        (4     —          NM   

Policy acquisition costs

     88       85       4     164       161       2

Administrative expenses

     78       78       0     156       152       3

Net investment income

     62       60       3     123       106       16
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Life underwriting income

     103       114       (10 )%      206       206       0

Net realized gains (losses)

     (421     (68     NM        (190     (81     135

Interest expense

     3       3       0     6       6       0

Other (income) expense(1)

     5       11       (55 )%      14       17       (18 )% 

Income tax expense

     19       14       36     30       28       7
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income

   $ (345)      $ 18       NM      $ (34   $ 74       NM   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) 

(Gains) losses from fair value changes in separate account assets that do not qualify for separate account reporting under GAAP are reclassified from Other (income) expense for purposes of presenting Life underwriting income.

The following table provides a line of business breakdown of Life net premiums written for the periods indicated:

 

     Three Months Ended      % Change     Six Months Ended      % Change  
     June 30      Q-12 vs.     June 30      YTD-12 vs.  
     2012      2011      Q-11     2012      2011      YTD-11  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars, except for percentages)  

Life reinsurance

   $ 76      $ 85        (11 )%    $ 161      $ 174        (7 )% 

Life insurance

     166        159        4     326        258        26

A&H

     244        249        (2 )%      487        497        (2 )% 
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Life net premiums written

   $ 486      $ 493        (1 )%    $ 974      $ 929        5
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Life insurance net premiums written increased for the three months ended June 30, 2012 due to overall growth in the business, primarily driven by our Asian markets. Net premiums written increased in the six months ended June 30, 2012 primarily due to prior year acquisitions. Life reinsurance net premiums written decreased for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 because no new life reinsurance business is currently being written. A&H net premiums written decreased for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 due to the continuing effects on the economy resulting in lower new business and renewals.

Net realized gains (losses), which are excluded from life underwriting income, relate primarily to the change in the net fair value of reported GLB reinsurance liabilities and changes in the fair value of derivatives used to

 

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partially offset the risk in the variable annuity guarantee portfolio. During the three months ended June 30, 2012, realized losses were associated with an increased value of GLB liabilities primarily due to falling equity levels and interest rates partially offset by an increase in the value of the derivative instruments, which increase in value when the S&P 500 index decreases. During the six months ended June 30, 2012, realized losses were associated with an increased value of GLB liabilities primarily due to falling interest rates and the unfavorable impact of discounting future claims for two fewer quarters partially offset by a decreased value of GLB liabilities due to rising equity levels. In addition, for the six months ended June 30, 2012, we experienced a decrease in the value of the derivative instruments, which decrease in value when the S&P 500 index increases.

Other Income and Expense Items

 

     Three Months Ended
June 30
    Six Months Ended
June 30
 
     2012      2011     2012     2011  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

(Gains) losses from fair value changes in separate account assets

   $ 14     $ —        $ (4   $ —     

Amortization of intangible assets

     12       7       24       14  

Equity in net (income) loss of partially-owned entities

     5       (6     (14     (36

Federal excise and capital taxes

     5       4       9       9  

Acquisition-related costs

     1       —          3       3  

Other

     (3     7       13       9  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other (income) expense

   $ 34     $ 12     $ 31     $ (1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other (income) expense includes (gains) losses from fair value changes in separate account assets that do not qualify for separate account reporting under GAAP. The offsetting movement in the separate account liabilities is included in Policy benefits in the consolidated statements of operations. Equity in net (income) loss of partially-owned entities includes our share of net (income) loss related to investment funds, limited partnerships, partially-owned investment companies, and partially-owned insurance companies. Certain federal excise and capital taxes incurred as a result of capital management initiatives are included in Other (income) expense in the consolidated statements of operations. As these are considered capital transactions, they are excluded from underwriting results.

Net Investment Income

 

     Three Months Ended
June 30
    Six Months Ended
June 30
 
     2012     2011     2012     2011  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Fixed maturities

   $ 527     $ 557     $ 1,071     $ 1,091  

Short-term investments

     9       12       18       24  

Equity securities

     9       10       17       18  

Other

     20       14       28       31  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross investment income

     565       593       1,134       1,164  

Investment expenses

     (28     (24     (53     (51
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net investment income

   $ 537     $ 569     $ 1,081     $ 1,113  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net investment income is influenced by a number of factors including the amounts and timing of inward and outward cash flows, the level of interest rates, and changes in overall asset allocation. Net investment income decreased six percent and three percent for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, respectively. The decline in net investment income was primarily due to lower yields on new investments and the negative impact of foreign exchange, partially offset by positive operating cash flows and a higher overall average invested asset base.

 

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The investment portfolio’s average market yield on fixed maturities was 2.8 percent and 3.4 percent at June 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Average market yield on fixed maturities represents the weighted average yield to maturity of our fixed income portfolio based on the market prices of the holdings at that date.

The yield on short-term investments reflects the global nature of our insurance operations (1.5 percent—2.0 percent yield). For example, yields on short-term investments in Malaysia, Korea, and Ecuador range from 2.7 percent—3.9 percent.

The yield on our equity securities portfolio is high relative to the yield on the S&P 500 Index because we classify our strategic emerging debt portfolio, which is a mutual fund, as equity (3.7 percent – 4.5 percent yield). The strategic emerging debt portfolio represents approximately 60 percent of our equity securities portfolio.

Net Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses)

We take a long-term view with our investment strategy, and our investment managers manage our investment portfolio to maximize total return within certain specific guidelines designed to minimize risk. The majority of our investment portfolio is available for sale and reported at fair value. Our held to maturity investment portfolio is reported at amortized cost.

The effect of market movements on our available for sale investment portfolio impacts net income (through net realized gains (losses)) when securities are sold or when we record an Other-than-temporary impairment (OTTI) charge in net income. For a discussion related to how we assess OTTI for all of our investments, including credit-related OTTI, and the related impact on net income, refer to Note 3 c) to the consolidated financial statements. Additionally, net income is impacted through the reporting of changes in the fair value of derivatives, including financial futures, options, swaps, and GLB reinsurance. Changes in unrealized appreciation and depreciation on available for sale securities, which result from the revaluation of securities held, are reported as a separate component of Accumulated other comprehensive income in shareholders’ equity in the consolidated balance sheets.

 

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The following tables present our pre-tax net realized and unrealized gains (losses) as well as a breakdown of our OTTI and other net realized gains (losses) on investments for the periods indicated:

 

     Three Months Ended
June 30, 2012
    Three Months Ended
June 30, 2011
 
     Net
Realized
Gains
(Losses)
    Net
Unrealized
Gains
(Losses)
    Net
Impact
    Net
Realized
Gains
(Losses)
    Net
Unrealized
Gains
(Losses)
     Net
Impact
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Fixed maturities

   $ 68     $ 251     $ 319     $ 74     $ 202      $ 276  

Fixed income derivatives

     (49     —          (49     (48     —           (48
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total fixed maturities

     19       251       270       26       202        228  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Public equity

     (5     (9     (14     4       6        10  

Other

     (3     (3     (6     (4     3        (1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Subtotal

     11       239       250       26       211        237  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Derivatives

             

Fair value adjustment on insurance derivatives

     (467     —          (467     (70     —           (70

S&P put option and futures

     70       —          70       3       —           3  

Fair value adjustment on other derivatives

     1       —          1       (2     —           (2
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Subtotal derivatives

     (396     —          (396     (69     —           (69
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Foreign exchange losses

     (9     —          (9     (30     —           (30
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total gains (losses)

   $ (394   $ 239     $ (155   $ (73   $ 211      $ 138  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

     Six Months Ended
June 30, 2012
    Six Months Ended
June 30, 2011
 
     Net
Realized
Gains
(Losses)
    Net
Unrealized
Gains
(Losses)
     Net
Impact
    Net
Realized
Gains
(Losses)
    Net
Unrealized
Gains
(Losses)
     Net
Impact
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Fixed maturities

   $ 102     $ 494      $ 596     $ 123     $ 163      $ 286  

Fixed income derivatives

     (7     —           (7     (68     —           (68
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total fixed maturities

     95       494        589       55       163        218  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Public equity

     (4     29        25       11       8        19  

Other

     (7     1        (6     (5     6        1  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Subtotal

     84       524        608       61       177        238  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Derivatives

              

Fair value adjustment on insurance derivatives

     (39     —           (39     1       —           1  

S&P put option and futures

     (161     —           (161     (68     —           (68

Fair value adjustment on other derivatives

     (4     —           (4     (3     —           (3
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Subtotal derivatives

     (204     —           (204     (70     —           (70
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Foreign exchange losses

     (14     —           (14     (109     —           (109
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total gains (losses)

   $ (134   $ 524      $ 390     $ (118   $ 177      $ 59  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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     Three Months Ended
June 30, 2012
    Three Months Ended
June 30, 2011
 
     OTTI     Other
Net
Realized
Gains
(Losses)
    Net
Realized
Gains
(Losses)
    OTTI     Other
Net
Realized
Gains
(Losses)
    Net
Realized
Gains
(Losses)
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Fixed maturities

   $ (1   $ 69     $ 68     $ (5   $ 79     $ 74  

Public equity

     (4     (1     (5     —          4       4  

Other

     (5     2       (3     (3     (1     (4
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   $ (10   $ 70     $ 60     $ (8   $ 82     $ 74  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
     Six Months Ended
June 30, 2012
    Six Months Ended
June 30, 2011
 
     OTTI     Other
Net
Realized
Gains
(Losses)
    Net
Realized
Gains
(Losses)
    OTTI     Other
Net
Realized
Gains
(Losses)
    Net
Realized
Gains
(Losses)
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Fixed maturities

   $ (8   $ 110     $ 102     $ (9   $ 132     $ 123  

Public equity

     (5     1       (4     —          11       11  

Other

     (7     —          (7     (3     (2     (5
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   $ (20   $ 111     $ 91     $ (12   $ 141     $ 129  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Our net realized gains (losses) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, included write-downs of $10 million and $20 million, respectively, as a result of an other-than-temporary decline in fair value of certain securities. This compares with write-downs of $8 million and $12 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, respectively.

At June 30, 2012, our investment portfolios held by U.S. legal entities included approximately $75 million of gross unrealized losses on fixed income investments. Our tax planning strategy related to these losses is based on our view that we will hold these fixed income investments until they recover their cost. As such, we have recognized a deferred tax asset of approximately $26 million related to these fixed income investments. This strategy allows us to recognize the associated deferred tax asset related to these fixed income investments as we do not believe these losses will ever be realized.

We engage in a securities lending program which involves lending investments to other institutions for short periods of time. ACE invests the collateral received in securities of high credit quality and liquidity, with the objective of maintaining a stable principal balance. Certain investments purchased with the securities lending collateral declined in value resulting in an unrealized loss of $6 million at June 30, 2012. The unrealized loss is attributable to fluctuations in market values of the underlying performing debt instruments held by the respective mutual funds, rather than default of a debt issuer. It is our view that the decline in value is temporary.

Investments

Our investment portfolio is invested primarily in publicly traded, investment grade fixed income securities with an average credit quality of A/Aa as rated by the independent investment rating services Standard and Poor’s (S&P)/ Moody’s Investors Service (Moody’s). The portfolio is externally managed by independent, professional investment managers and is broadly diversified across geographies, sectors, and issuers. Other investments principally comprise direct investments, investment funds, and limited partnerships. We hold no collateralized debt obligations or collateralized loan obligations in our investment portfolio and we provide no credit default protection. We have long-standing global credit limits for our entire portfolio across the organization. Exposures

 

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are aggregated, monitored, and actively managed by our Global Credit Committee, comprising senior executives, including our Chief Financial Officer, our Chief Risk Officer, our Chief Investment Officer, and our Treasurer. We also have well-established, strict contractual investment rules requiring managers to maintain highly diversified exposures to individual issuers and closely monitor investment manager compliance with portfolio guidelines.

The average duration of our fixed income securities, including the effect of options and swaps, was 3.8 years at June 30, 2012 and 3.7 years at December 31, 2011. We estimate that a 100 basis point (bps) increase in interest rates would reduce our book value by approximately $2.1 billion at June 30, 2012.

The following table shows the fair value and cost/amortized cost of our invested assets:

 

     June 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     Fair
Value
     Cost/
Amortized
Cost
     Fair
Value
     Cost/
Amortized
Cost
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Fixed maturities available for sale

   $ 44,386      $ 42,316      $ 41,967      $ 40,450  

Fixed maturities held to maturity

     8,062        7,782        8,605        8,447  

Short-term investments

     2,260        2,260        2,301        2,301  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
     54,708        52,358        52,873        51,198  

Equity securities

     729        724        647        671  

Other investments

     2,524        2,297        2,314        2,112  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investments

   $ 57,961      $ 55,379      $ 55,834      $ 53,981  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The fair value of our total investments increased $2.1 billion during the six months ended June 30, 2012, primarily due to the investing of operating cash flows and unrealized appreciation.

The following tables show the market value of our fixed maturities and short-term investments at June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011. The first table lists investments according to type and the second according to S&P credit rating:

 

     June 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     Market
Value
     Percentage
of Total
    Market
Value
     Percentage
of Total
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars, except for percentages)  

Treasury

   $ 2,614        5   $ 2,361        5

Agency

     1,816        3     1,725        3

Corporate and asset-backed securities

     17,581        32     17,030        32

Mortgage-backed securities

     12,725        23     13,237        25

Municipal

     3,495        7     2,888        6

Non-U.S.

     14,217        26     13,331        25

Short-term investments

     2,260        4     2,301        4
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 54,708        100   $ 52,873        100
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

AAA

   $ 9,132        17   $ 9,284        18

AA

     20,931        38     20,562        39

A

     10,400        19     10,106        19

BBB

     6,243        11     6,152        12

BB

     4,298        8     3,755        7

B

     3,217        6     2,428        4

Other

     487        1     586        1
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 54,708        100   $ 52,873        100
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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As part of our overall investment strategy, we may invest in states, municipalities, and other political subdivisions fixed maturity securities (Municipal). We apply the same investment selection process described previously to our Municipal investments. The portfolio is highly diversified primarily in state general obligation bonds and essential service revenue bonds including education and utilities (water, power, and sewers). As of June 30, 2012, one state, including political subdivisions and other municipal issuers within the state, represented approximately 17 percent of our Municipal investments. A majority of the single state exposure represents special revenue bonds. Over 68 percent of our Municipal investments carry an S&P rating of AA- or better and none carry fair values that reflect a significantly different risk compared to those ratings. These Municipal investments are split 42 percent and 58 percent between general obligation and special revenue bonds, respectively.

Our exposure to the Euro results primarily from ACE European Group which is headquartered in London and offers a broad range of coverages throughout the European Union, Central, and Eastern Europe. ACE primarily invests in Euro denominated investments to support its local currency insurance obligations and required capital levels. ACE’s local currency investment portfolios have strict contractual investment guidelines requiring managers to maintain a high quality and diversified portfolio to both sector and individual issuers. Investment portfolios are monitored daily to ensure investment manager compliance with portfolio guidelines.

Our non-U.S. investment grade fixed income portfolios are currency-matched with the insurance liabilities of our non-U.S. operations. We have 78 percent of our non-U.S. fixed income portfolio denominated in G7 currencies. The average credit quality of our non-U.S. fixed income securities is A and 54 percent of our holdings are rated AAA or guaranteed by governments or quasi-government agencies. Within the context of these investment portfolios, our government and corporate bond holdings are highly diversified across industries and geographies. Issuer limits are based on credit rating (AA—two percent, A—one percent, BBB—0.5 percent of the total portfolio) and are monitored on a daily basis by us via an internal compliance system. Because of this investment approach we do not have a direct exposure to troubled sovereign borrowers in Europe. We manage our indirect exposure using the same credit rating based investment approach. Accordingly, we do not believe our indirect exposure is material.

 

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The table below summarizes the market value and amortized cost of our non-U.S. fixed income portfolio by country/sovereign for non-U.S. government securities at June 30, 2012:

 

     Market Value      Amortized Cost  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

United Kingdom

   $  1,191      $ 1,152  

Canada

     939        906  

Republic of Korea

     488        456  

Germany

     409        401  

Japan

     378        376  

Province of Ontario

     230        219  

Federative Republic of Brazil

     201        196  

Kingdom of Thailand

     160        156  

Province of Quebec

     157        146  

Commonwealth of Australia

     150        134  

France

     134        130  

State of Queensland

     132        123  

Swiss Confederation

     128        121  

People’s Republic of China

     120        117  

Federation of Malaysia

     117        116  

United Mexican States

     105        98  

State of New South Wales

     77        72  

Taiwan

     76        75  

State of Victoria

     60        56  

Socialist Republic of Vietnam

     54        50  

Republic of Indonesia

     50        49  

Russian Federation

     47        47  

Republic of Colombia

     40        39  

Republic of Austria

     40        39  

Dominion of New Zealand

     39        38  

Other Non-U.S. Government(1)

     734        707  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Non-U.S. Government Securities

     6,256        6,019  

Eurozone Non-U.S. Corporate (excluding United Kingdom)(2)

     2,369        2,304  

Other Non-U.S. Corporate

     5,592        5,344  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $14,217        $ 13,667  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) 

Includes investments in Spain and Italy of $0.4 million. There are no investments in Portugal, Ireland, or Greece. Our gross and net Eurozone Non-U.S. Government Securities exposure is the same.

(2) 

Refer to the following table for further detail on Eurozone Non-U.S. Corporate Securities. Our gross and net Eurozone Non-U.S. Corporate Securities exposure is the same.

 

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The table below summarizes the market value and amortized cost of our Eurozone fixed income portfolio (excluding United Kingdom) by industry at June 30, 2012:

 

     Market Value by Industry      Amortized Cost  
     Bank      Financial      Industrial      Utility      Total     
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Netherlands

   $ 225      $ 133      $ 320      $ 124      $ 802      $ 770  

France

     98        37        115        146        396        392  

Germany

     284        2        76        7        369        356  

Luxembourg

     11        2        243        95        351        347  

Euro Supranational

     197        —           —           —           197        189  

Ireland

     12        1        87        17        117        110  

Spain

     10        4        18        5        37        42  

Italy

     25        —           6        3        34        32  

Austria

     20        —           7        1        28        27  

Finland

     13        1        8        2        24        26  

Belgium

     —           —           12        1        13        12  

Portugal

     —           —           1        —           1        1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Eurozone Non-U.S. Corporate Securities

   $ 895      $ 180      $ 893      $ 401      $ 2,369      $ 2,304  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The table below summarizes the market value and amortized cost of the top 10 Eurozone bank exposures within our Eurozone fixed income portfolio (excluding United Kingdom) at June 30, 2012:

 

     Market Value      Amortized Cost  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

European Investment Bank

   $ 166      $ 160  

KFW

     156        150  

Rabobank Nederland NV

     109        104  

Deutsche Bank AG

     46        45  

Bank Nederlandse Gemeenten

     41        40  

ABN AMRO Group NV

     32        30  

Nederlandse Waterschapsbank NV

     28        27  

Credit Agricole Groupe

     27        27  

BNP Paribas SA

     25        24  

Erste Abwicklungsanstalt

     23        23  

The table below summarizes the market value and amortized cost of the top 10 Eurozone corporate exposures within our Eurozone fixed income portfolio (excluding United Kingdom) at June 30, 2012:

 

     Market Value      Amortized Cost  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

EDF SA

   $ 79      $ 79  

ING Groep NV

     77        78  

Intelsat SA

     73        71  

Deutsche Telekom AG

     69        63  

Royal Dutch Shell PLC

     64        59  

LyondellBasell Industries NV

     55        51  

France Telecom SA

     41        39  

Gazprom OAO

     40        38  

General Electric Co

     38        35  

Liberty Global Inc

     38        35  

 

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The table below summarizes our largest exposures to corporate bonds by market value at June 30, 2012:

 

     Market Value  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

General Electric Co

   $ 430  

JP Morgan Chase & Co

     426  

Citigroup Inc

     350  

Bank of America Corp

     314  

The Goldman Sachs Group Inc

     307  

Verizon Communications Inc

     278  

Morgan Stanley

     267  

AT&T INC

     223  

Wells Fargo & Co

     203  

HSBC Holdings Plc

     197  

Comcast Corp

     164  

Kraft Foods Inc

     164  

Lloyds Banking Group Plc

     162  

Royal Bank of Scotland Group Plc

     156  

Time Warner Cable Inc

     138  

Barclays Plc

     136  

ConocoPhillips

     127  

BP Plc

     123  

Pfizer Inc

     121  

UBS AG

     121  

American Express Co

     120  

Credit Suisse Group

     116  

Anheuser-Busch InBev NV

     111  

Rabobank Nederland NV

     109  

Enterprise Products Partners LP

     105  

Mortgage-backed securities

Additional details on the mortgage-backed component of our investment portfolio at June 30, 2012, are provided below:

Mortgage-backed securities

Market Value

(in millions of U.S. dollars)

 

     S&P Credit Rating  
     AAA      AA      A      BBB      BB
and
below
     Total  

Mortgage-backed securities

                 

Agency residential mortgage-backed (RMBS)

   $ —         $ 10,942      $ —         $ —         $ —         $ 10,942  

Non-agency RMBS

     145        6        24        10        399        584  

Commercial mortgage-backed

     1,164        18        10        7        —           1,199  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total mortgage-backed securities

   $ 1,309      $ 10,966      $ 34      $ 17      $ 399      $ 12,725  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Mortgage-backed securities

Amortized Cost

(in millions of U.S. dollars)

 

     S&P Credit Rating  
     AAA      AA      A      BBB      BB
and
below
     Total  

Mortgage-backed securities

                 

Agency RMBS

   $ —         $ 10,480      $ —         $ —         $ —         $ 10,480  

Non-agency RMBS

     145        6        24        11        476        662  

Commercial mortgage-backed

     1,090        16        9        6        —           1,121  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total mortgage-backed securities

   $ 1,235      $ 10,502      $ 33      $ 17      $ 476      $ 12,263  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Our mortgage-backed securities are rated predominantly AA and comprise approximately 23 percent of our fixed income portfolio. This compares with a 32 percent mortgage-backed weighting in representative indices of the U.S. fixed income market at June 30, 2012. The minimum rating for our initial purchases of mortgage-backed securities is AA for agency mortgages and AAA for non-agency mortgages.

Agency RMBS represent securities which have been issued by Federal agencies (Government National Mortgage Association, Federal National Mortgage Association, and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation) with implied or explicit government guarantees. These represent 95 percent of our total RMBS portfolio. Our non-agency RMBS are backed primarily by prime collateral and are broadly diversified in over 47,000 loans. This portfolio’s original loan-to-value ratio is approximately 67 percent with an average Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO) score of 730. With this conservative loan-to-value ratio and subordinated collateral of five percent, the cumulative 5-year foreclosure rate would have to rise to 15 percent from current levels before principal is significantly impaired. The foreclosure rate of our non-agency RMBS portfolio at June 30, 2012 was eight percent.

Our commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS) are rated predominantly AAA, broadly diversified with over 13,000 loans with 47 percent of the portfolio issued before 2006 and 38 percent issued after 2009. The average loan-to-value ratio is approximately 64 percent with a debt service coverage ratio in excess of 1.9 and weighted-average subordinated collateral of 30 percent. The cumulative foreclosure rate would have to rise to 42 percent before principal is impaired. The foreclosure rate for our CMBS portfolio at June 30, 2012 was approximately 2.3 percent.

Below-investment grade corporate fixed income portfolio

Below-investment grade securities have different characteristics than investment grade corporate debt securities. Risk of loss from default by the borrower is greater with below-investment grade securities. Below-investment grade securities are generally unsecured and are often subordinated to other creditors of the issuer. Also, issuers of below-investment grade securities usually have higher levels of debt and are more sensitive to adverse economic conditions, such as recession or increasing interest rates, than are investment grade issuers. At June 30, 2012, our corporate fixed income investment portfolio included below-investment grade and non-rated securities which, in total, comprised approximately 13 percent of our fixed income portfolio. Our below-investment grade and non-rated portfolio includes over 990 issuers, with the greatest single exposure being $95 million.

We manage high-yield bonds as a distinct and separate asset class from investment grade bonds. The allocation to high yield bonds is explicitly set by internal management and is targeted to securities in the upper tier of credit quality (BB/B). Our minimum rating for initial purchase is BB/B. Six external investment managers are responsible for high yield security selection and portfolio construction. Our high yield managers have a conservative approach to credit selection and very low historical default experience. Holdings are highly diversified across industries and subject to a 1.5 percent issuer limit as a percentage of high yield allocation. We monitor position limits daily through an internal compliance system. Derivative and structured securities (e.g., credit default swaps and collateralized loan obligations) are not permitted in the high-yield portfolio.

 

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Critical Accounting Estimates

As of June 30, 2012, with the exception noted below, there were no material changes to our critical accounting estimates. Refer to Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information. For full discussion of our critical accounting estimates, refer to Item 7 in our 2011 Form 10-K.

Effective January 1, 2012, we retrospectively adopted new accounting guidance for costs associated with acquiring or renewing insurance contracts. Under the new guidance, the definition of acquisition costs was modified to specify that a cost must be directly related to the successful acquisition of a new or renewal insurance contract in order to be deferred. Prior year amounts and ratios have been adjusted to reflect the impact of retrospective adjustments as a result of applying this new accounting guidance.

Reinsurance recoverable on ceded reinsurance

The following table shows a composition of our reinsurance recoverable for the periods indicated:

 

     June 30
2012
     December 31
2011
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses and loss expenses, net of a provision for uncollectible reinsurance

   $ 10,986      $ 11,602  

Reinsurance recoverable on paid losses and loss expenses, net of a provision for uncollectible reinsurance

     766        787  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net reinsurance recoverable on losses and loss expenses

   $ 11,752      $ 12,389  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Reinsurance recoverable on policy benefits

   $ 257      $ 249  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

We evaluate the financial condition of our reinsurers and potential reinsurers on a regular basis and also monitor concentrations of credit risk with reinsurers. The provision for uncollectible reinsurance is required principally due to the potential failure of reinsurers to indemnify us, primarily because of disputes under reinsurance contracts and insolvencies. The provision for uncollectible reinsurance is based on a default analysis applied to gross reinsurance recoverables, net of approximately $2.8 billion of collateral at June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011. The decrease in net reinsurance recoverable on losses and loss expenses was primarily due to collections relating to prior period catastrophe events and run-off operations.

Unpaid losses and loss expenses

As an insurance and reinsurance company, we are required by applicable laws and regulations and GAAP to establish loss and loss expense reserves for the estimated unpaid portion of the ultimate liability for losses and loss expenses under the terms of our policies and agreements with our insured and reinsured customers. The estimate of the liabilities includes provisions for claims that have been reported but are unpaid at the balance sheet date (case reserves) and for obligations on claims that have been incurred but not reported (IBNR) at the balance sheet date. IBNR may also include provisions to account for the possibility that reported claims may settle for amounts that differ from the established reserves. Loss reserves also include an estimate of expenses associated with processing and settling unpaid claims (loss expenses). At June 30, 2012, our gross unpaid loss and loss expense reserves were $36.9 billion and our net unpaid loss and loss expense reserves were $25.9 billion. With the exception of certain structured settlements, for which the timing and amount of future claim payments are reliably determinable, and certain reserves for unsettled claims that are discounted in statutory filings, our loss reserves are not discounted for the time value of money.

 

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The table below presents a roll-forward of our unpaid losses and loss expenses:

 

     Gross
Losses
    Reinsurance
Recoverable(1)
    Net
Losses
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Balance at December 31, 2011

   $ 37,477     $ 11,602       $ 25,875  

Losses and loss expenses incurred

     5,212       1,289         3,923  

Losses and loss expenses paid

     (5,792     (1,824 )       (3,968

Other (including foreign exchange translation)

     (47     (81 )       34  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance at June 30, 2012

   $ 36,850     $ 10,986       $ 25,864  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) 

Net of provision for uncollectible reinsurance

The process of establishing loss reserves for property and casualty claims can be complex and is subject to considerable uncertainty as it requires the use of informed estimates and judgments based on circumstances known at the date of accrual.

The following table shows our total reserves (including loss expense reserves) segregated between case reserves and IBNR reserves:

 

     June 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     Gross      Ceded      Net      Gross      Ceded      Net  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Case reserves

   $ 16,590      $ 5,340      $ 11,250      $ 17,143      $ 5,681      $ 11,462  

IBNR reserves

     20,260        5,646        14,614        20,334        5,921        14,413  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 36,850      $ 10,986      $ 25,864      $ 37,477      $ 11,602      $ 25,875  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Asbestos and Environmental (A&E) and Other Run-off Liabilities

There was no unexpected A&E reserve activity during the six months ended June 30, 2012. Refer to our 2011 Form 10-K for additional information.

Fair value measurements

The accounting guidance on fair value measurements defines fair value as the price to sell an asset or transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants and establishes a three-level valuation hierarchy in which inputs into valuation techniques used to measure fair value are classified.

The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets (Level 1 inputs) and the lowest priority to unobservable data (Level 3 inputs). Inputs in Level 1 are unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets. Level 2 includes inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for assets or liabilities either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs include, among other items, quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active, and inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability such as interest rates and yield curves. Level 3 inputs are unobservable and reflect our judgments about assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability.

We categorize financial instruments within the valuation hierarchy at the balance sheet date based upon the lowest level of inputs that are significant to the fair value measurement. Accordingly, transfers between levels within the valuation hierarchy occur when there are significant changes to the inputs, such as increases or decreases in market activity, changes to the availability of current prices, changes to the transparency to underlying inputs, and whether there are significant variances in quoted prices. Transfers in and/or out of any level are assumed to occur at the end of the period.

 

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While we obtain values for the majority of the investment securities we hold from one or more pricing services, it is ultimately management’s responsibility to determine whether the values obtained and recorded in the financial statements are representative of fair value. We periodically update our understanding of the methodologies used by our pricing services in order to validate that the prices obtained from those services are consistent with the GAAP definition of fair value as an exit price. Based on our understanding of the methodologies, our pricing services only produce an estimate of fair value if there is observable market information that would allow them to make a fair value estimate. Based on our understanding of the market inputs used by our pricing services, all applicable investments have been valued in accordance with GAAP valuation principles. We have controls to review significant price changes and stale pricing, and to ensure that prices received from pricing services have been accurately reflected in the consolidated financial statements. We do not typically adjust prices obtained from pricing services.

Additionally, the valuation of fixed maturity investments is more subjective when markets are less liquid due to the lack of market based inputs (i.e., stale pricing), which may increase the potential that the estimated fair value of an investment is not reflective of the price at which an actual transaction would occur. For a small number of fixed maturities, we obtain a quote from a broker (typically a market maker). Due to the disclaimers on the quotes that indicate that the price is indicative only, we include these fair value estimates in Level 3.

At June 30, 2012, Level 3 assets represented four percent of assets that are measured at fair value and two percent of total assets. Level 3 liabilities represented 100 percent of liabilities that are measured at fair value and two percent of our total liabilities. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, we transferred $47 million and $42 million, respectively, into our Level 3 assets. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, we transferred $5 million and $25 million, respectively, out of our Level 3 assets. Refer to Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements for a description of the valuation techniques and inputs used to determine fair values for our financial instruments measured or disclosed at fair value by valuation hierarchy (Levels 1, 2, and 3) as well as a roll-forward of Level 3 financial instruments measured at fair value for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011.

Guaranteed living benefits (GLB) derivatives

Under life reinsurance programs covering living benefit guarantees, we assumed the risk of GLBs associated with variable annuity (VA) contracts. We ceased writing this business in 2007. Our GLB reinsurance product meets the definition of a derivative for accounting purposes and is therefore carried at fair value. We believe that the most meaningful presentation of these derivatives is to reflect cash inflows or revenue as net premiums earned, and to record estimates of the average modeled value of future cash outflows as incurred losses. Accordingly, we recognize benefit reserves consistent with the accounting guidance related to accounting and reporting by insurance enterprises for certain non-traditional long-duration contracts and for separate accounts. Changes in the benefit reserves are reflected as Policy benefits expense, which is included in life underwriting income. The incremental difference between fair value and benefit reserves is reflected in Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet and related changes in fair value are reflected in Net realized gains (losses) in the consolidated statement of operations. We intend to hold these derivative contracts to maturity (i.e., the expiration of the underlying liabilities through lapse, annuitization, death, or expiration of the reinsurance contract). At maturity, the cumulative gains and losses will net to zero (excluding cumulative hedge gains or losses) because, over time, the insurance liability will be increased or decreased to equal our obligation. For a sensitivity discussion of the effect of changes in interest rates, equity indices, and other assumptions on the fair value of GLBs, and the resulting impact on our net income, refer to Item 3. Refer to our 2011 Form 10-K for additional information.

The fair value of GLB reinsurance is estimated using an internal valuation model, which includes current market information and estimates of policyholder behavior from the perspective of a theoretical market participant that would assume these liabilities. All of our treaties contain claim limits, which are factored into the valuation model. The fair value depends on a number of factors, including interest rates, current account value, market volatility, expected annuitization rates and other policyholder behavior, and changes in policyholder

 

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mortality. The model and related assumptions are continuously re-evaluated by management and enhanced, as appropriate, based upon additional experience obtained related to policyholder behavior and availability of more timely market information, such as market conditions and demographics of in-force annuities. Due to the inherent uncertainties of the assumptions used in the valuation models to determine the fair value of these derivative products, actual experience may differ from the estimates reflected in our Consolidated Financial Statements, and the differences may be material.

The most significant policyholder behavior assumptions include lapse rates and the guaranteed minimum income benefit (GMIB) annuitization rates. Assumptions regarding lapse rates and GMIB annuitization rates differ by treaty but the underlying methodologies to determine rates applied to each treaty are comparable. The assumptions regarding lapse and GMIB annuitization rates determined for each treaty are based on a dynamic calculation that uses several underlying factors.

A lapse rate is the percentage of in-force policies surrendered in a given calendar year. All else equal, as lapse rates increase, ultimate claim payments will decrease. Key factors affecting the lapse rate assumption include investment performance and policy duration. In general, the base lapse function assumes low lapse rates (ranging from about 1 percent to 6 percent per annum) during the surrender charge period of the variable annuity contract, followed by a “spike” lapse rate (ranging from about 10 percent to 30 percent per annum) in the year immediately following the surrender charge period, and then reverting to an ultimate lapse rate (generally around 10 percent per annum), typically over a 2-year period. This base rate is adjusted downward for policies with more valuable (more “in the money”) guarantees by multiplying the base lapse rate by a factor ranging from 15 percent to 75 percent. Additional lapses due to partial withdrawals and older policyholders with tax-qualified contracts (due to required minimum distributions) are also included.

The GMIB annuitization rate is the percentage of policies for which the policyholder will elect to annuitize using the guaranteed benefit provided under the GMIB. All else equal, as GMIB annuitization rates increase, ultimate claim payments will increase, subject to treaty claim limits. Key factors affecting the GMIB annuitization rate include investment performance and the level of interest rates after the GMIB waiting period, since these factors determine the value of the guarantee to the policyholder. In general, we assume that GMIB annuitization rates will be higher for policies with more valuable (more “in the money”) guarantees. In addition, we also assume that GMIB annuitization rates are higher in the first year immediately following the waiting period (the first year the policies are eligible to annuitize utilizing the GMIB) in comparison to all subsequent years. We do not yet have a robust set of annuitization experience because most of our clients’ policyholders are not yet eligible to annuitize utilizing the GMIB. However, for certain clients representing approximately 36 percent of the total GMIB guaranteed value there are several years of annuitization experience – for those clients the annuitization function reflects the actual experience and has a maximum annuitization rate per annum of 8 percent (a higher maximum applies in the first year a policy is eligible to annuitize utilizing the GMIB – it is over 13 percent). For most clients there is not a credible amount of observable relevant behavior data and so we use a weighted average (with a heavier weighting on the observed experience noted previously) of three different annuitization functions with maximum annuitization rates per annum of 8 percent, 12 percent, and 30 percent, respectively (with significantly higher rates in the first year a policy is eligible to annuitize utilizing the GMIB). As noted elsewhere, our GMIB reinsurance treaties include claim limits to protect us in the event that actual annuitization behavior is significantly higher than expected.

During the six months ended June 30, 2012, no material changes were made to actuarial or behavior assumptions.

During the three months ended June 30, 2012, realized losses of $491 million were associated with an increased value of GLB liabilities primarily due to falling equity levels and interest rates. During the six months ended June 30, 2012, realized losses of $35 million were associated with an increased value of GLB liabilities primarily due to falling interest rates and the unfavorable impact of discounting future claims for two fewer quarters. This excludes realized gains of $70 million and realized losses of $161 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 on derivative hedge instruments held to partially offset the risk in the VA guarantee reinsurance

 

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portfolio. These derivatives do not receive hedge accounting treatment. Refer to the “Net Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses)” section for a breakdown of the realized gains (losses) on GLB reinsurance and derivatives for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011.

ACE Tempest Life Re employs a strategy to manage the financial market and policyholder behavior risks embedded in the reinsurance of VA guarantees. Risk management begins with underwriting a prospective client and guarantee design, with particular focus on protecting our position from policyholder options that, because of anti-selective behavior, could adversely impact our obligation.

A second layer of risk management is the structure of the reinsurance contracts. All VA guarantee reinsurance contracts include some form of annual or aggregate claim limit(s). The different categories of claim limits are described below:

 

   

Reinsurance programs covering guaranteed minimum death benefits (GMDB) with an annual claim limit of 2 percent of account value. This category accounts for approximately 65 percent of the total reinsured GMDB guaranteed value. Approximately one percent of the guaranteed value in this category has additional reinsurance coverage for GLB.

 

   

Reinsurance programs covering GMDB with claim limit(s) that are a function of the underlying guaranteed value. This category accounts for approximately 22 percent of the total reinsured GMDB guaranteed value. The annual claim limit expressed as a percentage of guaranteed value ranges from 0.4 percent to 2 percent. Approximately 71 percent of guaranteed value in this category is also subject to annual claim deductibles that range from 0.1 percent to 0.2 percent of guaranteed value (i.e., our reinsurance coverage would only pay total annual claims in excess of 0.1 percent to 0.2 percent of the total guaranteed value). Approximately 49 percent of guaranteed value in this category is also subject to an aggregate claim limit which was approximately $380 million as of June 30, 2012. Approximately 75 percent of guaranteed value in this category has additional reinsurance coverage for GLB.

 

   

Reinsurance programs covering GMDB and guaranteed minimum accumulation benefits (GMAB). This category accounts for approximately 18 percent of the total reinsured GLB guaranteed value and 13 percent of the total reinsured GMDB guaranteed value. These reinsurance programs are quota-share agreements with the quota-share decreasing as the ratio of account value to guaranteed value decreases. The quota-share is 100 percent for ratios between 100 percent and 75 percent, 60 percent for additional losses on ratios between 75 percent and 45 percent, and 30 percent for further losses on ratios below 45 percent. Approximately 34 percent of guaranteed value in this category is also subject to a claim deductible of 8.8 percent of guaranteed value (i.e., our reinsurance coverage would only pay when the ratio of account value to guaranteed value is below 91.2 percent).

 

   

Reinsurance programs covering GMIB with an annual claim limit. This category accounts for approximately 49 percent of the total reinsured GLB guaranteed value. The annual claim limit is 10 percent of guaranteed value on over 98 percent of the guaranteed value in this category. Additionally, reinsurance programs in this category have an annual annuitization limit that ranges between 17.5 percent and 30 percent with approximately 42 percent of guaranteed value subject to an annuitization limit of 20 percent or under, and the remaining 58 percent subject to an annuitization limit of 30 percent. Approximately 39 percent of guaranteed value in this category is also subject to minimum annuity conversion factors that limit the exposure to low interest rates. Approximately 42 percent of guaranteed value in this category has additional reinsurance coverage for GMDB.

 

   

Reinsurance programs covering GMIB with aggregate claim limit. This category accounts for approximately 33 percent of the total reinsured GLB guaranteed value. The aggregate claim limit for reinsurance programs in this category is approximately $1.9 billion. Additionally, reinsurance programs in this category have an annual annuitization limit of 20 percent and approximately 56 percent of guaranteed value in this category is also subject to minimum annuity conversion factors that limit the exposure to low interest rates. Approximately 44 percent of guaranteed value in this category has additional reinsurance coverage for GMDB.

 

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A third layer of risk management is the hedging strategy which is focused on mitigating long-term economic losses at a portfolio level. ACE Tempest Life Re owned financial market instruments as part of the hedging strategy with a fair value of ($44) million and $38 million at June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. The instruments are substantially collateralized by our counterparties, on a daily basis.

We also limit the aggregate amount of variable annuity reinsurance guarantee risk we are willing to assume. The last substantive U.S. transaction was quoted in mid-2007 and the last transaction in Japan was quoted in late 2007. The aggregate number of policyholders is currently decreasing through policyholder withdrawals and deaths at a rate of 5 percent -10 percent annually.

Note that GLB claims cannot occur for any reinsured policy until it has reached the end of its “waiting period”. The vast majority of policies we reinsure reach the end of their “waiting periods” in 2013 or later, as shown in the table below.

 

Year of first payment eligibility

   Percent of living benefit
account values
 

June 30, 2012 and prior

     2

Remainder of 2012

     6

2013

     23

2014

     18

2015

     5

2016

     5

2017

     19

2018

     16

2019 and after

     6
  

 

 

 

Total

     100
  

 

 

 

The following table provides the historical cash flows under these policies for the periods indicated. The amounts represent accrued past premium received and claims paid, split by benefit type.

 

     Three Months Ended
June 30
     Six Months Ended
June 30
 
     2012     2011      2012     2011  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

Death Benefits (GMDB)

         

Premium

   $ 21     $ 25      $ 43     $ 51  

Less paid claims

     26       23        52       49  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net

   $ (5   $ 2      $ (9   $ 2  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Living Benefits (Includes GMIB and GMAB)

         

Premium

   $ 40     $ 41      $ 80     $ 82  

Less paid claims

     1       1        2       2  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net

   $ 39     $ 40      $ 78     $ 80  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total VA Guaranteed Benefits

         

Premium

   $ 61     $ 66      $ 123     $ 133  

Less paid claims

     27       24        54       51  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net

   $ 34     $ 42      $ 69     $ 82  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Death Benefits (GMDB)

For premiums and claims from VA contracts reinsuring GMDBs, at current market levels, we expect approximately $117 million of claims and $78 million of premium on death benefits over the next 12 months.

 

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GLB (includes GMIB and GMAB)

Our GLBs predominantly include premiums and claims from VA contracts reinsuring GMIB and GMAB. Substantially all of our living benefit reinsurance clients’ policyholders are currently ineligible to trigger a claim payment. The vast majority of these policyholders become eligible in years 2013 and beyond. At current market levels, we expect approximately $1 million of claims and $153 million of premium on living benefits over the next 12 months.

Collateral

In order for its U.S.-domiciled clients to obtain statutory reserve credit, ACE Tempest Life Re holds collateral on behalf of its clients in the form of qualified assets in trust or letters of credit, in an amount sufficient for them to obtain statutory reserve credit. The timing of the calculation and amount of the collateral varies by client according to the particulars of the reinsurance treaty and the statutory reserve guidelines of the client’s state of domicile.

Catastrophe management

We actively monitor our catastrophe risk accumulation around the world. The following modeled loss information reflects our in-force portfolio and reinsurance program at April 1, 2012.

The table below shows our modeled annual aggregate pre-tax probable maximum loss (PML), net of reinsurance, for 100-year and 250-year return periods for U.S. hurricanes and California earthquakes at June 30, 2012 and 2011. The table also shows ACE’s corresponding share of pre-tax industry losses for each of the return periods for U.S. hurricanes and California earthquakes at June 30, 2012. For example, according to the model, for the 1-in-100 return period scenario, there is a one percent chance that our losses incurred in any year from U.S. hurricanes could be in excess of $1.6 billion (or six percent of our total shareholders’ equity at June 30, 2012). We estimate that at such hypothetical loss levels, ACE’s share of aggregate industry losses would be approximately 1.0 percent.

 

     U.S. Hurricanes      California Earthquakes  
     June 30,
2012
    June 30,
2011
     June 30,
2012
    June 30,
2011
 

Modeled Annual Aggregate Net
PML

   ACE      % of Total
Shareholders’
Equity
    % of
Industry
    ACE      ACE      % of Total
Shareholders’
Equity
    % of
Industry
    ACE  
     (in millions of U.S. dollars, except for percentages)        

1-in-100

   $ 1,648         6     1.0   $ 1,254       $ 778         3     1.9   $ 803   

1-in-250

   $ 2,201         9     0.9   $ 1,722       $ 995         4     1.6   $ 948   

The modeling estimates of both ACE and industry loss levels are inherently uncertain owing to key assumptions. First, while the use of third-party catastrophe modeling packages to simulate potential hurricane and earthquake losses is prevalent within the insurance industry, the models are reliant upon significant meteorology, seismology, and engineering assumptions to estimate hurricane and earthquake losses. In particular, modeled hurricane and earthquake events are not always a representation of actual events and ensuing additional loss potential. Second, there is no universal standard in the preparation of insured data for use in the models and the running of the modeling software. Third, we are reliant upon third-party estimates of industry insured exposures and there is significant variation possible around the relationship between our loss and that of the industry following an event. Fourth, we assume that our reinsurance recoveries following an event are fully collectible. These loss estimates do not represent our potential maximum exposures and it is highly likely that our actual incurred losses would vary materially from the modeled estimates.

The above hurricane PMLs at June 30, 2012 reflect the findings from an in-depth review of hurricane risk during 2011, including assessment of the latest third-party hurricane models, implementation of the revised models through a multi-model framework for risk assessment, and custom model output adjustments to better reflect ACE’s underlying exposure profile. The June 2011 hurricane PMLs were based on the previous view of modeled risk.

 

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Natural catastrophe property reinsurance program

ACE’s core property catastrophe reinsurance program provides protection against natural catastrophes impacting its primary property operations (i.e., excluding our Global Reinsurance and Life segments) and consists of two separate towers.

We regularly review our reinsurance protection and corresponding property catastrophe exposures. This may or may not lead to the purchase of additional reinsurance prior to a program’s renewal date. In addition, prior to each renewal date, we consider how much, if any, coverage we intend to buy and we may make material changes to the current structure in light of various factors, including modeled PML assessment at various return periods, reinsurance pricing, our risk tolerance and exposures, and various other structuring considerations.

There were no significant changes to ACE’s coverage under its North American Core Program during the second quarter. However, the North American Calabash program expired June 15, 2012 without renewal. With respect to our International Property Catastrophe Program, we renewed the layers of reinsurance protection in excess of $150 million on our Core Program for the period from July 1, 2012 through June 30, 2013 with no significant change in coverage from the expiring program. Refer to our 2011 Form 10-K for additional information.

Crop insurance

ACE is one of the leading writers of crop insurance in the U.S. Our crop insurance business primarily comprises two components – Multiple Peril Crop Insurance (MPCI) and hail insurance. The MPCI program is a partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which sets the terms and conditions of the program under the annual Standard Reinsurance Agreement (SRA). Given the crops covered in the program, we typically see a substantial written and earned premium impact in the second and third quarters.

MPCI represents about 85 percent of our Agriculture net premiums written; however, this percentage may change as a result of, among other things, growth in our other non-MPCI agriculture lines and changes in commodity prices.

We purchase third party stop-loss reinsurance for our MPCI business to limit our exposure. The attachment point for this stop-loss reinsurance is based upon the ACE underwriting loss after the impact of the SRA risk sharing between ACE and the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation. The attachment point is approximately equal to a 104 percent combined ratio.

Given the drought conditions in the U.S. as of July 24, 2012, we expect we will incur approximately $68 million of additional after-tax losses, in the second half of 2012, for our MPCI business compared to what we contemplated as of April 2012 (when we publicly announced updated earnings guidance for the calendar year). The increased losses would result in a loss ratio increase of approximately five percentage points, i.e., 93 percent—94 percent combined ratio for the 2012 MPCI business. If the drought conditions worsen and continue until harvest (of covered crops), we believe our modeled worst case loss would be approximately an additional $200 million after-tax, in excess of the $68 million described above.

There were no changes to the SRA during the six months ended June 30, 2012. Refer to our 2011 Form 10-K for additional information.

In June 2012, the USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) released the 2013 SRA for the 2013 reinsurance year (i.e., July 1, 2012 through June 30, 2013) that replaced the 2012 SRA. There were no significant changes in the terms and conditions.

Liquidity

We anticipate that positive cash flows from operations (underwriting activities and investment income) should be sufficient to cover cash outflows under most loss scenarios through 2012. In addition to cash from operations, we

 

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have agreements with a third party bank provider which implemented two international multi-currency notional cash pooling programs to enhance cash management efficiency during periods of short-term timing mismatches between expected inflows and outflows of cash by currency. The programs allow us to optimize investment income by avoiding portfolio disruption. Should the need arise, we generally have access to capital markets and available credit facilities. At June 30, 2012, our available credit lines totaled $2.4 billion and usage to support issued letters of credit was $1.5 billion. At July 31, 2012, usage to support issued letters of credit was $1.6 billion. Our access to funds under existing credit facilities is dependent on the ability of the banks that are parties to the facilities to meet their funding commitments. Our existing credit facilities have remaining terms expiring between 2012 and 2015 and require that we maintain certain financial covenants, all of which we met at June 30, 2012. Should any of our existing credit providers experience financial difficulty, we may be required to replace credit sources, possibly in a difficult market. There has also been recent consolidation in the banking industry which could lead to increased reliance on and exposure to particular institutions. If we cannot obtain adequate capital or sources of credit on favorable terms, on a timely basis or at all, our business, operating results, and financial condition could be adversely affected. To date, we have not experienced difficulty accessing any of our credit facilities. Refer to “Credit Facilities” in our 2011 Form 10-K.

The payments of dividends or other statutorily permissible distributions from our operating companies are subject to the laws and regulations applicable to each jurisdiction, as well as the need to maintain capital levels adequate to support the insurance and reinsurance operations, including financial strength ratings issued by independent rating agencies. During the six months ended June 30, 2012, we were able to meet all of our obligations, including the payments of dividends on our Common Shares, with our net cash flows.

We assess which subsidiaries to draw dividends from based on a number of factors. Considerations such as regulatory and legal restrictions as well as the subsidiary’s financial condition are paramount to the dividend decision. The legal restrictions on the payment of dividends from retained earnings by our Bermuda subsidiaries are currently satisfied by the share capital and additional paid-in capital of each of the Bermuda subsidiaries. ACE Limited received no dividends from its Bermuda subsidiaries during the six months ended June 30, 2012. ACE Limited received dividends of $500 million from its Bermuda subsidiaries during the six months ended June 30, 2011.

The payment of any dividends from ACE Global Markets or its subsidiaries is subject to applicable U.K. insurance laws and regulations. In addition, the release of funds by Syndicate 2488 to subsidiaries of ACE Global Markets is subject to regulations promulgated by the Society of Lloyd’s. The U.S. insurance subsidiaries of ACE INA may pay dividends, without prior regulatory approval, subject to restrictions set out in state law of the subsidiary’s domicile (or, if applicable, commercial domicile). ACE INA’s international subsidiaries are also subject to insurance laws and regulations particular to the countries in which the subsidiaries operate. These laws and regulations sometimes include restrictions that limit the amount of dividends payable without prior approval of regulatory insurance authorities. ACE Limited did not receive any dividends from ACE Global Markets or ACE INA during the six months ended June 30, 2012. ACE Limited received dividends of $180 million from ACE Global Markets during the six months ended June 30, 2011. ACE Limited received no dividends from ACE INA during the six months ended June 30, 2011. Debt issued by ACE INA is serviced by statutorily permissible distributions by ACE INA’s insurance subsidiaries to ACE INA as well as other group resources.

Cash Flows

Sources of liquidity include cash from operations, routine sales of investments, and financing arrangements. The following is a discussion of our cash flows for the six months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011.

Our consolidated net cash flows from operating activities were $1.4 billion in the six months ended June 30, 2012, compared with $2.1 billion. Net loss and loss expenses paid were $4.0 billion in the six months ended June 30, 2012, compared with $3.8 billion. Operating cash flows decreased in the six months ended June 30, 2012, primarily due to the $515 million unfavorable year over year impact of cash collateral movements related to a large 2011 insurance transaction. The receipt of $312 million cash collateral increased operating cash flows for the six months ended June 30, 2011 while the return of $203 million cash collateral reduced operating cash flows during 2012.

 

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Our consolidated net cash flows used for investing activities were $1.3 billion in the six months ended June 30, 2012, compared with $1.9 billion. Net investing activities for the indicated periods were related primarily to net purchases of fixed maturities.

Our consolidated net cash flows used for financing activities were $123 million in the six months ended June 30, 2012, compared with $115 million. Financing cash flows included $151 million of proceeds from issuance of short-term debt, net of repayments, compared with $100 million. Dividends paid on Common Shares were $318 million in the six months ended June 30, 2012, compared with $223 million.

Both internal and external forces influence our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. Claim settlements, premium levels, and investment returns may be impacted by changing rates of inflation and other economic conditions. In many cases, significant periods of time, ranging up to several years or more, may lapse between the occurrence of an insured loss, the reporting of the loss to us, and the settlement of the liability for that loss.

In the current low interest rate environment, we utilize reverse repurchase agreements as a low-cost alternative for short-term funding needs and to address short-term cash timing differences without disrupting our investment portfolio holdings. We subsequently settle these transactions with future operating cash flows. At June 30, 2012, there were $1.4 billion in reverse repurchase agreements outstanding.

Capital Resources

Capital resources consist of funds deployed or available to be deployed to support our business operations. The following table summarizes the components of our capital resources:

 

     June 30
2012
    December 31
2011
 
     (in millions of U.S. dollars,
except for percentages)
 

Short-term debt

   $ 1,401     $ 1,251  

Long-term debt

     3,360       3,360  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total debt

     4,761       4,611  

Trust preferred securities

     309       309  

Total shareholders’ equity

     25,762       24,332  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total capitalization

   $ 30,832     $ 29,252  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio of debt to total capitalization

     15.4     15.8

Ratio of debt plus trust preferred securities to total capitalization

     16.4     16.8

The following table reports the significant movements in our shareholders’ equity:

 

     June 30, 2012  
     (in millions of
U.S. dollars)
 

Balance at December 31, 2011

   $ 24,332  

Net income

     1,301  

Change in net unrealized appreciation on investments, net of tax

     451  

Dividends on Common Shares

     (368

Exercise of stock options

     48  

Change in net cumulative translation, net of tax

     (23

Repurchase of shares

     (7

Other movements, net of tax

     28  
  

 

 

 

Balance at June 30, 2012

   $ 25,762  
  

 

 

 

 

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During January 2012, we repurchased $7 million of Common Shares in a series of open market transactions under the August 2011 and November 2010 Board of Directors authorizations. At June 30, 2012, $461 million in share repurchase authorizations remained through December 31, 2012. At June 30, 2012 there were 3,771,527 Common Shares in treasury with a weighted average cost of $54.58 per share.

We generally maintain the ability to issue certain classes of debt and equity securities via an unlimited Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) shelf registration which is renewed every three years. This allows us capital market access for refinancing as well as for unforeseen or opportunistic capital needs. Our current shelf registration on file with the SEC expires in December 2014.

Dividends

We have paid dividends each quarter since we became a public company in 1993. Under Swiss law, dividends must be stated in Swiss francs though dividend payments are made by ACE in U.S. dollars. Following ACE’s redomestication to Switzerland in July 2008 through March 2011, dividends were distributed by way of a par value reduction. At the May 2011 annual general meeting, our shareholders approved dividend distributions from capital contributions reserves (Additional paid-in capital) through the transfer of dividends from Additional paid-in capital to Retained earnings. At the May 2012 annual general meeting, our shareholders approved an annual dividend distribution for the following year by way of a par value reduction equal to $1.96 per share, or CHF 1.80 per share, calculated using the USD/CHF exchange rate as published in the Wall Street Journal on May 10, 2012.

The annual dividend is payable in four quarterly installments, with each installment equaling $0.49 per share, provided that the Swiss franc equivalent of that amount per share (based on the then-current USD/CHF exchange rate), taken together with the Swiss franc equivalents of all other installments of this annual dividend, will not exceed 150 percent of CHF 1.80 (the aggregate distribution cap). If the Swiss franc equivalent of an upcoming dividend installment would cause the aggregate distribution cap to be exceeded, then that dividend installment will be reduced to equal the Swiss franc amount remaining available under the aggregate distribution cap, and the U.S. dollar amount distributed for that installment will be the then-applicable U.S. dollar equivalent of the remaining Swiss franc amount.

The following table represents dividends paid per Common Share to shareholders of record on each of the following dates:

 

Shareholders of record as of:

   Dividends paid as of:         

January 10, 2012

   January 31, 2012      $0.47 (CHF 0.44)   

March 30, 2012

   April 20, 2012      $0.47 (CHF 0.42)   

July 31, 2012

   August 21, 2012      $0.49 (CHF 0.48)   

Recent accounting pronouncements

Refer to Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements for a discussion of new accounting pronouncements.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Refer to Item 7A included in our 2011 Form 10-K.

Reinsurance of GMDB and GLB guarantees

Our net income is directly impacted by changes in the benefit reserves calculated in connection with the reinsurance of variable annuity guarantees, primarily GMDB and GLB. The benefit reserves are calculated in accordance with the guidance related to accounting and reporting by insurance enterprises for certain

 

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non-traditional long-duration contracts and for separate accounts. Changes in the benefit reserves are reflected as policy benefits expense, which is included in life underwriting income. In addition, our net income is directly impacted by the change in the fair value of the GLB liability (FVL), which is classified as a derivative for accounting purposes. The FVL established for a GLB reinsurance contract represents the difference between the fair value of the contract and the benefit reserves. Changes in the FVL, net of associated changes in the calculated benefit reserves, are reflected as realized gains or losses.

ACE views its variable annuity reinsurance business as having a similar risk profile to that of catastrophe reinsurance with the probability of long-term economic loss relatively small, at the time of pricing. Adverse changes in market factors and policyholder behavior will have an impact on both life underwriting income and net income. When evaluating these risks, we expect to be compensated for taking both the risk of a cumulative long-term economic net loss, as well as the short-term accounting variations caused by these market movements. Therefore, we evaluate this business in terms of its long-term economic risk and reward.

At June 30, 2012, management established benefit reserves based on the benefit ratio calculated using assumptions reflecting management’s best estimate of the future performance of the variable annuity line of business. Management exercises judgment in determining the extent to which short-term market movements impact the benefit reserves. The benefit reserves are based on the calculation of a long-term benefit ratio (or loss ratio) for the variable annuity guarantee reinsurance. Despite the long-term nature of the risk, the benefit ratio calculation is impacted by short-term market movements that may be judged by management to be temporary or transient. Management’s best estimate reflected a judgment that the equity markets will exhibit above average growth over the next several years. Management regularly examines both quantitative and qualitative analysis and for the quarter ended June 30, 2012, determined that no change to the benefit ratio was warranted. The benefit ratio used to establish the benefit reserves at June 30, 2012, has averaged less than 1/4 standard deviation from the calculated benefit ratios, averaging the periodic results from a 2-year rolling period ending June 30, 2012.

The guidance requires us to “regularly evaluate estimates used and adjust the liability balance… if actual experience or other evidence suggests that earlier assumptions should be revised.” ACE evaluates its estimates regularly and management uses judgment to determine the extent to which the assumptions underlying the benefit ratio calculation used to establish benefit reserves should be adjusted. The benefit ratio will be calculated based on management’s expectation for the short-term and long-term performance of the variable annuity guarantee liability. Management’s quantitative analysis includes a review of the differential between the benefit ratio used at the most recent valuation date and the benefit ratio calculated on subsequent dates. The differential is measured in terms of the standard deviation of the distribution of benefit ratios (reflecting 1,000 stochastic scenarios) calculated on subsequent dates.

The benefit reserves and FVL calculations are directly affected by market factors, including equity levels, interest rate levels, credit risk, and implied volatilities, as well as policyholder behaviors, such as annuitization and lapse rates. The tables below assume no changes to the benefit ratio used to establish the benefit reserves at June 30, 2012 and show the sensitivity, at June 30, 2012, of the FVL associated with the variable annuity guarantee reinsurance portfolio. In addition, the tables below show the sensitivity of the fair value of specific derivative instruments held (hedge value) to partially offset the risk in the variable annuity guarantee reinsurance portfolio. The tables below are estimates of the sensitivities to instantaneous changes in economic inputs or actuarial assumptions.

The tables below do not reflect the expected quarterly run rate of net income generated by the variable annuity guarantee reinsurance portfolio if markets remain unchanged during the period. All else equal, if markets remain unchanged during the period, the Gross FVL will increase, resulting in a realized loss. The realized loss occurs primarily because, during the period, we will collect premium while paying little or no claims on our GLB reinsurance (since most policies are not eligible to annuitize until 2013 or later). This increases the Gross FVL because future premiums are lower by the amount collected in the quarter, and also because future claims are

 

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discounted for a shorter period. We refer to this increase in Gross FVL as “timing effect”. The unfavorable impact of timing effect on our Gross FVL in a quarter is not reflected in the sensitivity tables below. For this reason, when using the tables below to estimate the sensitivity of Gross FVL in the third quarter to various changes, it is necessary to assume an additional $30 million to $60 million increase in Gross FVL and realized losses. However, the majority of this realized loss is offset by the positive quarterly run rate of life underwriting income generated by the variable annuity guarantee reinsurance portfolio if markets remain unchanged during the period, with little or no impact to Net income. Note that both the timing effect and the quarterly run rate of life underwriting income change over time as the book ages.

 

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          Worldwide Equity Shock  

Interest
Rate
Shock

        +10%     Flat     -10%     -20%     -30%     -40%  
          (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

+100 bps

   (Increase)/decrease in Gross FVL    $ 650     $ 394     $ 80     $ (287   $ (701   $ (1,158
  

Increase/(decrease) in hedge value

     (233     (4     227       460       696       935  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
  

Increase/(decrease) in net income

   $ 417     $ 390     $ 307     $ 173     $ (5   $ (223
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Flat

   (Increase)/decrease in Gross FVL    $ 326     $ —        $ (380   $ (808   $ (1,277   $ (1,776
  

Increase/(decrease) in hedge value

     (230     —          232       466       703       942  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
  

Increase/(decrease) in net income

   $ 96     $ —        $ (148   $ (342   $ (574   $ (834
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

-100 bps

   (Increase)/decrease in Gross FVL    $ (157   $ (547   $ (990   $ (1,473   $ (1,982   $ (2,505
  

Increase/(decrease) in hedge value

     (226     5       237       472       709       949  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
  

Increase/(decrease) in net income

   $ (383   $ (542   $ (753   $ (1,001   $ (1,273   $ (1,556
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
          AA-rated     Interest Rate     Equity  

Sensitivities to Other Economic Variables

   Credit Spreads     Volatility     Volatility  
          +100     -100     +2%     -2%     +2%     -2%  
          (in millions of U.S. dollars)  

(Increase)/decrease in Gross FVL

   $ 169     $ (169   $ (3   $ —        $ (23   $ 21  

Increase/(decrease) in hedge value

     —          —          —          —          3       (3

Increase/(decrease) in net income

   $ 169     $ (169   $ (3   $ —        $ (20   $ 18  

Sensitivities to Actuarial Assumptions

   Mortality              
          +20%     +10%     -10%     -20%              
          (in millions of U.S. dollars)              

(Increase)/decrease in Gross FVL

   $ 38     $ 19     $ (20   $ (40    

Increase/(decrease) in hedge value

     —          —          —          —         
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

Increase/(decrease) in net income

   $ 38     $ 19     $ (20   $ (40    
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     
          Lapses              
          +50%     +25%     -25%     -50%              
          (in millions of U.S. dollars)              

(Increase)/decrease in Gross FVL

   $ 410     $ 222     $ (262   $ (574    

Increase/(decrease) in hedge value

     —          —          —          —         
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

Increase/(decrease) in net income

   $ 410     $ 222     $ (262   $ (574    
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     
          Annuitization              
          +50%     +25%     -25%     -50%              
          (in millions of U.S. dollars)              

(Increase)/decrease in Gross FVL

   $ (347   $ (199   $ 254     $ 565      

Increase/(decrease) in hedge value

     —          —          —          —         
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

Increase/(decrease) in net income

   $ (347   $ (199   $ 254     $ 565      
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

The above tables assume equity shocks impact all global equity markets equally and that the interest rate shock is a parallel shift in the U.S. yield curve. Our liabilities are sensitive to global equity markets in the following proportions: 70 percent—80 percent U.S. equity, 10 percent—20 percent international equity ex-Japan, 5 percent—15 percent Japan equity. Our current hedge portfolio is sensitive to global equity markets in the following proportions: 100 percent U.S. equity. We would suggest using the S&P 500 index as a proxy for U.S. equity, the MSCI EAFE index as a proxy for international equity, and the TOPIX as a proxy for Japan equity.

 

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Our liabilities are also sensitive to global interest rates at various points on the yield curve, mainly the U.S. Treasury curve in the following proportions: 5 percent—15 percent short-term rates (maturing in less than 5 years), 20 percent—30 percent medium-term rates (maturing between 5 years and 10 years, inclusive), and 60 percent—70 percent long-term rates (maturing beyond 10 years). A change in AA-rated credit spreads (AA-rated credit spreads are a proxy for both our own credit spreads and the credit spreads of the ceding insurers) impacts the rate used to discount cash flows in the fair value model. The hedge sensitivity is from June 30, 2012 market levels.

The above sensitivities are not directly additive because changes in one factor will affect the sensitivity to changes in other factors. Also, the sensitivities do not scale linearly and may be proportionally greater for larger movements in the market factors. Sensitivities may also vary due to foreign exchange rate fluctuations. The calculation of the FVL is based on internal models that include assumptions regarding future policyholder behavior, including lapse, annuitization, and asset allocation. These assumptions impact both the absolute level of the FVL as well as the sensitivities to changes in market factors shown above. Additionally, actual sensitivity of our net income may differ from those disclosed in the tables above due to differences between short-term market movements and management judgment regarding the long-term assumptions implicit in our benefit ratios. Furthermore, the sensitivities above could vary by multiples of the sensitivities in the tables above.

Variable Annuity Net Amount at Risk

a) Reinsurance covering the GMDB risk only

The table below shows the net amount at risk at June 30, 2012 following an immediate change in equity market levels, assuming all global equity markets are impacted equally.

 

     Equity Shock  
     +20%      Flat      -20%      -40%      -60%      -80%  
     (in million of U.S. dollars, except percentages)  

GMDB net amount at risk

   $ 1,289      $ 1,537      $ 2,185      $ 2,463      $ 2,345      $ 2,125  

Claims at 100% immediate mortality

     699        442        349        332        307        277  

At June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011 the net amount at risk from reinsurance programs covering the GMDB risk only was $1.5 billion and $1.8 billion, respectively.

For reinsurance programs covering the GMDB risk only, the net amount at risk is defined as the present value of future claim payments under the following assumptions:

 

   

policy account values and guaranteed values are fixed at the valuation date (June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively);

 

   

there are no lapses or withdrawals;

 

   

mortality according to 100 percent of the Annuity 2000 mortality table;

 

   

future claims are discounted in line with the discounting assumption used in the calculation of the benefit reserve averaging between 1.0 and 2.0 percent; and

 

   

reinsurance coverage ends at the earlier of the maturity of the underlying variable annuity policy or the reinsurance treaty.

The total claim amount payable on reinsurance programs covering the GMDB risk only, if all the cedants’ policyholders were to die immediately at June 30, 2012 was approximately $442 million. This takes into account all applicable reinsurance treaty claim limits.

In addition, the table shows the total claim amount payable on reinsurance programs covering the GMDB risk only, if all of the cedants’ policyholders were to die immediately at June 30, 2012. This takes into account all applicable reinsurance treaty claim limits.

 

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The treaty claim limits function as a ceiling on the net amount at risk as equity markets fall. In addition, the claims payable if all of the policyholders were to die immediately declines as equity markets fall due to the specific nature of these claim limits, many of which are annual claim limits calculated as a percentage of the reinsured account value. There is also some impact due to a small portion of the GMDB reinsurance under which claims are positively correlated to equity markets (claims decrease as equity markets fall).

b) Reinsurance covering the GLB risk only

The table below shows the net amount at risk at June 30, 2012 following an immediate change in equity market levels, assuming all global equity markets are impacted equally.

 

     Equity Shock  
     +20%      Flat      -20%      -40%      -60%      -80%  
     (in million of U.S. dollars, except percentages)  

GLB net amount at risk

   $ 156      $ 442      $ 1,086      $ 1,871      $ 2,437      $ 2,549  

At June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the net amount at risk from reinsurance programs covering the GLB risk only was $442 million and $380 million, respectively.

For reinsurance programs covering the GLB risk only, the net amount at risk is defined as the present value of future claim payments under the following assumptions:

 

   

policy account values and guaranteed values are fixed at the valuation date (June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively);

 

   

there are no deaths, lapses, or withdrawals;

 

   

policyholders annuitize at a frequency most disadvantageous to ACE (in other words, annuitization at a level that maximizes claims taking into account the treaty limits) under the terms of the reinsurance contracts;

 

   

for annuitizing policyholders, the GMIB claim is calculated using interest rates in line with those used in calculating the reserve;

 

   

future claims are discounted in line with the discounting assumption used in the calculation of the benefit reserve averaging between 3.0 and 4.0 percent; and

 

   

reinsurance coverage ends at the earlier of the maturity of the underlying variable annuity policy or the reinsurance treaty.

The treaty claim limits cause the net amount at risk to increase at a declining rate as equity markets fall.

c) Reinsurance covering both the GMDB and GLB risks on the same underlying policyholders

The table below shows the net amount at risk at June 30, 2012 following an immediate change in equity market levels, assuming all global equity markets are impacted equally.

 

     Equity Shock  
     +20%      Flat      -20%      -40%      -60%      -80%  
     (in million of U.S. dollars, except percentages)  

GMDB net amount at risk

   $ 107      $ 160      $ 212      $ 261      $ 317      $ 368  

GLB net amount at risk

     515        934        1,490        2,089        2,577        2,857  

Claims at 100% immediate mortality

     597        1,000        1,216        1,403        1,588        1,772  

At June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the GMDB net amount at risk from reinsurance programs covering both the GMDB and GLB risks on the same underlying policyholders was $160 million and $182 million, respectively.

 

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At June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the GLB net amount at risk from reinsurance programs covering both the GMDB and GLB risks on the same underlying policyholders was $934 million and $998 million, respectively.

These net amounts at risk reflect the interaction between the two types of benefits on any single policyholder (eliminating double-counting), and therefore the net amounts at risk should be considered additive.

In addition, the table shows the total claim amount payable on reinsurance programs covering both the GMDB and GLB risks on the same underlying policyholders, if all of the cedants’ policyholders were to die immediately at June 30, 2012. This takes into account all applicable reinsurance treaty claim limits. Although this calculation shows an increase in death claims resulting from 100 percent immediate mortality of all policyholders, the GLB claims would be zero in this scenario.

For reinsurance programs covering both the GMDB and GLB risks on the same underlying policyholders, the net amount at risk is defined as the present value of future claim payments under the following assumptions:

 

   

policy account values and guaranteed values are fixed at the valuation date (June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively);

 

   

there are no lapses, or withdrawals;

 

   

mortality according to 100 percent of the Annuity 2000 mortality table;

 

   

policyholders annuitize at a frequency most disadvantageous to ACE (in other words, annuitization at a level that maximizes claims taking into account the treaty limits) under the terms of the reinsurance contracts;

 

   

for annuitizing policyholders, the GMIB claim is calculated using interest rates in line with those used in calculating the reserve;

 

   

future claims are discounted in line with the discounting assumption used in the calculation of the benefit reserve averaging between 1.0 and 2.0 percent; and

 

   

reinsurance coverage ends at the earlier of the maturity of the underlying variable annuity policy or the reinsurance treaty.

The treaty limits control the increase in the GMDB net amount at risk as equity markets fall. The GMDB net amount at risk continues to grow as equity markets fall because most of these reinsurance treaties do not have annual claim limits calculated as a percentage of the underlying account value.

The treaty limits cause the GLB net amount at risk to increase at a declining rate as equity markets fall.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

ACE’s management, with the participation of ACE’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of ACE’s disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and Rule 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as of June 30, 2012. Based upon that evaluation, ACE’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that ACE’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective in allowing information required to be disclosed in reports filed under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 to be recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within time periods specified in the rules and forms of the SEC, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to ACE’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

There has been no change in ACE’s internal controls over financial reporting during the three months ended June 30, 2012, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, ACE’s internal controls over financial reporting.

 

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ACE LIMITED

PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

The information required with respect to this item is included in Note 6 d) to the consolidated financial statements which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

Refer to “Risk Factors” under Item 1A of Part I of our 2011 Form 10-K. There have been no material changes to the risk factors disclosed in Part I, Item 1A of our 2011 Form 10-K.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds and Issuer Repurchases of Equity Securities

The following table provides information with respect to purchases by ACE of its Common Shares during the three months ended June 30, 2012:

Issuer’s Repurchases of Equity Securities

 

Period

   Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased(1)
     Average
Price
Paid
per
Share
     Approximate Dollar
Value of Shares that
May Yet be
Purchased Under the
Board Repurchase
Authorization(2)
 

April 1 through April 30

     7,339        $ 73.74      $  461 million   

May 1 through May 31

     94,433        $ 75.33      $ 461 million   

June 1 through June 30

     1,701        $ 71.17      $ 461 million   
  

 

 

       

Total

     103,473          
  

 

 

       

 

(1) 

This column includes activity related to the surrender to ACE of Common Shares to satisfy tax withholding obligations in connection with the vesting of restricted stock issued to employees and the exercising of options by employees.

(2)

Refer to Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information on the ACE Limited securities repurchase authorization. The $461 million of remaining authorizations expire December  31, 2012.

Item 6. Exhibits

Refer to the Exhibit Index.

 

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ACE LIMITED

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

  ACE LIMITED
  (Registrant)

August 1, 2012

 

/S/ EVAN G. GREENBERG

  Evan G. Greenberg
 

Chairman, President and Chief

Executive Officer

August 1, 2012

 

/S/ PHILIP V. BANCROFT

  Philip V. Bancroft
  Chief Financial Officer

 

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          Incorporated by Reference  

Exhibit

Number

  

Exhibit Description

   Form      Original
Number
     Date Filed      Filed
Herewith
 
    3.1    Articles of Association of the Company, as amended      8-K         3.1        May 22, 2012      
    3.2    Articles of Association of the Company, as amended and restated      8-K         3        July 31, 2012      
    4.1    Articles of Association of the Company, as amended      8-K         4.1        May 22, 2012      
    4.2    Articles of Association of the Company, as amended and restated      8-K         4        July 31, 2012      
  10.1*    ACE Limited Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as amended through the Fourth Amendment      8-K         10.1        May 22, 2012      
  31.1    Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002               X   
  31.2    Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002               X   
  32.1    Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, As Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002               X   
  32.2    Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, As Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002               X   
101.1    The following financial information from ACE Limited’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2012 formatted in XBRL: (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets at June 30, 2012, and December 31, 2011; (ii) Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011; (iii) Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the six months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011; (iv) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011; and (v) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements               X   

 

* Management Contract or Compensation Plan

 

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