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Fair Value
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2011
Fair Value [Abstract] 
Fair Value
 
5.   Fair Value
 
Considerable judgment is often required in interpreting market data to develop estimates of fair value, and the use of different assumptions or valuation methodologies may have a material effect on the estimated fair value amounts.
 
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value
 
Recurring Fair Value Measurements
 
The assets and liabilities measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis, including those items for which the Company has elected the FVO, were determined as described below. These estimated fair values and their corresponding placement in the fair value hierarchy are summarized as follows:
 
                                 
    September 30, 2011  
    Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using        
    Quoted Prices in
                   
    Active Markets for
    Significant Other
    Significant
    Total
 
    Identical Assets
    Observable
    Unobservable
    Estimated
 
    and Liabilities
    Inputs
    Inputs
    Fair
 
    (Level 1)     (Level 2)     (Level 3)     Value  
    (In millions)  
 
Assets:
                               
Fixed maturity securities:
                               
U.S. corporate securities
  $     $ 99,204     $ 7,371     $ 106,575  
Foreign corporate securities
          58,793       4,729       63,522  
Foreign government securities
    68       49,002       3,889       52,959  
RMBS
    25       41,256       612       41,893  
U.S. Treasury and agency securities
    21,724       20,079       31       41,834  
CMBS
          18,753       832       19,585  
ABS
          11,649       2,769       14,418  
State and political subdivision securities
          13,088       53       13,141  
Other fixed maturity securities
                       
                                 
Total fixed maturity securities
    21,817       311,824       20,286       353,927  
                                 
Equity securities:
                               
Common stock
    875       1,097       239       2,211  
Non-redeemable preferred stock
          398       509       907  
                                 
Total equity securities
    875       1,495       748       3,118  
                                 
Trading and other securities:
                               
Actively Traded Securities
          413       2       415  
FVO general account securities
          242       27       269  
FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments
    7,332       9,279       1,263       17,874  
FVO securities held by CSEs
          140             140  
                                 
Total trading and other securities
    7,332       10,074       1,292       18,698  
Short-term investments (1)
    4,507       10,159       626       15,292  
Mortgage loans:
                               
Mortgage loans held by CSEs
          3,227             3,227  
Mortgage loans held-for-sale (2)
          2,560       30       2,590  
                                 
Total mortgage loans
          5,787       30       5,817  
Other invested assets:
                               
MSRs
                686       686  
Other investments
    361       119             480  
Derivative assets: (3)
                               
Interest rate contracts
    31       10,082       321       10,434  
Foreign currency contracts
    1       1,618       67       1,686  
Credit contracts
          370       16       386  
Equity market contracts
    164       2,697       917       3,778  
                                 
Total derivative assets
    196       14,767       1,321       16,284  
                                 
Total other invested assets
    557       14,886       2,007       17,450  
Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts (4)
          2       354       356  
Separate account assets (5)
    27,622       162,169       1,708       191,499  
                                 
Total assets
  $ 62,710     $ 516,396     $ 27,051     $ 606,157  
                                 
Liabilities:
                               
Derivative liabilities: (3)
                               
Interest rate contracts
  $ 109     $ 2,267     $ 23     $ 2,399  
Foreign currency contracts
    1       1,096             1,097  
Credit contracts
          127       46       173  
Equity market contracts
    19       204       67       290  
                                 
Total derivative liabilities
    129       3,694       136       3,959  
Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts (4)
          19       4,862       4,881  
Long-term debt of CSEs
          3,045       112       3,157  
Trading liabilities (6)
    64       3             67  
                                 
Total liabilities
  $ 193     $ 6,761     $ 5,110     $ 12,064  
                                 
 
                                 
    December 31, 2010  
    Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using        
    Quoted Prices in
                   
    Active Markets for
    Significant Other
    Significant
    Total
 
    Identical Assets
    Observable
    Unobservable
    Estimated
 
    and Liabilities
    Inputs
    Inputs
    Fair
 
    (Level 1)     (Level 2)     (Level 3)     Value  
    (In millions)  
 
Assets:
                               
Fixed maturity securities:
                               
U.S. corporate securities
  $     $ 84,623     $ 7,149     $ 91,772  
Foreign corporate securities
          62,162       5,726       67,888  
Foreign government securities
    149       38,719       3,134       42,002  
RMBS
    274       43,037       1,422       44,733  
U.S. Treasury and agency securities
    14,602       18,623       79       33,304  
CMBS
          19,664       1,011       20,675  
ABS
          10,142       4,145       14,287  
State and political subdivision securities
          10,083       46       10,129  
Other fixed maturity securities
          3       4       7  
                                 
Total fixed maturity securities
    15,025       287,056       22,716       324,797  
                                 
Equity securities:
                               
Common stock
    831       1,094       268       2,193  
Non-redeemable preferred stock
          504       905       1,409  
                                 
Total equity securities
    831       1,598       1,173       3,602  
                                 
Trading and other securities:
                               
Actively Traded Securities
          453       10       463  
FVO general account securities
          54       77       131  
FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments
    6,270       10,789       735       17,794  
FVO securities held by CSEs
          201             201  
                                 
Total trading and other securities
    6,270       11,497       822       18,589  
Short-term investments (1)
    3,026       4,681       858       8,565  
Mortgage loans:
                               
Mortgage loans held by CSEs
          6,840             6,840  
Mortgage loans held-for-sale (2)
          2,486       24       2,510  
                                 
Total mortgage loans
          9,326       24       9,350  
Other invested assets:
                               
MSRs
                950       950  
Other investments
    373       121             494  
Derivative assets: (3)
                               
Interest rate contracts
    131       3,583       39       3,753  
Foreign currency contracts
    2       1,711       74       1,787  
Credit contracts
          125       50       175  
Equity market contracts
    23       1,757       282       2,062  
                                 
Total derivative assets
    156       7,176       445       7,777  
                                 
Total other invested assets
    529       7,297       1,395       9,221  
Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts (4)
                185       185  
Separate account assets (5)
    25,566       155,589       1,983       183,138  
                                 
Total assets
  $ 51,247     $ 477,044     $ 29,156     $ 557,447  
                                 
Liabilities:
                               
Derivative liabilities: (3)
                               
Interest rate contracts
  $ 35     $ 1,598     $ 125     $ 1,758  
Foreign currency contracts
          1,372       1       1,373  
Credit contracts
          101       6       107  
Equity market contracts
    10       1,174       140       1,324  
                                 
Total derivative liabilities
    45       4,245       272       4,562  
Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts (4)
          11       2,623       2,634  
Long-term debt of CSEs
          6,636       184       6,820  
Trading liabilities (6)
    46                   46  
                                 
Total liabilities
  $ 91     $ 10,892     $ 3,079     $ 14,062  
                                 
 
 
(1) Short-term investments as presented in the tables above differ from the amounts presented in the consolidated balance sheets because certain short-term investments are not measured at estimated fair value (e.g., time deposits, etc.), and therefore are excluded from the tables presented above.
 
(2) Mortgage loans held-for-sale as presented in the tables above differ from the amount presented in the consolidated balance sheets as these tables only include residential mortgage loans held-for-sale measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis.
 
(3) Derivative liabilities are presented within other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. The amounts are presented gross in the tables above to reflect the presentation in the consolidated balance sheets, but are presented net for purposes of the rollforward in the Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) tables which follow. At September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, certain non-derivative hedging instruments of $0 and $185 million, respectively, which are carried at amortized cost, are included with the liabilities total in Note 4 but excluded from derivative liabilities in the tables above as they are not derivative instruments.
 
(4) Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts are presented primarily within premiums, reinsurance and other receivables in the consolidated balance sheets. Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts are presented primarily within policyholder account balances in the consolidated balance sheets. At September 30, 2011, fixed maturity securities and equity securities also included embedded derivatives of $3 million and ($65) million, respectively. At December 31, 2010, fixed maturity securities and equity securities included embedded derivatives of $5 million and ($62) million, respectively.
 
(5) Separate account assets are measured at estimated fair value. Investment performance related to separate account assets is fully offset by corresponding amounts credited to contractholders whose liability is reflected within separate account liabilities. Separate account liabilities are set equal to the estimated fair value of separate account assets.
 
(6) Trading liabilities are presented within other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.
 
See Note 3 for discussion of CSEs included in the tables above.
 
The methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of financial instruments are summarized as follows:
 
Fixed Maturity Securities, Equity Securities, Trading and Other Securities and Short-term Investments
 
When available, the estimated fair value of the Company’s fixed maturity securities, equity securities, trading and other securities and short-term investments are based on quoted prices in active markets that are readily and regularly obtainable. Generally, these are the most liquid of the Company’s securities holdings and valuation of these securities does not involve management’s judgment.
 
When quoted prices in active markets are not available, the determination of estimated fair value is based on market standard valuation methodologies. The market standard valuation methodologies utilized include: discounted cash flow methodologies, matrix pricing or other similar techniques. The inputs in applying these market standard valuation methodologies include, but are not limited to: interest rates, credit standing of the issuer or counterparty, industry sector of the issuer, coupon rate, call provisions, sinking fund requirements, maturity and management’s assumptions regarding estimated duration, liquidity and estimated future cash flows. Accordingly, the estimated fair values are based on available market information and management’s judgments about financial instruments.
 
The significant inputs to the market standard valuation methodologies for certain types of securities with reasonable levels of price transparency are inputs that are observable in the market or can be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. Such observable inputs include benchmarking prices for similar assets in active markets, quoted prices in markets that are not active and observable yields and spreads in the market.
 
When observable inputs are not available, the market standard valuation methodologies for determining the estimated fair value of certain types of securities that trade infrequently, and therefore have little or no price transparency, rely on inputs that are significant to the estimated fair value that are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. These unobservable inputs can be based in large part on management’s judgment or estimation and cannot be supported by reference to market activity. Even though unobservable, these inputs are assumed to be consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing such securities and are considered appropriate given the circumstances.
 
The estimated fair value of FVO securities held by CSEs is determined on a basis consistent with the methodologies described herein for fixed maturity securities and equity securities. The Company consolidates certain securitization entities that hold securities that have been accounted for under the FVO and classified within trading and other securities.
 
The use of different methodologies, assumptions and inputs may have a material effect on the estimated fair values of the Company’s securities holdings.
 
Mortgage Loans
 
Mortgage loans presented in the tables above consist of commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs and residential mortgage loans held-for-sale for which the Company has elected the FVO and which are carried at estimated fair value. The Company consolidates certain securitization entities that hold commercial mortgage loans. See “— Valuation Techniques and Inputs by Level Within the Three-Level Fair Value Hierarchy by Major Classes of Assets and Liabilities” below for a discussion of the methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of these financial instruments.
 
Mortgage Servicing Rights (“MSRs”)
 
Although MSRs are not financial instruments, the Company has included them in the preceding table as a result of its election to carry MSRs at estimated fair value. See “— Valuation Techniques and Inputs by Level Within the Three-Level Fair Value Hierarchy by Major Classes of Assets and Liabilities” below for a discussion of the methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of these financial instruments.
 
Other Investments
 
Other investments is primarily comprised of investment funds. The estimated fair value of these investment funds is determined on a basis consistent with the methodologies described herein for trading and other securities.
 
Derivatives
 
The estimated fair value of derivatives is determined through the use of quoted market prices for exchange-traded derivatives and interest rate forwards to sell certain to be announced securities, or through the use of pricing models for OTC derivatives. The determination of estimated fair value, when quoted market values are not available, is based on market standard valuation methodologies and inputs that are assumed to be consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing the instruments. Derivative valuations can be affected by changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, financial indices, credit spreads, default risk (including the counterparties to the contract), volatility, liquidity and changes in estimates and assumptions used in the pricing models.
 
The significant inputs to the pricing models for most OTC derivatives are inputs that are observable in the market or can be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. Significant inputs that are observable generally include: interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, interest rate curves, credit curves and volatility. However, certain OTC derivatives may rely on inputs that are significant to the estimated fair value that are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. Significant inputs that are unobservable generally include: independent broker quotes, credit correlation assumptions, references to emerging market currencies and inputs that are outside the observable portion of the interest rate curve, credit curve, volatility or other relevant market measure. These unobservable inputs may involve significant management judgment or estimation. Even though unobservable, these inputs are based on assumptions deemed appropriate given the circumstances and are assumed to be consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing such instruments.
 
The credit risk of both the counterparty and the Company are considered in determining the estimated fair value for all OTC derivatives, and any potential credit adjustment is based on the net exposure by counterparty after taking into account the effects of netting agreements and collateral arrangements. The Company values its derivative positions using the standard swap curve which includes a spread to the risk free rate. This credit spread is appropriate for those parties that execute trades at pricing levels consistent with the standard swap curve. As the Company and its significant derivative counterparties consistently execute trades at such pricing levels, additional credit risk adjustments are not currently required in the valuation process. The Company’s ability to consistently execute at such pricing levels is in part due to the netting agreements and collateral arrangements that are in place with all of its significant derivative counterparties. The evaluation of the requirement to make additional credit risk adjustments is performed by the Company each reporting period.
 
Most inputs for OTC derivatives are mid market inputs but, in certain cases, bid level inputs are used when they are deemed more representative of exit value. Market liquidity, as well as the use of different methodologies, assumptions and inputs, may have a material effect on the estimated fair values of the Company’s derivatives and could materially affect net income.
 
Net Embedded Derivatives Within Asset and Liability Host Contracts
 
Embedded derivatives principally include certain direct, assumed and ceded variable annuity guarantees and equity or bond indexed crediting rates within certain funding agreements. Embedded derivatives are recorded at estimated fair value with changes in estimated fair value reported in net income.
 
The Company issues and assumes certain variable annuity products with guaranteed minimum benefits. GMWBs, GMABs and certain GMIBs are embedded derivatives, which are measured at estimated fair value separately from the host variable annuity contract, with changes in estimated fair value reported in net derivative gains (losses). These embedded derivatives are classified within policyholder account balances in the consolidated balance sheets.
 
The fair value of these guarantees is estimated using the present value of future benefits minus the present value of future fees using actuarial and capital market assumptions related to the projected cash flows over the expected lives of the contracts. A risk neutral valuation methodology is used under which the cash flows from the guarantees are projected under multiple capital market scenarios using observable risk free rates, currency exchange rates and observable and estimated implied volatilities.
 
The valuation of these guarantee liabilities includes adjustments for nonperformance risk and for a risk margin related to non-capital market inputs. Both of these adjustments are captured as components of the spread which, when combined with the risk free rate, is used to discount the cash flows of the liability for purposes of determining its fair value.
 
The nonperformance adjustment is determined by taking into consideration publicly available information relating to spreads in the secondary market for the Holding Company’s debt, including related credit default swaps. These observable spreads are then adjusted, as necessary, to reflect the priority of these liabilities and the claims paying ability of the issuing insurance subsidiaries compared to the Holding Company.
 
Risk margins are established to capture the non-capital market risks of the instrument which represent the additional compensation a market participant would require to assume the risks related to the uncertainties of such actuarial assumptions as annuitization, premium persistency, partial withdrawal and surrenders. The establishment of risk margins requires the use of significant management judgment, including assumptions of the amount and cost of capital needed to cover the guarantees. These guarantees may be more costly than expected in volatile or declining equity markets. Market conditions including, but not limited to, changes in interest rates, equity indices, market volatility and foreign currency exchange rates; changes in nonperformance risk; and variations in actuarial assumptions regarding policyholder behavior, mortality and risk margins related to non-capital market inputs may result in significant fluctuations in the estimated fair value of the guarantees that could materially affect net income.
 
The Company ceded the risk associated with certain of the GMIBs and GMABs previously described. These reinsurance contracts contain embedded derivatives which are included within premiums, reinsurance and other receivables in the consolidated balance sheets with changes in estimated fair value reported in net derivative gains (losses) or policyholder benefits and claims depending on the statement of operations classification of the direct risk. The value of the embedded derivatives on the ceded risk is determined using a methodology consistent with that described previously for the guarantees directly written by the Company.
 
The estimated fair value of the embedded derivatives within funds withheld related to certain ceded reinsurance is determined based on the change in estimated fair value of the underlying assets held by the Company in a reference portfolio backing the funds withheld liability. The estimated fair value of the underlying assets is determined as previously described in “— Fixed Maturity Securities, Equity Securities, Trading and Other Securities and Short-term Investments.” The estimated fair value of these embedded derivatives is included, along with their funds withheld hosts, in other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets with changes in estimated fair value recorded in net derivative gains (losses). Changes in the credit spreads on the underlying assets, interest rates and market volatility may result in significant fluctuations in the estimated fair value of these embedded derivatives that could materially affect net income.
 
The estimated fair value of the embedded equity and bond indexed derivatives contained in certain funding agreements is determined using market standard swap valuation models and observable market inputs, including an adjustment for nonperformance risk. The estimated fair value of these embedded derivatives are included, along with their funding agreements host, within policyholder account balances with changes in estimated fair value recorded in net derivative gains (losses). Changes in equity and bond indices, interest rates and the Company’s credit standing may result in significant fluctuations in the estimated fair value of these embedded derivatives that could materially affect net income.
 
Separate Account Assets
 
Separate account assets are carried at estimated fair value and reported as a summarized total on the consolidated balance sheets. The estimated fair value of separate account assets is based on the estimated fair value of the underlying assets owned by the separate account. Assets within the Company’s separate accounts include: mutual funds, fixed maturity securities, equity securities, mortgage loans, derivatives, hedge funds, other limited partnership interests, short-term investments and cash and cash equivalents. See “— Valuation Techniques and Inputs by Level Within the Three-Level Fair Value Hierarchy by Major Classes of Assets and Liabilities” below for a discussion of the methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of these financial instruments.
 
Long-term Debt of CSEs
 
The Company has elected the FVO for the long-term debt of CSEs, which are carried at estimated fair value. See “— Valuation Techniques and Inputs by Level Within the Three-Level Fair Value Hierarchy by Major Classes of Assets and Liabilities” below for a discussion of the methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of these financial instruments.
 
Trading Liabilities
 
Trading liabilities are recorded at estimated fair value with subsequent changes in estimated fair value recognized in net investment income. The estimated fair value of trading liabilities is determined on a basis consistent with the methodologies described in “— Fixed Maturity Securities, Equity Securities, Trading and Other Securities and Short-term Investments.”
 
Valuation Techniques and Inputs by Level Within the Three-Level Fair Value Hierarchy by Major Classes of Assets and Liabilities
 
A description of the significant valuation techniques and inputs to the determination of estimated fair value for the more significant asset and liability classes measured at fair value on a recurring basis is as follows:
 
The Company determines the estimated fair value of its investments using primarily the market approach and the income approach. The use of quoted prices for identical assets and matrix pricing or other similar techniques are examples of market approaches, while the use of discounted cash flow methodologies is an example of the income approach. The Company attempts to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs in selecting whether the market or income approach is used.
 
While certain investments have been classified as Level 1 from the use of unadjusted quoted prices for identical investments supported by high volumes of trading activity and narrow bid/ask spreads, most investments have been classified as Level 2 because the significant inputs used to measure the fair value on a recurring basis of the same or similar investment are market observable or can be corroborated using market observable information for the full term of the investment. Level 3 investments include those where estimated fair values are based on significant unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and may reflect management’s own assumptions about what factors market participants would use in pricing these investments.
 
Level 1 Measurements:
 
Fixed Maturity Securities, Equity Securities, Trading and Other Securities and Short-term Investments
 
These securities are comprised of U.S. Treasury and agency securities, foreign government securities, RMBS principally to-be-announced securities, exchange traded common stock, exchange traded registered mutual fund interests included in trading and other securities and short-term money market securities, including U.S. Treasury bills. Valuation of these securities is based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are readily and regularly available. Contractholder-directed unit-linked investments reported within trading and other securities include certain registered mutual fund interests priced using daily net asset value (“NAV”) provided by the fund managers.
 
Derivative Assets and Derivative Liabilities
 
These assets and liabilities are comprised of exchange-traded derivatives, as well as interest rate forwards to sell certain to-be-announced securities. Valuation of these assets and liabilities is based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are readily and regularly available.
 
Separate Account Assets
 
These assets are comprised of (i) securities that are similar in nature to the fixed maturity securities, equity securities and short-term investments referred to above; and (ii) certain exchange-traded derivatives, including financial futures and owned options. Valuation of these assets is based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are readily and regularly available.
 
Level 2 Measurements:
 
Fixed Maturity Securities, Equity Securities, Trading and Other Securities and Short-term Investments
 
This level includes fixed maturity securities and equity securities priced principally by independent pricing services using observable inputs. Trading and other securities and short-term investments within this level are of a similar nature and class to the Level 2 securities described below. Contractholder-directed unit-linked investments reported within trading and other securities include certain mutual fund interests without readily determinable fair values given prices are not published publicly. Valuation of these mutual funds is based upon quoted prices or reported NAV provided by the fund managers, which were based on observable inputs.
 
U.S. corporate and foreign corporate securities.  These securities are principally valued using the market and income approaches. Valuation is based primarily on quoted prices in markets that are not active, or using matrix pricing or other similar techniques that use standard market observable inputs such as benchmark yields, spreads off benchmark yields, new issuances, issuer rating, duration, and trades of identical or comparable securities. Investment grade privately placed securities are valued using discounted cash flow methodologies using standard market observable inputs, and inputs derived from, or corroborated by, market observable data including market yield curve, duration, call provisions, observable prices and spreads for similar publicly traded or privately traded issues that incorporate the credit quality and industry sector of the issuer. This level also includes certain below investment grade privately placed fixed maturity securities priced by independent pricing services that use observable inputs.
 
Structured securities comprised of RMBS, CMBS and ABS.  These securities are principally valued using the market approach. Valuation is based primarily on matrix pricing or other similar techniques using standard market inputs including spreads for actively traded securities, spreads off benchmark yields, expected prepayment speeds and volumes, current and forecasted loss severity, rating, weighted average coupon, weighted average maturity, average delinquency rates, geographic region, debt-service coverage ratios and issuance-specific information including, but not limited to: collateral type, payment terms of the underlying assets, payment priority within the tranche, structure of the security, deal performance and vintage of loans.
 
U.S. Treasury and agency securities.  These securities are principally valued using the market approach. Valuation is based primarily on quoted prices in markets that are not active, or using matrix pricing or other similar techniques using standard market observable inputs such as benchmark U.S. Treasury yield curve, the spread off the U.S. Treasury curve for the identical security and comparable securities that are actively traded.
 
Foreign government and state and political subdivision securities.  These securities are principally valued using the market approach. Valuation is based primarily on matrix pricing or other similar techniques using standard market observable inputs including benchmark U.S. Treasury or other yields, issuer ratings, broker-dealer quotes, issuer spreads and reported trades of similar securities, including those within the same sub-sector or with a similar maturity or credit rating.
 
Common and non-redeemable preferred stock.  These securities are principally valued using the market approach where market quotes are available but are not considered actively traded. Valuation is based principally on observable inputs including quoted prices in markets that are not considered active.
 
Mortgage Loans Held by CSEs
 
These commercial mortgage loans are principally valued using the market approach. The principal market for these commercial loan portfolios is the securitization market. The Company uses the quoted securitization market price of the obligations of the CSEs to determine the estimated fair value of these commercial loan portfolios. These market prices are determined principally by independent pricing services using observable inputs.
 
Mortgage Loans Held-For-Sale
 
Residential mortgage loans held-for-sale are principally valued using the market approach. Valuation is based primarily on readily available observable pricing for similar loans or securities backed by similar loans. The unobservable adjustments to such prices are insignificant.
 
Derivative Assets and Derivative Liabilities
 
This level includes all types of derivative instruments utilized by the Company with the exception of exchange-traded derivatives and interest rate forwards to sell certain to-be-announced securities included within Level 1 and those derivative instruments with unobservable inputs as described in Level 3. These derivatives are principally valued using an income approach.
 
Interest rate contracts.
 
Non-option-based — Valuations are based on present value techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, LIBOR basis curves and repurchase rates.
 
Option-based — Valuations are based on option pricing models, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, LIBOR basis curves and interest rate volatility.
 
Foreign currency contracts.
 
Non-option-based — Valuations are based on present value techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, LIBOR basis curves, currency spot rates and cross currency basis curves.
 
Option-based — Valuations are based on option pricing models, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, LIBOR basis curves, currency spot rates, cross currency basis curves and currency volatility.
 
Credit contracts.
 
Non-option-based — Valuations are based on present value techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, credit curves and recovery rates.
 
Equity market contracts.
 
Non-option-based — Valuations are based on present value techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, spot equity index levels and dividend yield curves.
 
Option-based — Valuations are based on option pricing models, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, spot equity index levels, dividend yield curves and equity volatility.
 
Embedded Derivatives Contained in Certain Funding Agreements
 
These derivatives are principally valued using an income approach. Valuations are based on present value techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve and the spot equity and bond index level.
 
Separate Account Assets
 
These assets are comprised of investments that are similar in nature to the fixed maturity securities, equity securities, short-term investments and derivative assets referred to above. Also included are certain mutual funds and hedge funds without readily determinable fair values given prices are not published publicly. Valuation of the mutual funds and hedge funds is based upon quoted prices or reported NAV provided by the fund managers.
 
Long-term Debt of CSEs
 
The estimated fair value of the long-term debt of the Company’s CSEs is based on quoted prices when traded as assets in active markets or, if not available, based on market standard valuation methodologies, consistent with the Company’s methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of comparable fixed maturity securities.
 
Level 3 Measurements:
 
In general, investments classified within Level 3 use many of the same valuation techniques and inputs as described in Level 2 Measurements. However, if key inputs are unobservable, or if the investments are less liquid and there is very limited trading activity, the investments are generally classified as Level 3. The use of independent non-binding broker quotations to value investments generally indicates there is a lack of liquidity or a lack of transparency in the process to develop the valuation estimates generally causing these investments to be classified in Level 3.
 
Fixed Maturity Securities, Equity Securities, Trading and Other Securities and Short-term Investments
 
This level includes fixed maturity securities and equity securities priced principally by independent broker quotations or market standard valuation methodologies using inputs that are not market observable or cannot be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. Trading and other securities and short-term investments within this level are of a similar nature and class to the Level 3 securities described below; accordingly, the valuation techniques and significant market standard observable inputs used in their valuation are also similar to those described below.
 
U.S. corporate and foreign corporate securities.  These securities, including financial services industry hybrid securities classified within fixed maturity securities, are principally valued using the market and income approaches. Valuations are based primarily on matrix pricing or other similar techniques that utilize unobservable inputs or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data, including illiquidity premiums and spread adjustments to reflect industry trends or specific credit-related issues. Valuations may be based on independent non-binding broker quotations. Generally, below investment grade privately placed or distressed securities included in this level are valued using discounted cash flow methodologies which rely upon significant, unobservable inputs and inputs that cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data.
 
Structured securities comprised of RMBS, CMBS and ABS.  These securities are principally valued using the market approach. Valuation is based primarily on matrix pricing or other similar techniques that utilize inputs that are unobservable or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data, or are based on independent non-binding broker quotations. Below investment grade securities and ABS supported by sub-prime mortgage loans included in this level are valued based on inputs including quoted prices for identical or similar securities that are less liquid and based on lower levels of trading activity than securities classified in Level 2, and certain of these securities are valued based on independent non-binding broker quotations.
 
Foreign government and state and political subdivision securities.  These securities are principally valued using the market approach. Valuation is based primarily on matrix pricing or other similar techniques, however these securities are less liquid and certain of the inputs are based on very limited trading activity.
 
Common and non-redeemable preferred stock.  These securities, including privately held securities and financial services industry hybrid securities classified within equity securities, are principally valued using the market and income approaches. Valuations are based primarily on matrix pricing or other similar techniques using inputs such as comparable credit rating and issuance structure. Equity securities valuations determined with discounted cash flow methodologies use inputs such as earnings multiples based on comparable public companies, and industry-specific non-earnings based multiples. Certain of these securities are valued based on independent non-binding broker quotations.
 
Mortgage Loans
 
Mortgage loans include residential mortgage loans held-for-sale for which pricing for similar loans or securities backed by similar loans is not observable and the estimated fair value is determined using unobservable independent broker quotations or valuation models.
 
MSRs
 
MSRs, which are valued using an income approach, are carried at estimated fair value and have multiple significant unobservable inputs including assumptions regarding estimates of discount rates, loan prepayments and servicing costs. Sales of MSRs tend to occur in private transactions where the precise terms and conditions of the sales are typically not readily available and observable market valuations are limited. As such, the Company relies primarily on a discounted cash flow model to estimate the fair value of the MSRs. The model requires inputs such as type of loan (fixed vs. variable and agency vs. other), age of loan, loan interest rates and current market interest rates that are generally observable. The model also requires the use of unobservable inputs including assumptions regarding estimates of discount rates, loan prepayments and servicing costs.
 
Derivative Assets and Derivative Liabilities
 
These derivatives are principally valued using an income approach. Valuations of non-option-based derivatives utilize present value techniques, whereas valuations of option-based derivatives utilize option pricing models. These valuation methodologies generally use the same inputs as described in the corresponding sections above for Level 2 measurements of derivatives. However, these derivatives result in Level 3 classification because one or more of the significant inputs are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data.
 
Interest rate contracts.
 
Non-option-based — Significant unobservable inputs may include pull through rates on interest rate lock commitments and the extrapolation beyond observable limits of the swap yield curve and LIBOR basis curves.
 
Option-based — Significant unobservable inputs may include the extrapolation beyond observable limits of the swap yield curve, LIBOR basis curves and interest rate volatility.
 
Foreign currency contracts.
 
Non-option-based — Significant unobservable inputs may include the extrapolation beyond observable limits of the swap yield curve, LIBOR basis curves and cross currency basis curves. Certain of these derivatives are valued based on independent non-binding broker quotations.
 
Option-based — Significant unobservable inputs may include currency correlation and the extrapolation beyond observable limits of the swap yield curve, LIBOR basis curves, cross currency basis curves and currency volatility.
 
Credit contracts.
 
Non-option-based — Significant unobservable inputs may include credit correlation, repurchase rates, and the extrapolation beyond observable limits of the swap yield curve and credit curves. Certain of these derivatives are valued based on independent non-binding broker quotations.
 
Equity market contracts.
 
Non-option-based — Significant unobservable inputs may include the extrapolation beyond observable limits of dividend yield curves.
 
Option-based — Significant unobservable inputs may include the extrapolation beyond observable limits of dividend yield curves and equity volatility. Certain of these derivatives are valued based on independent non-binding broker quotations.
 
Direct and Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefits
 
These embedded derivatives are principally valued using an income approach. Valuations are based on option pricing techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include swap yield curve, currency exchange rates and implied volatilities. These embedded derivatives result in Level 3 classification because one or more of the significant inputs are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. Significant unobservable inputs generally include: the extrapolation beyond observable limits of the swap yield curve and implied volatilities, actuarial assumptions for policyholder behavior and mortality and the potential variability in policyholder behavior and mortality, nonperformance risk and cost of capital for purposes of calculating the risk margin.
 
Reinsurance Ceded on Certain Guaranteed Minimum Benefits
 
These embedded derivatives are principally valued using an income approach. The valuation techniques and significant market standard unobservable inputs used in their valuation are similar to those previously described for Direct and Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefits and also include counterparty credit spreads.
 
Embedded Derivatives Within Funds Withheld Related to Certain Ceded Reinsurance
 
These embedded derivatives are principally valued using an income approach. Valuations are based on present value techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve and the fair value of assets within the reference portfolio. These embedded derivatives result in Level 3 classification because one or more of the significant inputs are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. Significant unobservable inputs generally include: the fair value of certain assets within the reference portfolio which are not observable in the market and cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data.
 
Separate Account Assets
 
These assets are comprised of investments that are similar in nature to the fixed maturity securities, equity securities and derivative assets referred to above. Separate account assets within this level also include mortgage loans and other limited partnership interests. The estimated fair value of mortgage loans is determined by discounting expected future cash flows, using current interest rates for similar loans with similar credit risk. Other limited partnership interests are valued giving consideration to the value of the underlying holdings of the partnerships and by applying a premium or discount, if appropriate, for factors such as liquidity, bid/ask spreads, the performance record of the fund manager or other relevant variables which may impact the exit value of the particular partnership interest.
 
Long-term Debt of CSEs
 
The estimated fair value of the long-term debt of the Company’s CSEs are priced principally through independent broker quotations or market standard valuation methodologies using inputs that are not market observable or cannot be derived from or corroborated by observable market data.
 
Transfers between Levels 1 and 2:
 
During the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, transfers between Levels 1 and 2 were not significant.
 
Transfers into or out of Level 3:
 
Overall, transfers into and/or out of Level 3 are attributable to a change in the observability of inputs. Assets and liabilities are transferred into Level 3 when a significant input cannot be corroborated with market observable data. This occurs when market activity decreases significantly and underlying inputs cannot be observed, current prices are not available, and/or when there are significant variances in quoted prices, thereby affecting transparency. Assets and liabilities are transferred out of Level 3 when circumstances change such that a significant input can be corroborated with market observable data. This may be due to a significant increase in market activity, a specific event, or one or more significant input(s) becoming observable. Transfers into and/or out of any level are assumed to occur at the beginning of the period. Significant transfers into and/or out of Level 3 assets and liabilities for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010 are summarized below.
 
Transfers into Level 3 resulted primarily from current market conditions characterized by a lack of trading activity, decreased liquidity and credit ratings downgrades (e.g., from investment grade to below investment grade) which have resulted in decreased transparency of valuations and an increased use of broker quotations and unobservable inputs to determine estimated fair value.
 
During the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, transfers into Level 3 for fixed maturity securities of $862 million and $604 million, respectively, and transfers into Level 3 for separate account assets of $11 million and $18 million, respectively, were principally comprised of certain RMBS, foreign government securities and ABS. During the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2010, transfers into Level 3 for fixed maturity securities of $367 million and $1,475 million, respectively, and transfers into Level 3 for separate account assets of $9 million and $31 million, respectively, were principally comprised of certain RMBS and U.S. and foreign corporate securities.
 
Transfers out of Level 3 resulted primarily from increased transparency of both new issuances that subsequent to issuance and establishment of trading activity, became priced by independent pricing services and existing issuances that, over time, the Company was able to obtain pricing from, or corroborate pricing received from, independent pricing services with observable inputs or increases in market activity and upgraded credit ratings. With respect to derivatives, transfers out of Level 3 resulted primarily from increased transparency related to the observable portion of the swap yield curve or the observable portion of the equity volatility surface.
 
During the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, transfers out of Level 3 for fixed maturity securities of $1,432 million and $4,718 million, respectively, and transfers out of Level 3 for separate account assets of $176 million and $258 million, respectively, were principally comprised of certain ABS, RMBS and U.S. and foreign corporate securities. During the nine months ended September 30, 2011, transfers out of Level 3 for derivatives of $101 million were principally comprised of interest rate swaps, foreign currency forwards, and equity options. There were no transfers out of Level 3 for derivatives for the three months ended September 30, 2011. During the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2010, transfers out of Level 3 for fixed maturity securities of $1,240 million and $1,413 million, respectively, and transfers out of Level 3 for separate account assets of $75 million and $224 million, respectively, were principally comprised of certain U.S. and foreign corporate securities, ABS and RMBS.
 
The following tables summarize the change of all assets and (liabilities) measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3), including realized and unrealized gains (losses) of all assets and (liabilities) and realized and unrealized gains (losses) of all assets and (liabilities) still held at the end of the respective time periods:
 
                                                                         
    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Fixed Maturity Securities:  
                            U.S.
                State and
    Other
 
    U.S.
    Foreign
    Foreign
          Treasury
                Political
    Fixed
 
    Corporate
    Corporate
    Government
          and Agency
                Subdivision
    Maturity
 
    Securities     Securities     Securities     RMBS     Securities     CMBS     ABS     Securities     Securities  
    (In millions)  
 
Three Months Ended September 30, 2011:
                                                                       
Balance, beginning of period
  $ 6,871     $ 5,844     $ 3,161     $ 434     $ 26     $ 781     $ 2,451     $ 89     $ 2  
Total realized/unrealized gains
                                                                       
(losses) included in:
                                                                       
Earnings: (1),(2)
                                                                       
Net investment income
    4       9       9                   5       8              
Net investment gains (losses)
    26       2       (206 )                 (1 )     (5 )            
Net derivative gains (losses)
                                                     
Other revenues
                                                     
Policyholder benefits and claims
                                                     
Other expenses
                                                     
Other comprehensive income (loss)
    227       (120 )     302       17       2       (1 )     (58 )     (1 )      
Purchases (3)
    455       199       427       170             115       469       11        
Sales (3)
    (185 )     (447 )     (30 )     (10 )     (3 )     (57 )     (133 )     (1 )     (2 )
Issuances (3)
                                                     
Settlements (3)
                                                     
Transfers into Level 3 (4)
          172       498       1       6       1       184              
Transfers out of Level 3 (4)
    (27 )     (930 )     (272 )                 (11 )     (147 )     (45 )      
                                                                         
Balance, end of period
  $ 7,371     $ 4,729     $ 3,889     $ 612     $ 31     $ 832     $ 2,769     $ 53     $  
                                                                         
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets and liabilities still held at September 30, 2011 included in earnings:
                                                                       
Net investment income
  $ 4     $ 8     $ 9     $     $     $ 6     $ 8     $     $  
Net investment gains (losses)
  $ (3 )   $ (5 )   $ (205 )   $     $     $ (2 )   $ (7 )   $     $  
Net derivative gains (losses)
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Other revenues
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Policyholder benefits and claims
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Other expenses
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
 
                                                                 
    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Equity Securities:     Trading and Other Securities:                    
                            FVO
                   
          Non-
          FVO
    Contractholder-
                   
          redeemable
    Actively
    General
    directed
          Mortgage
       
    Common
    Preferred
    Traded
    Account
    Unit-linked
    Short-term
    Loans Held-
    MSRs
 
    Stock     Stock     Securities     Securities     Investments     Investments     for-sale     (5), (6)  
    (In millions)  
 
Three Months Ended September 30, 2011:
                                                               
Balance, beginning of period
  $ 305     $ 654     $ 2     $ 54     $ 623     $ 732     $ 32     $ 964  
Total realized/unrealized gains
                                                               
(losses) included in:
                                                               
Earnings: (1), (2)
                                                               
Net investment income
                      (12 )     (5 )     (1 )            
Net investment gains (losses)
    3       7                         (1 )            
Net derivative gains (losses)
                                               
Other revenues
                                        (1 )     (292 )
Policyholder benefits and claims
                                               
Other expenses
                                               
Other comprehensive income (loss)
    (25 )     (69 )                       (1 )            
Purchases (3)
    14                         1,026       266       2        
Sales (3)
    (14 )     (84 )                 (297 )     (368 )            
Issuances (3)
                                              46  
Settlements (3)
                                        (2 )     (32 )
Transfers into Level 3 (4)
          1                               4        
Transfers out of Level 3 (4)
    (44 )                 (15 )     (84 )     (1 )     (5 )      
                                                                 
Balance, end of period
  $ 239     $ 509     $ 2     $ 27     $ 1,263     $ 626     $ 30     $ 686  
                                                                 
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets and liabilities still held at September 30, 2011 included in earnings:
                                                               
Net investment income
  $     $     $     $ (11 )   $ (4 )   $ (1 )   $     $  
Net investment gains (losses)
  $     $     $     $     $     $ (1 )   $     $  
Net derivative gains (losses)
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Other revenues
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $ (1 )   $ (280 )
Policyholder benefits and claims
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Other expenses
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
 
                                                                 
    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Net Derivatives: (7)                          
    Interest
    Foreign
          Equity
    Net
    Separate
    Long-term
       
    Rate
    Currency
    Credit
    Market
    Embedded
    Account
    Debt of
    Trading
 
    Contracts     Contracts     Contracts     Contracts     Derivatives (8)     Assets (9)     CSEs     Liabilities  
    (In millions)  
 
Three Months Ended September 30, 2011:
                                                               
Balance, beginning of period
  $ (67 )   $ 49     $ 42     $ 55     $ (2,074 )   $ 1,836     $ (134 )   $  
Total realized/unrealized gains
                                                               
(losses) included in:
                                                               
Earnings: (1), (2)
                                                               
Net investment income
                                               
Net investment gains (losses)
                                  3       (1 )      
Net derivative gains (losses)
    21       2       (76 )     677       (2,314 )                  
Other revenues
    68                                            
Policyholder benefits and claims
                            115                    
Other expenses
                                               
Other comprehensive income (loss)
    317             15       1       (114 )                  
Purchases (3)
    (1 )     16             119             187              
Sales (3)
                                  (152 )            
Issuances (3)
                      (4 )                        
Settlements (3)
    (41 )           (11 )     2       (121 )     (1 )     23        
Transfers into Level 3 (4)
    1                               11              
Transfers out of Level 3 (4)
                                  (176 )            
                                                                 
Balance, end of period
  $ 298     $ 67     $ (30 )   $ 850     $ (4,508 )   $ 1,708     $ (112 )   $  
                                                                 
Changes in unrealized gains (losses)
                                                               
relating to assets and liabilities still held
                                                               
at September 30, 2011 included in earnings:
                                                               
Net investment income
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Net investment gains (losses)
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $ (1 )   $  
Net derivative gains (losses)
  $ 17     $ 2     $ (76 )   $ 677     $ (2,319 )   $     $     $  
Other revenues
  $ 79     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Policyholder benefits and claims
  $     $     $     $     $ 115     $     $     $  
Other expenses
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
 
                                                                         
    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Fixed Maturity Securities:  
                            U.S.
                State and
    Other
 
    U.S.
    Foreign
    Foreign
          Treasury
                Political
    Fixed
 
    Corporate
    Corporate
    Government
          and Agency
                Subdivision
    Maturity
 
    Securities     Securities     Securities     RMBS     Securities     CMBS     ABS     Securities     Securities  
    (In millions)  
 
Three Months Ended September 30, 2010:
                                                                       
Balance, beginning of period
  $ 7,173     $ 4,552     $ 257     $ 1,852     $ 37     $ 270     $ 3,489     $ 101     $ 5  
Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in:
                                                                       
Earnings: (1), (2)
                                                                       
Net investment income
    6       7       2       (5 )           1       8              
Net investment gains (losses)
    (20 )     (25 )     1       (6 )           (2 )     (17 )            
Net derivative gains (losses)
                                                     
Other revenues
                                                     
Policyholder benefits and claims
                                                     
Other expenses
                                                     
Other comprehensive income (loss)
    196       301       25       68       1       13       104       (3 )      
Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements (3)
    67       132       6       379             (7 )     160       9        
Transfers into Level 3 (4)
    119       52             161       21       9       5              
Transfers out of Level 3 (4)
    (686 )     (240 )           (155 )           (3 )     (101 )     (55 )      
                                                                         
Balance, end of period
  $ 6,855     $ 4,779     $ 291     $ 2,294     $ 59     $ 281     $ 3,648     $ 52     $ 5  
                                                                         
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets and liabilities still held at September 30, 2010 included in earnings:
                                                                       
Net investment income
  $ 4     $ 5     $ 2     $ (5 )   $     $ 1     $ 8     $     $  
Net investment gains (losses)
  $ (30 )   $ (29 )   $     $     $     $ (3 )   $ (9 )   $     $  
Net derivative gains (losses)
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Other revenues
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Policyholder benefits and claims
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Other expenses
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
 
                                                                 
    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Equity Securities:     Trading and Other Securities:                    
                            FVO
                   
          Non-
          FVO
    Contractholder-
                   
          redeemable
    Actively
    General
    directed
          Mortgage
       
    Common
    Preferred
    Traded
    Account
    Unit-linked
    Short-term
    Loans Held-
    MSRs
 
    Stock     Stock     Securities     Securities     Investments     Investments     for-sale     (5), (6)  
    (In millions)  
 
Three Months Ended September 30, 2010:
                                                               
Balance, beginning of period
  $ 161     $ 845     $ 7     $ 29     $     $ 52     $ 26     $ 660  
Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in:
                                                               
Earnings: (1), (2)
                                                               
Net investment income
                      9             2              
Net investment gains (losses)
    (1 )     1                                      
Net derivative gains (losses)
                                               
Other revenues
                                        (1 )     (91 )
Policyholder benefits and claims
                                               
Other expenses
                                               
Other comprehensive income (loss)
    14       56                                      
Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements (3)
    (6 )     7       13                   156             138  
Transfers into Level 3 (4)
    2                   35                   4        
Transfers out of Level 3 (4)
                                        (2 )      
                                                                 
Balance, end of period
  $ 170     $ 909     $ 20     $ 73     $     $ 210     $ 27     $ 707  
                                                                 
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets and liabilities still held at September 30, 2010 included in earnings:
                                                               
Net investment income
  $     $     $     $ 9     $     $ 2     $     $  
Net investment gains (losses)
  $ (1 )   $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Net derivative gains (losses)
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Other revenues
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $ (1 )   $ (74 )
Policyholder benefits and claims
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Other expenses
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
 
                                                                 
    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Net Derivatives: (7)                          
    Interest
    Foreign
          Equity
    Net
    Separate
    Long-term
       
    Rate
    Currency
    Credit
    Market
    Embedded
    Account
    Debt of
    Trading
 
    Contracts     Contracts     Contracts     Contracts     Derivatives (8)     Assets (9)     CSEs (10)     Liabilities  
    (In millions)  
 
Three Months Ended September 30, 2010:
                                                               
Balance, beginning of period
  $ 61     $ 28     $ 31     $ 633     $ (3,296 )   $ 1,604     $ (221 )   $  
Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in:
                                                               
Earnings: (1), (2)
                                                               
Net investment income
                      (2 )                        
Net investment gains (losses)
                                  47       37        
Net derivative gains (losses)
    2       46       12       (169 )     134                    
Other revenues
    14                                            
Policyholder benefits and claims
                                               
Other expenses
          (1 )                                    
Other comprehensive income (loss)
    16             10       4       (98 )                  
Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements (3)
    12       (5 )     (7 )     8       (74 )     62             (2 )
Transfers into Level 3 (4)
                                  9              
Transfers out of Level 3 (4)
          (8 )                       (75 )            
                                                                 
Balance, end of period
  $ 105     $ 60     $ 46     $ 474     $ (3,334 )   $ 1,647     $ (184 )   $ (2 )
                                                                 
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets and liabilities still held at September 30, 2010 included in earnings:
                                                               
Net investment income
  $     $     $     $ (2 )   $     $     $     $  
Net investment gains (losses)
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $ 37     $  
Net derivative gains (losses)
  $ 1     $ 37     $ 12     $ (169 )   $ 126     $     $     $  
Other revenues
  $ 63     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Policyholder benefits and claims
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Other expenses
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
 
                                                                         
    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Fixed Maturity Securities:  
                            U.S.
                State and
    Other
 
    U.S.
    Foreign
    Foreign
          Treasury
                Political
    Fixed
 
    Corporate
    Corporate
    Government
          and Agency
                Subdivision
    Maturity
 
    Securities     Securities     Securities     RMBS     Securities     CMBS     ABS     Securities     Securities  
    (In millions)  
 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011:
                                                                       
Balance, beginning of period
  $ 7,149     $ 5,726     $ 3,134     $ 1,422     $ 79     $ 1,011     $ 4,145     $ 46     $ 4  
Total realized/unrealized gains
                                                                       
(losses) included in:
                                                                       
Earnings: (1), (2)
                                                                       
Net investment income
    8       22       38       (1 )           21       27              
Net investment gains (losses)
    14       (20 )     (220 )     (1 )           67       (34 )            
Net derivative gains (losses)
                                                     
Other revenues
                                                     
Policyholder benefits and claims
                                                     
Other expenses
                                                     
Other comprehensive income (loss)
    372       44       332       33       2       50       46       (8 )      
Purchases (3)
    1,016       1,571       1,164       206             287       799       11        
Sales (3)
    (674 )     (1,770 )     (411 )     (127 )     (1 )     (584 )     (591 )     (4 )      
Issuances (3)
                                                     
Settlements (3)
                                                     
Transfers into Level 3 (4)
    43       165       91       81       6       85       123       10        
Transfers out of Level 3 (4)
    (557 )     (1,009 )     (239 )     (1,001 )     (55 )     (105 )     (1,746 )     (2 )     (4 )
                                                                         
Balance, end of period
  $ 7,371     $ 4,729     $ 3,889     $ 612     $ 31     $ 832     $ 2,769     $ 53     $  
                                                                         
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets and liabilities still held at September 30, 2011 included in earnings:
                                                                       
Net investment income
  $ 7     $ 22     $ 36     $ (1 )   $     $ 19     $ 27     $     $  
Net investment gains (losses)
  $ (30 )   $ (20 )   $ (209 )   $ (1 )   $     $ (2 )   $ (22 )   $     $  
Net derivative gains (losses)
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Other revenues
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Policyholder benefits and claims
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Other expenses
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
 
                                                                 
    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Equity Securities:     Trading and Other Securities:                    
                            FVO
                   
          Non-
          FVO
    Contractholder-
                   
          redeemable
    Actively
    General
    directed
          Mortgage
       
    Common
    Preferred
    Traded
    Account
    Unit-linked
    Short-term
    Loans Held-
    MSRs
 
    Stock     Stock     Securities     Securities     Investments     Investments     for-sale     (5), (6)  
    (In millions)  
 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011:
                                                               
Balance, beginning of period
  $ 268     $ 905     $ 10     $ 77     $ 735     $ 858     $ 24     $ 950  
Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in:
                                                               
Earnings: (1), (2)
                                                               
Net investment income
                      (3 )     61       3              
Net investment gains (losses)
    7       (63 )                       (2 )            
Net derivative gains (losses)
                                               
Other revenues
                                        (2 )     (310 )
Policyholder benefits and claims
                                               
Other expenses
                                               
Other comprehensive income (loss)
    (12 )     31                         7              
Purchases (3)
    53       4             1       1,032       562       3        
Sales (3)
    (21 )     (379 )     (8 )     (33 )     (447 )     (798 )            
Issuances (3)
                                        1       138  
Settlements (3)
                                        (3 )     (92 )
Transfers into Level 3 (4)
    1       11                   123             9        
Transfers out of Level 3 (4)
    (57 )                 (15 )     (241 )     (4 )     (2 )      
                                                                 
Balance, end of period
  $ 239     $ 509     $ 2     $ 27     $ 1,263     $ 626     $ 30     $ 686  
                                                                 
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets and liabilities still held at September 30, 2011 included in earnings:
                                                               
Net investment income
  $     $     $     $ (5 )   $ 55     $ (2 )   $     $  
Net investment gains (losses)
  $ (4 )   $ (19 )   $     $     $     $ (1 )   $     $  
Net derivative gains (losses)
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Other revenues
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $ (2 )   $ (298 )
Policyholder benefits and claims
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Other expenses
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
 
                                                                 
    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Net Derivatives: (7)                          
    Interest
    Foreign
          Equity
    Net
    Separate
    Long-term
       
    Rate
    Currency
    Credit
    Market
    Embedded
    Account
    Debt of
    Trading
 
    Contracts     Contracts     Contracts     Contracts     Derivatives (8)     Assets (9)     CSEs     Liabilities  
    (In millions)  
 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011:
                                                               
Balance, beginning of period
  $ (86 )   $ 73     $ 44     $ 142     $ (2,438 )   $ 1,983     $ (184 )   $  
Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in:
                                                               
Earnings: (1), (2)
                                                               
Net investment income
                      (3 )                        
Net investment gains (losses)
                                  48       (8 )      
Net derivative gains (losses)
    25       (1 )     (70 )     568       (1,722 )                  
Other revenues
    75                                            
Policyholder benefits and claims
                            107                    
Other expenses
                                               
Other comprehensive income (loss)
    325             13             (116 )                  
Purchases (3)
    (1 )     21             225             422              
Sales (3)
                                  (502 )            
Issuances (3)
                (3 )     (4 )                        
Settlements (3)
    (40 )           (13 )     (3 )     (339 )     (3 )     80        
Transfers into Level 3 (4)
                (1 )                 18              
Transfers out of Level 3 (4)
          (26 )           (75 )           (258 )            
                                                                 
Balance, end of period
  $ 298     $ 67     $ (30 )   $ 850     $ (4,508 )   $ 1,708     $ (112 )   $  
                                                                 
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets and liabilities still held at September 30, 2011 included in earnings:
                                                               
Net investment income
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Net investment gains (losses)
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $ (8 )   $  
Net derivative gains (losses)
  $ 14     $ (1 )   $ (70 )   $ 569     $ (1,738 )   $     $     $  
Other revenues
  $ 80     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Policyholder benefits and claims
  $     $     $     $     $ 107     $     $     $  
Other expenses
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
 
                                                                         
    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Fixed Maturity Securities:  
                            U.S.
                State and
    Other
 
    U.S.
    Foreign
    Foreign
          Treasury
                Political
    Fixed
 
    Corporate
    Corporate
    Government
          and Agency
                Subdivision
    Maturity
 
    Securities     Securities     Securities     RMBS     Securities     CMBS     ABS     Securities     Securities  
    (In millions)  
 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2010:
                                                                       
Balance, beginning of period
  $ 6,694     $ 5,244     $ 378     $ 1,840     $ 37     $ 139     $ 2,703     $ 69     $ 6  
Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in:
                                                                       
Earnings: (1), (2)
                                                                       
Net investment income
    21       10       2       21             1       27              
Net investment gains (losses)
    (15 )     (42 )     (5 )     (6 )           (3 )     (67 )            
Net derivative gains (losses)
                                                     
Other revenues
                                                     
Policyholder benefits and claims
                                                     
Other expenses
                                                     
Other comprehensive income (loss)
    461       374       53       121       3       72       301       4       1  
Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements (3)
    (648 )     (619 )     19       195       (3 )     (24 )     831       9       (2 )
Transfers into Level 3 (4)
    616       363             253       22       128       93              
Transfers out of Level 3 (4)
    (274 )     (551 )     (156 )     (130 )           (32 )     (240 )     (30 )      
                                                                         
Balance, end of period
  $ 6,855     $ 4,779     $ 291     $ 2,294     $ 59     $ 281     $ 3,648     $ 52     $ 5  
                                                                         
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets and liabilities still held at September 30, 2010 included in earnings:
                                                                       
Net investment income
  $ 11     $ 9     $ 6     $ 21     $     $ 1     $ 26     $     $  
Net investment gains (losses)
  $ (44 )   $ (45 )   $     $     $     $ (3 )   $ (54 )   $     $  
Net derivative gains (losses)
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Other revenues
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Policyholder benefits and claims
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Other expenses
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
 
                                                                 
    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Equity Securities:     Trading and Other Securities:                    
                            FVO
                   
          Non-
          FVO
    Contractholder-
                   
          redeemable
    Actively
    General
    directed
          Mortgage
       
    Common
    Preferred
    Traded
    Account
    Unit-linked
    Short-term
    Loans Held-
    MSRs
 
    Stock     Stock     Securities     Securities     Investments     Investments     for-sale     (5), (6)  
    (In millions)  
 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2010:
                                                               
Balance, beginning of period
  $ 136     $ 1,102     $ 32     $ 51     $     $ 18     $ 25     $ 878  
Total realized/unrealized gains
                                                               
(losses) included in:
                                                               
Earnings: (1), (2)
                                                               
Net investment income
                      3             2              
Net investment gains (losses)
    1       48                                      
Net derivative gains (losses)
                                               
Other revenues
                                        (1 )     (329 )
Policyholder benefits and claims
                                               
Other expenses
                                               
Other comprehensive income (loss)
    4       24                                      
Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements (3)
    35       (259 )     (12 )                 190             158  
Transfers into Level 3 (4)
    2                   37                   10        
Transfers out of Level 3 (4)
    (8 )     (6 )           (18 )                 (7 )      
                                                                 
Balance, end of period
  $ 170     $ 909     $ 20     $ 73     $     $ 210     $ 27     $ 707  
                                                                 
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets and liabilities still held at September 30, 2010 included in earnings:
                                                               
Net investment income
  $     $     $     $ 3     $     $ 2     $     $  
Net investment gains (losses)
  $ (2 )   $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Net derivative gains (losses)
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Other revenues
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $ (1 )   $ (294 )
Policyholder benefits and claims
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Other expenses
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
 
                                                                 
    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Net Derivatives: (7)                          
    Interest
    Foreign
          Equity
    Net
    Separate
    Long-term
       
    Rate
    Currency
    Credit
    Market
    Embedded
    Account
    Debt of
    Trading
 
    Contracts     Contracts     Contracts     Contracts     Derivatives (8)     Assets (9)     CSEs (10)     Liabilities  
    (In millions)  
 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2010:
                                                               
Balance, beginning of period
  $ 7     $ 108     $ 42     $ 199     $ (1,455 )   $ 1,797     $     $  
Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in:
                                                               
Earnings: (1), (2)
                                                               
Net investment income
                      6                          
Net investment gains (losses)
                                  91       48        
Net derivative gains (losses)
    36       32       (10 )     243       (1,542 )                  
Other revenues
    61                                            
Policyholder benefits and claims
                            46                    
Other expenses
          (4 )                                    
Other comprehensive income (loss)
    13             27       9       (163 )                  
Purchases, sales, issuances and
                                                               
settlements (3)
    (12 )     (54 )     (13 )     17       (220 )     (48 )     (232 )     (2 )
Transfers into Level 3 (4)
                                  31              
Transfers out of Level 3 (4)
          (22 )                       (224 )            
                                                                 
Balance, end of period
  $ 105     $ 60     $ 46     $ 474     $ (3,334 )   $ 1,647     $ (184 )   $ (2 )
                                                                 
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets and liabilities still held at September 30, 2010 included in earnings:
                                                               
Net investment income
  $     $     $     $ 5     $     $     $     $  
Net investment gains (losses)
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $ 48     $  
Net derivative gains (losses)
  $ 36     $ 31     $ (9 )   $ 250     $ (1,556 )   $     $     $  
Other revenues
  $ 66     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
Policyholder benefits and claims
  $     $     $     $     $ 46     $     $     $  
Other expenses
  $     $     $     $     $     $     $     $  
 
 
(1) Amortization of premium/discount is included within net investment income. Impairments charged to earnings on securities and certain mortgage loans are included within net investment gains (losses) while changes in estimated fair value of certain mortgage loans and MSRs are recorded in other revenues. Lapses associated with embedded derivatives are included within net derivative gains (losses).
 
(2) Interest and dividend accruals, as well as cash interest coupons and dividends received, are excluded from the rollforward.
 
(3) The amount reported within purchases, sales, issuances and settlements is the purchase or issuance price and the sales or settlement proceeds based upon the actual date purchased or issued and sold or settled, respectively. Items purchased/issued and sold/settled in the same period are excluded from the rollforward. For the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, fees attributed to net embedded derivatives are included within settlements. For the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2010, fees attributed to net embedded derivatives are included within purchases, sales, issuances and settlements.
 
(4) Total gains and losses (in earnings and other comprehensive income (loss)) are calculated assuming transfers into and/or out of Level 3 occurred at the beginning of the period. Items transferred into and/or out of Level 3 in the same period are excluded from the rollforward.
 
(5) The additions for purchases, originations and issuances and the reductions for loan payments, sales and settlements, affecting MSRs were $46 million and ($32) million, respectively, for the three months ended September 30, 2011 and $138 million and ($92) million, respectively, for the nine months ended September 30, 2011. The additions for purchases, originations and issuances and the reductions for loan payments, sales and settlements, affecting MSRs were $169 million and ($31) million, respectively, for the three months ended September 30, 2010 and $275 million and ($117) million, respectively, for the nine months ended September 30, 2010.
 
(6) The changes in estimated fair value due to changes in valuation model inputs or assumptions were ($292) million and ($310) million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. The changes in estimated fair value due to changes in valuation model inputs or assumptions were ($91) million and ($329) million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2010, respectively. For all periods, there was no other change in estimated fair value affecting MSRs.
 
(7) Freestanding derivative assets and liabilities are presented net for purposes of the rollforward.
 
(8) Embedded derivative assets and liabilities are presented net for purposes of the rollforward.
 
(9) Investment performance related to separate account assets is fully offset by corresponding amounts credited to contractholders within separate account liabilities. Therefore, such changes in estimated fair value are not recorded in net income. For the purpose of this disclosure, these changes are presented within net investment gains (losses).
 
(10) The long-term debt of the CSEs at January 1, 2010 is reported within the purchases, sales, issuances and settlements caption of the rollforward.
 
FVO — Mortgage Loans Held-For-Sale
 
The following table presents residential mortgage loans held-for-sale carried under the FVO at:
 
                 
    September 30, 2011     December 31, 2010  
    (In millions)  
 
Unpaid principal balance
  $ 2,469     $ 2,473  
Excess of estimated fair value over unpaid principal balance
    121       37  
                 
Carrying value at estimated fair value
  $ 2,590     $ 2,510  
                 
Loans in non-accrual status
  $ 3     $ 2  
Loans more than 90 days past due
  $ 3     $ 3  
Loans in non-accrual status or more than 90 days past due, or both — difference between aggregate estimated fair value and unpaid principal balance
  $ (1 )   $ (1 )
 
Residential mortgage loans held-for-sale accounted for under the FVO are initially measured at estimated fair value. Interest income on residential mortgage loans held-for-sale is recorded based on the stated rate of the loan and is recorded in net investment income. Gains and losses from initial measurement, subsequent changes in estimated fair value and gains or losses on sales are recognized in other revenues. Such changes in estimated fair value for these loans were due to the following:
 
                                 
    Three Months
    Nine Months
 
    Ended
    Ended
 
    September 30,     September 30,  
    2011     2010     2011     2010  
    (In millions)  
 
Instrument-specific credit risk based on changes in credit spreads for non-agency loans and adjustments in individual loan quality
  $     $ (1 )   $ (3 )   $ (1 )
Other changes in estimated fair value
    174       139       353       400  
                                 
Total gains (losses) recognized in other revenues
  $  174     $  138     $  350     $  399  
                                 
 
 
FVO — CSEs
 
The Company has elected the FVO for the following assets and liabilities held by CSEs: commercial mortgage loans, securities and long-term debt. Information on the estimated fair value of the securities classified as trading and other securities is presented in Note 3. The following table presents these commercial mortgage loans carried under the FVO at:
 
                 
    September 30, 2011     December 31, 2010  
    (In millions)  
 
Unpaid principal balance
  $ 3,063     $ 6,636  
Excess of estimated fair value over unpaid principal balance
    164       204  
                 
Carrying value at estimated fair value
  $ 3,227     $ 6,840  
                 
 
The following table presents the long-term debt carried under the FVO related to both the commercial mortgage loans and securities classified as trading and other securities at:
 
                 
    September 30, 2011     December 31, 2010  
    (In millions)  
 
Contractual principal balance
  $ 2,993     $ 6,619  
Excess of estimated fair value over contractual principal balance
    164       201  
                 
Carrying value at estimated fair value
  $ 3,157     $ 6,820  
                 
 
Interest income on both commercial mortgage loans and securities classified as trading and other securities held by CSEs is recorded in net investment income. Interest expense on long-term debt of CSEs is recorded in other expenses. Gains and losses from initial measurement, subsequent changes in estimated fair value and gains or losses on sales of both the commercial mortgage loans and long-term debt are recognized in net investment gains (losses), which is summarized in Note 3.
 
Non-Recurring Fair Value Measurements
 
Certain assets are measured at estimated fair value on a non-recurring basis and are not included in the tables presented above. The amounts below relate to certain investments measured at estimated fair value during the period and still held at the reporting dates.
 
                                                 
    Three Months Ended September 30,  
    2011     2010  
          Estimated
    Net
          Estimated
    Net
 
    Carrying
    Fair
    Investment
    Carrying
    Fair
    Investment
 
    Value Prior to
    Value After
    Gains
    Value Prior to
    Value After
    Gains
 
    Measurement     Measurement     (Losses)     Measurement     Measurement     (Losses)  
    (In millions)  
 
Mortgage loans: (1)
                                               
Held-for-investment
  $ 289     $ 245     $ (44 )   $ 93     $ 93     $      —  
Held-for-sale
    71       68       (3 )     27       28       1  
                                                 
Mortgage loans, net
  $ 360     $ 313     $ (47 )   $ 120     $ 121     $ 1  
                                                 
Other limited partnership interests (2)
  $ 5     $ 3     $ (2 )   $ 3     $ 1     $ (2 )
Real estate joint ventures (3)
  $     $     $     $     $     $  
Goodwill (4)
  $ 65     $     $ (65 )   $     $     $  
 
                                                 
    Nine Months Ended September 30,  
    2011     2010  
          Estimated
    Net
          Estimated
    Net
 
    Carrying
    Fair
    Investment
    Carrying
    Fair
    Investment
 
    Value Prior to
    Value After
    Gains
    Value Prior to
    Value After
    Gains
 
    Measurement     Measurement     (Losses)     Measurement     Measurement     (Losses)  
    (In millions)  
 
Mortgage loans: (1)
                                               
Held-for-investment
  $ 273     $ 245     $ (28 )   $ 90     $ 93     $      3  
Held-for-sale
    72       68       (4 )     28       28        
                                                 
Mortgage loans, net
  $ 345     $ 313     $ (32 )   $ 118     $ 121     $ 3  
                                                 
Other limited partnership interests (2)
  $ 18     $ 13     $ (5 )   $ 28     $ 18     $ (10 )
Real estate joint ventures (3)
  $     $     $     $ 33     $ 8     $ (25 )
Goodwill (4)
  $ 65     $     $ (65 )   $     $     $  
 
 
(1) Mortgage loans — The impaired mortgage loans presented above were written down to their estimated fair values at the date the impairments were recognized and are reported as losses above. Subsequent improvements in estimated fair value on previously impaired loans recorded through a reduction in the previously established valuation allowance are reported as gains above. Estimated fair values for impaired mortgage loans are based on observable market prices or, if the loans are in foreclosure or are otherwise determined to be collateral dependent, on the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral, or the present value of the expected future cash flows. Impairments to estimated fair value and decreases in previous impairments from subsequent improvements in estimated fair value represent non-recurring fair value measurements that have been categorized as Level 3 due to the lack of price transparency inherent in the limited markets for such mortgage loans.
 
(2) Other limited partnership interests — The impaired investments presented above were accounted for using the cost method. Impairments on these cost method investments were recognized at estimated fair value determined from information provided in the financial statements of the underlying entities in the period in which the impairment was incurred. These impairments to estimated fair value represent non-recurring fair value measurements that have been classified as Level 3 due to the limited activity and price transparency inherent in the market for such investments. This category includes several private equity and debt funds that typically invest primarily in a diversified pool of investments using certain investment strategies including domestic and international leveraged buyout funds; power, energy, timber and infrastructure development funds; venture capital funds; and below investment grade debt and mezzanine debt funds. The estimated fair values of these investments have been determined using the NAV of the Company’s ownership interest in the partners’ capital. Distributions from these investments will be generated from investment gains, from operating income from the underlying investments of the funds and from liquidation of the underlying assets of the funds. It is estimated that the underlying assets of the funds will be liquidated over the next 2 to 10 years. Unfunded commitments for these investments were $1 million and $25 million at September 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
 
(3) Real estate joint ventures — The impaired investments presented above were accounted for using the cost method. Impairments on these cost method investments were recognized at estimated fair value determined from information provided in the financial statements of the underlying entities in the period in which the impairment was incurred. These impairments to estimated fair value represent non-recurring fair value measurements that have been classified as Level 3 due to the limited activity and price transparency inherent in the market for such investments. This category includes several real estate funds that typically invest primarily in commercial real estate. The estimated fair values of these investments have been determined using the NAV of the Company’s ownership interest in the partners’ capital. Distributions from these investments will be generated from investment gains, from operating income from the underlying investments of the funds and from liquidation of the underlying assets of the funds. It is estimated that the underlying assets of the funds will be liquidated over the next 2 to 10 years. There were no unfunded commitments for these investments at September 30, 2011. Unfunded commitments for these investments were $7 million at September 30, 2010.
 
(4) Goodwill — As discussed in Note 6, the Company recorded an impairment of goodwill associated with MetLife Bank, National Association (“MetLife Bank”). This impairment has been categorized as Level 3 due to the significant unobservable inputs used in the determination of the estimated fair value.
 
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
 
Amounts related to the Company’s financial instruments that were not measured at fair value on a recurring basis were as follows:
 
                                                 
    September 30, 2011     December 31, 2010  
                Estimated
                Estimated
 
    Notional
    Carrying
    Fair
    Notional
    Carrying
    Fair
 
    Amount     Value     Value     Amount     Value     Value  
                (In millions)              
 
Assets:
                                               
Mortgage loans: (1)
                                               
Held-for-investment
          $ 55,982     $ 58,397             $ 52,136     $ 53,927  
Held-for-sale
            1,150       1,150               811       811  
                                                 
Mortgage loans, net
          $ 57,132     $ 59,547             $ 52,947     $ 54,738  
Policy loans
          $ 11,932     $ 13,889             $ 11,761     $ 13,253  
Real estate joint ventures (2)
          $ 532     $ 603             $ 451     $ 482  
Other limited partnership interests (2)
          $ 1,340     $ 1,658             $ 1,539     $ 1,619  
Short-term investments (3)
          $ 621     $ 621             $ 819     $ 819  
Other invested assets (2)
          $ 1,453     $ 1,453             $ 1,490     $ 1,490  
Cash and cash equivalents
          $ 10,001     $ 10,001             $ 12,957     $ 12,957  
Accrued investment income
          $ 4,793     $ 4,793             $ 4,328     $ 4,328  
Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables (2)
          $ 4,849     $ 5,376             $ 3,752     $ 4,048  
Other assets (2)
          $ 433     $ 482             $ 466     $ 453  
Assets of subsidiaries held-for-sale (2)
          $ 3,291     $ 3,291             $ 3,068     $ 3,068  
Liabilities:
                                               
Policyholder account balances (2)
          $ 146,652     $ 153,778             $ 146,822     $ 152,745  
Payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions
          $ 34,933     $ 34,933             $ 27,272     $ 27,272  
Bank deposits
          $ 10,685     $ 10,754             $ 10,316     $ 10,371  
Short-term debt
          $ 451     $ 451             $ 306     $ 306  
Long-term debt (2),(4)
          $ 21,560     $ 22,991             $ 20,734     $ 21,892  
Collateral financing arrangements
          $ 5,297     $ 4,647             $ 5,297     $ 4,757  
Junior subordinated debt securities
          $ 3,192     $ 3,219             $ 3,191     $ 3,461  
Other liabilities (2)
          $ 4,790     $ 4,793             $ 2,777     $ 2,777  
Separate account liabilities (2)
          $ 48,650     $ 48,650             $ 42,160     $ 42,160  
Liabilities of subsidiaries held-for-sale (2)
          $ 130     $ 130             $ 105     $ 105  
Commitments: (5)
                                               
Mortgage loan commitments
  $ 3,743     $     $ 4     $ 3,754     $     $ (17 )
Commitments to fund bank credit facilities, bridge loans and private corporate bond investments
  $ 1,855     $     $ 33     $ 2,437     $     $  
 
(1) Mortgage loans held-for-investment as presented in the table above differ from the amounts presented in the consolidated balance sheets because this table does not include commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs, which are accounted for under the FVO.
 
Mortgage loans held-for-sale as presented in the table above differ from the amounts presented in the consolidated balance sheets because this table does not include residential mortgage loans held-for-sale that are accounted for under the FVO.
 
(2) Carrying values presented herein differ from those presented in the consolidated balance sheets because certain items within the respective financial statement caption are not considered financial instruments. Financial statement captions excluded from the table above are not considered financial instruments.
 
(3) Short-term investments as presented in the table above differ from the amounts presented in the consolidated balance sheets because this table does not include short-term investments that meet the definition of a security, which are measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis.
 
(4) Long-term debt as presented in the table above does not include long-term debt of CSEs, which is accounted for under the FVO.
 
(5) Commitments are off-balance sheet obligations. Negative estimated fair values represent off-balance sheet liabilities.
 
The methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of financial instruments are summarized as follows:
 
The assets and liabilities measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis include: fixed maturity securities, equity securities, trading and other securities, certain short-term investments, mortgage loans held by CSEs, mortgage loans held-for-sale accounted for under the FVO, MSRs, derivative assets and liabilities, net embedded derivatives within asset and liability host contracts, separate account assets, long-term debt of CSEs and trading liabilities. These assets and liabilities are described in the section “— Recurring Fair Value Measurements” and, therefore, are excluded from the table above. The estimated fair value for these financial instruments approximates carrying value.
 
Mortgage Loans
 
These mortgage loans are principally comprised of commercial and agricultural mortgage loans, which are originated for investment purposes and are primarily carried at amortized cost. Residential mortgage and consumer loans are generally purchased from third parties for investment purposes and are principally carried at amortized cost, while those originated for sale and not carried under the FVO are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value. The estimated fair values of these mortgage loans are determined as follows:
 
Mortgage loans held-for-investment. — For commercial and agricultural mortgage loans held-for-investment and carried at amortized cost, estimated fair value was primarily determined by estimating expected future cash flows and discounting them using current interest rates for similar mortgage loans with similar credit risk. For residential mortgage loans held-for-investment and carried at amortized cost, estimated fair value is primarily determined from observable pricing for similar loans.
 
Mortgage loans held-for-sale. — Certain mortgage loans previously classified as held-for-investment have been designated as held-for-sale. For these mortgage loans, estimated fair value is determined using independent broker quotations or, when the mortgage loan is in foreclosure or otherwise determined to be collateral dependent, the fair value of the underlying collateral is estimated using internal models.
 
Policy Loans
 
For policy loans with fixed interest rates, estimated fair values are determined using a discounted cash flow model applied to groups of similar policy loans determined by the nature of the underlying insurance liabilities. Cash flow estimates are developed applying a weighted-average interest rate to the outstanding principal balance of the respective group of policy loans and an estimated average maturity determined through experience studies of the past performance of policyholder repayment behavior for similar loans. These cash flows are discounted using current risk-free interest rates with no adjustment for borrower credit risk as these loans are fully collateralized by the cash surrender value of the underlying insurance policy. The estimated fair value for policy loans with variable interest rates approximates carrying value due to the absence of borrower credit risk and the short time period between interest rate resets, which presents minimal risk of a material change in estimated fair value due to changes in market interest rates.
 
Real Estate Joint Ventures and Other Limited Partnership Interests
 
Real estate joint ventures and other limited partnership interests included in the preceding table consist of those investments accounted for using the cost method. The remaining carrying value recognized in the consolidated balance sheets represents investments in real estate carried at cost less accumulated depreciation, or real estate joint ventures and other limited partnership interests accounted for using the equity method, which do not meet the definition of financial instruments for which fair value is required to be disclosed.
 
The estimated fair values for real estate joint ventures and other limited partnership interests accounted for under the cost method are generally based on the Company’s share of the NAV as provided in the financial statements of the investees. In certain circumstances, management may adjust the NAV by a premium or discount when it has sufficient evidence to support applying such adjustments.
 
Short-term Investments
 
Certain short-term investments do not qualify as securities and are recognized at amortized cost in the consolidated balance sheets. For these instruments, the Company believes that there is minimal risk of material changes in interest rates or credit of the issuer such that estimated fair value approximates carrying value. In light of recent market conditions, short-term investments have been monitored to ensure there is sufficient demand and maintenance of issuer credit quality and the Company has determined additional adjustment is not required.
 
Other Invested Assets
 
Other invested assets within the preceding table are principally comprised of funds withheld, various interest-bearing assets held in foreign subsidiaries and certain amounts due under contractual indemnifications.
 
For funds withheld and the various interest-bearing assets held in foreign subsidiaries, the Company evaluates the specific facts and circumstances of each instrument to determine the appropriate estimated fair values. These estimated fair values were not materially different from the recognized carrying values.
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
 
Due to the short-term maturities of cash and cash equivalents, the Company believes there is minimal risk of material changes in interest rates or credit of the issuer such that estimated fair value generally approximates carrying value. In light of recent market conditions, cash and cash equivalent instruments have been monitored to ensure there is sufficient demand and maintenance of issuer credit quality, or sufficient solvency in the case of depository institutions, and the Company has determined additional adjustment is not required.
 
Accrued Investment Income
 
Due to the short term until settlement of accrued investment income, the Company believes there is minimal risk of material changes in interest rates or credit of the issuer such that estimated fair value approximates carrying value. In light of recent market conditions, the Company has monitored the credit quality of the issuers and has determined additional adjustment is not required.
 
Premiums, Reinsurance and Other Receivables
 
Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables in the preceding table are principally comprised of certain amounts recoverable under reinsurance contracts, amounts on deposit with financial institutions to facilitate daily settlements related to certain derivative positions and amounts receivable for securities sold but not yet settled.
 
Premiums receivable and those amounts recoverable under reinsurance treaties determined to transfer sufficient risk are not financial instruments subject to disclosure and thus have been excluded from the amounts presented in the preceding table. Amounts recoverable under ceded reinsurance contracts, which the Company has determined do not transfer sufficient risk such that they are accounted for using the deposit method of accounting, have been included in the preceding table. The estimated fair value is determined as the present value of expected future cash flows under the related contracts, which were discounted using an interest rate determined to reflect the appropriate credit standing of the assuming counterparty.
 
The amounts on deposit for derivative settlements essentially represent the equivalent of demand deposit balances and amounts due for securities sold are generally received over short periods such that the estimated fair value approximates carrying value. In light of recent market conditions, the Company has monitored the solvency position of the financial institutions and has determined additional adjustments are not required.
 
Other Assets
 
Other assets in the preceding table are primarily composed of a receivable for cash paid to an unaffiliated financial institution under the MetLife Reinsurance Company of Charleston (“MRC”) collateral financing arrangement as described in Note 12 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2010 Annual Report. The estimated fair value of the receivable for the cash paid to the unaffiliated financial institution under the MRC collateral financing arrangement is determined by discounting the expected future cash flows using a discount rate that reflects the credit rating of the unaffiliated financial institution. The amounts excluded from the preceding table are not considered financial instruments subject to disclosure.
 
Policyholder Account Balances
 
Policyholder account balances in the table above include investment contracts. Embedded derivatives on investment contracts and certain variable annuity guarantees accounted for as embedded derivatives are included in this caption in the consolidated financial statements but excluded from this caption in the table above as they are separately presented in “— Recurring Fair Value Measurements.” The remaining difference between the amounts reflected as policyholder account balances in the preceding table and those recognized in the consolidated balance sheets represents those amounts due under contracts that satisfy the definition of insurance contracts and are not considered financial instruments.
 
The investment contracts primarily include certain funding agreements, fixed deferred annuities, modified guaranteed annuities, fixed term payout annuities and total control accounts. The fair values for these investment contracts are estimated by discounting best estimate future cash flows using current market risk-free interest rates and adding a spread to reflect the nonperformance risk in the liability.
 
Payables for Collateral Under Securities Loaned and Other Transactions
 
The estimated fair value for payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions approximates carrying value. The related agreements to loan securities are short-term in nature such that the Company believes there is limited risk of a material change in market interest rates. Additionally, because borrowers are cross-collateralized by the borrowed securities, the Company believes no additional consideration for changes in nonperformance risk are necessary.
 
Bank Deposits
 
Due to the frequency of interest rate resets on customer bank deposits held in money market accounts, the Company believes that there is minimal risk of a material change in interest rates such that the estimated fair value approximates carrying value. For time deposits, estimated fair values are estimated by discounting the expected cash flows to maturity using discount rates based on the LIBOR/swap curve at the date of the valuation.
 
Short-term and Long-term Debt, Collateral Financing Arrangements and Junior Subordinated Debt Securities
 
The estimated fair value for short-term debt approximates carrying value due to the short-term nature of these obligations. The estimated fair values of long-term debt, collateral financing arrangements and junior subordinated debt securities are generally determined by discounting expected future cash flows using market rates currently available for debt with similar remaining maturities and reflecting the credit risk of the Company, including inputs when available, from actively traded debt of the Company or other companies with similar types of borrowing arrangements. Risk-adjusted discount rates applied to the expected future cash flows can vary significantly based upon the specific terms of each individual arrangement, including, but not limited to: subordinated rights, contractual interest rates in relation to current market rates, the structuring of the arrangement, and the nature and observability of the applicable valuation inputs. Use of different risk-adjusted discount rates could result in different estimated fair values.
 
The carrying value of long-term debt presented in the table above differs from the amounts presented in the consolidated balance sheets as it does not include capital leases which are not required to be disclosed at estimated fair value.
 
Other Liabilities
 
Other liabilities included in the table above reflect those other liabilities that satisfy the definition of financial instruments subject to disclosure. These items consist primarily of interest and dividends payable, amounts due for securities purchased but not yet settled, funds withheld amounts payable which are contractually withheld by the Company in accordance with the terms of the reinsurance agreements and amounts payable under certain assumed reinsurance treaties accounted for as deposit type treaties. The Company evaluates the specific terms, facts and circumstances of each instrument to determine the appropriate estimated fair values, which are not materially different from the carrying values, with the exception of certain deposit type reinsurance payables. For these reinsurance payables, the estimated fair value is determined as the present value of expected future cash flows under the related contracts, which are discounted using an interest rate determined to reflect the appropriate credit standing of the assuming counterparty.
 
Separate Account Liabilities
 
Separate account liabilities included in the preceding table represent those balances due to policyholders under contracts that are classified as investment contracts. The remaining amounts presented in the consolidated balance sheets represent those contracts classified as insurance contracts, which do not satisfy the definition of financial instruments.
 
Separate account liabilities classified as investment contracts primarily represent variable annuities with no significant mortality risk to the Company such that the death benefit is equal to the account balance, funding agreements related to group life contracts, and certain contracts that provide for benefit funding.
 
Separate account liabilities are recognized in the consolidated balance sheets at an equivalent value of the related separate account assets. Separate account assets, which equal net deposits, net investment income and realized and unrealized investment gains and losses, are fully offset by corresponding amounts credited to the contractholders’ liability which is reflected in separate account liabilities. Since separate account liabilities are fully funded by cash flows from the separate account assets which are recognized at estimated fair value as described in the section “— Recurring Fair Value Measurements,” the Company believes the value of those assets approximates the estimated fair value of the related separate account liabilities.
 
Mortgage Loan Commitments and Commitments to Fund Bank Credit Facilities, Bridge Loans and Private Corporate Bond Investments
 
The estimated fair values for mortgage loan commitments that will be held for investment and commitments to fund bank credit facilities, bridge loans and private corporate bonds that will be held for investment reflected in the above table represents the difference between the discounted expected future cash flows using interest rates that incorporate current credit risk for similar instruments on the reporting date and the principal amounts of the commitments.
 
Assets and Liabilities of Subsidiaries Held-For-Sale
 
The carrying values of the assets and liabilities of subsidiaries held-for-sale reflect those assets and liabilities which were previously determined to be financial instruments and which were reflected in other financial statement captions in the comparable table above in previous periods but have been reclassified to these captions to reflect the discontinued nature of the operations. The estimated fair value of the assets and liabilities of subsidiaries held-for-sale have been determined on a basis consistent with the assets and liabilities as described herein.