EX-99.1 6 dex991.htm NATIONAL PUBLIC FINANCE GUARANTEE CORPORATION FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NATIONAL PUBLIC FINANCE GUARANTEE CORPORATION FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Exhibit 99.1

NATIONAL PUBLIC FINANCE GUARANTEE CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

As of September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009

and for the period ended September 30, 2010 and 2009


 

NATIONAL PUBLIC FINANCE GUARANTEE CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

INDEX

 

     PAGE  

Consolidated Balance Sheets – September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009 (Unaudited)

     1   

Consolidated Statements of Operations – Three and nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009 (Unaudited)

     2   

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholder’s Equity – Nine months ended September 30, 2010 (Unaudited)

     3   

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows – Nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009 (Unaudited)

     4   

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

     5-21   


 

NATIONAL PUBLIC FINANCE GUARANTEE CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Unaudited)

(In thousands except per share amounts)

 

        September 30, 2010             December 31, 2009      

Assets

   

Investments:

   

Fixed-maturity securities held as available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost $3,236,601 and $3,316,336)

    $ 3,330,514          $ 3,314,987     

Investments pledged as collateral, at fair value (amortized cost $1,791,068 and $1,710,620)

    1,841,516          1,724,548     

Short-term investments, at fair value (amortized cost $441,004 and $230,350)

    443,328          232,275     

Other investments (amortized cost $2,668 and $0)

    2,735          -     
               

Total investments

    5,618,093          5,271,810     

Cash and cash equivalents

    43,513          27,629     

Securities purchased under agreements to resell

    1,775,000          1,675,000     

Accrued investment income

    59,209          64,855     

Deferred acquisition costs

    622,311          661,790     

Premiums receivable

    327,645          344,604     

Prepaid reinsurance premiums

    6          8     

Insurance loss recoverable

    68,021          31,049     

Goodwill

    31,371          31,371     

Property and equipment at cost (less accumulated depreciation of $1,837 and $0)

    63,072          -     

Receivable for investments sold

    6,356          529     

Current income taxes

    -          3,297     

Other assets

    3,459          2,710     
               

Total assets

    $ 8,618,056          $ 8,114,652     
               

Liabilities and shareholder’s equity

   

 

Liabilities:

   

Unearned premium revenue

    $ 3,035,171          $ 3,280,962     

Loss and loss adjustment expense reserves

    223,085          172,879     

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

    1,775,000          1,675,000     

Current income taxes

    115,586          -     

Deferred income taxes, net

    219,945          167,225     

Payable for investments purchased

    61,092          25,453     

Derivative liabilities

    10,416          8,667     

Other liabilities

    21,865          18,951     
               

Total liabilities

    5,462,160          5,349,137     
               

Commitments and contingencies (See Note 9)

   

Shareholder’s equity:

   

Common stock, par value $30 per share; authorized, issued and outstanding shares – 500,000 shares

    15,000          15,000     

Additional paid-in capital

    2,367,362          2,368,831     

Retained earnings (deficit)

    677,953          372,256     

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred income tax of $51,362 and $5,076

    95,581          9,428     
               

Total shareholder’s equity

    3,155,896          2,765,515     
               

Total liabilities and shareholder’s equity

    $     8,618,056          $     8,114,652     
               

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

1


 

NATIONAL PUBLIC FINANCE GUARANTEE CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Unaudited)

(In thousands)

 

    Three Months Ended September 30,     Nine Months Ended September 30,  
    2010     2009     2010     2009  

Revenues:

       

Premiums earned:

       

Scheduled premiums earned

    $ 81,867        $ 96,363        $ 255,666        $ 314,035   

Refunding premiums earned

    18,304        46,494        78,083        111,669   
                               

Premiums earned (net of ceded premiums of $1, $20, $2, and $46)

    100,171        142,857        333,749        425,704   

Net investment income

    58,595        60,912        176,047        152,040   

Fees, reimbursements and other

    2,282        1,001        19,684        1,578   

Change in fair value of insured derivatives:

       

Realized gains and other settlements on insured derivatives

    155        200        360        386   

Unrealized (losses) on insured derivatives

    (18     (11     (56     (178
                               

Net change in fair value of insured derivatives

    137        189        304        208   

Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange

    44,875        (330     48,760        6,689   

Other net realized gains (losses)

    -          -          (101     -     
                               

Total revenues

    206,060        204,629        578,443        586,219   

Expenses:

       

Losses and loss adjustment

    5,586        28,708        41,744        91,706   

Amortization of deferred acquisition costs

    16,164        33,122        62,835        89,855   

Operating

    16,964        11,014        46,768        39,379   
                               

Total expenses

    38,714        72,844        151,347        220,940   
                               

Income before income taxes

    167,346        131,785        427,096        365,279   

Provision for income taxes

    50,476        38,322        121,399        105,623   
                               

Net income

    $         116,870        $         93,463        $         305,697        $         259,656   
                               

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

2


 

NATIONAL PUBLIC FINANCE GUARANTEE CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDER’S EQUITY (Unaudited)

For The Nine Months Ended September 30, 2010

(In thousands except per share amounts)

 

                Additional             Accumulated
Other
    Total  
    Common Stock     Paid-in       Retained     Comprehensive     Shareholder’s  
    Shares     Amount    

Capital

      Earnings     Income (Loss)     Equity  

Balance, December 31, 2009

    500,000        $ 15,000        $   2,368,831        $ 372,256        $ 9,428        $ 2,765,515   
                                             

Comprehensive income:

             

Net income

    -        -            305,697        -        305,697   

Other comprehensive income:

             

Change in unrealized gains and losses on investments net of deferred tax $46,286

    -        -            -        86,153        86,153   
                   

Total comprehensive income

                391,850   
                   

Return of capital in connection with purchase of real estate

    -        -      (494)       -        -        (494

Share-based compensation net of deferred income taxes of $621

    -        -      (975)       -        -        (975
                                             

Balance, September 30, 2010

    500,000        $   15,000        $   2,367,362        $   677,953        $     95,581        $     3,155,896   
                                             
              2010     
                   

Disclosure of reclassification amount:

  

         

Change in unrealized gains and losses on investments arising during the period, net of taxes

        $ 92,039     

Reclassification adjustment, net of taxes

              (5,886  
                   

Change in net unrealized gains and losses and other-than-temporary impairment losses, net of taxes

        $ 86,153     
                   

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

3


 

NATIONAL PUBLIC FINANCE GUARANTEE CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited)

(In thousands)

 

     Nine Months Ended September 30,  
     2010     2009  

Cash flows from operating activities:

    

Net income

     $ 305,697        $ 259,656   

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided (used) by operating activities:

    

Depreciation

     1,837        -     

Amortization of bond discounts, net

     15,662        10,915   

Decrease (increase) in accrued investment income

     5,646        (59,489

Decrease (increase) in deferred acquisition costs

     39,479        (686,313

(Decrease) increase in unearned premium revenue

     (245,791     3,409,769   

Decrease in prepaid reinsurance premiums

     2        444   

Decrease (increase) in premiums receivable

     16,959        (363,747

Increase in loss and loss adjustment expense reserves

     50,206        219,036   

(Decrease) increase in payable to affiliates

     (2,924     26,200   

Increase in insurance loss recoverable

     (36,972     (36,768

Increase in deferred fee revenue

     -          13,860   

Increase in accrued expenses

     2,445        7,457   

Net realized (gains) losses on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange

     (48,760     (6,689

Other net realized losses

     101        -     

Unrealized losses on insured derivatives

     56        178   

Increase (decrease) in current income taxes

     118,262        (3,032

Deferred income tax provision

     6,433        108,655   

Share-based compensation

     (354     213   

Other operating

     4,235        9,517   
                

Total adjustments to net income

     (73,478     2,650,206   
                

Net cash provided by operating activities

     232,219        2,909,862   
                

Cash flows from investing activities:

    

Purchase of fixed-maturity securities

     (1,822,283     (6,148,720

Purchase of other investments

     (2,669     -     

Purchase of real estate from an affiliate under common control

     (65,000     -     

Capital expenditures

     (414     -     

Disposal of capital assets

     13        -     

Increase in payable for investments purchased

     35,639        224,259   

Sale of fixed-maturity securities

     1,974,009        1,282,314   

Increase in receivable for investments sold

     (5,827     (137,749

Redemption of fixed-maturity securities

     -          164   

Purchase of short-term investments, net

     (329,803     (195,739
                

Net cash used by investing activities

     (216,335     (4,975,471
                

Cash flows from financing activities:

    

Capital contribution from parent

     -          2,146,427   
                

Net cash provided by financing activities

     -          2,146,427   
                

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

     15,884        80,818   

Cash and cash equivalents - beginning of period

     27,629        6,386   
                

Cash and cash equivalents - end of period

     $ 43,513        $ 87,204   
                
Supplemental cash flow disclosures:     

Income taxes (refunded) paid

     $ (3,297     $ -     

Interest paid:

    

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

     $ 3,249        $ 1,779   

Other

     $ 42        $ 866   

Non cash items:

    

Share-based compensation

     $ (354     $ 213   

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

4


 

National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 1: Business and Organization

National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation (“National”) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of MBIA Inc. through an intermediary holding company, National Public Finance Guarantee Holdings, Inc. (“National Holdings”). In February 2009, after receiving the required regulatory approvals, MBIA Inc. established and capitalized National as a United States (“U.S.”) public finance-only financial guarantor. In connection with the establishment of National, MBIA Insurance Corporation (“MBIA Corp.”) paid dividends and returned capital to MBIA Inc. and entered into a reinsurance agreement and an assignment agreement with National, the latter of which was with respect to financial guarantee insurance policies that had been reinsured from Financial Guaranty Insurance Company (“FGIC”).

To provide additional protection to its policyholders, National also issued second-to-pay policies for the benefit of the policyholders covered by the above reinsurance and assignment agreements. These second-to-pay policies, which are direct obligations of National, are held by a trustee and provide that if MBIA Corp. or FGIC, as applicable, do not pay valid claims of their policyholders, the policyholders will then be able to make claims directly against National.

National provides unconditional and irrevocable guarantees of the payment of the principal of, and interest or other amounts owing on, insured obligations when due or, in the event National has the right at its discretion to accelerate insured obligations upon default or otherwise, upon National’s acceleration. National’s guarantees insure municipal bonds, including tax-exempt and taxable indebtedness of U.S. political subdivisions, as well as utility districts, airports, health care institutions, higher educational facilities, student loan issuers, housing authorities and other similar agencies and obligations issued by private entities that finance projects that serve a substantial public purpose. Municipal bonds and privately issued bonds used for the financing of public purpose projects are generally supported by taxes, assessments, fees or tariffs related to the use of these projects, lease payments or other similar types of revenue streams. In 2009, National began publishing periodic comprehensive studies on select public finance sectors, including sectors in which it has exposure.

Since 2009, National has not written any material new business. The lack of insurance writings reflects the insurance financial strength credit ratings assigned to National. National firmly believes that with the resolution of pending litigation it will be able to obtain the highest possible credit ratings and the market acceptance necessary to meet its stated objectives. The timing of any such upgrade is uncertain and will depend on a variety of quantitative and qualitative factors used by the rating agencies in their evaluation of National, including the resolution of pending litigation. Refer to “Note 9: Commitments and Contingencies” for a further discussion of pending litigation.

On March 1, 2010, National established National Real Estate Holdings of Armonk, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of National in order to purchase MBIA Corp.’s interest in certain real estate for purposes of conducting National’s business and leasing to certain affiliates and third party tenants.

Liquidity

Liquidity risk arises in National’s operations when claims on insured exposures result in payment obligations, when operating cash inflows fall due to depressed new business writings, lower investment income, unanticipated expenses, or when invested assets experience credit defaults or significant declines in fair value.

National’s financial guarantee contracts generally cannot be accelerated, thereby mitigating liquidity risk. However, defaults, credit impairments and adverse capital market conditions such as those currently being experienced can create payment requirements as a result of irrevocable pledges to pay principal and interest, or other amounts owed on insured obligations, when due. Additionally, National requires cash for the payment of operating expenses. Finally, National also provides liquid assets to MBIA Inc.’s asset/liability products segment through matched repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements to support this segment’s business operations and liquidity position.

Note 2: Significant Accounting Policies

National has disclosed its significant accounting policies in “Note 2: Significant Accounting Policies” in the Notes to Financial Statements included in Exhibit 99.2 to MBIA Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009. The following significant accounting policies provide an update to those included under the same captions in Exhibit 99.2 to MBIA Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements are unaudited and include the accounts of National and its wholly-owned subsidiary. The accompanying unaudited interim consolidated financial statements do not include all of the information and disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America

 

5


National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

Note 2: Significant Accounting Policies (continued)

 

(“GAAP”) for annual periods. These statements should be read in conjunction with National’s financial statements and notes thereto included in MBIA Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009. The accompanying consolidated financial statements have not been audited by an independent registered public accounting firm in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), but in the opinion of management such consolidated financial statements include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for the fair statement of National’s consolidated financial position and results of operations.

The preparation of financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. As additional information becomes available or actual amounts become determinable, the recorded estimates are revised and reflected in operating results. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

The results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2010 may not be indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2010. The December 31, 2009 balance sheet was derived from audited financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by GAAP for annual periods. Certain amounts have been reclassified in prior years’ financial statements to conform to the current presentation. This includes the reclassification of gains and losses from sales of investment securities to “Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange” from the previously reported line “Net realized gains (losses)” on National’s consolidated statements of operations. Such reclassification of gains and losses from sales of investment securities had no impact on total revenues, expenses, assets, liabilities, or stockholder’s equity for all periods presented.

In addition, National evaluated all events subsequent to September 30, 2010 through November 9, 2010, the date upon which the consolidated financial statements were available to be issued.

Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of National and its wholly-owned subsidiary. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.

Note 3: Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Recently Adopted Accounting Standards

Improving Disclosures About Fair Value Measurements (Accounting Standards Update 2010-06)

In January 2010, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2010-06, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (Topic 820)—Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurements,” to require additional disclosures about transfers into and out of Levels 1 and 2 and separate disclosures about purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements relating to Level 3 measurements. The standard also clarifies existing disclosures about the level of disaggregation, valuation techniques and inputs to fair value measurements. National adopted this standard as of January 1, 2010 except for the requirement to provide the Level 3 activity of purchases, sales issuances and settlements on a gross basis, which will be effective for National as of January 1, 2011. As this standard only affects disclosures related to fair value, the adoption of this standard did not affect National’s consolidated balance sheets, results of operations, or cash flows. Refer to “Note 4: Fair Value Measurements” for these disclosures.

Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities (ASU 2009-17)

In December 2009, the FASB issued ASU 2009-17, “Consolidations (Topic 810)—Improvements to Financial Reporting by Enterprises Involved with Variable Interest Entities,” to require the holder of a variable interest(s) in a variable interest entity (“VIE”) to determine whether it holds a controlling financial interest in a VIE. A holder of a variable interest (or combination of variable interests) that has a controlling financial interest in a VIE is considered the primary beneficiary and is required to consolidate the VIE. The accounting guidance deems controlling financial interest as both (a) the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance and (b) the obligation to absorb losses or the rights to receive benefits of the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. The accounting guidance eliminates the more quantitative approach for determining the primary beneficiary of a VIE. The accounting guidance requires an ongoing reassessment of whether a holder of a variable interest is the primary beneficiary of a VIE. National adopted this standard as of January 1, 2010 and the adoption did not have a material effect on National’s consolidated balance sheets, results of operations or cash flows.

 

6


National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

Note 3: Recent Accounting Pronouncements (continued)

 

 

Transfers of Financial Assets (ASU 2009-16)

In December 2009, the FASB issued ASU 2009-16, “Transfers and Servicing (Topic 860)—Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets,” to eliminate the concept of a qualified special-purpose entity. The accounting guidance also clarifies whether a transferor has surrendered control over transferred financial assets and meets the conditions to derecognize transferred financial assets or a portion of an entire financial asset that meets the definition of a participating interest. The accounting guidance requires enhanced disclosures about transfers of financial assets and a transferor’s continuing involvement with transferred financial assets. National adopted this standard as of January 1, 2010 and the adoption did not have a material effect on National’s consolidated balance sheets, results of operations or cash flows.

Recent Accounting Developments

Accounting for Costs Associated with Acquiring or Renewing Insurance Contracts

In October 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-26, “Financial Services – Insurance (Topic 944)—Accounting for Costs Associated with Acquiring or Renewing Insurance Contracts.” This amendment specifies which costs incurred in the acquisition of new and renewal insurance contracts should be capitalized. The new guidance is effective for National beginning January 1, 2012 with early adoption as of January 1, 2011 permitted. National is currently evaluating whether to early adopt the guidance as well as the potential impact of adopting this guidance.

Note 4: Fair Value Measurements

Financial Instruments

The following table presents the carrying value and fair value of financial instruments reported on National’s balance sheets as of September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009:

 

     As of September 30, 2010      As of December 31, 2009  

In millions

   Carrying Value      Estimated Fair
Value
     Carrying Value      Estimated Fair
Value
 

Assets:

           

Fixed-maturity securities (including short-term investments) held as available-for-sale, and investments pledged as collateral

   $ 5,615       $ 5,615       $ 5,272       $ 5,272   

Other investments

     3         3         -         -   

Cash and cash equivalents

     44         44         28         28   

Securities purchased under agreements to resell

     1,775         1,931         1,675         1,675   

Receivable for investments sold

     6         6         1         1   

Liabilities:

           

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

     1,775         1,842         1,675         1,675   

Payable for investments purchased

     61         61         25         25   

Derivative liabilities

     10         10         9         9   

Financial Guarantees:

           

Gross

     3,258         3,570         3,454         2,672   

Ceded

     -         27         0         70   

Valuation Techniques

Valuation techniques for financial instruments measured at fair value and included in the preceding table are described below. National’s assets and liabilities recorded at fair value have been categorized according to the fair value hierarchy based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety.

Fixed-Maturity Securities (including short-term investments) Held as Available-For-Sale and Investments Pledged as Collateral

U.S. Treasury and government agency - U.S. Treasury securities are liquid and generally have quoted market prices. The fair value of U.S. Treasuries is based on live trading feeds. U.S. Treasury securities are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Government agency securities include debentures and other agency mortgage pass-through certificates as well as to-be-announced (“TBA”) securities. TBA securities are liquid and have quoted market prices based on live data feeds. Fair value of mortgage pass-through certificates is obtained via a simulation model, which considers different rate

 

7


National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

Note 4: Fair Value Measurements (continued)

 

scenarios and historical activity to calculate a spread to the comparable TBA security. Government agency securities generally use market-based and observable inputs. As such, these securities are classified as Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Foreign governments - The fair value of foreign government obligations is generally based on quoted prices in active markets and, as such, these bonds are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. When quoted prices are not available, fair value is determined based on a valuation model that has inputs as interest rate yield curves, cross-currency basis index spreads, and country credit spreads for structures similar to the bond in terms of issuer, maturity and seniority. These bonds are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Bonds that contain significant inputs that are not observable are categorized as Level 3.

Corporate obligations - The fair value of corporate bonds is obtained using recently executed transactions or market price quotations where observable. When observable price quotations are not available, fair value is determined based on cash flow models with yield curves, bond or single name credit default swap (“CDS”) spreads and diversity scores as key inputs. Corporate bonds are generally categorized as Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or categorized in Level 3 when significant inputs are unobservable. Corporate obligations may be classified as Level 1 if quoted prices in an active market are available.

Mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities - Mortgage-backed securities (“MBSs”) and asset-backed securities (“ABSs”) are valued based on recently executed prices. When position-specific external price data is not observable, the valuation is based on prices of comparable securities. In the absence of market prices, MBSs and ABSs are valued as a function of cash flow models with observable market-based inputs (e.g., yield curves, spreads, prepayments and volatilities). MBSs and ABSs are categorized as Level 3 if significant inputs are unobservable, otherwise they are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

State and municipal bonds - The fair value of state and municipal bonds is estimated using recently executed transactions, market price quotations and pricing models that factor in, where applicable, interest rates, bond or CDS spreads and volatility. These bonds are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or categorized in Level 3 when significant inputs are unobservable.

Money market securities - The fair value of money market securities is based on quoted prices in an active market. These money market securities are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Other Investments - Other investments include National’s interest in perpetual securities. Fair value of other investments is determined by using quoted prices. Other investments are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Cash and Cash Equivalents, Receivable for Investments Sold, Payable for Investments Purchased

The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, receivable for investments sold and payable for investments purchased approximate their fair values as they are short-term in nature.

Securities Purchased Under Agreements to Resell

The fair values of securities purchased under agreements to resell are determined based on the underlying securities received that back the resell agreements.

Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase

The fair values of securities sold under agreements to repurchase are determined based on the underlying securities that back the repurchase agreements.

Derivative Liabilities

For insured swaps, the fair value is calculated using internally and vendor developed models with market-based inputs (e.g., interest rate, foreign exchange rate, and spreads), and are classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy.

Financial Guarantees

Gross Financial Guarantees - National estimates the fair value of its gross financial guarantee liability using a discounted cash flow model with significant inputs that include (i) an assumption of expected loss on financial guarantee policies for which case basis reserves have not been established, (ii) the amount of loss expected on financial guarantee policies for which case basis reserves have been established, (iii) the cost of capital reserves required to support the financial guarantee liability and (iv) the discount rate. The Assured Guaranty Corporation CDS spread and recovery rates are used as the discount rate for National and incorporates the nonperformance risk of National. As National’s gross financial guarantee liability represents its obligation to pay claims under its insurance policies, National’s calculation of fair value does not consider future installment premium receipts or returns on invested upfront premiums as inputs.

 

8


National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

Note 4: Fair Value Measurements (continued)

 

 

The carrying value of National’s gross financial guarantee liability consists of unearned premium revenue and loss and Loss Adjustment Expense (“LAE”) reserves as reported on National’s consolidated balance sheets.

Ceded Financial Guarantees - National estimates the fair value of its ceded financial guarantee liability by calculating the portion of the gross financial guarantee liability that has been ceded to reinsurers. The carrying value of ceded financial guarantee liability consists of prepaid reinsurance premiums and reinsurance recoverable on paid and unpaid losses as reported on National’s consolidated balance sheets.

Fair Value Measurements

The following fair value hierarchy tables present information about National’s assets (including short-term investments) and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009:

 

    Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using        

In millions

  Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets (Level 1)
    Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
    Significant
Unobservable
Inputs (Level 3)
    Balance as of
September 30,
2010
 

Assets:

       

Investments:

       

Fixed-maturity investments:

       

Taxable bonds:

       

U.S. Treasury and government agency

   $ 213        $ 48        $       $ 261   

Foreign governments

                         1   

Corporate obligations

           415                415   

Mortgage-backed securities:

       

Residential mortgage-backed agency

           1,426                1,426   

Residential mortgage-backed non-agency

                         2   

Commercial mortgage-backed

                         2   

Asset-backed securities:

       

Collateralized debt obligations

                         1   

Other asset-backed

           56                63   
                               

Total

    213         1,950                2,171   

State and municipal bonds:

       

Tax-exempt bonds

           2,826                2,826   

Taxable bonds

           383                383   
                               

Total state and municipal bonds

           3,209                3,209   
                               

Total fixed-maturity investments

    213         5,159                5,380   

Other fixed-maturity investments:

       

Money market securities

    235                       235   
                               

Total other fixed-maturity investments

    235                       235   

Other investments

                         3   
                               

Total assets

   $ 448        $ 5,162        $       $ 5,618   
                               

Liabilities:

 

       

Derivative liabilities

   $       $ 10        $       $ 10   
                               

Total liabilities

   $       $ 10        $       $ 10   
                               

 

9


National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

Note 4: Fair Value Measurements (continued)

 

 

    Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using        

In millions

  Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
  Assets (Level 1)  
    Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
    Significant
Unobservable
  Inputs (Level 3)  
      Balance as of  
December 31,
2009
 

Assets:

       

 

Investments:

       
Fixed-maturity securities (including short-term investments) held as available-for-sale, and investments pledged as collateral:        

Taxable bonds:

       

U.S. Treasury and government agency

   $ 199       $ 12       $ -       $ 211   

Corporate obligations

    -        346        -        346   

Mortgage-backed securities:

       

Residential mortgage-backed agency

    -        1,492        -        1,492   

Asset-backed securities:

       

Other asset-backed

    -        12        -        12   
                               

Total

    199        1,862        -        2,061   

State and municipal bonds:

       

Tax-exempt bonds

    -        2,702        -        2,702   

Taxable bonds

    -        411        -        411   
                               

Total state and municipal bonds

    -        3,113        -        3,113   
                               

Total fixed-maturity investments

    199        4,975        -        5,174   

Other investments:

       

Money market securities

    98        -        -        98   
                               

Total other investments

    98        -        -        98   
                               

 

Total assets/Fixed-maturity securities (including short-term investments) held as available-for-sale, and investments pledged as collateral:

   $ 297       $ 4,975       $ -       $ 5,272   
                               

Liabilities:

       

Derivative liabilities

   $ -       $ 9       $ -       $ 9   
                               

Total liabilities

   $ -       $ 9       $ -       $ 9   
                               

There were no transfers in or out of Level 1 during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009. All fair value hierarchy designations are made at the end of each accounting period.

Level 3 Analysis

Level 3 assets were $8 million as of September 30, 2010 and represented 0.1% of total assets measured at fair value.

 

10


National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

Note 4: Fair Value Measurements (continued)

 

 

The following table presents information about changes in Level 3 assets (including short-term investments) measured at fair value on a recurring basis for the three months ended September 30, 2010:

Changes in Level 3 Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis for the Three Months Ended September 30, 2010

 

In millions

  Balance,
Beginning
of Period
    Realized
Gains /
(Losses)
    Unrealized
Gains /
(Losses)
Included in
Earnings
    Unrealized
Gains /
(Losses)
Included in
OCI
    Foreign
Exchange
Recognized
in OCI or
Earnings
    Purchases,
Issuances
and
Settlements,
net
    Transfers
into
Level 3 (1)
    Transfers
out of
Level 3 (1)
    Ending
Balance
    Change in
Unrealized
Gains (Losses)

for the Period
Included in
Earnings for
Assets still held
as of September 30,
2010
 

 

Assets:

                   
U.S. Treasury and government agency    $ 27         $ -         $ -         $ -         $ -         $ -         $ -         $ (27    $ -         $ -     

 

Collateralized debt obligations

    -          -          -          -          -          1          -          -          1          -     

 

Other asset-backed

    3          -          -          -          -          4          -          -          7          -     
                                                                               
Total assets    $ 30         $ -         $ -         $ -         $ -         $ 5         $ -         $ (27    $ 8         $ -     
                                                                               

 

(1) - Transferred in and out at the end of the period.

Transfers out of Level 3 and into Level 2 were $27 million for the three months ended September 30, 2010. Transfers out of Level 3 were for U.S. Treasury and government agency. There were no transfers into Level 3 for the three months ended September 30, 2010.

The following table presents information about changes in Level 3 assets (including short-term investments) measured at fair value on a recurring basis for the nine months ended September 30, 2010:

Changes in Level 3 Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2010

 

In millions

  Balance,
Beginning
of Period
    Realized
Gains /
(Losses)
    Unrealized
Gains /
(Losses)
Included in
Earnings
    Unrealized
Gains /
(Losses)
Included in
OCI
    Foreign
Exchange
Recognized
in OCI or
Earnings
    Purchases,
Issuances
and
Settlements,
net
    Transfers
into
Level 3 (1)
    Transfers
out of
Level 3 (1)
    Ending
Balance
    Change in
Unrealized
Gains (Losses)

for the Period
Included in
Earnings for
Assets still held
as of September 30,
2010
 

 

Assets:

                   
U.S. Treasury and government agency    $ -        $ -        $ -        $ -        $ -         $ 27          $ -         $ (27    $ -         $ -     

 

Collateralized debt obligations

    -          -          -          -          -          1          -          -        1          -     

 

Other asset-backed

    -          -          -          -          -          4          3          -        7          -     
                                                                               
Total assets    $ -        $ -        $ -        $ -        $ -         $ 32          $ 3         $ (27    $ 8         $ -     
                                                                               

 

(1) - Transferred in and out at the end of the period.

Transfers into and out of Level 3 were $3 million and $27 million, respectively, for the nine months ended September 30, 2010. Transfers into and out of Level 2 were $27 million and $3 million, respectively, for the nine months ended September 30, 2010. Transfers into Level 3 were principally for other asset-backed securities where inputs, which are significant to their valuation, became unobservable during the period. These inputs included spreads, yield curves observable at commonly quoted intervals, and market corroborated inputs. Transfers out of Level 3 were for U.S. Treasury and government agency.

There were no changes in Level 3 liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2010.

 

11


National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

 

Note 5: Investments

National’s fixed-maturity portfolio consists of high-quality (average rating double-A) taxable and tax-exempt investments of diversified maturities. Other investments comprise money market securities and perpetual preferred securities that bear interest. The following tables present the amortized cost and fair value of fixed-maturity investments and other investments designated as available-for-sale included in the consolidated investment portfolio of National as of September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009:

 

    September 30, 2010        

In millions

  Amortized
Cost
    Gross Unrealized
Gains
    Gross Unrealized
Losses
    Fair Value  

Fixed-maturity investments:

       

Taxable bonds:

       

U.S. Treasury and government agency

  $ 257      $ 4      $ -        $ 261   

Foreign governments

    1        -          -          1   

Corporate obligations

    397        19        (1     415   

Mortgage-backed securities:

       

Residential mortgage-backed agency

    1,389        39        (2     1,426   

Residential mortgage-backed non-agency

    2        -          -          2   

Commercial mortgage-backed

    2        -          -          2   

Asset-backed securities:

       

Collateralized debt obligations

    1        -          -          1   

Other asset-backed

    62        1        -          63   
                               

Total

    2,111        63        (3     2,171   

State and municipal bonds:

       

Tax-exempt bonds

    2,746        86        (6     2,826   

Taxable bonds

    376        9        (2     383   
                               

Total state and municipal bonds

    3,122        95        (8     3,209   
                               

Total fixed-maturity investments

    5,233        158        (11     5,380   

Other investments:

       

Other investments

    3        -          -          3   

Money market securities

    235        -          -          235   
                               

Total other investments

    238        -          -          238   
                               

Total available-for-sale investments

  $ 5,471      $ 158      $ (11   $ 5,618   
                               

 

12


National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

Note 5: Investments (continued)

 

 

    December 31, 2009  

In millions

  Amortized
Cost
    Gross Unrealized
Gains
    Gross Unrealized
Losses
    Fair Value  

Fixed-maturity investments:

       

Taxable bonds:

       

U.S. Treasury and government agency

   $ 215      $ 1      $ (5   $ 211   

Corporate obligations

    336        11        (1     346   

Mortgage-backed securities:

       

Residential mortgage-backed agency

    1,457        37        (2     1,492   

Asset-backed securities:

       

Other asset-backed

    12        -        -        12   
                               

Total

    2,020        49        (8     2,061   

 

State and municipal bonds:

       

Tax-exempt bonds

    2,715        27        (40     2,702   

Taxable bonds

    424        1        (14     411   
                               

Total state and municipal bonds

    3,139        28        (54     3,113   
                               

Total fixed-maturity investments

    5,159        77        (62     5,174   

Other investments:

       

Money market securities

    98        -        -        98   
                               

Total other investments

    98        -        -        98   
                               

Total available-for-sale investments

   $ 5,257      $ 77      $ (62   $ 5,272   
                               

Fixed-maturity investments carried at fair value of $5 million and $8 million as of September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively, were on deposit with various regulatory authorities. These deposits are required to comply with state insurance laws.

The following table presents the distribution by contractual maturity of available-for-sale fixed-maturity investments at amortized cost and fair value as of September 30, 2010. Contractual maturity may differ from expected maturity because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations.

 

In millions

   Amortized Cost      Fair Value  

Due in one year or less

   $ 90       $ 91   

Due after one year through five years

     698         725   

Due after five years through ten years

     239         247   

Due after ten years through fifteen years

     402         415   

Due after fifteen years

     2,348         2,408   

Mortgage-backed

     1,393         1,430   

Asset-backed

     63         64   
                 

Total fixed-maturity investments

   $ 5,233       $ 5,380   
                 

As of September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009, National had recorded net unrealized gains of $147 million and $15 million, respectively, on available-for-sale fixed-maturity investments, which included $11 million and $62 million, respectively, of gross unrealized losses. The following tables present the gross unrealized losses included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as of September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009 related to available-for-sale fixed-maturity investments. These tables segregate investments that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than twelve months from those that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for twelve months or longer.

 

13


National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

Note 5: Investments (continued)

 

 

    September 30, 2010  
   

 

Less than 12 Months

   

 

12 Months or Longer

    Total  

In millions

   Fair Value     

 

  Unrealized  
Losses

      Fair Value         Unrealized  
Losses
      Fair Value         Unrealized  
Losses
 

Taxable bonds:

           

U.S. Treasury and government agency

  $ 1      $ -      $ -      $ -      $ 1      $ -   

Foreign governments

    1        -        -        -        1        -   

Corporate obligations

    58        (1     -        -        58        (1

Mortgage-backed securities:

           

Residential mortgage-backed agency

    610        (2     -        -        610        (2

Residential mortgage-backed non-agency

    2        -        -        -        2        -   

Asset-backed securities:

           

Collateralized debt obligations

    1        -        -        -        1        -   

Other asset-backed

    8        -        -        -        8        -   
                                               

Total

    681        (3     -        -        681        (3

State and municipal bonds:

           

Tax-exempt bonds

    74        -        155        (6     229        (6

Taxable bonds

    129        (1     21        (1     150        (2
                                               

Total state and municipal bonds

    203        (1     176        (7     379        (8
                                               

Total

  $ 884      $ (4   $ 176      $ (7   $ 1,060      $ (11
                                               
    December 31, 2009  
   

 

Less than 12 Months

   

 

12 Months or Longer

    Total  

In millions

  Fair Value     Unrealized
Losses
    Fair Value     Unrealized
Losses
    Fair Value     Unrealized
Losses
 

Taxable bonds:

           

U.S. Treasury and government agency

  $ 186      $ (5   $ -      $ -      $ 186      $ (5

Corporate obligations

    23        (1     22        -        45        (1

Mortgage-backed securities:

           

Residential mortgage-backed agency

    275        (2     2        -        277        (2

Asset-backed securities:

           

Other asset-backed

    -        -        -        -        -        -   
                                               

Total

    484        (8     24        -        508        (8

State and municipal bonds:

           

Tax-exempt bonds

    1,071        (16     324        (24     1,395        (40

Taxable bonds

    309        (13     21        (1     330        (14
                                               

Total state and municipal bonds

    1,380        (29     345        (25     1,725        (54
                                               

Total

  $ 1,864      $ (37   $ 369      $ (25   $ 2,233      $ (62
                                               

The weighted average contractual maturity of securities in an unrealized loss position as of September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009 was 24 years and 22 years, respectively. As of September 30, 2010, there were 24 securities that were in an unrealized loss position for a continuous twelve-month period or longer with aggregate unrealized losses of $7 million. Among the 24 securities, the book value of five securities exceeded market value by more than 5%. As of December 31, 2009, there were 59 securities that were in an unrealized loss position for a continuous twelve-month period or longer with aggregate unrealized losses of $25 million. Among the 59 securities, the book value of 32 securities exceeded market value by more than 5%.

National has evaluated on a security-by-security basis whether the unrealized losses in its investment portfolio were other-than-temporary considering the duration and severity of unrealized losses, the circumstances that gave rise to the unrealized losses, and whether National has the intent to sell the securities or more likely than not will be required to sell

 

14


National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

Note 5: Investments (continued)

 

the securities before their anticipated recoveries. Based on its evaluation, National determined that the unrealized losses on these securities were temporary in nature because its impairment analysis, including projected discounted future cash flows, indicated that National would be able to recover the amortized cost of impaired assets. National also concluded that it does not have the intent to sell securities in an unrealized loss position and it is more likely than not that it will not have to sell these securities before recoveries of their cost bases. In making this conclusion, National examined the cash flow projections for its investment portfolio, the potential sources and uses of cash in its businesses, and the cash resources available to its business other than sales of securities. It also considered the existence of any risk management, or other plans as of September 30, 2010 that would require the sale of impaired securities. On a quarterly basis, National re-evaluates the unrealized losses in its investment portfolio to determine whether an impairment loss should be realized in current earnings based on adverse changes in its expectation of cash flows and changes in its intent to sell securities.

Note 6: Investment Income and Gains and Losses

The following table presents National’s total investment income:

 

     Three Months Ended September 30,     Nine Months Ended September 30,  

In millions

   2010      2009     2010     2009  

Fixed-maturity

   $ 58       $ 54      $ 175      $ 138   

Short-term investments

     -         1        -        1   

Other investments

     2         7        6        17   
                                 

Gross investment income

     60         62        181        156   

Investment expenses

     1         1        5        4   
                                 

Net investment income

     59         61        176        152   

Fixed-maturity:

         

Gains

     45         9        51        17   

Losses

     -         (9     (2     (10
                                 

Net (1) 

     45         -        49        7   
                                 

Total investment income

   $ 104       $ 61      $ 225      $ 159   
                                 

 

(1) - Included in the “Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange” line item on the consolidated statements of operations of National.

Net realized gains (losses) from fixed-maturity investments are typically generated as a result of the ongoing management of National’s investment portfolio for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009.

Net unrealized gains (losses), including related deferred income taxes, reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within shareholder’s equity consisted of:

 

In millions

   As of September 30,
2010
    As of December 31,
2009
 

Fixed-maturity:

    

Gains

   $ 158      $ 77   

Losses

     (11     (62
                

Net

     147        15   

Deferred income taxes provision (benefit)

     51        5   
                

Unrealized gains (losses), net

   $ 96      $ 10   
                

 

15


National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

Note 6: Investment Income and Gains and Losses (continued)

 

 

The change in net unrealized gains (losses), presented in the table above, consisted of:

 

In millions

  As of September 30,
2010
    As of December 31,
2009
 

Fixed-maturity

    $ 132        $ 8   

Deferred income tax charged (credited)

    46        3   
               

Change in unrealized gains (losses), net

    $ 86        $ 5   
               

Note 7: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves

For the nine months ended September 30, 2010, National incurred $42 million of loss and LAE principally related to a student loan transaction, three housing transactions and a health care transaction. Total net paid losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 of $59 million primarily related to a gaming revenue credit for which National expects to be fully reimbursed and a health care credit. Total expected insurance loss recoveries on paid losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 were $68 million and were primarily related to a health care and a gaming revenue credit transaction.

National’s Portfolio Surveillance Division (“PSD”) monitors National’s outstanding insured obligations with the objective of minimizing losses. PSD meets this objective by identifying issuers that, because of deterioration in credit quality or changes in the economic, regulatory or political environment, are at a heightened risk of defaulting on debt service of obligations insured by National. In such cases, PSD works with the issuer, trustee, bond counsel, servicer, underwriter and other interested parties in an attempt to alleviate or remedy the problem and avoid defaults on debt service payments. PSD works closely with National’s Risk Management function and the applicable business unit to analyze insured obligation performance and credit risk parameters, both before and after an obligation is insured.

Once an obligation is insured, National typically requires the issuer, servicer (if applicable) and the trustee to furnish periodic financial and asset-related information, including audited financial statements, to PSD for review. PSD also monitors publicly available information related to insured obligations. Potential problems uncovered through this review such as poor financial results, low fund balances, covenant or trigger violations and trustee or servicer problems or other events that could have an adverse impact on the insured obligation, could result in an immediate surveillance review and an evaluation of possible remedial actions. PSD also monitors and evaluates the impact on issuers of general economic conditions, current and proposed legislation and regulations, as well as state and municipal finances and budget developments.

Insured obligations are monitored periodically. The frequency and extent of such monitoring is based on the criteria and categories described below. Insured obligations that are judged to merit more frequent and extensive monitoring or remediation activities due to a deterioration in the underlying credit quality of the insured obligation or the occurrence of adverse events related to the underlying credit of the issuer are assigned to a surveillance category (“Caution List-Low,” “Caution List-Medium,” “Caution List-High,” or “Classified List”) depending on the extent of credit deterioration or the nature of the adverse events. PSD monitors insured obligations assigned to a surveillance category more frequently and, if needed, develops a remediation plan to address any credit deterioration.

National does not establish any case basis reserves for insured obligations that are assigned to “Caution List-Low,” “Caution List-Medium,” or “Caution List-High.” In the event National expects to pay a claim in excess of the unearned premium revenue with respect to an insured transaction, it places the insured transaction on its “Classified List” and establishes a case basis reserve. The following provides a description of each surveillance category:

“Caution List – Low”—Includes issuers where debt service protection is adequate under current and anticipated circumstances. However, debt service protection and other measures of credit support and stability may have declined since the transaction was underwritten and the issuer is less able to withstand further adverse events. Transactions in this category generally require more frequent monitoring than transactions that do not appear within a surveillance category. PSD subjects issuers in this category to heightened scrutiny.

“Caution List – Medium”—Includes issuers where debt service protection is adequate under current and anticipated circumstances, although adverse trends have developed and are more pronounced than for “Caution List – Low.” Issuers in this category may have breached one or more covenants or triggers. These issuers are more closely monitored by PSD but generally take remedial action on their own.

“Caution List – High”—Includes issuers where more proactive remedial action is needed but where no defaults on debt service payments are expected. Issuers in this category exhibit more significant weaknesses, such as low debt service coverage, reduced or insufficient collateral protection or inadequate liquidity, which could lead to debt service defaults in the future. Issuers in this category have breached one or more covenants or triggers and have not taken conclusive remedial action. For these issuers PSD adopts a remediation plan and takes more proactive remedial actions.

 

16


National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

Note 7: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves (continued)

 

 

“Classified List”—Includes all insured obligations where National has paid a claim or where a claim payment is expected to exceed its unearned premium revenue. Generally, PSD is actively remediating these credits where possible, including restructurings through legal proceedings, usually with the assistance of specialist counsel and advisors.

The following table provides information about the financial guarantees and related claim liability included in each of National’s surveillance categories as of September 30, 2010:

 

     Surveillance Categories  

$ in millions

   Caution List
Low
     Caution List
Medium
     Caution List
High
     Classified
List
     Total  

Number of policies

     159         19         22         37         237   

Number of issues(1)

     11         8         7         13         39   

Remaining weighted average contract period (in years)

     15.0         9.7         16.1         5.8         12.3   

Gross insured contractual payments outstanding(2):

              

Principal

     $ 1,188         $ 373         $ 745         $ 764         $ 3,070   

Interest

     1,812         200         998         264         3,274   
                                            

Total

     $     3,000         $     573         $     1,743         $     1,028         $     6,344   
                                            

Gross claim liability

     $ -         $ -         $ -         $ 351         $ 351   

Less:

              

Gross potential recoveries

     -         -         -         207         207   

Discount, net

     -         -         -         -         -   
                                            

Net claim liability (recoverable)

     $ -         $ -         $ -         $ 144         $ 144   
                                            

Unearned premium revenue

     $ 18         $ 9         $ 21         $ 6         $ 54   

 

(1) - An “issue” represents the aggregate of financial guarantee policies that share the same revenue source for purposes of making debt service payments.

(2) - Represents contractual principal and interest payments due by the issuer of the obligations insured by National.

The following table provides information about the components of National’s insurance loss reserves and recoverable included in each of National’s surveillance categories as of September 30, 2010:

 

In millions

       Classified    
List
 

Loss reserves (claim liability)

     $ 208   

LAE reserves

     15   
        

Loss and LAE reserves

     $ 223   
        

Insurance claim loss recoverable

     $ (68

LAE insurance loss recoverable

     -     
        

Insurance loss recoverable

     $ (68
        

The following table presents changes in National’s loss and LAE reserves as of September 30, 2010. Changes in the loss and LAE reserve attributable to the accretion of the discount on the loss reserves, changes in discount rates, and changes in the timing and amounts of estimated payments and recoveries are recorded in “Losses and loss adjustment” expenses in National’s consolidated statements of operations. LAE reserves are expected to be settled within a one-year period and are not discounted. As of September 30, 2010, the weighted average risk-free rate used to discount the claim liability was 1.07%.

 

17


National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

Note 7: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves (continued)

 

 

In millions                                                 

Gross Loss
and LAE
Reserve as of
December 31,
2009

     Loss
Payments
for Cases
with
Reserves
    Accretion
of Claim
Liability
Discount
     Changes
in
Discount
Rates
     Changes in
Timing of
Payments
     Changes in
Amount of
Net
Payments
    Changes in
Assumptions
     Changes in
Unearned
Premium
Revenue
    Change in
LAE
Reserves
     Gross Loss
and LAE
Reserve as

of
September 30,
2010
 
 $ 173            $ (8    $ 1            $ 2          $ 2          $ (3     $ 45         $ (4     $ 15          $ 223     
                                                                                   

The following table presents changes in National’s insurance loss recoverable as of September 30, 2010. Changes in the insurance loss recoverable attributable to the accretion of the discount on the recoverable, changes in discount rates, and changes in the timing and amounts of estimated collections are recorded in “Losses and loss adjustment” expenses in National’s consolidated statements of operations.

 

In millions                                           

Insurance Loss
Recoverable as
of December 31,
2009

     Collections for
Cases with
Recoverable
     Accretion of
Insurance Loss
Recoverable
     Changes in
Discount
Rates
     Changes in
Timing of
Collections
     Changes in
Assumptions
     Change in
LAE
Recoverable
    Insurance Loss
Recoverable as
of September
30, 2010
 
 $ 31            $ -            $ 1            $ -            $ -            $ 67            $ (31    $ 68       
                                                                   

Remediation actions may involve, among other things, waivers or renegotiations of financial covenants or triggers, waivers of contractual provisions, the granting of consents, transfer of servicing, consideration of restructuring plans, acceleration, security or collateral enforcement, actions in bankruptcy or receivership, litigation and similar actions. The types of remedial actions pursued are based on the insured obligation’s risk type and the nature and scope of the event giving rise to the remediation. As part of any such remedial actions, National seeks to improve its security position and to obtain concessions from the issuer of the insured obligation. From time to time, the issuer of a National insured obligation may, with the consent of National, restructure the insured obligation by extending the term, increasing or decreasing the par amount or decreasing the related interest rate, with National insuring the restructured obligation.

Costs associated with remediating insured obligations assigned to National’s “Caution List—Low,” “Caution List—Medium,” “Caution List—High” and “Classified List” are recorded as LAE. LAE is recorded as part of National’s provision for its loss reserves and included in “Losses and loss adjustment” expense on National’s consolidated statements of operations. The following table provides information about the expenses (gross and net of reinsurance) related to remedial actions for insured obligations included in National’s surveillance categories:

 

    Three Months Ended September 30,     Nine Months Ended September 30,  

In millions

  2010     2009     2010     2009  

Loss adjustment expense incurred, gross

  $ 2      $ 28      $ 15      $ 84   

Loss adjustment expense incurred, net

  $ 2      $ 28      $ 15      $ 84   

Note 8: Income Taxes

National’s income taxes and the related effective tax rates for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

     Three Months Ended September 30,     Nine Months Ended September 30,  

In millions

   2010     2009     2010     2009  

Pre-tax income (loss)

   $ 167         $ 132         $ 427         $ 365      

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

   $ 50         29.9   $ 38         28.8   $ 121         28.3   $ 106         29.0

National’s effective tax rate is lower than the statutory tax rate of 35% for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 and September 30, 2009 primarily due to tax-exempt interest income. The decrease in the effective tax rate related to pre-tax income for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 compared to the same period ended September 30, 2009 was primarily a result of an increase in the amount of tax-exempt interest income relative to underwriting and other income that is taxed at the statutory rate of 35%.

As of September 30, 2010, National reported a deferred tax liability of $220 million.

 

18


National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

Note 8: Income Taxes (continued)

 

 

As of September 30, 2010, National does not have any uncertain tax positions with respect to the accounting guidance for uncertainty in income taxes. National is a member of MBIA Inc.’s consolidated U.S. tax group and its only tax jurisdiction is the U.S. The Internal Revenue Service is currently examining tax years 2005 through 2009, which is expected to be concluded within the next twelve months.

Note 9: Commitments and Contingencies

In the normal course of operating its business, National may be involved in various legal proceedings. Additionally, MBIA Inc. together with its subsidiaries (“MBIA”) may be involved in various legal proceedings that directly or indirectly impact National.

MBIA has received subpoenas or informal inquiries from a variety of regulators, including the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Securities Division of the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the Attorney General of the State of California, and other states’ regulatory authorities, regarding a variety of subjects, including soft capital instruments, disclosures made by MBIA to underwriters and issuers of certain bonds, disclosures regarding MBIA’s structured finance exposure, MBIA’s communications with rating agencies, and the methodologies used by rating agencies for determining the credit rating of municipal debt. MBIA is cooperating fully with each of these regulators and is in the process of satisfying all such requests. MBIA may receive additional inquiries from these or other regulators and expects to provide additional information to such regulators regarding their inquiries in the future.

On July 23, 2008, the City of Los Angeles filed a complaint in the Superior Court of the State of California, County of Los Angeles, against MBIA and AMBAC Financial Group, Inc., XL Capital Assurance Inc., ACA Financial Guaranty Corp., Financial Guaranty Insurance Company, and CIFG Assurance North America, Inc. At the same time and subsequently, additional complaints against MBIA and nearly all of the same co-defendants were filed by the City of Stockton, the City of Oakland, the City and County of San Francisco, the County of San Mateo, the County of Alameda, the City of Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, the Sacramento Municipal Utility District, the City of Sacramento, the City of Riverside, the Los Angeles World Airports, the City of Richmond, Redwood City, the East Bay Municipal Utility District, the Sacramento Suburban Water District, the City of San Jose, the County of Tulare, the Regents of the University of California, Contra Costa County, the Redevelopment Agency of the City of Riverside, and the Public Financing Authority of the City of Riverside. These cases are now part of a coordination proceeding in Superior Court, San Francisco County, before Judge Richard A. Kramer, referred to as the Ambac Bond Insurance Cases. On April 8, 2009, The Olympic Club filed a complaint against MBIA in the Superior Court of the State of California, County of San Francisco. The Olympic Club case is being coordinated with the Ambac Bond Insurance Cases. In addition, a complaint was filed by the Jewish Community Center of San Francisco and the Redevelopment Agency of San Jose on July 7, 2010. That complaint is expected to be added to the Ambac Bond Insurance Cases. Fitch Inc., Fitch Ratings, Ltd., Fitch Group, Inc., Moody’s Corporation, Moody’s Investors Service, Inc., The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc., and Standard & Poor’s Corporation have been added as defendants in seven of these actions.

The claims as they now stand allege participation by all defendants in a conspiracy in violation of California’s antitrust laws to maintain a dual credit rating scale that misstated the credit default risk of municipal bond issuers and not-for-profit issuers and thus created market demand for bond insurance. Plaintiffs also allege that the individual bond insurers participated in risky financial transactions in other lines of business that damaged each bond insurer’s financial condition (thereby undermining the value of each of their guaranties), and each failed adequately to disclose the impact of those transactions on their financial condition. In addition to the statutory antitrust claim, plaintiffs asserts common law theories in breach of contract, breach of the covenant of good faith and fair dealing, fraud, negligent misrepresentation, negligence, and unjust enrichment. The non-municipal plaintiffs also allege a California unfair competition cause of action. Defendants’ demurrers were filed on September 17, 2010 and plaintiffs’ opposition to demurrers were filed on October 22, 2010. A hearing on the demurrers is scheduled for December 14, 2010.

On July 23, 2008, the City of Los Angeles’s filed a separate complaint in the Superior Court, County of Los Angeles, naming as defendants MBIA and other financial institutions, and alleging fraud and violations of California’s antitrust laws through bid-rigging in the sale of guaranteed investment contracts and what plaintiff calls “municipal derivatives” to municipal bond issuers. The case was removed to federal court and transferred by order dated November 26, 2008, to the Southern District of New York for inclusion in the multidistrict litigation In re Municipal Derivatives Antitrust Litigation, M.D.L. No. 1950. Complaints making the same allegations against MBIA and nearly all of the same co-defendants were then or subsequently filed by the County of San Diego, the City of Stockton, the County of San Mateo, the County of Contra Costa, Los Angeles World Airports, the Redevelopment Agency of the City of Stockton, the Public Financing Authority of the City of Stockton, the County of Tulare, the Sacramento Suburban Water District, Sacramento Municipal Utility District, the City of Riverside, the Redevelopment Agency of the City of Riverside, the Public Financing Authority of the City of Riverside, Redwood City, the East Bay Municipal Utility District, the Redevelopment Agency of the City and County of San Francisco, the City of Richmond, the City of San Jose, and the San Jose Redevelopment Agency. These cases have all been added to the multidistrict litigation. Plaintiffs in all of the cases assert federal as well as California state antitrust claims. In February, 2010, MBIA moved to dismiss the then-existing complaints and, on April 28, 2010, Judge Victor Marrero denied the motion. MBIA’s motion for reconsideration was denied on May 3, 2010. The State of

 

19


National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

Note 9: Commitments and Contingencies (continued)

 

of West Virginia, previously a plaintiff in the multidistrict proceeding making federal antitrust claims, amended its complaint to add MBIA as a defendant on June 21, 2010. MBIA has answered some of the complaints, denying the material allegations, and is preparing to answer the others. On September 21, 2010, a complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York by the Active Retirement Community (dba Jefferson’s Ferry), a not-for-profit retirement community operator. This case will be coordinated with the other related-cases in the Southern District of New York for inclusion in the multidistrict litigation.

On March 12, 2010, the City of Phoenix, Arizona filed a complaint in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona against MBIA Inc., Ambac Financial Group, Inc. and Financial Guaranty Insurance Company relating to insurance premiums charged on municipal bonds issued by the City of Phoenix between 2004 and 2007. Plaintiff’s complaint alleges pricing discrimination under Arizona insurance law and unjust enrichment. MBIA Inc. filed its answer on May 28, 2010.

On April 5, 2010, Tri-City Healthcare District, a California public healthcare legislative district, filed a complaint in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco, against MBIA Inc., MBIA Corp., National, and certain MBIA Inc. employees, among other parties (various financial institutions and law firms). The complaint purports to state 19 causes of action (12 against MBIA) for fraud, negligent misrepresentation, breach of fiduciary duty, breach of contract, economic duress and statutory claims for unfair business practices and violation of the California False Claims Act arising from Tri-City Healthcare District’s investment in auction rate securities. On September 7, 2010, plaintiff filed its Second Amended Complaint. A demurrer was filed on behalf of MBIA and related-defendants on October 22. Oppositions to demurrers and related motions are due November 19, 2010. A hearing is scheduled for January 6, 2011.

On March 11, 2009, a complaint was filed in the United States District Court of the Southern District of New York against MBIA Inc. and its subsidiaries, MBIA Corp. and National, entitled Aurelius Capital Master, Ltd. et al. v. MBIA Inc. et al., 09-cv-2242 (S.D.N.Y.). The lead plaintiffs, Aurelius Capital Master, Ltd., Aurelius Capital Partners, LP, Fir Tree Value Master Fund, L.P., Fir Tree Capital Opportunity Master Fund, L.P., and Fir Tree Mortgage Opportunity Master Fund, L.P. (the “Aurelius Plaintiffs”), purport to be acting as representatives for a class consisting of all holders of securities, instruments, or other obligations for which MBIA Corp., before February 18, 2009, issued financial guarantee insurance other than United States municipal/governmental bond securities. The complaint alleges that certain of the terms of the transactions entered into by MBIA Inc. and its subsidiaries, which were approved by the New York State Department of Insurance, constituted fraudulent conveyances under §§ 273, 274 and 276 of New York Debtor and Creditor Law and a breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing under New York common law. The Complaint seeks, inter alia, (a) a declaration that the alleged fraudulent conveyances are null and void and set aside, (b) a declaration that National is responsible for the insurance policies issued by MBIA Corp. up to February 17, 2009, and (c) an award of damages in an unspecified amount together with costs, expenses and attorneys’ fees in connection with the action. On February 11, 2010, Judge Sullivan entered an order denying MBIA’s motion to dismiss. On April 7, 2010, Judge Sullivan denied the application for certification for an interlocutory appeal of his denial of MBIA’s motion to dismiss. Discovery is proceeding.

On April 6, 2009, a complaint was filed in the Court of Chancery for the State of Delaware entitled Third Avenue Trust and Third Avenue Variable Series Trust v. MBIA Insurance Corp. and MBIA Insurance Corp. of Illinois, CA 4486-UCL. Plaintiffs allege that they are holders of approximately $400 million of surplus notes issued by MBIA Corp. (for purposes of this section, the “Notes”) in January 2008. The complaint alleges (Count I) that certain of the Transactions breached the terms of the Notes and the Fiscal Agency Agreement dated January 16, 2008 pursuant to which the Notes were issued. The complaint also alleges that certain transfers under the Transactions were fraudulent in that they allegedly left MBIA Corp. with “unreasonably small capital” (Count II), “insolvent” (Count III), and were made with an “actual intent to defraud” (Count IV). The complaint seeks a judgment (a) ordering the defendants to unwind the Transactions (b) declaring that the Transactions constituted a fraudulent conveyance, and (c) damages in an unspecified amount. On October 28, 2009, Vice Chancellor Strine entered an order dismissing the case without prejudice. On December 21, 2009, plaintiffs re-commenced the action in New York State Supreme Court, and it has been assigned to Justice James A. Yates.

On May 13, 2009, a complaint was filed in the New York State Supreme Court against MBIA Inc. and its subsidiaries, MBIA Corp. and National, entitled ABN AMRO Bank N.V. et al. v. MBIA Inc. et al. The plaintiffs, a group of 19 domestic and international financial institutions, purport to be acting as holders of insurance policies issued by MBIA Corp. directly or indirectly guaranteeing the repayment of structured finance products. The complaint alleges that certain of the terms of the transactions entered into by MBIA Inc. and its subsidiaries, which were approved by the New York State Department of Insurance, constituted fraudulent conveyances and a breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing under New York law. The complaint seeks a judgment (a) ordering the defendants to unwind the Transactions, (b) declaring that the Transactions constituted a fraudulent conveyance, (c) declaring that MBIA Inc. and National are jointly and severally liable for the insurance policies issued by MBIA Corp., and (d) ordering damages in an unspecified amount. On February 17, 2010, Justice Yates denied defendants’ motion to dismiss. On February 25, 2010, MBIA filed its Notice of Appeal of the denial to the Appellate Division of the New York State Supreme Court. On April 1, 2010, MBIA’s motion to stay the case pending appeal was denied. On April 7 and April 22, 2010, respectively, the New York State Insurance Department and the Aurelius Plaintiffs each filed a motion for leave to file an amicus brief in MBIA’s appeal. On

 

20


National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

Note 9: Commitments and Contingencies (continued)

 

March 22, 2010, MBIA filed its opening brief with the Appellate Division and on April 21, 2010, plaintiffs filed their opposition brief. MBIA filed its reply brief on April 30, 2010. On May 6, 2010, the Appellate Division granted the New York State Insurance Department’s motion to file an amicus brief. Argument was heard on June 2, 2010. Discovery is proceeding while a decision from the Appellate Division is pending.

On June 15, 2009, the same group of 19 domestic and international financial institutions who filed the above described plenary action in New York State Supreme Court filed a proceeding pursuant to Article 78 of New York’s Civil Practice Law and Rules in New York State Supreme Court, entitled ABN AMRO Bank N.V. et al. v. Eric Dinallo, in his capacity as Superintendent of the New York Insurance State Department, the New York State Insurance Department, MBIA Inc. et al. In its motions to dismiss the three above-referenced plenary actions, MBIA Inc. argued that an Article 78 proceeding is the exclusive forum in which a plaintiff may raise any challenge to the Transformation approved by the Superintendent of the Department of Insurance. The petition seeks a judgment (a) declaring void and to annul the approval letter of the Superintendent of the Department of Insurance, (b) to recover dividends paid in connection with the Transactions, (c) declaring that the approval letter does not extinguish plaintiffs’ direct claims against MBIA Inc. and its subsidiaries in the plenary action described above. MBIA and the New York State Insurance Department filed their answering papers to the Article 78 Petition on November 24, 2009 and argued that based on the record and facts, approval of Transformation and its constituent transactions was neither arbitrary nor capricious nor in violation of New York Insurance Law. On April 7, 2010, Justice Yates ordered that the Article 78 proceeding continue on a separate, expedited schedule from the other three Transformation-related litigations. A trial date has been set for January 19, 2011.

On October 22, 2010, a similar group of domestic and international financial institutions who filed the above described Article 78 proceeding and related plenary action in New York State Supreme Court filed an additional proceeding pursuant to Article 78 of New York’s Civil Practice Law & Rules in New York State Supreme Court, entitled Barclays Bank PLC et. al. v. James Wrynn, in his capacity as Superintendent of the New York State Insurance Department, the New York State Insurance Department, MBIA Inc. et al. This petition challenges the New York State Insurance Department’s June 22, 2010 approval of National’s restatement of earned surplus.

MBIA and National are defending against the aforementioned actions and expect ultimately to prevail on the merits. There is no assurance, however, that they will prevail in these actions. Adverse rulings in these actions could have a material adverse effect on National’s ability to implement its strategy and on its business, results of operations and financial condition.

There are no other material lawsuits pending or, to the knowledge of National, threatened, to which National is a party.

Note 10: Subsequent Events

Refer to “Note 9: Commitments and Contingencies” for information about legal proceedings that developed after September 30, 2010.

 

21