EX-99.1 7 abhq12022ex991.htm EX-99.1 ALLIANCEBERNSTEIN L.P. Document
Index
Exhibit 99.1
Part I
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.    Financial Statements
ALLIANCEBERNSTEIN L.P.
AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition
(in thousands, except unit amounts)
(unaudited)
 March 31,
2022
December 31,
2021
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents$1,113,223 $1,285,700 
Cash and securities segregated, at fair value (cost: $1,692,566 and $1,503,554)
1,692,626 1,503,957 
Receivables, net:  
Brokers and dealers317,293 65,897 
Brokerage clients2,013,265 2,059,842 
AB funds fees287,872 340,158 
Other fees177,381 185,653 
Investments:  
Long-term incentive compensation-related52,461 63,839 
Other191,022 209,579 
Assets of consolidated company-sponsored investment funds:
   Cash and cash equivalents 24,145 90,326 
   Investments 486,926 613,025 
   Other assets 30,594 30,461 
Furniture, equipment and leasehold improvements, net165,101 169,175 
Goodwill3,091,767 3,091,763 
Intangible assets, net40,426 41,531 
Deferred sales commissions, net69,078 74,899 
Right-of-use assets408,508 421,980 
Other assets373,718 262,303 
Total assets$10,535,406 $10,510,088 
LIABILITIES, REDEEMABLE NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST AND CAPITAL
Liabilities:  
Payables:  
Brokers and dealers$363,669 $265,957 
Securities sold not yet purchased3,648 3,828 
Brokerage clients3,671,032 3,603,558 
AB mutual funds87,106 94,962 
Accounts payable and accrued expenses260,665 257,307 
Lease liabilities475,790 490,735 
Liabilities of consolidated company-sponsored investment funds36,774 87,000 
Accrued compensation and benefits412,002 369,649 
Debt850,000 755,000 
Total liabilities6,160,686 5,927,996 
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 March 31,
2022
December 31,
2021
Commitments and contingencies (See Note 12)
Redeemable non-controlling interest of consolidated entities 338,021 421,169 
Capital:  
General Partner41,832 42,850 
Limited partners: 271,775,790 and 271,453,043 units issued and outstanding
4,235,643 4,336,211 
Receivables from affiliates(8,126)(8,333)
AB Holding Units held for long-term incentive compensation plans(130,914)(119,470)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(101,736)(90,335)
Partners’ capital attributable to AB Unitholders4,036,699 4,160,923 
Total liabilities, redeemable non-controlling interest and capital$10,535,406 $10,510,088 
 

See Accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
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ALLIANCEBERNSTEIN L.P.
AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
(in thousands, except per unit amounts)
(unaudited)
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 20222021
Revenues:
Investment advisory and services fees$823,782 $703,466 
Bernstein research services117,807 119,021 
Distribution revenues168,341 147,600 
Dividend and interest income11,475 8,684 
Investment (losses) gains(39,024)1,928 
Other revenues26,155 27,711 
Total revenues1,108,536 1,008,410 
Less: Interest expense2,849 1,144 
Net revenues1,105,687 1,007,266 
Expenses:  
Employee compensation and benefits439,420 406,059 
Promotion and servicing:  
Distribution-related payments176,244 162,254 
Amortization of deferred sales commissions9,383 7,899 
Trade execution, marketing, T&E and other51,227 46,678 
General and administrative177,625 120,223 
Contingent payment arrangements838 796 
Interest on borrowings1,411 1,294 
Amortization of intangible assets1,136 1,479 
Total expenses857,284 746,682 
Operating income248,403 260,584 
Income taxes12,721 16,745 
Net income235,682 243,839 
Net (loss) of consolidated entities attributable to non-controlling interests(25,045)(292)
Net income attributable to AB Unitholders$260,727 $244,131 
Net income per AB Unit:  
Basic$0.95 $0.89 
Diluted$0.95 $0.89 

See Accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
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ALLIANCEBERNSTEIN L.P.
AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
 
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 20222021
Net income$235,682 $243,839 
Other comprehensive (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustments, before tax(11,822)(7,138)
Income tax benefit101 22 
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax(11,721)(7,116)
Changes in employee benefit related items:
Amortization of prior service cost
Recognized actuarial gain 323 81 
Changes in employee benefit related items329 87 
Income tax (expense)(9)— 
Employee benefit related items, net of tax320 87 
Other comprehensive (loss)(11,401)(7,029)
Less: Comprehensive (loss) in consolidated entities attributable to non-controlling interests(25,045)(292)
Comprehensive income attributable to AB Unitholders$249,326 $237,102 
 
See Accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

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ALLIANCEBERNSTEIN L.P.
AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Partners' Capital
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
Three Months Ended March 31,
20222021
General Partner’s Capital
Balance, beginning of period$42,850 $41,776 
Net income2,607 2,441 
Cash distributions to General Partner(3,781)(2,898)
Long-term incentive compensation plans activity(1)(7)
Issuance of AB Units, net157 710 
Balance, end of period41,832 42,022 
Limited Partners' Capital
Balance, beginning of period4,336,211 4,229,485 
Net income258,120 241,690 
Cash distributions to Unitholders(374,029)(286,813)
Long-term incentive compensation plans activity(157)(708)
Issuance of AB Units, net15,498 70,250 
Balance, end of period4,235,643 4,253,904 
Receivables from Affiliates
Balance, beginning of period(8,333)(8,316)
Long-term incentive compensation awards expense174 142 
Capital contributions from AB Holding33 6,449 
Balance, end of period(8,126)(1,725)
AB Holding Units held for Long-term Incentive Compensation Plans
Balance, beginning of period(119,470)(57,219)
Purchases of AB Holding Units to fund long-term compensation plans, net(13,822)(35,854)
(Issuance) of AB Units, net(15,655)(71,013)
Long-term incentive compensation awards expense18,442 18,002 
Re-valuation of AB Holding Units held in rabbi trust(409)2,277 
Balance, end of period(130,914)(143,807)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss)
Balance, beginning of period(90,335)(94,203)
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax(11,721)(7,116)
Changes in employee benefit related items, net of tax320 87 
Balance, end of period(101,736)(101,232)
Total Partners' Capital attributable to AB Unitholders4,036,699 4,049,162 
See Accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
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ALLIANCEBERNSTEIN L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 20222021
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income$235,682 $243,839 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:  
Amortization of deferred sales commissions9,383 7,899 
Non-cash long-term incentive compensation expense18,616 18,144 
Depreciation and other amortization11,124 10,967 
Unrealized losses (gains) on investments21,024 (175)
Unrealized losses on investments of consolidated company-sponsored investment funds40,898 6,941 
Non-cash lease expense26,557 23,907 
Other, net4,395 10,977 
Changes in assets and liabilities:  
(Increase) decrease in securities, segregated(188,669)340,605 
(Increase) in receivables(193,178)(117,622)
Decrease in investments8,434 53,493 
Decrease (increase) in investments of consolidated company-sponsored investment funds85,201 (12,401)
(Increase) in deferred sales commissions(3,562)(10,952)
(Increase) in other assets(111,939)(68,957)
(Decrease) increase in other assets and liabilities of consolidated company-sponsored investment funds, net(50,360)3,681 
Increase (decrease) in payables199,166 (218,887)
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and accrued expenses20,473 (1,566)
Increase in accrued compensation and benefits43,766 66,909 
Cash payments to relieve operating lease liabilities(26,828)(28,007)
Net cash provided by operating activities150,183 328,795 
Cash flows from investing activities:  
Purchases of furniture, equipment and leasehold improvements(6,237)(15,584)
Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired— (3,795)
Net cash used in investing activities(6,237)(19,379)
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 Three Months Ended March 31,
 20222021
Cash flows from financing activities:  
Borrowings (repayments) of debt, net95,000 (50,000)
(Decrease) in overdrafts payable(14,736)(1,190)
Distributions to General Partner and Unitholders(377,810)(289,711)
(Redemptions) of non-controlling interest in consolidated company-sponsored investment funds, net(58,103)(13,500)
Capital contributions (from) to affiliates(529)6,096 
Additional investments by AB Holding with proceeds from exercise of compensatory options to buy AB Holding Units— 1,914 
Purchases of AB Holding Units to fund long-term incentive compensation plan awards, net(13,822)(35,854)
Other(1,173)(475)
Net cash used in financing activities(371,173)(382,720)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents(11,431)(1,589)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents(238,658)(74,893)
Cash and cash equivalents as of beginning of the period1,376,026 1,073,906 
Cash and cash equivalents as of end of the period$1,137,368 $999,013 
Non-cash investing activities:
Fair value of assets acquired (less cash acquired of $2.8 million in the first quarter of 2021)
$— $12,962 
Fair value of liabilities assumed$— $1,642 
Non-cash financing activities:
Payables recorded under contingent payment arrangements$— $7,525 

See Accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
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ALLIANCEBERNSTEIN L.P.
AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
March 31, 2022
(unaudited)

The words “we” and “our” refer collectively to AllianceBernstein L.P. and its subsidiaries (“AB”), or to their officers and employees. Similarly, the word “company” refers to AB. These statements should be read in conjunction with AB’s audited consolidated financial statements included in AB’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021.

1. Business Description Organization and Basis of Presentation

Business Description

We provide diversified investment management, research and related services globally to a broad range of clients. Our principal services include:

•    Institutional Services – servicing our institutional clients, including private and public pension plans, foundations and endowments, insurance companies, central banks and governments worldwide, and affiliates such as Equitable Holdings, Inc. ("EQH") and its subsidiaries, by means of separately-managed accounts, sub-advisory relationships, structured products, collective investment trusts, mutual funds, hedge funds and other investment vehicles.

•    Retail Services – servicing our retail clients, primarily by means of retail mutual funds sponsored by AB or an affiliated company, sub-advisory relationships with mutual funds sponsored by third parties, separately-managed account programs sponsored by financial intermediaries worldwide and other investment vehicles.

•    Private Wealth Services – servicing our private clients, including high-net-worth individuals and families, trusts and estates, charitable foundations, partnerships, private and family corporations, and other entities, by means of separately-managed accounts, hedge funds, mutual funds and other investment vehicles.

Bernstein Research Services – servicing institutional investors, such as pension fund, hedge fund and mutual fund managers, seeking high-quality fundamental research, quantitative services and brokerage-related services in equities and listed options.

We also provide distribution, shareholder servicing, transfer agency services and administrative services to the mutual funds we sponsor.
 
Our high-quality, in-depth research is the foundation of our business. Our research disciplines include economic, fundamental equity, fixed income and quantitative research.  In addition, we have expertise in multi-asset strategies, wealth management, environmental, social and corporate governance ("ESG"), and alternative investments.

We provide a broad range of investment services with expertise in:

Actively-managed equity strategies, with global and regional portfolios across capitalization ranges, concentration ranges and investment strategies, including value, growth and core equities;

Actively-managed traditional and unconstrained fixed income strategies, including taxable and tax-exempt strategies;

Alternative investments, including hedge funds, fund of funds, direct lending, real estate and private equity;

Multi-asset solutions and services, including dynamic asset allocation, customized target-date funds and target-risk funds; and

Some passive management, including index and enhanced index strategies.





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Organization

As of March 31, 2022, EQH owned approximately 4.0% of the issued and outstanding units representing assignments of beneficial ownership of limited partnership interests in AllianceBernstein Holding L.P. (“AB Holding Units”). AllianceBernstein Corporation (an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of EQH, “General Partner”) is the general partner of both AllianceBernstein Holding L.P. (“AB Holding”) and AB. AllianceBernstein Corporation owns 100,000 general partnership units in AB Holding and a 1.0% general partnership interest in AB.

As of March 31, 2022, the ownership structure of AB, including limited partnership units outstanding as well as the general partner's 1.0% interest, was as follows:

EQH and its subsidiaries63.0 %
AB Holding36.3 
Unaffiliated holders0.7 
 100.0 %

Including both the general partnership and limited partnership interests in AB Holding and AB, EQH and its subsidiaries had an approximate 64.5% economic interest in AB as of March 31, 2022.

Basis of Presentation

The interim condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q pursuant to the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). In the opinion of management, all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair statement of the interim results, have been made. The preparation of the condensed consolidated financial statements requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the condensed consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the interim reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The condensed consolidated statement of financial condition as of December 31, 2021 was derived from audited financial statements. Certain disclosures included in the annual financial statements have been condensed or omitted from these financial statements as they are not required for interim financial statements under principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") and the rules of the SEC.

Principles of Consolidation

The condensed consolidated financial statements include AB and its majority-owned and/or controlled subsidiaries, and the consolidated entities that are considered to be variable interest entities (“VIEs”) and/or voting interest entities (“VOEs”) in which AB has a controlling financial interest. Non-controlling interests on the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition include the portion of consolidated company-sponsored investment funds in which we do not have direct equity ownership. All significant inter-company transactions and balances among the consolidated entities have been eliminated.

Reclassifications

Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period's presentation. Amounts previously presented on the Statement of Cash Flows as (increase) decrease in right-of-use assets and increase (decrease) in lease liabilities during 2021 are now presented net as "Cash payments to relieve operating lease liabilities". Non-cash lease expense under adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities formerly classified as "Depreciation and other amortization" during 2021 are now classified separately on the Statement of Cash Flows as "Non-cash lease expense". Amounts previously classified under Financing "Other" related to non-cash accretion expense associated with our contingent payment arrangements during 2021 have been reclassified to non-cash "Other, net" under adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities.

Subsequent Events
We have evaluated subsequent events through the date that these financial statements were filed with the SEC and did not identify any subsequent events that would require disclosure in these financial statements.

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2.     Significant Accounting Policies

During the first quarter of 2022, there have been no recently adopted accounting pronouncements or pronouncements not yet adopted.


3. Revenue Recognition

Revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021 consisted of the following:
Three Months Ended March 31,
20222021
(in thousands)
Subject to contracts with customers:
    Investment advisory and services fees
        Base fees$747,813 $687,691 
        Performance-based fees75,969 15,775 
    Bernstein research services117,807 119,021 
    Distribution revenues
        All-in-management fees81,221 85,182 
        12b-1 fees19,517 20,034 
        Other distribution fees67,603 42,384 
    Other revenues
        Shareholder servicing fees22,414 21,695 
        Other3,509 5,683 
1,135,853 997,465 
Not subject to contracts with customers:
    Dividend and interest income, net of interest expense
8,626 7,540 
    Investment (losses) gains(39,024)1,928 
    Other revenues232 333 
(30,166)9,801 
Total net revenues$1,105,687 $1,007,266 

4.    Long-term Incentive Compensation Plans

We maintain several unfunded, non-qualified long-term incentive compensation plans, under which we grant annual awards to employees, generally in the fourth quarter, and to members of the Board of Directors of the General Partner, who are not employed by our company or by any of our affiliates (“Eligible Directors”).

We fund our restricted AB Holding Unit awards either by purchasing AB Holding Units on the open market or purchasing newly-issued AB Holding Units from AB Holding, and then keeping these AB Holding Units in a consolidated rabbi trust until delivering them or retiring them. In accordance with the Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of AB (“AB Partnership Agreement”), when AB purchases newly-issued AB Holding Units from AB Holding, AB Holding is required to use the proceeds it receives from AB to purchase the equivalent number of newly-issued AB Units, thus increasing its percentage ownership interest in AB. AB Holding Units held in the consolidated rabbi trust are corporate assets in the name of the trust and are available to the general creditors of AB.

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Repurchases and retention of AB Holding Units for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021 consisted of the following:
Three Months Ended March 31,
20222021
(in millions)
Total amount of AB Holding Units Purchased/Retained (1)
0.3 1.0 
Total Cash Paid for AB Holding Units Purchased/Retained (1)
$14.0 $37.4 
Open Market Purchases of AB Holding Units Purchased (1)
— 0.6 
Total Cash Paid for Open Market Purchases of AB Holding Units (1)
$— $24.2 
(1) Purchased on a trade date basis. The difference between open-market purchases and units retained reflects the retention of AB Holding Units from employees to fulfill statutory tax withholding requirements at the time of delivery of long-term incentive compensation awards.
Purchases of AB Holding Units reflected on the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows are net of AB Holding Unit purchases by employees as part of a distribution reinvestment election.

Each quarter, we consider whether to implement a plan to repurchase AB Holding Units pursuant to Rules 10b5-1 and 10b-18 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended ("Exchange Act"). A plan of this type allows a company to repurchase its shares at times when it otherwise might be prevented from doing so because of self-imposed trading blackout periods or because it possesses material non-public information. Each broker we select has the authority under the terms and limitations specified in the plan to repurchase AB Holding Units on our behalf. Repurchases are subject to regulations promulgated by the SEC as well as certain price, market volume and timing constraints specified in the plan. We did not adopt a plan during the first quarter of 2022. We may adopt additional plans in the future to engage in open-market purchases of AB Holding Units to help fund anticipated obligations under our incentive compensation award program and for other corporate purposes.

During the first three months of 2022 and 2021, we awarded to employees and Eligible Directors 0.7 million and 3.4 million restricted AB Holding Unit awards, respectively. We use any AB Holding Units repurchased during the applicable period and newly-issued AB Holding Units to fund these awards.

During the first three months of 2022 and 2021, AB Holding had no issuances and 0.1 million issuances of AB Holding Units, respectively, upon exercise of options to buy AB Holding Units. AB Holding used the proceeds of zero and $1.9 million, respectively, received from award recipients as payment in cash for the exercise price to purchase the equivalent number of newly-issued AB Units.

5.     Net Income per Unit

Basic net income per unit is derived by reducing net income for the 1% general partnership interest and dividing the remaining 99% by the basic weighted average number of limited partnership units outstanding for each period. Diluted net income per unit is derived by reducing net income for the 1% general partnership interest and dividing the remaining 99% by the total of the diluted weighted average number of limited partnership units outstanding for each period.
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 20222021
(in thousands, except per unit amounts)
Net income attributable to AB Unitholders$260,727 $244,131 
Weighted average limited partnership units outstanding – basic271,383 272,332 
Dilutive effect of compensatory options to buy AB Holding Units32 
Weighted average limited partnership units outstanding – diluted271,386 272,364 
Basic net income per AB Unit$0.95 $0.89 
Diluted net income per AB Unit$0.95 $0.89 
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There were no anti-dilutive options excluded from diluted net income in the three months ended March 31, 2022 or 2021, respectively.

6. Cash Distributions

AB is required to distribute all of its Available Cash Flow, as defined in the AB Partnership Agreement, to its Unitholders and to the General Partner. Available Cash Flow can be summarized as the cash flow received by AB from operations minus such amounts as the General Partner determines, in its sole discretion, should be retained by AB for use in its business, or plus such amounts as the General Partner determines, in its sole discretion, should be released from previously retained cash flow.

Typically, Available Cash Flow has been the adjusted diluted net income per unit for the quarter multiplied by the number of general and limited partnership interests at the end of the quarter. In future periods, management anticipates that Available Cash Flow will be based on adjusted diluted net income per unit, unless management determines, with the concurrence of the Board of Directors, that one or more adjustments that are made for adjusted net income should not be made with respect to the Available Cash Flow calculation.

On April 29, 2022, the General Partner declared a distribution of $0.99 per AB Unit, representing a distribution of Available Cash Flow for the three months ended March 31, 2022. The General Partner, as a result of its 1% general partnership interest, is entitled to receive 1% of each distribution. The distribution is payable on May 26, 2022 to holders of record on May 9, 2022.

7.     Cash and Securities Segregated Under Federal Regulations and Other Requirements

As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, $1.7 billion and $1.5 billion, respectively, of U.S. Treasury Bills were segregated in a special reserve bank custody account for the exclusive benefit of our brokerage customers under Rule 15c3-3 of the Exchange Act.

8.     Investments

Investments consist of:
 March 31,
2022
December 31,
2021
 (in thousands)
Equity securities:
    Long-term incentive compensation-related$24,128 $32,237 
    Seed capital 127,383 133,992 
    Other2,232 18,243 
Exchange-traded options445 1,893 
Investments in limited partnership hedge funds:  
Long-term incentive compensation-related28,333 31,602 
Seed capital26,392 19,318 
Time deposits21,942 21,024 
Other 12,628 15,109 
Total investments$243,483 $273,418 

Total investments related to long-term incentive compensation obligations of $52.5 million and $63.8 million as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively, consist of company-sponsored mutual funds and hedge funds. For long-term incentive compensation awards granted before 2009, we typically made investments in company-sponsored mutual funds and hedge funds that were notionally elected by plan participants and maintained them (and continue to maintain them) in a consolidated rabbi trust or separate custodial account. The rabbi trust and custodial account enable us to hold such investments separate from our other assets for the purpose of settling our obligations to participants. The investments held in the rabbi trust and custodial account remain available to the general creditors of AB.

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The underlying investments of hedge funds in which we invest include long and short positions in equity securities, fixed income securities (including various agency and non-agency asset-based securities), currencies, commodities and derivatives (including various swaps and forward contracts). These investments are valued at quoted market prices or, where quoted market prices are not available, are fair valued based on the pricing policies and procedures of the underlying funds.

We allocate seed capital to our investment teams to help develop new products and services for our clients. A portion of our seed capital trading investments are equity and fixed income products, primarily in the form of separately-managed account portfolios, U.S. mutual funds, Luxembourg funds, Japanese investment trust management funds or Delaware business trusts. We also may allocate seed capital to investments in private equity funds. Regarding our seed capital investments, the amounts above reflect those funds in which we are not the primary beneficiary of a VIE or hold a controlling financial interest in a VOE. See Note 14, Consolidated Company-Sponsored Investment Funds, for a description of the seed capital investments that we consolidate. As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, our total seed capital investments were $320.5 million and $379.0 million, respectively. Seed capital investments in unconsolidated company-sponsored investment funds are valued using published net asset values or non-published net asset values if they are not listed on an active exchange but have net asset values that are comparable to funds with published net asset values and have no redemption restrictions.

In addition, we also have long positions in corporate equities and long exchange-traded options traded through our options desk.

The portion of unrealized gains (losses) related to equity securities, as defined by ASC 321-10, held as of March 31, 2022 and 2021 were as follows:
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 20222021
 (in thousands)
Net (losses) gains recognized during the period$(16,550)$4,887 
Less: net gains recognized during the period on equity securities sold during the period4,539 4,565 
Unrealized (losses) gains recognized during the period on equity securities held$(21,089)$322 

9.     Derivative Instruments

See Note 14, Consolidated Company-Sponsored Investment Funds, for disclosure of derivative instruments held by our consolidated company-sponsored investment funds.

We enter various futures, forwards, options and swaps to economically hedge certain seed capital investments.  Also, we have currency forwards that help us to economically hedge certain balance sheet exposures. In addition, our options desk trades long and short exchange-traded equity options. We do not hold any derivatives designated in a formal hedge relationship under ASC 815-10, Derivatives and Hedging.

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The notional value and fair value as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021 for derivative instruments (excluding derivative instruments relating to our options desk trading activities discussed below) not designated as hedging instruments were as follows:
 Fair Value
 Notional ValueDerivative AssetsDerivative Liabilities
 (in thousands)
March 31, 2022:
Exchange-traded futures$100,466 $1,564 $1,895 
Currency forwards66,216 7,647 7,133 
Interest rate swaps10,683 545 652 
Credit default swaps159,622 9,572 4,883 
Total return swaps61,597 2,754 1,060 
Option swaps50,000 — 524 
Total derivatives$448,584 $22,082 $16,147 
December 31, 2021:
Exchange-traded futures$131,876 $392 $1,186 
Currency forwards66,058 7,344 6,980 
Interest rate swaps13,483 497 833 
Credit default swaps155,757 6,594 6,967 
Total return swaps63,817 595 527 
Option swaps50,000 — 430 
Total derivatives$480,991 $15,422 $16,923 

As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, the derivative assets and liabilities are included in both receivables and payables to brokers and dealers on our condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.

The gains and losses for derivative instruments (excluding our options desk trading activities discussed below) for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021 recognized in investment gains (losses) in the condensed consolidated statements of income were as follows:
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 20222021
 (in thousands)
Exchange-traded futures$7,513 $1,135 
Currency forwards544 1,181 
Interest rate swaps(73)88 
Credit default swaps1,717 (522)
Total return swaps7,406 (907)
Option swaps2,625 1,361 
Net gains on derivative instruments$19,732 $2,336 

We may be exposed to credit-related losses in the event of non-performance by counterparties to derivative financial instruments. We minimize our counterparty exposure through a credit review and approval process. In addition, we have executed various collateral arrangements with counterparties to the over-the-counter derivative transactions that require both pledging and accepting collateral in the form of cash. As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, we held $7.8 million and $2.9 million, respectively, of cash collateral payable to trade counterparties. This obligation to return cash is reported in payables to brokers and dealers in our condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.

Although notional amount typically is utilized as the measure of volume in the derivatives market, it is not used as a measure of credit risk. Generally, the current credit exposure of our derivative contracts is limited to the net positive estimated fair value of derivative contracts at the reporting date after taking into consideration the existence of netting agreements and any collateral received. A derivative with positive value (a derivative asset) indicates existence of credit
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risk because the counterparty would owe us if the contract were closed. Alternatively, a derivative contract with negative value (a derivative liability) indicates we would owe money to the counterparty if the contract were closed. Generally, if there is more than one derivative transaction with a single counterparty, a master netting arrangement exists with respect to derivative transactions with that counterparty to provide for aggregate net settlement.

Certain of our standardized contracts for over-the-counter derivative transactions (“ISDA Master Agreements”) contain credit risk related contingent provisions pertaining to each counterparty’s credit rating. In some ISDA Master Agreements, if the counterparty’s credit rating, or in some agreements, our assets under management (“AUM”), falls below a specified threshold, either a default or a termination event permitting us or the counterparty to terminate the ISDA Master Agreement would be triggered. In all agreements that provide for collateralization, various levels of collateralization of net liability positions are applicable, depending on the credit rating of the counterparty. As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, we delivered $6.5 million and $5.6 million, respectively, of cash collateral into brokerage accounts. We report this cash collateral in cash and cash equivalents in our condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.

As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, we held $0.4 million and $1.9 million, respectively, of long exchange-traded equity options, which are included in other investments on our condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. In addition, as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, we held $0.2 million and $2.8 million, respectively, of short exchange-traded equity options, which are included in securities sold not yet purchased on our condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. Our options desk provides our clients with equity derivative strategies and execution for exchange-traded options on single stocks, exchange-traded funds and indices. While predominately agency-based, the options desk may commit capital to facilitate a client’s transaction. Our options desk hedges the risks associated with this activity by taking offsetting positions in equities. For the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, we recognized losses of $2.0 million and gains of $4.8 million, respectively, on equity options activity. These gains and losses are recognized in investment gains (losses) in the condensed consolidated statements of income.
10.     Offsetting Assets and Liabilities

See Note 14, Consolidated Company-Sponsored Investment Funds, for disclosure of offsetting assets and liabilities of our consolidated company-sponsored investment funds.

Offsetting of assets as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021 was as follows:
 
 Gross Amounts of Recognized AssetsGross Amounts Offset in the Statement of Financial ConditionNet Amounts of Assets Presented in the Statement of Financial ConditionFinancial
Instruments Collateral
Cash Collateral
Received
Net
Amount
 (in thousands)
March 31, 2022:
Securities borrowed$97,865 $— $97,865 $(93,012)$— $4,853 
Derivatives$22,082 $— $22,082 $— $(7,782)$14,300 
Long exchange-traded options$445 $— $445 $— $— $445 
December 31, 2021:      
Securities borrowed$19,899 $— $19,899 $(18,327)$— $1,572 
Derivatives$15,422 $— $15,422 $— $(2,872)$12,550 
Long exchange-traded options$1,893 $— $1,893 $— $— $1,893 
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Offsetting of liabilities as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021 was as follows:
 Gross Amounts of Recognized LiabilitiesGross Amounts Offset in the Statement of Financial ConditionNet Amounts of Liabilities Presented in the Statement of Financial ConditionFinancial
Instruments Collateral
Cash Collateral
Pledged
Net Amount
 (in thousands)
March 31, 2022:
Securities loaned$81,049 $— $81,049 $(78,208)$— $2,841 
Derivatives$16,147 $— $16,147 $— $(6,216)$9,931 
Short exchange-traded options$221 $— $221 $— $— $221 
December 31, 2021:      
Securities loaned$23,911 $— $23,911 $(23,373)$— $538 
Derivatives$16,923 $— $16,923 $— $(5,572)$11,351 
Short exchange-traded options$2,774 $— $2,774 $— $— $2,774 

Cash collateral, whether pledged or received on derivative instruments, is not considered material and, accordingly, is not disclosed by counterparty.
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11.     Fair Value

See Note 14, Consolidated Company-Sponsored Investment Funds, for disclosure of fair value of our consolidated company-sponsored investment funds.

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (i.e., the “exit price”) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The three broad levels of fair value hierarchy are as follows:

•    Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets are available for identical assets or liabilities as of the reported date.

•    Level 2 – Quoted prices in markets that are not active or other pricing inputs that are either directly or indirectly observable as of the reported date.

•    Level 3 –  Prices or valuation techniques that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable as of the reported date. These financial instruments do not have two-way markets and are measured using management’s best estimate of fair value, where the inputs into the determination of fair value require significant management judgment or estimation.
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

Valuation of our financial instruments by pricing observability levels as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021 was as follows (in thousands):
 Level 1Level 2Level 3
NAV Expedient(1)
Other Total
March 31, 2022:
Money markets$122,582 $— $— $— $— $122,582 
Securities segregated (U.S. Treasury Bills)— 1,692,536 — — — 1,692,536 
Derivatives 1,564 20,518 — — — 22,082 
Investments:
  Equity securities 125,428 28,052 119 144 — 153,743 
Long exchange-traded options445 — — — — 445 
   Limited partnership hedge funds(2)
— — — — 54,725 54,725 
   Time deposits(3)
— — — — 21,942 21,942 
   Other investments7,861 — — — 4,767 12,628 
Total investments133,734 28,052 119 144 81,434 243,483 
Total assets measured at fair value$257,880 $1,741,106 $119 $144 $81,434 $2,080,683 
Securities sold not yet purchased:    
Short equities – corporate$3,427 $— $— $— $— $3,427 
Short exchange-traded options221 — — — — 221 
Derivatives1,895 14,252 — — — 16,147 
Contingent payment arrangements— — 39,098 — — 39,098 
Total liabilities measured at fair value$5,543 $14,252 $39,098 $ $ $58,893 
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 Level 1Level 2Level 3
NAV Expedient(1)
Other Total
December 31, 2021:
Money markets$151,156 $— $— $— $— $151,156 
Securities segregated (U.S. Treasury Bills)— 1,503,828 — — — 1,503,828 
Derivatives 392 15,030 — — — 15,422 
Investments:
  Equity securities144,917 39,284 126 145 — 184,472 
  Long exchange-traded options1,893 — — — — 1,893 
    Limited partnership hedge funds(2)
— — — — 50,920 50,920 
    Time deposits(3)
— — — — 21,024 21,024 
    Other investments9,094 — — — 6,015 15,109 
Total investments155,904 39,284 126 145 77,959 273,418 
Total assets measured at fair value$307,452 $1,558,142 $126 $145 $77,959 $1,943,824 
Securities sold not yet purchased:    
Short equities – corporate$1,054 $— $— $— $— $1,054 
Short exchange-traded options2,774 — — — — 2,774 
Derivatives1,186 15,737 — — — 16,923 
Contingent payment arrangements— — 38,260 — — 38,260 
Total liabilities measured at fair value$5,014 $15,737 $38,260 $ $ $59,011 

(1) Investments measured at fair value using NAV (or its equivalent) as a practical expedient.
(2) Investments in equity method investees that are not measured at fair value in accordance with GAAP.
(3) Investments carried at amortized cost that are not measured at fair value in accordance with GAAP.

Other investments included in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy include our investment in a mutual fund measured at fair value ($7.9 million and $9.1 million as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively). Other investments not measured at fair value include (i) investments in start-up companies that do not have a readily available fair value (these investments were $0.3 million as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021), (ii) investments in equity method investees that are not measured at fair value in accordance with GAAP ($1.6 million and $2.9 million as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively), and (iii) broker dealer exchange memberships that are not measured at fair value in accordance with GAAP ($2.8 million as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021).
We provide below a description of the fair value methodologies used for instruments measured at fair value, as well as the general classification of such instruments pursuant to the valuation hierarchy:

•    Money markets: We invest excess cash in various money market funds that are valued based on quoted prices in active markets; these are included in Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy.

•    Treasury Bills: We hold U.S. Treasury Bills, which are primarily segregated in a special reserve bank custody account as required by Rule 15c3-3 of the Exchange Act. These securities are valued based on quoted yields in secondary markets and are included in Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy.

•    Equity securities: Our equity securities consist principally of company-sponsored mutual funds with NAVs and various separately-managed portfolios consisting primarily of equity and fixed income mutual funds with quoted prices in active markets, which are included in Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy. In addition, some securities are valued based on observable inputs from recognized pricing vendors, which are included in Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy.

•    Derivatives: We hold exchange-traded futures with counterparties that are included in Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy. In addition, we also hold currency forward contracts, interest rate swaps, credit default swaps, option swaps
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and total return swaps with counterparties that are valued based on observable inputs from recognized pricing vendors, which are included in Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy.

•    Options: We hold long exchange-traded options that are included in Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy.

•    Securities sold not yet purchased: Securities sold not yet purchased, primarily reflecting short positions in equities and exchange-traded options, are included in Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy.

•    Contingent payment arrangements: Contingent payment arrangements relate to contingent payment liabilities associated with various acquisitions. At each reporting date, we estimate the fair values of the contingent consideration expected to be paid based upon probability-weighted AUM and revenue projections, using unobservable market data inputs, which are included in Level 3 of the valuation hierarchy.
During the three months ended March 31, 2022 there were no transfers between Level 2 and Level 3 securities.
The change in carrying value associated with Level 3 financial instruments carried at fair value, classified as equity securities, is as follows:
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 20222021
 (in thousands)
Balance as of beginning of period$126 $125 
Purchases— — 
Sales— — 
Realized gains (losses), net— — 
Unrealized (losses), net(7)(1)
Balance as of end of period$119 $124 

Realized and unrealized gains and losses on Level 3 financial instruments are recorded in investment gains and losses in the condensed consolidated statements of income.
As part of acquisitions made by the Company, we may enter into contingent consideration arrangements as part of the purchase price. The change in carrying value associated with Level 3 financial instruments carried at fair value, classified as contingent payment arrangements, is as follows:
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 20222021
 (in thousands)
Balance as of beginning of period$38,260 $27,750 
Addition— 7,526 
Accretion838 797 
Payments— — 
Balance as of end of period$39,098 $36,073 

The liabilities were valued using expected revenue growth rates and discount rates. As of March 31, 2022, the expected revenue growth rates range from 2.0% to 83.9%, with a weighted average of 7.9%, calculated using cumulative revenues and range of revenue growth rates (excluding revenue growth from additional AUM contributed in year of acquisition). The discount rates ranged from 1.9% to 10.4%, with a weighted average of 7.0%, calculated using total contingent liabilities and range of discount rates. As of March 31, 2021 the expected revenue growth rates ranged from 2.0% to 135.6%, with a weighted average of 9.0%, calculated using cumulative revenues and a range of revenue growth rates (excluding revenue growth from additional AUM contributed from existing clients). The discount rates ranged from 1.9% to 20.0%, with a weighted average of 10.8%, calculated using total contingent liabilities and range of discount rates.
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Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

We did not have any material assets or liabilities that were measured at fair value for impairment on a nonrecurring basis during the three months ended March 31, 2022 or during the year ended December 31, 2021.

12.     Commitments and Contingencies

Legal Proceedings

With respect to all significant litigation matters, we consider the likelihood of a negative outcome. If we determine the likelihood of a negative outcome is probable and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated, we record an estimated loss for the expected outcome of the litigation. If the likelihood of a negative outcome is reasonably possible and we can determine an estimate of the possible loss or range of loss in excess of amounts already accrued, if any, we disclose that fact together with the estimate of the possible loss or range of loss. However, it is often difficult to predict the outcome or estimate a possible loss or range of loss because litigation is subject to inherent uncertainties, particularly when plaintiffs allege substantial or indeterminate damages. Such is also the case when the litigation is in its early stages or when the litigation is highly complex or broad in scope. In these cases, we disclose that we are unable to predict the outcome or estimate a possible loss or range of loss.

AB may be involved in various matters, including regulatory inquiries, administrative proceedings and litigation, some of which may allege significant damages. It is reasonably possible that we could incur losses pertaining to these matters, but we cannot currently estimate any such losses.

Management, after consultation with legal counsel, currently believes that the outcome of any individual matter that is pending or threatened, or all of them combined, will not have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition or liquidity. However, any inquiry, proceeding or litigation has an element of uncertainty; management cannot determine whether further developments relating to any individual matter that is pending or threatened, or all of them combined, will have a material adverse effect on our results of operation, financial condition or liquidity in any future reporting period.
13.     Leases

We lease office space, furniture and office equipment under various operating and financing leases. Our current leases have remaining lease terms of one year to 15 years, some of which include options to extend the leases for up to five years, and some of which include options to terminate the leases within one year. Since 2010, we have sub-leased over one million square feet of office space.
Leases included in the condensed consolidated statement of financial condition as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021 were as follows:
ClassificationMarch 31, 2022December 31, 2021
(in thousands)
Operating Leases
Operating lease right-of-use assetsRight-of-use assets$398,804 $414,105 
Operating lease liabilitiesLease liabilities466,439 482,781 
Finance Leases
Property and equipment, grossRight-of-use assets13,284 10,947 
Amortization of right-of-use assetsRight-of-use assets(3,580)(3,072)
Property and equipment, net9,704 7,875 
Finance lease liabilities Lease liabilities9,351 7,954 
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The components of lease expense included in the condensed consolidated statement of income as of March 31, 2022 and March 31, 2021 were as follows:
Three Months Ended March 31,
Classification20222021
(in thousands)
Operating lease costGeneral and administrative$24,525 $24,418 
Financing lease cost:
Amortization of right-of-use assetsGeneral and administrative740 501 
Interest on lease liabilitiesInterest expense37 22 
Total finance lease cost777 523 
Variable lease cost (1)
General and administrative10,687 9,546 
Sublease incomeGeneral and administrative(8,561)(9,807)
Net lease cost$27,428 $24,680 
(1) Variable lease expense includes operating expenses, real estate taxes and employee parking.
The sub-lease income represents all revenues received from sub-tenants. It is primarily fixed base rental payments combined with variable reimbursements such as operating expenses, real estate taxes and employee parking. We derive most of our sub-tenant income from our New York metro sub-tenant agreements. Sub-tenant income related to base rent is recorded on a straight-line basis. 
Maturities of lease liabilities were as follows:
Operating LeasesFinancing LeasesTotal
Year ending December 31,(in thousands)
2022 (excluding the three months ended March 31, 2022)
$75,061 $1,940 $77,001 
202397,522 2,887 100,409 
2024100,148 2,043 102,191 
202534,308 1,747 36,055 
202632,868 1,011 33,879 
Thereafter172,179 — 172,179 
Total lease payments512,086 9,628 521,714 
Less interest(45,647)(277)
Present value of lease liabilities$466,439 $9,351 
We have signed a lease which commences in 2024, relating to approximately 166,000 square feet of space in New York City. Our estimated total base rent obligation (excluding taxes, operating expenses and utilities) over the 20-year lease term is approximately $393.0 million.
Lease term and discount rate:
Weighted average remaining lease term (years):
Operating leases7.51
Finance leases3.73
Weighted average discount rate:
Operating leases2.74 %
Finance leases1.62 %
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Supplemental cash flow information related to leases was as follows:
Three Months Ended March 31,
20222021
(in thousands)
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations(1):
Operating leases7,719 12,161 
Finance leases2,569 3,283 
(1) Represents non-cash activity and, accordingly, is not reflected in the consolidated statements of cash flows.
14. Consolidated Company-Sponsored Investment Funds

We regularly provide seed capital to new company-sponsored investment funds. As such, we may consolidate or de-consolidate a variety of company-sponsored investment funds each quarter. Due to the similarity of risks related to our involvement with each company-sponsored investment fund, disclosures required under the VIE model are aggregated, such as disclosures regarding the carrying amount and classification of assets.
We are not required to provide financial support to company-sponsored investment funds, and only the assets of such funds are available to settle each fund's own liabilities. Our exposure to loss regarding consolidated company-sponsored investment funds is limited to our investment in, and our management fee earned from, such funds. Equity and debt holders of such funds have no recourse to AB’s assets or to the general credit of AB.
The balances of consolidated VIEs included in our condensed consolidated statements of financial condition were as follows:
March 31, 2022December 31, 2021
(in thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents$24,145 $90,326 
Investments486,926 613,025 
Other assets30,594 30,461 
Total assets$541,665 $733,812 
Liabilities$36,774 $87,000 
Redeemable non-controlling interest338,021 421,169 
Partners' capital attributable to AB Unitholders166,870 225,643 
Total liabilities, redeemable non-controlling interest and partners' capital$541,665 $733,812 
During the first quarter of 2022, we deconsolidated three funds in which we had a seed investment of approximately $55.1 million due to no longer having a controlling financial interest.

Fair Value
Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, demand deposits, overnight commercial paper and highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less. Due to the short-term nature of these instruments, the recorded value has been determined to approximate fair value.
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Valuation of consolidated company-sponsored investment funds' financial instruments by pricing observability levels as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021 was as follows (in thousands):
 Level 1Level 2Level 3Total
March 31, 2022:
  Investments $84,737 $401,941 $248 $486,926 
  Derivatives 1,782 2,620 — 4,402 
Total assets measured at fair value$86,519 $404,561 $248 $491,328 
Derivatives 16,013 2,927 — 18,940 
Total liabilities measured at fair value$16,013 $2,927 $ $18,940 
December 31, 2021:
  Investments $165,415 $444,253 $3,357 $613,025 
  Derivatives 622 5,265 — 5,887 
Total assets measured at fair value$166,037 $449,518 $3,357 $618,912 
Derivatives $16,291 $2,051 $— $18,342 
Total liabilities measured at fair value$16,291 $2,051 $ $18,342 

See Note 11 for a description of the fair value methodologies used for instruments measured at fair value, as well as the general classification of such instruments pursuant to the valuation hierarchy.

The change in carrying value associated with Level 3 financial instruments carried at fair value within consolidated company-sponsored investment funds was as follows:
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 20222021
 (in thousands)
Balance as of beginning of period$3,357 $619 
Deconsolidated funds(3,351)— 
Transfers (out)(6)(10)
Purchases248 119 
Sales— (3)
Realized gains, net— 
Unrealized (losses), net— (11)
Balance as of end of period$248 $717 

The Level 3 securities primarily consist of corporate bonds that are vendor priced with no ratings available, bank loans, non-agency collateralized mortgage obligations and asset-backed securities.

Transfers into and out of all levels of the fair value hierarchy are reflected at end-of-period fair values. Realized and unrealized gains and losses on Level 3 financial instruments are recorded in investment gains and losses in the condensed consolidated statements of income.

Derivative Instruments
As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, the VIEs held $14.5 million and $12.5 million (net), respectively, of futures, forwards and swaps within their portfolios. For the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, we recognized $0.5 million of gains and $1.1 million of losses, respectively, on these derivatives. These gains and losses are recognized in investment gains (losses) in the condensed consolidated statements of income.
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As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, the VIEs held $1.5 million and $0.9 million, respectively, of cash collateral payable to trade counterparties. This obligation to return cash is reported in the liabilities of consolidated company-sponsored investment funds in our condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.
As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, the VIEs delivered $2.5 million and $1.8 million, respectively, of cash collateral into brokerage accounts. The VIEs report this cash collateral in the consolidated company-sponsored investment funds cash and cash equivalents in our condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.
Offsetting Assets and Liabilities
Offsetting of derivative assets of consolidated company-sponsored investment funds as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021 was as follows:
 
 Gross Amounts of Recognized AssetsGross Amounts Offset in the Statement of Financial ConditionNet Amounts of Assets Presented in the Statement of Financial ConditionFinancial
Instruments Collateral
Cash Collateral
Received
Net
Amount
 (in thousands)
March 31, 2022:
Derivatives $4,402 $— $4,402 $— $(1,524)$2,878 
December 31, 2021:     
Derivatives $5,887 $— $5,887 $— $(904)$4,983 

Offsetting of derivative liabilities of consolidated company-sponsored investment funds as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021 was as follows:
 Gross Amounts of Recognized LiabilitiesGross Amounts Offset in the Statement of Financial ConditionNet Amounts of Liabilities Presented in the Statement of Financial ConditionFinancial
Instruments Collateral
Cash Collateral
Pledged
Net Amount
 (in thousands)
March 31, 2022:
Derivatives$18,940 $— $18,940 $— $(2,486)$16,454 
December 31, 2021:     
Derivatives $18,342 $— $18,342 $— $(1,824)$16,518 

Cash collateral, whether pledged or received on derivative instruments, is not considered material and, accordingly, is not disclosed by counterparty.
Non-Consolidated VIEs
As of March 31, 2022, the net assets of company-sponsored investment products that are non-consolidated VIEs are approximately $59.1 billion, and our maximum risk of loss is our investment of $15.1 million in these VIEs and our advisory fee receivables from these VIEs is $70.3 million. As of December 31, 2021, the net assets of company-sponsored investment products that were non-consolidated VIEs was approximately $68.9 billion; our maximum risk of loss was our investment of $8.8 million in these VIEs and our advisory fees receivable from these VIEs was $75.7 million.
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15.     Units Outstanding

Changes in AB Units outstanding during the three-month period ended March 31, 2022 were as follows:
 
Outstanding as of December 31, 2021271,453,043 
Units issued582,992 
Units retired(260,245)
Outstanding as of March 31, 2022271,775,790 

16.     Debt

AB has an $800.0 million committed, unsecured senior revolving credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) with a group of commercial banks and other lenders, which matures on October 13, 2026. The Credit Facility provides for possible increases in the principal amount by up to an aggregate incremental amount of $200.0 million; any such increase is subject to the consent of the affected lenders. The Credit Facility is available for AB and Sanford C. Bernstein & Co., LLC ("SCB LLC") business purposes, including the support of AB’s commercial paper program. Both AB and SCB LLC can draw directly under the Credit Facility and management may draw on the Credit Facility from time to time. AB has agreed to guarantee the obligations of SCB LLC under the Credit Facility.

The Credit Facility contains affirmative, negative and financial covenants, which are customary for facilities of this type, including restrictions on dispositions of assets, restrictions on liens, a minimum interest coverage ratio and a maximum leverage ratio. As of March 31, 2022, we were in compliance with these covenants. The Credit Facility also includes customary events of default (with customary grace periods, as applicable), including provisions under which, upon the occurrence of an event of default, all outstanding loans may be accelerated and/or lender’s commitments may be terminated. Also, under such provisions, upon the occurrence of certain insolvency- or bankruptcy-related events of default, all amounts payable under the Credit Facility would automatically become immediately due and payable, and the lender’s commitments automatically would terminate.

Amounts under the Credit Facility may be borrowed, repaid and re-borrowed by us from time to time until the maturity of the facility. Voluntary prepayments and commitment reductions requested by us are permitted at any time without a fee (other than customary breakage costs relating to the prepayment of any drawn loans) upon proper notice and subject to a minimum dollar requirement. Borrowings under the Credit Facility bear interest at a rate per annum, which will be, at our option, a rate equal to an applicable margin, which is subject to adjustment based on the credit ratings of AB, plus one of the following indices: London Interbank Offered Rate; a floating base rate; or the Federal Funds rate.

As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, we had no amounts outstanding under the Credit Facility. Furthermore, during the first three months of 2022 and the full year 2021, we did not draw upon the Credit Facility.

AB also has a $900.0 million committed, unsecured senior credit facility (“EQH Facility”) with EQH. The EQH Facility matures on November 4, 2024 and is available for AB's general business purposes. Borrowings under the EQH Facility generally bear interest at a rate per annum based on prevailing overnight commercial paper rates.

The EQH Facility contains affirmative, negative and financial covenants which are substantially similar to those in AB’s committed bank facilities. The EQH Facility also includes customary events of default substantially similar to those in AB’s committed bank facilities, including provisions under which, upon the occurrence of an event of default, all outstanding loans may be accelerated and/or the lender’s commitment may be terminated.

Amounts under the EQH Facility may be borrowed, repaid and re-borrowed by us from time to time until the maturity of the facility. AB or EQH may reduce or terminate the commitment at any time without penalty upon proper notice. EQH also may terminate the facility immediately upon a change of control of our general partner.

As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, AB had $850.0 million and $755.0 million outstanding under the EQH Facility, with interest rates of approximately 0.3% and 0.2%, respectively. Average daily borrowings on the EQH Facility for the first three months of 2022 and the full year 2021 were $645.4 million and $404.6 million, respectively, with a weighted average interest rate of approximately 0.2%.

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In addition to the EQH Facility, AB has a $300.0 million uncommitted, unsecured senior credit facility (“EQH Uncommitted Facility”) with EQH. The EQH Uncommitted Facility matures on September 1, 2024 and is available for AB's general business purposes. Borrowings under the EQH Unsecured Facility generally bear interest at a rate per annum based on prevailing overnight commercial paper rates. The EQH Uncommitted Facility contains affirmative, negative and financial covenants which are substantially similar to those in the EQH Facility. As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, we had no amounts outstanding under the EQH Uncommitted Facility and have not drawn upon the facility since its inception.

As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, we had no commercial paper outstanding. The commercial paper is short term in nature, and as such, recorded value is estimated to approximate fair value (and considered a Level 2 security in the fair value hierarchy). Average daily borrowings of commercial paper during the first three months of 2022 and full year 2021 were $257.0 million and $157.0 million, respectively, with weighted average interest rates of approximately 0.2% and 0.2%, respectively.

AB had a $200.0 million committed, unsecured senior revolving credit facility (the "Revolver") with a leading international bank, which matured on November 16, 2021. Average daily borrowings under the Revolver for the full year 2021 were $13.3 million with a weighted average interest rate of approximately 1.1%.

In addition, SCB LLC currently has five uncommitted lines of credit with five financial institutions. Four of these lines of credit permit us to borrow up to an aggregate of approximately $315.0 million, with AB named as an additional borrower, while the other line has no stated limit. AB has agreed to guarantee the obligations on SCB LLC under these lines of credit. As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, SCB LLC had no outstanding balance on these lines of credit. Average daily borrowings during the first three months of 2022 and full year 2021 were $2.9 million and $47 thousand with weighted average interest rates of approximately 0.8% and 0.9%, respectively.

17. Acquisition

On March 17, 2022, AB Holding and AB entered into a transaction agreement to acquire 100% of the equity interests of CarVal Investors, L.P. (“CarVal”) in exchange for (i) AB Holding Units to be delivered in 2022 (“Upfront Payment”), and (ii) the issuance of additional AB Holding Units at future dates that are contingent upon achievement of performance hurdles by CarVal during the six-year period beginning January 1, 2022 and ending on December 31, 2027. The Upfront Payment will total approximately $750,000,000 and consist of the AB Holding Units discussed above as well as cash to fund certain CarVal business expenses and other obligations. Immediately following the acquisition of CarVal by AB Holding, AB Holding will contribute all of the equity interests of CarVal to AB in exchange for AB Units. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2022. The transaction agreement has been filed as Exhibit 10.1 to this Form 10-Q.

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

Impact of COVID-19
AB continues to actively monitor COVID-19 developments and their impact on our employees, business and operations. The aggregate extent to which COVID-19, including existing and new variants and its impact on the global economy, affects AB’s business, liquidity, results of operations and financial condition, will depend on future COVID-19 developments that are highly uncertain, including the scope and duration of the pandemic and any recovery period, the emergence, spread and seriousness of COVID-19 variants, the continuing prevalence of severe, unconstrained and/or escalating rates of infection and hospitalization in various countries and regions, the availability, adoption and efficacy of treatments and vaccines, and future actions taken by governmental authorities, central banks and other parties in response to COVID-19. Further, we have benefited from certain of our adjusted operating expenses declining significantly as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, such as costs for travel and entertainment and client meetings, particularly during 2020. Although these costs increased in 2021, they have not yet returned to a normalized level. These cost savings have benefited our margins. If financial markets continue to normalize and economic activity increases, we do not anticipate continued cost savings related to COVID-19, and these savings are not indicative of our future performance. Additionally, as most of our workforce continues working in a hybrid model, which includes two remote days each week, we are mindful of increased risk related to cybersecurity, which could significantly disrupt our business functions.

Executive Overview
Our total assets under management (“AUM”) as of March 31, 2022 were $735.4 billion, down $43.2 billion, or 5.5%, compared to December 31, 2021, and up $38.2 billion, or 5.5%, compared to March 31, 2021. During the first quarter of 2022, AUM decreased as a result of market depreciation of $54.6 billion, partially offset by net inflows of $11.4 billion (Institutional net inflows of $10.2 billion, Private Wealth net inflows of $2.2 billion, offset by Retail net outflows of $1.0 billion). We continue to expect approximately $5 billion of additional redemptions by AXA of low-fee retail AUM commencing in the second quarter and continuing into the second half of 2022.

Institutional AUM decreased $11.2 billion, or 3.3%, to $325.9 billion during the first quarter of 2022, due to market depreciation of $21.4 billion, partially offset by net inflows of $10.2 billion. Gross sales increased sequentially from $6.6 billion during the fourth quarter of 2021 to $14.3 billion during the first quarter of 2022. Redemptions and terminations decreased sequentially from $4.1 billion to $2.1 billion.

Retail AUM decreased $27.3 billion, or 8.5%, to $292.6 billion during the first quarter of 2022, due to market depreciation of $26.3 billion and net outflows of $1.0 billion. Gross sales decreased sequentially from $27.6 billion during the fourth quarter of 2021 to $20.6 billion during the first quarter of 2022. Redemptions and terminations increased sequentially from $17.1 billion to $18.7 billion.

Private Wealth AUM decreased $4.7 billion, or 3.9%, to $116.9 billion during the first quarter of 2022, due to market depreciation of $6.9 billion, partially offset by net inflows of $2.2 billion. Gross sales increased sequentially from $5.2 billion during the fourth quarter of 2021 to $6.0 billion during the first quarter of 2022. Redemptions and terminations decreased sequentially from $4.5 billion to $3.8 billion.

Bernstein Research Services revenue for the first quarter of 2022 was $117.8 million, down $1.2 million, or 1.0%, compared to the first quarter of 2021. The slight decrease was driven by lower customer trading activity in Asia partially offset by higher market volatility and trading volumes in the U.S. and U.K.

Net revenues for the first quarter of 2022 increased $98.4 million, or 9.8%, to $1.1 billion from $1.0 billion in the first quarter of 2021. The increase was primarily due to higher performance-based fees of $60.2 million, higher investment advisory base fees of $60.1 million and higher distribution revenues of $20.7 million, partially offset by higher investment losses of $41.0 million compared to investment gains in the prior-year period. Operating expenses for the first quarter of 2022 increased $110.6 million, or 14.8%, to $857.3 million from $746.7 million in the first quarter of 2021. The increase was primarily due to higher general and administrative expenses of $57.4 million, higher employee compensation and benefits expenses of $33.4 million and higher promotion and servicing expense of $20.0 million. Our operating income decreased $12.2 million, or 4.7%, to $248.4 million from $260.6 million in the first quarter of 2021 and our operating margin decreased to 24.7% in the first quarter of 2022 from 25.9% in the first quarter of 2021.

Market Commentary

After markets were relatively calm in 2021 and generally on upward trajectories, volatility returned in the first quarter of 2022, as inflation surged to historical highs, the Federal Reserve raised interest rates, and indicated an intention to continue raising
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rates in 2022, faster than previously anticipated, and Russia shocked the world by invading Ukraine, marking the first major military conflict in Europe in decades. As a result, U.S. equity markets, including the S&P 500, the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Nasdaq, each finished the quarter in negative territory. Inflation continued to be a significant worry as it escalated globally to the highest on record in 41 years. Higher commodity prices and increased fuel costs, coupled with wage increases to alleviate labor shortages, applied further upward pressure on prices. In response, the Federal Reserve raised interest rates in March and indicated that further rate hikes are likely through the rest of 2022. Given market conditions, we expect our 2022 margins to be impacted as compared to prior year reflecting continued higher inflation, our growth-related investments, rebounding travel and entertainment expenses and lower performance fees.

The grave implications of Russia’s attack on Ukraine rippled through the global markets, with commodity prices soaring, as Russia is a key producer of several commodities, particularly in the energy sector, and global trading and settlement systems were disrupted. Regarding trading, while AB was not immune from settlement difficulties during the quarter, the impact on AB was immaterial.

In the U.K., despite economic concerns, the FTSE 100 Index recorded gains in the first quarter, following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. However, uncertainty remains given the impact of higher energy and commodity prices caused by the conflict in Ukraine. Also, with inflation remaining above the Bank of England’s target, a gradual tightening of monetary policy through 2022 is likely. In China, a new outbreak of the Omicron variant and subsequent highly restrictive lockdowns in numerous cities caused Chinese markets to decline. Manufacturing plant shutdowns and shipping port delays due to dock access restrictions exacerbated global supply constraints in crucial sectors. More easing measures from the People’s Bank of China are likely in 2022, including interest rate cuts and increased fiscal infrastructure spending.

Relationship with Equitable Holdings and its Subsidiaries

EQH (our parent company) and its subsidiaries are our largest client. EQH is collaborating with AB in order to improve the risk-adjusted yield for the General Accounts of EQH's insurance subsidiaries by investing additional assets at AB, including the utilization of AB's higher-fee, longer-duration alternative offerings. Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company, a subsidiary of EQH ("Equitable Financial"), has agreed to provide $10 billion in permanent capital1 over the next three years to build out AB’s private illiquid offerings, including private alternatives and private placements. We expect this anticipated capital from Equitable Financial will accelerate both organic and inorganic growth in our private alternatives business, allowing us to continue to deliver for our clients, employees, unitholders and other stakeholders.

Assets Under Management

Assets under management by distribution channel are as follows:
 As of March 31,
 20222021$ Change% Change
 (in billions)
Institutions$325.9 $314.7 $11.2 3.6 %
Retail292.6 272.3 20.3 7.4 
Private Wealth116.9 110.2 6.7 6.1 
Total$735.4 $697.2 $38.2 5.5 %

1 Permanent capital means investment capital of indefinite duration, which may be withdrawn under certain conditions. Although Equitable Financial has indicated its intention over time to provide this investment capital to AB, which is mutually beneficial to both firms, it has no binding commitment to do so.
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Assets under management by investment service are as follows:
 As of March 31,
 20222021$ Change% Change
 (in billions)
Equity
Actively Managed$265.2 $231.8 $33.4 14.4 %
Passively Managed(1)
66.2 66.3 (0.1)— 
Total Equity331.4 298.1 33.3 11.2 
Fixed Income   
Actively Managed   
Taxable225.9 252.2 (26.3)(10.4)
Tax–exempt54.9 51.8 3.1 5.9 
 280.8 304.0 (23.2)(7.6)
Passively Managed(1)
12.7 8.3 4.4 51.8 
Total Fixed Income293.5 312.3 (18.8)(6.0)
Alternatives/Multi-Asset Solutions(2)
 Actively Managed104.7 83.6 21.1 25.3 
Passively Managed(1)
5.8 3.2 2.6 81.3 
Total Alternatives/Multi-Asset Solutions110.5 86.8 23.7 27.4 
Total$735.4 $697.2 $38.2 5.5 %
(1)Includes index and enhanced index services.
(2)Includes certain multi-asset solutions and services not included in equity or fixed income services.

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Changes in assets under management for the three-month and twelve-month periods ended March 31, 2022 are as follows:

 Distribution Channel
 InstitutionsRetailPrivate
Wealth
Total
 (in billions)
Balance as of December 31, 2021$337.1 $319.9 $121.6 $778.6 
Long-term flows:    
Sales/new accounts14.3 20.6 6.0 40.9 
Redemptions/terminations(2.1)(18.7)(3.8)(24.6)
Cash flow/unreinvested dividends(2.0)(2.9)— (4.9)
Net long-term inflows (outflows)10.2 (1.0)2.2 11.4 
Market depreciation(21.4)(26.3)(6.9)(54.6)
Net change(11.2)(27.3)(4.7)(43.2)
Balance as of March 31, 2022$325.9 $292.6 $116.9 $735.4 
Balance as of March 31, 2021$314.7 $272.3 $110.2 $697.2 
Long-term flows:
Sales/new accounts41.0 97.7 18.9 157.6 
Redemptions/terminations(22.7)(66.1)(15.4)(104.2)
Cash flow/unreinvested dividends(6.6)(14.5)— (21.1)
Net long-term inflows(1)
11.7 17.1 3.5 32.3 
Market (depreciation) appreciation(0.5)3.2 3.2 5.9 
Net change11.2 20.3 6.7 38.2 
Balance as of March 31, 2022$325.9 $292.6 $116.9 $735.4 
(1)Institutional net flows include $1.3 billion of AXA's redemptions of certain low-fee fixed income mandates for the twelve-month period ended March 31, 2022.
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 Investment Service
 Equity
Actively
Managed
Equity
Passively
Managed(1)
Fixed
Income
Actively
Managed -
Taxable
Fixed
Income
Actively
Managed -
Tax-
Exempt
Fixed
Income
Passively
Managed(1)
Alternatives/ Multi-Asset Solutions(2)
Total
 (in billions)
Balance as of December 31, 2021$287.6 $71.6 $246.3 $57.1 $13.2 $102.8 $778.6 
Long-term flows:       
Sales/new accounts17.3 0.2 7.1 4.0 (0.1)12.4 40.9 
Redemptions/terminations(10.3)(0.1)(10.4)(2.8)(0.1)(0.9)(24.6)
Cash flow/unreinvested dividends(2.4)(1.9)(1.4)(0.2)0.6 0.4 (4.9)
Net long-term inflows (outflows)4.6 (1.8)(4.7)1.0 0.4 11.9 11.4 
Market depreciation(27.0)(3.6)(15.7)(3.2)(0.9)(4.2)(54.6)
Net change(22.4)(5.4)(20.4)(2.2)(0.5)7.7 (43.2)
Balance as of March 31, 2022$265.2 $66.2 $225.9 $54.9 $12.7 $110.5 $735.4 
Balance as of March 31, 2021$231.8 $66.3 $252.2 $51.8 $8.3 $86.8 $697.2 
Long-term flows:   
Sales/new accounts74.7 1.5 39.6 14.0 4.5 23.3 157.6 
Redemptions/terminations(40.7)(0.6)(50.8)(8.5)(0.4)(3.2)(104.2)
Cash flow/unreinvested dividends(11.1)(8.1)(2.7)(0.2)1.1 (0.1)(21.1)
Net long-term inflows (outflows)(3)
22.9 (7.2)(13.9)5.3 5.2 20.0 32.3 
Market appreciation (depreciation)10.5 7.1 (12.4)(2.2)(0.8)3.7 5.9 
Net change33.4 (0.1)(26.3)3.1 4.4 23.7 38.2 
Balance as of March 31, 2022$265.2 $66.2 $225.9 $54.9 $12.7 $110.5 $735.4 
(1)Includes index and enhanced index services.
(2)Includes certain multi-asset solutions and services not included in equity or fixed income services.
(3)    Fixed income – taxable investment service net flows include $1.3 billion of AXA's redemptions of certain low-fee fixed income mandates for the twelve-month period ended March 31, 2022.

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Net long-term inflows (outflows) for actively managed investment services as compared to passively managed investment services for the three-month and twelve-month periods ended March 31, 2022 are as follows:
 Periods Ended March 31, 2022
 Three-monthsTwelve-months
 (in billions)
Actively Managed
  Equity$4.6 $22.9 
 Fixed Income
(3.7)(8.6)
Alternatives/Multi-Asset Solutions11.3 17.6 
12.2 31.9 
Passively Managed  
  Equity(1.8)(7.2)
 Fixed Income
0.4 5.2 
Alternatives/Multi-Asset Solutions0.6 2.4 
 (0.8)0.4 
Total net long-term inflows$11.4 $32.3 

Average assets under management by distribution channel and investment service are as follows:

 Three Months Ended March 31,
 20222021$ Change% Change
 (in billions)
Distribution Channel:
Institutions$331.6 $313.4 $18.2 5.8 %
Retail301.5 268.0 33.5 12.5 
Private Wealth118.1 107.1 11.0 10.2 
Total$751.2 $688.5 $62.7 9.1 %
Investment Service:
Equity Actively Managed$270.5 $223.4 $47.1 21.1 %
Equity Passively Managed(1)
67.5 64.6 2.9 4.5 
Fixed Income Actively Managed – Taxable236.2 257.3 (21.1)(8.2)
Fixed Income Actively Managed – Tax-exempt56.1 51.2 4.9 9.4 
Fixed Income Passively Managed(1)
12.9 8.4 4.5 54.2 
Alternatives/Multi-Asset Solutions(2)
108.0 83.6 24.4 29.2 
Total$751.2 $688.5 $62.7 9.1 %
(1)Includes index and enhanced index services.
(2)Includes certain multi-asset solutions and services not included in equity of fixed income services.

Our Institutional channel first quarter average AUM of $331.6 billion increased $18.2 billion, or 5.8%, compared to the first quarter of 2021, primarily due to this AUM increasing $11.2 billion, or 3.6%, to $325.9 billion over the last 12 months. The $11.2 billion increase resulted from net inflows of $11.7 billion, offset by market depreciation of $0.5 billion.
Our Retail channel first quarter average AUM of $301.5 billion increased $33.5 billion, or 12.5%, compared to the first quarter of 2021, primarily due to this AUM increasing $20.3 billion, or 7.4%, to $292.6 billion over the last 12 months. The $20.3 billion increase resulted from net inflows of $17.1 billion and market appreciation of $3.2 billion.
Our Private Wealth channel first quarter average AUM of $118.1 billion increased $11.0 billion, or 10.2%, compared to the first quarter of 2021, primarily due to this AUM increasing $6.7 billion, or 6.1%, to $116.9 billion over the last 12 months. The $6.7 billion increase resulted from net inflows of $3.5 billion and market appreciation of $3.2 billion.


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Absolute investment composite returns, gross of fees, and relative performance as of March 31, 2022 compared to benchmarks for certain representative Institutional equity and fixed income services are as follows:
 1-Year
3-Year(1)
5-Year(1)
Global High Income - Hedged (fixed income)
Absolute return(0.1)%4.0 %3.8 %
Relative return (vs. Bloomberg Barclays Global High Yield Index - Hedged)2.5 1.0 0.2 
Global Plus - Hedged (fixed income)
Absolute return(3.4)1.7 2.5 
Relative return (vs. Bloomberg Barclays Global Aggregate Index - Hedged)0.5 0.4 0.2 
Intermediate Municipal Bonds (fixed income)
Absolute return(2.8)1.7 2.2 
Relative return (vs. Lipper Short/Int. Blended Muni Fund Avg)0.4 0.7 0.7 
U.S. Strategic Core Plus (fixed income)
Absolute return(3.9)2.2 2.6 
Relative return (vs. Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Index)0.2 0.5 0.5 
Emerging Market Debt (fixed income)
Absolute return(5.9)1.1 2.0 
Relative return (vs. JPM EMBI Global/JPM EMBI)0.3 0.6 0.3 
Sustainable Global Thematic (equity)
Absolute return2.5 19.5 16.8 
Relative return (vs. MSCI ACWI Index)(4.8)5.7 5.2 
International Strategic Core Equity (equity)
Absolute return5.2 6.8 7.7 
Relative return (vs. MSCI EAFE Index)4.0 (0.9)1.0 
U.S. Small & Mid Cap Value (equity)
Absolute return7.3 13.8 9.6 
Relative return (vs. Russell 2500 Value Index)(0.4)0.8 0.4 
U.S. Strategic Value (equity)
Absolute return10.8 12.4 8.7 
Relative return (vs. Russell 1000 Value Index)(0.9)(0.6)(1.6)
U.S. Small Cap Growth (equity)
Absolute return(15.0)15.3 18.3 
Relative return (vs. Russell 2000 Growth Index)(0.7)5.4 8.0 
U.S. Large Cap Growth (equity)
Absolute return11.8 21.2 20.7 
Relative return (vs. Russell 1000 Growth Index)(3.2)(2.4)(0.1)
U.S. Small & Mid Cap Growth (equity)
Absolute return(9.8)15.1 17.0 
Relative return (vs. Russell 2500 Growth Index)0.3 2.1 3.8 
Concentrated U.S. Growth (equity)
Absolute return 9.1 18.7 18.4 
Relative return (vs. S&P 500 Index)(6.5)(0.2)2.4 
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 1-Year
3-Year(1)
5-Year(1)
Select U.S. Equity (equity)
Absolute return16.6 19.8 16.8 
Relative return (vs. S&P 500 Index)1.0 0.9 0.9 
Strategic Equities (equity)
Absolute return10.7 16.1 13.7 
Relative return (vs. Russell 3000 Index)(1.3)(2.1)(1.7)
Global Core Equity (equity)
Absolute return 2.9 11.8 12.0 
Relative return (vs. MSCI ACWI Index)(4.3)(1.9)0.3 
U.S. Strategic Core Equity (equity)
Absolute return15.2 15.0 13.6 
Relative return (vs. S&P 500 Index)(0.5)(4.0)(2.4)
Select U.S. Equity Long/Short (alternatives)
Absolute return 10.7 13.2 11.5 
Relative return (vs. S&P 500 Index)(5.0)(5.7)(4.5)
(1)Reflects annualized returns.
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Consolidated Results of Operations
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 20222021$ Change% Change
 (in thousands, except per unit amounts)
Net revenues$1,105,687 $1,007,266 $98,421 9.8 %
Expenses857,284 746,682 110,602 14.8 
Operating income248,403 260,584 (12,181)(4.7)
Income taxes12,721 16,745 (4,024)(24.0)
Net income235,682 243,839 (8,157)(3.3)
Net (loss) of consolidated entities attributable to non-controlling interests(25,045)(292)(24,753)n/m
Net income attributable to AB Unitholders$260,727 $244,131 $16,596 6.8 
Diluted net income per AB Unit$0.95 $0.89 $0.06 6.7 
Distributions per AB Unit$0.99 $0.88 $0.11 12.5 
Operating margin (1)
24.7 %25.9 % 
(1)Operating income excluding net (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests as a percentage of net revenues.

Net income attributable to AB Unitholders for the three months ended March 31, 2022 increased $16.6 million, or 6.8%, from the three months ended March 31, 2021. The increase primarily is due to (in millions):
Higher performance-based fees$60.2 
Higher base advisory fees60.1 
Higher net loss of consolidated entities attributable to non-controlling interest24.8 
Higher distribution revenues20.7 
Higher general and administrative expenses(57.4)
Higher investment losses(41.0)
Higher employee compensation and benefits expense(33.4)
Higher promotion and servicing expense(20.0)
Other2.6 
 $16.6 

Units Outstanding

Each quarter, we consider whether to implement a plan to repurchase AB Holding Units pursuant to Rules 10b5-1 and 10b-18 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“Exchange Act”). A plan of this type allows a company to repurchase its shares at times when it otherwise might be prevented from doing so because of self-imposed trading blackout periods or because it possesses material non-public information. Each broker we select has the authority to repurchase AB Holding Units on our behalf in accordance with the terms and limitations specified in the plan. Repurchases are subject to regulations promulgated by the SEC, as well as certain price, market volume and timing constraints specified in the plan. There was no plan adopted during the first quarter of 2022. We may adopt additional plans in the future to engage in open-market purchases of AB Holding Units to help fund anticipated obligations under our incentive compensation award program and for other corporate purposes.

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Cash Distributions

We are required to distribute all of our Available Cash Flow, as defined in the AB Partnership Agreement, to our Unitholders and the General Partner. Available Cash Flow typically is the adjusted diluted net income per unit for the quarter multiplied by the number of general and limited partnership interests at the end of the quarter. In future periods, management anticipates that Available Cash Flow will continue to be based on adjusted diluted net income per unit, unless management determines, with concurrence of the Board of Directors, that one or more adjustments that are made for adjusted net income should not be made with respect to the Available Cash Flow calculation. See Note 6 to our consolidated financial statements contained in Item 1 for a description of Available Cash Flow.

Management Operating Metrics

We are providing the non-GAAP measures “adjusted net revenues,” “adjusted operating income” and “adjusted operating margin” because they are the principal operating metrics management uses in evaluating and comparing period-to-period operating performance. Management principally uses these metrics in evaluating performance because they present a clearer picture of our operating performance and allow management to see long-term trends without the distortion primarily caused by long-term incentive compensation-related mark-to-market adjustments, real estate charges and other adjustment items. Similarly, we believe that these management operating metrics help investors better understand the underlying trends in our results and, accordingly, provide a valuable perspective for investors.

These non-GAAP measures are provided in addition to, and not as substitutes for, net revenues, operating income and operating
margin, and they may not be comparable to non-GAAP measures presented by other companies. Management uses both accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("US GAAP") and non-GAAP measures in evaluating our financial performance. The non-GAAP measures alone may pose limitations because they do not include all of our revenues and expenses.

 Three Months Ended March 31,
 20222021
 (in thousands, except per unit amounts)
Net revenues, US GAAP basis$1,105,687 $1,007,266 
Adjustments:  
Distribution-related adjustments:
Distribution revenues(168,341)(147,600)
Investment advisory services fees(17,285)(22,553)
Pass-through adjustments:
Investment advisory services fees(35,976)(4,196)
Other revenues(8,963)(10,531)
Impact of consolidated company-sponsored funds24,538 (311)
Long-term incentive compensation-related investment gains and dividend and interest4,084 (2,097)
Adjusted net revenues$903,744 $819,978 
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 Three Months Ended March 31,
 20222021
Operating income, US GAAP basis$248,403 $260,584 
Adjustments:  
Real estate(206)(985)
Long-term incentive compensation-related items945 
EQH award compensation175 142 
Acquisition-related expenses10,687 22 
Sub-total of non-GAAP adjustments11,601 (815)
Less: Net (loss) of consolidated entities attributable to non-controlling interests(25,045)(292)
Adjusted operating income285,049 260,061 
Adjusted income taxes14,595 16,722 
Adjusted net income $270,454 $243,339 
Diluted net income per AB Unit, GAAP basis$0.95 $0.89 
Impact of non-GAAP adjustments0.04 (0.01)
Adjusted diluted net income per AB Unit$0.99 $0.88 
Operating margin, GAAP basis24.7 %25.9 %
Impact of non-GAAP adjustments6.8 5.8 
Adjusted operating margin31.5 %31.7 %

Adjusted operating income for the three months ended March 31, 2022 increased $25.0 million, or 9.6%, from the three months ended March 31, 2021, primarily due to higher investment advisory base fees of $64.5 million and higher performance-based fees of $29.2 million, partially offset by higher employee compensation and benefits expense (excluding the impact of long-term incentive compensation-related items) of $37.9 million, higher general and administrative expenses of $16.9 million, higher investment losses of $8.4 million and higher promotion and servicing expenses of $6.1 million.

Adjusted Net Revenues

Net Revenue, as adjusted, is reduced to exclude all of the company's distribution revenues, which are recorded as a separate line
item on the consolidated statement of income, as well as a portion of investment advisory services fees received that is used to pay distribution and servicing costs. For certain products, based on the distinct arrangements, certain distribution fees are collected by us and passed through to third-party client intermediaries, while for certain other products, we collect investment advisory services fees and a portion is passed through to third-party client intermediaries. In both arrangements, the third-party client intermediary owns the relationship with the client and is responsible for performing services and distributing the product to the client on our behalf. We believe offsetting distribution revenues and certain investment advisory services fees is useful for our investors and other users of our financial statements because such presentation appropriately reflects the nature of these costs as pass-through payments to third parties that perform functions on behalf of our sponsored mutual funds and/or shareholders of these funds. Distribution-related adjustments fluctuate each period based on the type of investment products sold, as well as the average AUM over the period. Also, we adjust distribution revenues for the amortization of deferred sales commissions as these costs, over time, will offset such revenues.

We adjust investment advisory and services fees and other revenues for pass through costs, primarily related to our transfer agent and shareholder servicing fees. These fees do not affect operating income, but they do affect our operating margin. As such, we exclude these fees from adjusted net revenues.

We adjust for the revenue impact of consolidating company-sponsored investment funds by eliminating the consolidated company-sponsored investment funds' revenues and including AB's fees from such consolidated company-sponsored investment funds and AB's investment gains and losses on its investments in such consolidated company-sponsored investment funds that were eliminated in consolidation.

Also, adjusted net revenues exclude investment gains and losses and dividends and interest on employee long-term incentive compensation-related investments.
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Adjusted Operating Income

Adjusted operating income represents operating income on a US GAAP basis excluding (1) real estate charges (credits), (2) the impact on net revenues and compensation expense of the investment gains and losses (as well as the dividends and interest) associated with employee long-term incentive compensation-related investments, (3) our senior management's EQH award compensation, as discussed below, (4) acquisition-related expenses and (5) the impact of consolidated company-sponsored investment funds.
Real estate charges (credits) incurred during the fourth quarter of 2019 through the fourth quarter of 2020, while excluded in the period in which the charges (credits) were recorded, are included ratably over the remaining applicable lease term.
Prior to 2009, a significant portion of employee compensation was in the form of long-term incentive compensation awards that were notionally invested in AB investment services and generally vested over a period of four years. AB economically hedged the exposure to market movements by purchasing and holding these investments on its balance sheet. All such investments had vested as of year-end 2012 and the investments have been delivered to the participants, except for those investments with respect to which the participant elected a long-term deferral. Fluctuation in the value of these investments, which also impacts compensation expense, is recorded within investment gains and losses on the income statement. Management believes it is useful to reflect the offset achieved from economically hedging the market exposure of these investments in the calculation of adjusted operating income and adjusted operating margin. The non-GAAP measures exclude gains and losses and dividends and interest on employee long-term incentive compensation-related investments included in revenues and compensation expense.
The board of directors of EQH granted to Seth P. Bernstein, our CEO, equity awards in connection with EQH's IPO. Additionally, equity awards have been granted to Mr. Bernstein and other members of AB's senior management for their membership on the EQH Management Committee. These individuals may receive additional equity or cash compensation from EQH in the future related to their service on the Management Committee. Any awards granted to these individuals by EQH are recorded as compensation expense in AB’s consolidated statement of income. The compensation expense associated with these awards has been excluded from our non-GAAP measures because they are non-cash and are based upon EQH's, and not AB's, financial performance.
Acquisition-related expenses have been excluded because they are not considered part of our core operating results when comparing financial results from period to period and to industry peers. Acquisition-related expenses include professional fees and the recording of changes in estimates to contingent payment arrangements associated with our acquisitions. Beginning in the first quarter of 2022, acquisition-related expenses also include certain compensation-related expenses, amortization of intangible assets for contracts acquired and accretion expense with respect to contingent payment arrangements.
We adjusted for the operating income impact of consolidating certain company-sponsored investment funds by eliminating the consolidated company-sponsored funds' revenues and expenses and including AB's revenues and expenses that were eliminated in consolidation. We also excluded the limited partner interests we do not own.
Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted Diluted Net Income per AB Unit

As previously discussed, our quarterly distribution is typically our adjusted diluted net income per unit (which is derived from adjusted net income) for the quarter multiplied by the number of general and limited partnership interests at the end of the quarter. Adjusted income taxes, used in calculating adjusted net income, are calculated using the GAAP effective tax rate adjusted for non-GAAP income tax adjustments.

Adjusted Operating Margin

Adjusted operating margin allows us to monitor our financial performance and efficiency from period to period without the volatility noted above in our discussion of adjusted operating income and to compare our performance to industry peers on a basis that better reflects our performance in our core business. Adjusted operating margin is derived by dividing adjusted operating income by adjusted net revenues.

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Net Revenues

The components of net revenues are as follows:
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 20222021$ Change% Change
 (in thousands)
Investment advisory and services fees:
Institutions:
Base fees$138,073 $129,430 $8,643 6.7 %
Performance-based fees41,809 4,430 37,379 n/m
 179,882 133,860 46,022 34.4 
Retail:    
Base fees366,174 330,397 35,777 10.8 
Performance-based fees556 2,965 (2,409)(81.2)
 366,730 333,362 33,368 10.0 
Private Wealth:    
Base fees243,566 227,864 15,702 6.9 
Performance-based fees33,604 8,380 25,224 n/m
 277,170 236,244 40,926 17.3 
Total:    
Base fees747,813 687,691 60,122 8.7 
Performance-based fees75,969 15,775 60,194 n/m
 823,782 703,466 120,316 17.1 
Bernstein Research Services117,807 119,021 (1,214)(1.0)
Distribution revenues168,341 147,600 20,741 14.1 
Dividend and interest income11,475 8,684 2,791 32.1 
Investment gains (losses)(39,024)1,928 (40,952)n/m
Other revenues26,155 27,711 (1,556)(5.6)
Total revenues1,108,536 1,008,410 100,126 9.9 
Less: Interest expense2,849 1,144 1,705 149.0 
Net revenues$1,105,687 $1,007,266 $98,421 9.8 

Investment Advisory and Services Fees

Investment advisory and services fees are the largest component of our revenues. These fees generally are calculated as a percentage of the value of AUM as of a specified date, or as a percentage of the value of average AUM for the applicable billing period, and vary with the type of investment service, the size of account and the total amount of assets we manage for a particular client. Accordingly, fee income generally increases or decreases as AUM increase or decrease and is affected by market appreciation or depreciation, the addition of new client accounts or client contributions of additional assets to existing accounts, withdrawals of assets from and termination of client accounts, purchases and redemptions of mutual fund shares, shifts of assets between accounts or products with different fee structures, and acquisitions. Our average basis points realized (investment advisory and services fees divided by average AUM) generally approximate 30 to 105 basis points for actively-managed equity services, 10 to 70 basis points for actively-managed fixed income services and 2 to 40 basis points for passively-managed services. Average basis points realized for other services could range from 4 basis points for certain Institutional third party managed services to over 100 basis points for certain Retail and Private Wealth alternative services. These ranges include all-inclusive fee arrangements (covering investment management, trade execution and other services) for our Private Wealth clients.

We calculate AUM using established market-based valuation methods and fair valuation (non-observable market) methods. Market-based valuation methods include: last sale/settle prices from an exchange for actively-traded listed equities, options and futures; evaluated bid prices from recognized pricing vendors for fixed income, asset-backed or mortgage-backed issues; mid
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prices from recognized pricing vendors and brokers for credit default swaps; and quoted bids or spreads from pricing vendors and brokers for other derivative products. Fair valuation methods include: discounted cash flow models or any other methodology that is validated and approved by our Valuation Committee (see paragraph immediately below for more information regarding our Valuation Committee). Fair valuation methods are used only where AUM cannot be valued using market-based valuation methods, such as in the case of private equity or illiquid securities.

The Valuation Committee, which consists of senior officers and employees, is responsible for overseeing the pricing and valuation of all investments held in client and AB portfolios. The Valuation Committee has adopted a Statement of Pricing Policies describing principles and policies that apply to pricing and valuing investments held in these portfolios. We also have a Pricing Group, which reports to the Valuation Committee and is responsible for overseeing the pricing process for all investments.
 
We sometimes charge our clients performance-based fees. In these situations, we charge a base advisory fee and are eligible to earn an additional performance-based fee or incentive allocation that is calculated as either a percentage of absolute investment results or a percentage of investment results in excess of a stated benchmark over a specified period of time. Some performance-based fees include a high-watermark provision, which generally provides that if a client account underperforms relative to its performance target (whether absolute or relative to a specified benchmark), it must gain back such underperformance before we can collect future performance-based fees. Therefore, if we fail to achieve our performance target for a particular period, we will not earn a performance-based fee for that period and, for accounts with a high-watermark provision, our ability to earn future performance-based fees will be impaired. We are eligible to earn performance-based fees on 6.7%, 9.1% and 0.6% of the assets we manage for institutional clients, private wealth clients and retail clients, respectively (in total, 4.6% of our AUM).

For the three months ended March 31, 2022, our investment advisory and services fees increased by $120.3 million, or 17.1%, from the three months ended March 31, 2021, due to a $60.2 million increase in performance-based fees and a $60.1 million, or 8.7%, increase in base fees. The increase in base fees is primarily due to a 9.1% increase in average AUM. Performance-based fees increased primarily due to higher performance fees earned on our U.S. Real Estate Funds and International Small Cap Fund.

Institutional investment advisory and services fees for the three months ended March 31, 2022 increased by $46.0 million, or 34.4%, from the three months ended March 31, 2021, due to a $37.4 million increase in performance-based fees and an $8.6 million, or 6.7%, increase in base fees. The increase in base fees is primarily due to a 5.8% increase in average AUM.

Retail investment advisory and services fees for the three months ended March 31, 2022 increased by $33.4 million, or 10.0%, from the three months ended March 31, 2021, due to a $35.8 million, or 10.8%, increase in base fees, partially offset by a $2.4 million decrease in performance-based fees. The increase in base fees is primarily due to a 12.5% increase in average AUM.

Private Wealth investment advisory and services fees for the three months ended March 31, 2022 increased by $40.9 million, or 17.3%, from the three months ended March 31, 2021, due to a $25.2 million increase in performance-based fees and a $15.7 million, or 6.9%, increase in base fees. The increase in base fees is primarily due to a 10.2% increase in average AUM, partially offset by a lower portfolio fee rate.

Bernstein Research Services

We earn revenues for providing investment research to, and executing brokerage transactions for, institutional clients. These clients compensate us principally by directing us to execute brokerage transactions on their behalf, for which we earn commissions, and to a lesser extent, but increasingly, by paying us directly for research through commission sharing agreements or cash payments.
Revenues from Bernstein Research Services for the three months ended March 31, 2022 decreased $1.2 million, or 1.0%, from the three months ended March 31, 2021. The slight decrease was due to lower customer trading activity in Asia partially offset by higher market volatility and trading volumes in the U.S. and U.K.

Distribution Revenues

Two of our subsidiaries act as distributors and/or placement agents of company-sponsored mutual funds and receive distribution services fees from certain of those funds as full or partial reimbursement of the distribution expenses they incur. Period-over-period fluctuations of distribution revenues typically are in line with fluctuations of the corresponding average AUM of these mutual funds.
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Distribution revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2022 increased $20.7 million, or 14.1%, from the three months ended March 31, 2021, primarily due to the corresponding average AUM of these mutual funds increasing 9.6%, as well as a shift in product mix from Asia fixed income to equities, which generally earn higher fees.

Dividend and Interest Income and Interest Expense

Dividend and interest income consists primarily of investment income and interest earned on customer margin balances and U.S. Treasury Bills as well as dividend and interest income in our consolidated company-sponsored investment funds. Interest expense principally reflects interest accrued on cash balances in customers’ brokerage accounts.

Dividend and interest income for the three months ended March 31, 2022 increased $2.8 million, or 32.1%, from the three months ended March 31, 2021, primarily due to higher dividend and interest income in our consolidated company-sponsored investment funds and higher interest earned on customer margin balances. Interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2022 increased $1.7 million, or 149.0%, from the three months ended March 31, 2021, due to higher interest paid on cash balances in customers' brokerage accounts.

Investment Gains (Losses)

Investment gains (losses) consist primarily of realized and unrealized investment gains or losses on: (i) employee long-term incentive compensation-related investments, (ii) U.S. Treasury Bills, (iii) market-making in exchange-traded options and equities, (iv) seed capital investments, (v) derivatives and (vi) investments in our consolidated company-sponsored investment funds. Investment gains (losses) also include equity in earnings of proprietary investments in limited partnership hedge funds that we sponsor and manage.
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Investment (losses) gains are as follows:
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 20222021
 (in thousands)
Long-term incentive compensation-related investments:
Realized gains$1,335 $2,052 
Unrealized (losses)(5,485)(40)
Investments held by consolidated company-sponsored investment funds:
  Realized (losses) gains (989)1,342 
  Unrealized (losses) (40,898)(6,941)
Seed capital investments:
Realized gains (losses)
Seed capital and other3,576 2,557 
Derivatives16,628 (7,847)
Unrealized (losses) gains
Seed capital and other(15,537)567 
Derivatives3,104 10,166 
Brokerage-related investments:
Realized (losses) gains(667)122 
Unrealized (losses)(91)(50)
 $(39,024)$1,928 

Other Revenues

Other revenues consist of fees earned for transfer agency services provided to company-sponsored mutual funds, fees earned for administration and recordkeeping services provided to company-sponsored mutual funds and the general accounts of EQH and its subsidiaries, and other miscellaneous revenues. Other revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2022 decreased $1.6 million, or 5.6%, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2021, primarily due to lower brokerage income.

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Expenses

The components of expenses are as follows:
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 20222021$ Change% Change
 (in thousands)
Employee compensation and benefits$439,420 $406,059 $33,361 8.2 %
Promotion and servicing: 
Distribution-related payments176,244 162,254 13,990 8.6 
Amortization of deferred sales commissions9,383 7,899 1,484 18.8 
Trade execution, marketing, T&E and other51,227 46,678 4,549 9.7 
 236,854 216,831 20,023 9.2 
General and administrative177,625 120,223 57,402 47.7 
Contingent payment arrangements838 796 42 5.3 
Interest on borrowings1,411 1,294 117 9.0 
Amortization of intangible assets1,136 1,479 (343)(23.2)
Total$857,284 $746,682 $110,602 14.8 

Employee Compensation and Benefits

Employee compensation and benefits consist of base compensation (including salaries and severance), annual short-term incentive compensation awards (cash bonuses), annual long-term incentive compensation awards, commissions, fringe benefits and other employment costs (including recruitment, training, temporary help and meals).

Compensation expense as a percentage of net revenues was 39.7% and 40.3% for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Compensation expense generally is determined on a discretionary basis and is primarily a function of our firm’s current-year financial performance. The amounts of incentive compensation we award are designed to motivate, reward and retain top talent while aligning our executives' interests with the interests of our Unitholders. Senior management, with the approval of the Compensation and Workplace Practices Committee of the Board of Directors of AllianceBernstein Corporation (“Compensation Committee”), periodically confirms that the appropriate metric to consider in determining the amount of incentive compensation is the ratio of adjusted employee compensation and benefits expense to adjusted net revenues. Adjusted net revenues used in the adjusted compensation ratio are the same as the adjusted net revenues presented as a non-GAAP measure (discussed earlier in this Item 2). Adjusted employee compensation and benefits expense is total employee compensation and benefits expense minus other employment costs such as recruitment, training, temporary help and meals (which was 0.9% and 0.7% of adjusted net revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively), and excludes the impact of mark-to-market vesting expense, as well as dividends and interest expense, associated with employee long-term incentive compensation-related investments and the amortization expense associated with the awards issued by EQH to some of our firm's senior management relating to their roles as members of the EQH Management Committee. Senior management, with the approval of the Compensation Committee, has established as an objective that adjusted employee compensation and benefits expense generally should not exceed 50% of our adjusted net revenues, except in unexpected or unusual circumstances. Our ratio of adjusted compensation expense as a percentage of adjusted net revenues was 48.0% and 48.5% for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

For the three months ended March 31, 2022, employee compensation and benefits expense increased $33.4 million, or 8.2%, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2021, primarily due to higher incentive compensation of $13.2 million, higher base compensation of $9.6 million, higher commissions of $6.4 million and higher fringes of $2.3 million.

Promotion and Servicing

Promotion and servicing expenses include distribution-related payments to financial intermediaries for distribution of AB mutual funds and amortization of deferred sales commissions paid to financial intermediaries for the sale of back-end load shares of AB mutual funds. Also included in this expense category are costs related to trade execution and clearance, travel and entertainment, advertising and promotional materials.

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Promotion and servicing expenses increased $20.0 million, or 9.2%, during the three months ended March 31, 2022 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2021. The increase primarily was due to higher distribution-related payments of $14.0 million, higher travel and entertainment expenses of $3.4 million and higher marketing and communication expenses of $2.1 million.

General and Administrative

General and administrative expenses include portfolio services expenses, technology expenses, professional fees and office-related expenses (occupancy, communications and similar expenses). General and administrative expenses as a percentage of net revenues were 16.1% and 11.9% for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. General and administrative expenses increased $57.4 million, or 47.7%, during the three months ended March 31, 2022 compared to the corresponding period in 2021, primarily due to higher portfolio servicing fees of $35.5 million, higher professional fees of $9.8 million, higher technology fees of $5.0 million and higher office-related expenses of $3.9 million.

Contingent Payment Arrangements

Contingent payment arrangements reflect changes in estimates of contingent payment liabilities associated with acquisitions in previous periods, as well as accretion expense of these liabilities. There were no changes in our estimates during the first three months ended March 31, 2022 or 2021.

Interest on Borrowings

Interest on borrowings reflects interest expense related to our debt and credit facilities. See Note 16 to AB's condensed consolidated financial statements contained in Item 1, for disclosures relating to our debt and credit facilities. For the three months ended March 31, 2022 interest on borrowings increased $0.1 million, or 9.0%, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2021.

Amortization of Intangible Assets

Amortization of intangible assets reflects our amortization of costs assigned to acquired investment management contracts with a finite life. These assets are recognized at fair value and generally are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful life. Amortization of intangible assets decreased $0.3 million, or 23.2%, during the three months ended March 31, 2022 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2021.

Income Taxes

AB, a private limited partnership, is not subject to federal or state corporate income taxes. However, AB is subject to a 4.0% New York City unincorporated business tax (“UBT”). Our domestic corporate subsidiaries are subject to federal, state and local income taxes and generally are included in the filing of a consolidated federal income tax return. Separate state and local income tax returns also are filed. Foreign corporate subsidiaries generally are subject to taxes in the jurisdictions where they are located.

Income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2022 decreased $4.0 million, or 24.0%, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2021. The decrease was primarily due to a lower effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2022 of 5.1% compared to 6.4% for the corresponding period in 2021, driven by a decrease in one-time discrete items. There were no material changes to uncertain tax positions (FIN 48 reserves) or valuation allowances against deferred tax assets for the three months ended March 31, 2022.

Net Income (Loss) of Consolidated Entities Attributable to Non-Controlling Interests

Net income (loss) of consolidated entities attributable to non-controlling interests primarily consists of limited partner interests owned by other investors in our consolidated company-sponsored investment funds. For the three months ended March 31, 2022, we had $25.0 million of net losses of consolidated entities attributable to non-controlling interests compared to net losses of $0.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021. Fluctuations period-to-period result primarily from the number of consolidated company-sponsored investment funds and their respective market performance.

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CAPITAL RESOURCES AND LIQUIDITY

Cash flows from operating activities primarily include the receipt of investment advisory and services fees and other revenues offset by the payment of operating expenses incurred in the normal course of business. Our cash flows from operating activities have historically been positive and sufficient in supporting our operations. We do not anticipate this to change in the foreseeable future. Cash flows from investing activities generally consist of small capital expenditures and, when applicable, business acquisitions. Cash flows from financing activities primarily consist of issuance and repayment of debt and the repurchase of AB Holding units to fund our long-term deferred compensation plans. We are required to distribute all of our Available Cash Flow to our Unitholders and the General Partner.

During the first three months of 2022, net cash provided by operating activities was $150.2 million, compared to $328.8 million during the corresponding 2021 period. The change reflects an increase in broker-dealer related receivables (net of payables and segregated U.S. treasury bills activity) of $177.6 million, higher net purchases of broker-dealer investments of $45.1 million and an increase in other assets of $43.0 million, partially offset by higher earnings of $45.2 million (after non-cash reconciling items) and the net activity of our consolidated funds of $43.6 million.

During the first three months of 2022, net cash used in investing activities was $6.2 million, compared to $19.4 million during the corresponding 2021 period. The change is due to lower purchases of furniture, equipment and leasehold improvements of $9.4 million and lower cash paid for acquisitions of $3.8 million.

During the first three months of 2022, net cash used in financing activities was $371.2 million, compared to $382.7 million during the corresponding 2021 period. The change reflects higher net borrowings of debt of $145.0 million, partially offset by higher distributions to the General Partner and Unitholders of $88.1 million as a result of higher earnings (distributions on earnings are paid one quarter in arrears) and higher distributions to non-controlling interests of consolidated company-sponsored investment funds of $44.6 million.

As of March 31, 2022, AB had $1.1 billion of cash and cash equivalents (excluding cash and cash equivalents of consolidated company-sponsored investment funds), all of which is available for liquidity but consist primarily of cash on deposit for our broker-dealers related to various customer clearing activities, and cash held by foreign subsidiaries of $687.1 million.

Debt and Credit Facilities

See Note 16 to AB’s condensed consolidated financial statements contained in Item 1, for disclosures relating to our debt and credit facilities.

Our financial condition and access to public and private debt markets should provide adequate liquidity for our general business needs. Management believes that cash flow from operations and the issuance of debt and AB Units or AB Holding Units will provide us with the resources we need to meet our financial obligations. See “Cautions Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” for a discussion of credit markets and our ability to renew our credit facilities at expiration.

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

AB’s capital commitments, which consist primarily of operating leases for office space, generally are funded from future operating cash flows.

We have signed a lease which commences in 2024, relating to approximately 166,000 square feet of space in New York City. Our estimated total base rent obligation (excluding taxes, operating expenses and utilities) over the 20-year lease term is approximately $393.0 million.

During 2010, as general partner of AllianceBernstein U.S. Real Estate L.P. (“Real Estate Fund”), we committed to invest $25.0 million in the Real Estate Fund. As of March 31, 2022, we had funded $22.4 million of this commitment. During 2014, as general partner of AllianceBernstein U.S. Real Estate II L.P. (“Real Estate Fund II”), we committed to invest $27.3 million, as amended in 2020, in Real Estate Fund II. As of March 31, 2022, we had funded $21.3 million of this commitment.

See Note 12 for discussion of contingencies.

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CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES

The preparation of the condensed consolidated financial statements and notes to condensed consolidated financial statements requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses.

There have been no updates to our critical accounting estimates from those disclosed in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition” in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021.

ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

See Note 2 to AB’s condensed consolidated financial statements contained in Item 1.

CAUTIONS REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements provided by management in this report and in the portion of AB’s Form 10-Q attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1 are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The most significant of these factors include, but are not limited to, the following: the performance of financial markets, the investment performance of sponsored investment products and separately-managed accounts, general economic conditions, industry trends, future acquisitions, integration of acquired companies, competitive conditions and government regulations, including changes in tax regulations and rates and the manner in which the earnings of publicly-traded partnerships are taxed. We caution readers to carefully consider such factors. Further, these forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which such statements are made; we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements. For further information regarding these forward-looking statements and the factors that could cause actual results to differ, see “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A of our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 and Part II, Item 1A in this Form 10-Q. Any or all of the forward-looking statements that we make in our Form 10-K, this Form 10-Q, other documents we file with or furnish to the SEC, and any other public statements we issue, may turn out to be wrong. It is important to remember that other factors besides those listed in “Risk Factors” and those listed below could also adversely impact our revenues, financial condition, results of operations and business prospects.

The forward-looking statements referred to in the preceding paragraph, most of which directly affect AB but also affect AB Holding because AB Holding’s principal source of income and cash flow is attributable to its investment in AB, include statements regarding:

Our belief that the cash flow AB Holding realizes from its investment in AB will provide AB Holding with the resources it needs to meet its financial obligations: AB Holding’s cash flow is dependent on the quarterly cash distributions it receives from AB. Accordingly, AB Holding’s ability to meet its financial obligations is dependent on AB’s cash flow from its operations, which is subject to the performance of the capital markets and other factors beyond our control.

Our financial condition and ability to access the public and private capital markets providing adequate liquidity for our general business needs: Our financial condition is dependent on our cash flow from operations, which is subject to the performance of the capital markets, our ability to maintain and grow client assets under management and other factors beyond our control. Our ability to access public and private capital markets on reasonable terms may be limited by adverse market conditions, our firm’s credit ratings, our profitability and changes in government regulations, including tax rates and interest rates.

The outcome of litigation: Litigation is inherently unpredictable, and excessive damage awards do occur. Though we have stated that we do not expect any pending legal proceedings to have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition or liquidity, any settlement or judgment with respect to a legal proceeding could be significant and could have such an effect.

The possibility that we will engage in open market purchases of AB Holding Units to help fund anticipated obligations under our incentive compensation award program: The number of AB Holding Units AB may decide to buy in future periods, if any, to help fund incentive compensation awards depends on various factors, some of which are beyond our control, including the fluctuation in the price of an AB Holding Unit (NYSE: AB) and the availability of cash to make these purchases.

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Our determination that adjusted employee compensation expense should not exceed 50% of our adjusted net revenues:  Aggregate employee compensation reflects employee performance and competitive compensation levels. Fluctuations in our revenues and/or changes in competitive compensation levels could result in adjusted employee compensation expense exceeding 50% of our adjusted net revenues.

The Adverse Impact of COVID-19: The aggregate extent to which COVID-19, including existing and new variants and its impact on the global economy, affects AB’s business, liquidity, results of operations and financial condition, will depend on future COVID-19 developments that are highly uncertain, including the scope and duration of the pandemic and any recovery period, the emergence, spread and seriousness of COVID-19 variants, the continuing prevalence of severe, unconstrained and/or escalating rates of infection and hospitalization in various countries and regions, the availability, adoption and efficacy of treatments and vaccines, and future actions taken by governmental authorities, central banks and other parties in response to COVID-19.

The probability that our acquisition of CarVal Investors, LP will close as anticipated. These statements concern expected growth, client and stockholder benefits, key assumptions, timing of closing of the transaction, revenue realization, financial benefits or returns, accretion and integration costs. The most significant transaction-related and other risk factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from future results expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements include: (i) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the acquisition agreement; (ii) the transaction closing conditions may not be satisfied in a timely manner or at all, including due to the failure to obtain regulatory and client approvals; (iii) the announcement and pendency of the acquisition may disrupt CarVal’s business operations (including the threatened or actual loss of employees, clients or suppliers); (iv) CarVal could experience financial or other setbacks if the transaction encounters unanticipated problems; and (v) anticipated benefits of the transaction, including the realization of revenue, accretion, and financial benefits or returns, may not be fully realized or may take longer to realize than expected, including if AB Holding units to be issued after the closing trade at a price below anticipated levels. We caution readers to carefully consider such factors.

Item 3.     Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

There have been no material changes in AB’s market risk from the information provided under “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” in Part II, Item 7A of AB's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021.
Item 4.     Controls and Procedures

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Each of AB Holding and AB maintains a system of disclosure controls and procedures that is designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports under the Exchange Act is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported in a timely manner, and (ii) accumulated and communicated to management, including the Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") and the Interim Chief Financial Officer ("Interim CFO"), to permit timely decisions regarding our disclosure.

As of the end of the period covered by this report, management carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the CEO and the Interim CFO, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the disclosure controls and procedures. Based on this evaluation, the CEO and the Interim CFO concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

No change in our internal control over financial reporting occurred during the first quarter of 2022 that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
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