Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies

Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies

Business

ING Life Insurance and Annuity Company (“ILIAC”) is a stock life insurance company domiciled in the state of Connecticut. ILIAC and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”) are providers of financial products and services in the United States. ILIAC is authorized to conduct its insurance business in all states and the District of Columbia.

ILIAC is a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc. ("Lion" or "Parent"), which is a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of ING America Insurance Holdings, Inc. ("ING AIH"). ING AIH is an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of ING Groep N.V. ("ING"). ING is a global financial services holding company based in the Netherlands, with American Depository Shares listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "ING."

As part of a restructuring plan approved by the European Commission (“EC”), ING has agreed to separate its banking and insurance businesses by 2013. ING intends to achieve this separation by divestment of its insurance and investment management operations, including the Company. ING has announced that it will explore all options for implementing the separation including one or more initial public offerings, sales, or a combination thereof. On November 10, 2010, ING announced that, in connection with the restructuring plan, it will prepare for a base case of an initial public offering of the Company and its U.S.-based insurance and investment management affiliates.

The Company offers qualified and nonqualified annuity contracts that include a variety of funding and payout options for individuals and employer-sponsored retirement plans qualified under Internal Revenue Code Sections 401, 403, 408, and 457, as well as nonqualified deferred compensation plans and related services. The Company's products are offered primarily to individuals, pension plans, small businesses, and employer-sponsored groups in the health care, government, and education markets (collectively “not-for-profit” organizations) and corporate markets. The Company's products are generally distributed through pension professionals, independent agents and brokers, third party administrators, banks, dedicated career agents, and financial planners.

Products offered by the Company include deferred and immediate (i.e., payout) annuity contracts. Company products also include programs offered to qualified plans and nonqualified deferred compensation plans that package administrative and record-keeping services along with a variety of investment options, including affiliated and nonaffiliated mutual funds and variable and fixed investment options. In addition, the Company offers wrapper agreements entered into with retirement plans, which contain certain benefit responsive guarantees (i.e., guarantees of principal and previously accrued interest for benefits paid under the terms of the plan) with respect to portfolios of plan-owned assets not invested with the Company. The Company also offers pension and retirement savings plan administrative services.

The Company has one operating segment.

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”). The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of ILIAC and its subsidiaries, ING Financial Advisers, LLC (“IFA”) and Directed Services LLC (“DSL”).

Intercompany transactions and balances between ILIAC and its subsidiaries have been eliminated. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year financial information to conform to the current year classifications, including the presentation of changes in fair value of embedded derivatives within annuity products and the presentation of market value adjustment items in order to align with the presentation of the Consolidated Financial Statements of ING AIH. For the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively, reclassifications decreased Fee income by $(1.1), $(6.3), and $(7.4), (decreased) increased Other net realized capital gains (losses) by $(216.1), $9.3, and $219.4, decreased Other income by $(6.0), $(1.4), and $(2.1), and (decreased) increased Interest credited and other benefits to contract owner by $(223.2), $1.6, and $209.9, in the Statements of Operations. Such reclassifications had no impact on Shareholder's equity or Net income (loss).

Accounting Changes

Employee Benefit Plans

As of January 1, 2012, the Company voluntarily changed its method of recognizing actuarial gains and losses related to its pension and post-retirement benefit plans. Previously, actuarial gains and losses were recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income and, to the extent outside a corridor, amortized into operating results over the average remaining service period of active plan participants or the average remaining life expectancy of inactive plan participants, as applicable. The Company has elected to immediately recognize actuarial gains and losses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations in the year in which the gains and losses occur. The new accounting method is preferable, as it eliminates the delay in recognition of actuarial gains and losses. These gains and losses are generally only measured annually as of December 31 and, accordingly, will generally be recorded during the fourth quarter.

The Company's change in accounting methodology has been applied retrospectively. The cumulative effect of this change as of January 1, 2009, is a decrease to Retained earnings, with a corresponding increase to Accumulated other comprehensive income, of $18.0, net of tax. In addition, the impact of this change on the Company's Net income was a (decrease) increase of $(7.2) $(3.8), and $0.7 for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively. The impact of this change as of December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively, is an additional decrease to Retained earnings, with a corresponding increase to Accumulated other comprehensive income, of $28.4, $21.3, and $17.4, net of tax.

Deferred Acquisition Costs

In October 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-26, “Financial Services - Insurance (ASC Topic 944): Accounting for Costs Associated with Acquiring or Renewing Insurance Contracts” (“ASU 2010-26”), which clarifies what costs relating to the acquisition of new or renewal insurance contracts qualify for deferral. Costs that should be capitalized include (1) incremental direct costs of successful contract acquisition and (2) certain costs related directly to successful acquisition activities (underwriting, policy issuance and processing, medical and inspection, and sales force contract selling) performed by the insurer for the contract. Advertising costs should be included in deferred acquisition costs only if the capitalization criteria in the U.S. GAAP direct-response advertising guidance are met. All other acquisition-related costs should be charged to expense as incurred.

The provisions of ASU 2010-26 were adopted retrospectively by the Company on January 1, 2012. As a result of implementing ASU 2010-26, the Company recognized a cumulative effect of change in accounting principle of $367.7, net of income taxes of $198.0, as a reduction to January 1, 2009 Retained earnings (deficit). In addition, the Company recognized a $71.8 decrease to Accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI").

Significant Accounting Policies

Estimates and Assumptions

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Those estimates are inherently subject to change and actual results could differ from those estimates.

The Company has identified the following accounts and policies as significant in that they involve a higher degree of judgment, are subject to a significant degree of variability, and contain accounting estimates:

Reserves for future policy benefits, valuation and amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs (“DAC”), value of business acquired (“VOBA”), valuation of investments and derivatives, impairments, income taxes, and contingencies.

Fair Value Measurement

The Company measures the fair value of its financial assets and liabilities based on assumptions used by market participants in pricing the asset or liability, which may include inherent risk, restrictions on the sale or use of an asset, or non-performance risk, including the Company's own credit risk. The estimate of an exchange price is the price in an orderly transaction between market participants to sell the asset or transfer the liability (“exit price”) in the principal market, or the most advantageous market in the absence of a principal market, for that asset or liability. The Company utilizes a number of valuation sources to determine the fair values of its financial assets and liabilities, including quoted market prices, third-party commercial pricing services, third-party brokers, and industry-standard, vendor-provided software that models the value based on market observable inputs, and other internal modeling techniques based on projected cash flows.

The Company categorizes its financial instruments into a three-level hierarchy based on the priority of the inputs to the valuation technique. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). If the inputs used to measure fair value fall within different levels of the hierarchy, the category level is based on the lowest priority level input that is significant to the fair value measurement of the instrument. Financial assets and liabilities recorded at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets are categorized as follows:

▪ Level 1 - Unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in an active market. The Company defines an active market as a market in which transactions take place with sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis.

▪ Level 2 - Quoted prices in markets that are not active or valuation techniques that require inputs that are observable either directly or indirectly for substantially the full term of the asset or liability. Level 2 inputs include the following:

a. Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets;

b. Quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in non-active markets;

c. Inputs other than quoted market prices that are observable; and

d. Inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data through correlation or other means.

▪ Level 3 - Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement. These valuations, whether derived internally or obtained from a third party, use critical assumptions that are not widely available to estimate market participant expectations in valuing the asset or liability.

When available, the estimated fair value of securities is based on quoted prices in active markets that are readily and regularly obtainable. When quoted prices in active markets are not available, the determination of estimated fair value is based on market standard valuation methodologies, including discounted cash flow methodologies, matrix pricing, or other similar techniques. See the Financial Instruments note to these Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the fair value of specific financial assets and liabilities.

Investments

The accounting policies for the Company's principal investments are as follows:

Fixed Maturities and Equity Securities: All of the Company's fixed maturities and equity securities are currently designated as available-for-sale, except those accounted for using the fair value option (“FVO”). Available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value and unrealized capital gains (losses) on these securities are recorded directly in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”), and presented net of related changes in DAC, VOBA, and deferred income taxes.

Certain CMOs, primarily interest-only and principal-only strips, are accounted for as hybrid instruments and valued at fair value with changes in the fair value recorded in Other net realized capital gains (losses) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Purchases and sales of fixed maturities and equity securities, excluding private placements, are recorded on the trade date. Purchases and sales of private placements and mortgage loans are recorded on the closing date. Investment gains and losses on sales of securities are generally determined on a first-in-first-out (“FIFO”) basis.

Interest income on fixed maturities is recorded when earned using an effective yield method, giving effect to amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts. Dividends on equity securities are recorded when declared. Such dividends and interest income are recorded in Net investment income on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Included within fixed maturities are loan-backed securities, including residential mortgage-backed securities (“RMBS”), commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”), and asset-backed securities (“ABS”). Amortization of the premium or discount from the purchase of these securities considers the estimated timing and amount of prepayments of the underlying loans. Actual prepayment experience is periodically reviewed and effective yields are recalculated when differences arise between the prepayments originally anticipated and the actual prepayments received and currently anticipated. Prepayment assumptions for single class and multi-class mortgage-backed securities (“MBS”) and ABS are estimated by management using inputs obtained from third-party specialists, including broker-dealers, and based on management's knowledge of the current market. For credit-sensitive MBS and ABS, and certain prepayment-sensitive securities, the effective yield is recalculated on a prospective basis. For all other MBS and ABS, the effective yield is recalculated on a retrospective basis.

Short-term Investments: Short-term investments include investments with remaining maturities of one year or less, but greater than three months, at the time of purchase. These investments are stated at fair value.

Assets Held in Separate Accounts: Assets held in separate accounts are reported at the fair values of the underlying investments in the separate accounts. The underlying investments include mutual funds, short-term investments, and cash, and fixed maturities.

Mortgage Loans on Real Estate: The Company's mortgage loans on real estate are all commercial mortgage loans, which are reported at amortized cost, less impairment write-downs and allowance for losses. If the value of any mortgage loan is determined to be impaired (i.e., when it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement), the carrying value of the mortgage loan is reduced to the lower of either the present value of expected cash flows from the loan, discounted at the loan's effective interest rate, or fair value of the collateral. For those mortgages that are determined to require foreclosure, the carrying value is reduced to the fair value of the underlying collateral, net of estimated costs to obtain and sell at the point of foreclosure. The carrying value of the impaired loans is reduced by establishing a permanent write-down recorded in Net realized capital gains (losses) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

All mortgage loans are evaluated by the Company's investment professionals, including an appraisal of loan-specific credit quality, property characteristics, and market trends. Loan performance is monitored on a loan-specific basis. The Company's review includes submitted appraisals, operating statements, rent revenues and annual inspection reports, among other items. This review evaluates whether the properties are performing at a consistent and acceptable level to secure the debt.

All mortgages are evaluated for the purpose of quantifying the level of risk. Those loans with higher risk are placed on a watch list and are closely monitored for collateral deficiency or other credit events

that may lead to a potential loss of principal or interest. The Company defines delinquent mortgage loans consistent with industry practice as 60 days past due.

As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, all mortgage loans are held-for-investment. The Company diversifies its mortgage loan portfolio by geographic region and property type to reduce concentration risk. The Company manages risk when originating mortgage loans by generally lending only up to 75% of the estimated fair value of the underlying real estate.

The Company records an allowance for probable incurred, but not specifically identified, losses.

Loan - Dutch State Obligation: The reported value of The State of the Netherlands (the “Dutch State”) loan obligation is based on the outstanding loan balance plus any unamortized premium.

Policy Loans: The reported value of policy loans is equal to the carrying value of the loans. Interest income on such loans is recorded as earned in Net investment income using the contractually agreed upon interest rate. Generally, interest is capitalized on the policy's anniversary date. Valuation allowances are not established for policy loans, as these loans are collateralized by the value of the

associated insurance contracts. Any unpaid principal or interest on the loan is deducted from the account value or the death benefit prior to settlement of the policy.

Limited Partnerships/Corporations: The Company uses the equity method of accounting for investments in limited partnership interests, primarily private equities and hedge funds. Generally, the Company records its share of earnings using a lag methodology, relying upon the most recent financial information available, where the contractual right exists to receive such financial information on a timely basis. The Company's equity in earnings from limited partnership interests accounted for under the equity method is recorded in Net investment income.

Securities Lending: The Company engages in securities lending whereby certain domestic securities from its portfolio are loaned to other institutions for short periods of time. Initial collateral, primarily cash, is required at a rate of 102% of the market value of the loaned securities. Generally, the lending agent retains all of the cash collateral. Collateral retained by the agent is invested in liquid assets on behalf of the Company. The market value of the loaned securities is monitored on a daily basis with additional collateral obtained or refunded as the market value of the loaned securities fluctuates.

As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the fair value of loaned securities was $515.8 and $651.7, respectively, and is included in Securities pledged on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Collateral received is included in Short-term investments under securities loan agreement, including collateral delivered. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, liabilities to return collateral of $524.8 and $675.5, respectively, are included in Payables under securities loan agreement, including collateral held, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Other-than-temporary Impairments

The Company periodically evaluates its available-for-sale general account investments to determine whether there has been an other-than-temporary decline in fair value below the amortized cost basis. Factors considered in this analysis include, but are not limited to, the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than amortized cost, the issuer's financial condition and near-term prospects, future economic conditions and market forecasts, interest rate changes, and changes in ratings of the security. An extended and severe unrealized loss position on a fixed maturity may not have any impact on: (a) the ability of the issuer to service all scheduled interest and principal payments, and (b) the evaluation of recoverability of all contractual cash flows or the ability to recover an amount at least equal to its amortized cost based on the present value of the expected future cash flows to be collected. In contrast, for certain equity securities, the Company gives greater weight and consideration to a decline in market value and the likelihood such market value decline will recover.

Effective April 1, 2009, the Company prospectively adopted guidance on the recognition and presentation of OTTI losses (see the “Adoption of New Pronouncements” section below). When assessing the Company's intent to sell a security or if it is more likely than not the Company will be required to sell a security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, management evaluates facts and circumstances such as, but not limited to, decisions to rebalance the investment portfolio and sales of investments to meet cash flow or capital needs.

When the Company has determined it has the intent to sell or if it is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell a security before recovery of its amortized cost basis and the fair value has declined below amortized cost (“intent impairment”), the individual security is written down from amortized cost to fair value, and a corresponding charge is recorded in Net realized capital gains (losses) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations as an OTTI. If the Company does not intend to sell the security and it is not more likely than not the Company will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, but the Company has determined that there has been an other-than-temporary decline in fair value below the amortized cost basis, the OTTI is bifurcated into the amount representing the present value of the decrease in cash flows expected to be collected (“credit impairment”) and the amount related to other factors (“noncredit impairment”). The credit impairment is recorded in Net realized capital gains (losses) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The noncredit impairment is recorded in Other comprehensive income (loss) on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Prior to April 1, 2009, the Company recognized in earnings an OTTI for a fixed maturity in an unrealized loss position, unless it could assert that it had both the intent and ability to hold the fixed maturity for a period of time sufficient to allow for a recovery of estimated fair value to the security's amortized cost. The entire difference between the fixed maturity's amortized cost basis and its estimated fair value was recognized in earnings if the security was determined to have an OTTI.

There was no change in guidance for equity securities which, when an OTTI has occurred, continue to be impaired for the entire difference between the equity security's cost and its estimated fair value.

The Company uses the following methodology and significant inputs to determine the amount of the OTTI credit loss:

▪ The Company calculates the recovery value by performing a discounted cash flow analysis based on the present value of future cash flows expected to be received. The discount rate is generally the effective interest rate of the fixed maturity prior to impairment.

▪ When determining collectability and the period over which the value is expected to recover, the Company applies the same considerations utilized in its overall impairment evaluation process, which incorporates information regarding the specific security, the industry and geographic area in which the issuer operates, and overall macroeconomic conditions. Projected future cash flows are estimated using assumptions derived from the Company's best estimates of likely scenario-based outcomes, after giving consideration to a variety of variables that include, but is not limited to: general payment terms of the security; the likelihood that the issuer can service the scheduled interest and principal payments; the quality and amount of any credit enhancements; the security's position within the capital structure of the issuer; possible corporate restructurings or asset sales by the issuer; and changes to the rating of the security or the issuer by rating agencies.

▪ Additional considerations are made when assessing the unique features that apply to certain structured securities such as RMBS, CMBS, and ABS. These additional factors for structured securities include, but are not limited to: the quality of underlying collateral; expected prepayment speeds; current and forecasted loss severity; and the payment priority within the tranche structure of the security.

▪ When determining the amount of the credit loss for U.S. and foreign corporate securities, foreign government securities and state and political subdivision securities, the Company considers the estimated fair value as the recovery value when available information does not indicate that another value is more appropriate. When information is identified that indicates a recovery value other than estimated fair value, the Company considers in the determination of recovery value the same considerations utilized in its overall impairment evaluation process, which incorporates available information and the Company's best estimate of scenarios-based outcomes regarding the specific security and issuer; possible corporate restructurings or asset sales by the issuer; the quality and amount of any credit enhancements; the security's position within the capital structure of the issuer; fundamentals of the industry and geographic area in which the security issuer operates, and the overall macroeconomic conditions.

In periods subsequent to the recognition of the credit related impairment components of OTTI on a fixed maturity through Net realized capital gains (losses) on the Consolidated Statements of Operations, the Company accounts for the impaired security as if it had been purchased on the measurement date of the impairment. Accordingly, the discount (or reduced premium) based on the new cost basis is accreted into net investment income over the remaining term of the fixed maturity in a prospective manner based on the amount and timing of estimated future cash flows.

Derivatives

The Company's use of derivatives is limited mainly to economic hedging to reduce the Company's exposure to cash flow variability of assets and liabilities, interest rate risk, credit risk, exchange rate risk, and market risk. It is the Company's policy not to offset fair value amounts recognized for derivative instruments and fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash collateral or the obligation to return cash collateral arising from derivative instruments recognized at fair value executed with the same counterparty under a master netting arrangement.

The Company enters into interest rate, equity market, credit default, and currency contracts, including swaps, futures, forwards, caps, floors, and options, to reduce and manage various risks associated with changes in value, yield, price, cash flow, or exchange rates of assets or liabilities held or intended to be held, or to assume or reduce credit exposure associated with a referenced asset, index, or pool. The Company also utilizes options and futures on equity indices to reduce and manage risks associated with its annuity products. Open derivative contracts are reported as either Derivatives or Other liabilities, as appropriate, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value. Changes in the fair value of derivatives are recorded in Net realized capital gains (losses) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

To qualify for hedge accounting, at the inception of the hedging relationship, the Company formally documents its risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedging transaction, as well as its designation of the hedge as either (i) a hedge of the exposure to changes in the estimated fair value of a recognized asset or liability (“fair value hedge”); or (ii) a hedge of a forecasted transaction or of the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized asset or liability (“cash flow hedge”). In this documentation, the Company sets forth how the hedging instrument is expected to hedge the designated risks related to the hedged item and sets forth the method that will be used to retrospectively and prospectively assess the hedging instrument's effectiveness and the method which will be used to measure ineffectiveness. A derivative designated as a hedging instrument must be assessed as being highly effective in offsetting the designated risk of the hedged item. Hedge effectiveness is formally assessed at inception and periodically throughout the life of the designated hedging relationship.

▪ Fair Value Hedge Relationship:  For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a fair value hedge (e.g., hedging the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset or a liability or an identified portion thereof that is attributable to a particular risk), the gain or loss on the derivative instrument as well as the hedged item, to the extent of the risk being hedged, are recognized in Other net realized capital gains (losses).

▪ Cash Flow Hedge Relationship: For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a cash flow hedge (e.g., hedging the exposure to the variability in expected future cash flows that is attributable to interest rate risk), the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is reported as a component of AOCI and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction impacts earnings in the same line item associated with the forecasted transaction.  The ineffective portion of the derivative's change in value, if any, along with any of the derivative's change in value that is excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness, are recorded in Other net realized capital gains (losses). 

When hedge accounting is discontinued because it is determined that the derivative is no longer expected to be highly effective in offsetting changes in the estimated fair value or cash flows of a hedged item, the derivative continues to be carried in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at its estimated fair value, with subsequent changes in estimated fair value recognized immediately in Other net realized capital gains (losses). The carrying value of the hedged recognized asset or liability under a fair value hedge is no longer adjusted for changes in its estimated fair value due to the hedged risk, and the cumulative adjustment to its carrying value is amortized into income over the remaining life of the hedged item. Provided the hedged forecasted transaction is still probable of occurrence, the changes in estimated fair value of derivatives recorded in Other comprehensive income (loss) related to discontinued cash flow hedges are released into the Consolidated Statements of Operations when the Company's earnings are affected by the variability in cash flows of the hedged item.

When hedge accounting is discontinued because it is no longer probable that the forecasted transactions will occur on the anticipated date or within two months of that date, the derivative continues to be carried in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at its estimated fair value, with changes in estimated fair value recognized currently in Other net realized capital gains (losses). Derivative gains and losses recorded in Other comprehensive income (loss) pursuant to the discontinued cash flow hedge of a forecasted transaction that is no longer probable are recognized immediately in Other net realized capital gains (losses).

If the Company's current debt and claims paying ratings were downgraded in the future, the terms in the Company's derivative agreements may be triggered, which could negatively impact overall liquidity. For the majority of the Company's counterparties, there is a termination event should the Company's long-term debt ratings drop below BBB+/Baa1.

The carrying amounts for these financial instruments, which can be assets or liabilities, reflect the fair value of the assets and liabilities.

The Company also has investments in certain fixed maturities, and has issued certain annuity products, that contain embedded derivatives whose fair value is at least partially determined by levels of or changes in domestic and/or foreign interest rates (short-term or long-term), exchange rates, prepayment rates, equity markets, or credit ratings/spreads. Embedded derivatives within fixed maturities are included with the host contract on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, and changes in fair value are recorded in Other net realized capital gains (losses) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Embedded derivatives within annuity products are included in Future policy benefits on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, and changes in the fair value are recorded in Other net realized capital gains (losses) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, amounts due from banks, and other highly liquid investments, such as money market instruments and debt instruments with maturities of three months or less at the time of purchase. Cash and cash equivalents are stated at fair value.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are carried at cost, less accumulated depreciation. Expenditures for replacements and major improvements are capitalized; maintenance and repair expenditures are expensed as incurred. Depreciation on property and equipment is provided on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets with the exception of land and artwork, which are not depreciated.

The Company's property and equipment are depreciated using the following estimated useful lives.

	Estimated Useful Lives
Buildings	40 years
Furniture and fixtures	5 years
Leasehold improvements	10 years, or the life of the lease, whichever is shorter
Equipment	3 years

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired

DAC represents policy acquisition costs that have been capitalized and are subject to amortization and interest. Capitalized costs are incremental, direct costs of contract acquisition, as well as certain costs related directly to acquisition activities. Such costs consist principally of certain commissions, sales, and contract issuance and processing expenses directly related to the successful acquisition of new and renewal business. Indirect or unsuccessful acquisition costs, maintenance, product development and overhead expenses are charged to expense as incurred. VOBA represents the outstanding value of in force business acquired and is subject to amortization and interest. The value is based on the present value of estimated net cash flows embedded in the insurance contracts at the time of the acquisition and increased for subsequent deferrable expenses on purchased policies.

Amortization Methodologies

The Company amortizes DAC and VOBA related to fixed and variable deferred annuity contracts over the estimated lives of the contracts in relation to the emergence of estimated gross profits. Assumptions as to mortality, persistency, interest crediting rates, returns associated with separate account performance, impact of hedge performance, expenses to administer the business, and certain economic variables, such as inflation, are based on the Company's experience and overall capital markets. At each valuation date, actual historical gross profits are reflected and estimated gross profits, and related assumptions, are evaluated for continued reasonableness. Adjustments to estimated gross profits require that amortization rates be revised retroactively to the date of the contract issuance ("unlocking").

The Company also reviews the estimated gross profits for each block of business to determine the recoverability of DAC and VOBA balances each period. DAC and VOBA are deemed to be recoverable if the estimated gross profits exceed these balances.

Assumptions

Changes in assumptions can have a significant impact on DAC and VOBA balances and amortization rates. Several assumptions are considered significant in the estimation of future gross profits associated with the Company's variable products. One significant assumption is the assumed return associated with the variable account performance. To reflect the volatility in the equity markets, this assumption involves a combination of near-term expectations and long-term assumptions regarding market performance. The overall return on the variable account is dependent on multiple factors, including the relative mix of the underlying sub-accounts among bond funds and equity funds, as well as equity sector weightings. The Company's practice assumes that intermediate-term appreciation in equity markets reverts to the long-term appreciation in equity markets. The Company monitors market events and only changes the assumption when sustained deviations are expected. This methodology incorporates a 9% long-term equity return assumption, and a 14% cap. The reversion to the mean methodology was implemented prospectively on January 1, 2011.

Prior to January 1, 2011, the Company utilized a static long-term equity return assumption for projecting account balance growth in all future years. This return assumption was reviewed annually or more frequently, if deemed necessary. Actual returns that were higher than long-term expectations produced higher contract owner account balances, which increased future fee expectations resulting in higher expected gross profits. The opposite result occurred when returns were lower than long-term expectations.

Other significant assumptions include estimated policyholder behavior assumptions, such as surrender, lapse, and annuitization rates. Estimated gross profits of variable annuity contracts are sensitive to these assumptions.

Contract owners may periodically exchange one contract for another, or make modifications to an existing contract. These transactions are identified as internal replacements. Internal replacements that are determined to result in substantially unchanged contracts are accounted for as continuations of the replaced contracts. Any costs associated with the issuance of the new contracts are considered maintenance costs and expensed as incurred. Unamortized DAC and VOBA related to the replaced contracts continue to be deferred and amortized in connection with the new contracts. Internal replacements that are determined to result in contracts that are substantially changed are accounted for as extinguishments of the replaced contracts, and any unamortized DAC and VOBA related to the replaced contracts are written off to Net amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Future Policy Benefits and Contract Owner Accounts

Reserves

The Company establishes and carries actuarially-determined reserves that are calculated to meet its future obligations under its variable annuity and fixed annuity products. The principal assumptions used to establish liabilities for future policy benefits are based on Company experience and periodically reviewed against industry standards. These assumptions include mortality, morbidity, policy lapse, renewal, retirement, investment returns, inflation, and expenses. Changes in, or deviations from, the assumptions used can significantly affect the Company's reserve levels and related future operations.

Reserves for individual immediate annuities with life contingent payout benefits are equal to the present value of expected future payments. Assumptions as to interest rates, mortality, and expenses are based upon the Company's experience at the period the policy is sold, including a margin for adverse deviation. Such assumptions generally vary by annuity plan type, year of issue, and policy duration. Interest rates used to calculate the present value of future benefits ranged from 4.5% to 6.0%.

Although assumptions are “locked-in” upon the issuance of immediate annuities with life contingent payout benefits, significant changes in experience or assumptions may require the Company to provide for expected future losses on a product by establishing premium deficiency reserves. Premium deficiency reserves are determined based on best estimate assumptions that exist at the time the premium deficiency reserve is established and do not include a margin for adverse deviations. Reserves are recorded in Future policy benefits on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Contract Owner Accounts

Contract owner account balances relate to investment-type contracts.

Account balances for individual and group deferred annuity investment contracts and individual immediate annuities without life contingent payouts are equal to cumulative deposits, less charges and withdrawals, plus credited interest thereon. Credited interest rates vary by product and ranged from 0.0% to 7.0% for the years 2011, 2010, and 2009.

Guarantees

The Company records reserves for product guarantees, which can be either assets or liabilities, for annuity contracts containing guaranteed credited rates. The guarantee is treated as an embedded derivative or a stand-alone derivative (depending on the underlying product) and is reported at fair value.

Reserves for guaranteed minimum death benefits (“GMDB”) on certain variable annuities are determined by estimating the value of expected benefits in excess of the projected account balance and recognizing the excess ratably over the accumulation period based on total expected assessments. Expected experience is based on a range of scenarios. Assumptions used, such as near-term and long-term equity market return, lapse rate, and mortality, are consistent with assumptions used in estimating gross profits for purposes of amortizing DAC, and, thus, are subject to the same variability and risk. The assumptions of investment performance and volatility are consistent with the historical experience of the appropriate underlying equity index, such as the Standard & Poor's (“S&P”) 500 Index. The Company periodically evaluates estimates used and adjusts the additional liability balance, with a related charge or credit to benefit expense, if actual experience or other evidence suggests that earlier assumptions should be revised.

Products with guaranteed credited rates treat the guarantee as an embedded derivative for Stabilizer products and a stand-alone derivative for Managed custody guarantee (“MCG”) products. These derivatives are measured at estimated fair value with changes in estimated fair value reported in Other net realized capital gains (losses) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

The estimated fair value of the Stabilizer and MCG contracts is determined based on the present value of projected future claims, minus the present value of future guaranteed premiums. At inception of the contract the Company projects a guaranteed premium to be equal to the present value of the projected future claims. The income associated with the contracts is projected using actuarial and capital market assumptions, including benefits and related contract charges, over the anticipated life of the related contracts. The cash flow estimates are produced by using stochastic techniques under a variety of risk neutral scenarios and other best estimate assumptions. Explicit risk margins are included, as well as an explicit recognition of all nonperformance risks. Nonperformance risk for product guarantees contains adjustments to the fair values of these contract liabilities related to the current credit standing of ING Insurance and the Company based on the credit default swaps with similar term to maturity and priority of payment. The ING Insurance credit default spread is applied to the discount factors for product guarantees in the Company's valuation model in order to incorporate credit risk into the fair values of these product guarantees.

See the Additional Insurance Benefits and Minimum Guarantees note to these Consolidated Financial Statements for more information.

Separate Accounts

Separate account assets and liabilities generally represent funds maintained to meet specific investment objectives of contract owners who bear the investment risk, subject, in limited cases, to certain minimum guarantees. Investment income and investment gains and losses generally accrue directly to such contract owners. The assets of each account are legally segregated and are not subject to claims that arise out of any other business of the Company or its affiliates.

Separate account assets supporting variable options under variable annuity contracts are invested, as designated by the contract owner or participant (who bears the investment risk subject, in limited cases, to minimum guaranteed rates) under a contract, in shares of mutual funds that are managed by the Company or its affiliates, or in other selected mutual funds not managed by the Company or its affiliates.

The Company reports separately, as assets and liabilities, investments held in the separate accounts and liabilities of separate accounts if:

▪ Such separate accounts are legally recognized;

▪ Assets supporting the contract liabilities are legally insulated from the Company's general account liabilities;

▪ Investments are directed by the contract holder; and

▪ All investment performance, net of contract fees and assessments, is passed through to the contract holder.

The Company reports separate account assets and liabilities that meet the above criteria at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets based on the fair value of the underlying investments. Investment income and net realized and unrealized capital gains (losses) of the separate accounts, however, are not reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows do not reflect investment activity of the separate accounts.

Repurchase Agreements

The Company engages in dollar repurchase agreements with mortgage-backed securities (“dollar rolls”) and repurchase agreements with other collateral types to increase its return on investments and improve liquidity. Such arrangements meet the requirements to be accounted for as financing arrangements. The Company enters into dollar roll transactions by selling existing mortgage-backed securities and concurrently entering into an agreement to repurchase similar securities within a short time frame at a lower price. Under repurchase agreements, the Company borrows cash from a counterparty at an agreed upon interest rate for an agreed upon time frame and pledges collateral in the form of securities. At the end of the agreement, the counterparty returns the collateral to the Company, and the Company, in turn, repays the loan amount along with the additional agreed upon interest. Company policy requires that at all times during the term of the dollar roll and repurchase agreements that cash or other collateral types obtained is sufficient to allow the Company to fund substantially all of the cost of purchasing replacement assets. Cash received is invested in short-term investments, with the offsetting obligation to repay the loan included as a liability on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The carrying value of the securities pledged in dollar rolls and repurchase agreement transactions and the related repurchase obligation are included in Securities pledged and Short-term debt, respectively, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the carrying value of the securities pledged in dollar rolls and repurchase agreement transactions, the related repurchase obligation, including accrued interest, and the collateral posted by the counterparty in

connection with the change in the value of pledged securities that will be released upon settlement, were as follows.

	2011		2010
Securities pledged	$	—	$	216.7
Repurchase obligation	—		214.5
Collateral	—		—

The Company also enters into reverse repurchase agreements. These transactions involve a purchase of securities and an agreement to sell substantially the same securities as those purchased. Company policy requires that, at all times during the term of the reverse repurchase agreements, cash or other collateral types provided is sufficient to allow the counterparty to fund substantially all of the cost of purchasing replacement assets. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company did not have any securities pledged under reverse repurchase agreements.

The primary risk associated with short-term collateralized borrowings is that the counterparty will be unable to perform under the terms of the contract. The Company's exposure is limited to the excess of the net replacement cost of the securities over the value of the short-term investments. The Company believes the counterparties to the dollar rolls, repurchase, and reverse repurchase agreements are financially responsible and that the counterparty risk is minimal.

Recognition of Insurance Revenue and Related Benefits

For most annuity contracts, charges assessed against contract owner funds for the cost of insurance, surrenders, expenses, and other fees are recorded as revenue as charges are assessed. Other amounts received for these contracts are reflected as deposits and are not recorded as premiums or revenue. When annuity payments with life contingencies begin under contracts that were initially investment contracts, the accumulated balance in the account is treated as a single premium for the purchase of an annuity and reflected in both Premiums and Interest credited and other benefits to contract owners in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Premiums on the Consolidated Statements of Operations primarily represent amounts received for immediate annuities with life contingent payouts. Premiums, benefits, and expenses are presented net of reinsurance ceded to other companies.

Income Taxes

The Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities resulting from temporary differences between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities are measured at the balance sheet date using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years the temporary differences are expected to reverse.

The results of the Company's operations are included in the consolidated tax return of ING AIH. Generally, the Company's consolidated financial statements recognize the current and deferred income tax consequences that result from the Company's activities during the current and preceding periods pursuant to the provisions of Accounting Standards Codification topic 740, Income Taxes (ASC 740) as if the Company were a separate taxpayer rather than a member of ING AIH's consolidated income tax return group with the exception of any net operating loss carryforwards and capital loss carryforwards, which are recorded pursuant to the tax sharing agreement. The Company's tax sharing agreement with ING AIH states that for each taxable year during which the Company is included in a consolidated federal income tax return with ING AIH will pay to the Company an amount equal to the tax benefit of the Company's net operating loss carryforwards and capital loss carryforwards generated in such year, without regard to whether such net operating loss carryforwards and capital loss carryforwards are actually utilized in the reduction of the consolidated federal income tax liability for any consolidated taxable year.

The Company evaluates and tests the recoverability of its deferred tax assets. Deferred tax assets represent the tax benefit of future deductible temporary differences and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance if, based on the weight of evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion, or all, of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Considerable judgment and the use of estimates are required in determining whether a valuation allowance is necessary, and if so, the amount of such valuation allowance. In evaluating the need for a valuation allowance, the Company considers many factors, including:

▪ The nature and character of the deferred tax assets and liabilities;

▪ Taxable income in prior carryback years;

▪ Projected future taxable income, exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards;

▪ Projected future reversals of existing temporary differences;

▪ The length of time carryforwards can be utilized; and

▪ Any prudent and feasible tax planning strategies the Company would employ to avoid a tax benefit from expiring unused.

Management uses certain assumptions and estimates in determining the income taxes payable or refundable to/from the Parent for the current year, the deferred income tax liabilities and assets for items recognized differently in its financial statements from amounts shown on its income tax returns, and the federal income tax expense. Determining these amounts requires analysis and interpretation of current tax laws and regulations, including the loss limitation rules associated with change in control. Management exercises considerable judgment in evaluating the amount and timing of recognition of the resulting income tax liabilities and assets. These judgments and estimates are reevaluated on a continual basis as regulatory and business factors change.

The Company determines whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained under examination by the appropriate taxing authority before any part of the benefit can be recognized in the financial statements. Tax positions that do not meet the more likely than not standard are not recognized. Tax positions that meet this standard are recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements. The Company measures the tax position as the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate resolution with the tax authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information.

Reinsurance

The Company utilizes reinsurance agreements to reduce its exposure to losses from GMDBs in its annuity insurance business. Such reinsurance permits recovery of a portion of losses from reinsurers, although it does not discharge the primary liability of the Company as the direct insurer of the risks reinsured.

The Company has a significant concentration of reinsurance arising from the disposition of its individual life insurance business. In 1998, the Company entered into an indemnity reinsurance agreement with a subsidiary of Lincoln National Corporation (“Lincoln”). The Lincoln subsidiary established a trust to secure it obligations to the Company under the reinsurance transaction. Of the Reinsurance recoverable on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, $2.2 billion and $2.3 billion at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, equal the Company's total individual life reserves and are related to the reinsurance recoverable from the subsidiary of Lincoln under this reinsurance agreement. Individual life reserves are included in Future policy benefits and claims reserves on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Accounting for reinsurance requires extensive use of assumptions and estimates, particularly related to the future performance of the underlying business and the potential impact of counterparty credit risks. The Company periodically reviews actual and anticipated experience compared to the assumptions used to establish assets and liabilities relating to ceded and assumed reinsurance. The Company also evaluates the financial strength of potential reinsurers and continually monitors the financial condition of reinsurers. Only those reinsurance recoverable balances deemed probable of recovery are recognized as assets on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Contingencies

A loss contingency is an existing condition, situation, or set of circumstances involving uncertainty as to possible loss that will ultimately be resolved when one or more future events occur or fail to occur. Examples of loss contingencies include pending or threatened adverse litigation, threat of expropriation of assets, and actual or possible claims and assessments. Amounts related to loss contingencies are accrued if it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated, based on the Company's best estimate of the ultimate outcome. If determined to meet the criteria for a reserve, the Company also evaluates whether there are external legal or other costs directly associated with the resolution of the matter and accrues such costs if estimable.

Adoption of New Pronouncements

Financial Instruments

A Creditor's Determination of Whether a Restructuring is a Troubled Debt Restructuring

In April 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2011-02, “Receivables (Accounting Standards Codification^TM (“ASC”) Topic 310): A Creditor's Determination of Whether a Restructuring is a Troubled Debt Restructuring” (“ASU 2011-02”), which clarifies the guidance on a creditor's evaluation of whether it has granted a concession and whether the debtor is experiencing financial difficulties, as follows:

▪ If a debtor does not have access to funds at a market rate for similar debt, the restructuring would be considered to be at a below-market rate;

▪ An increase in the contractual interest rate does not preclude the restructuring from being considered a concession, as the new rate could still be below the market interest rate;

▪ A restructuring that results in a delay in payment that is insignificant is not a concession;

▪ A creditor should evaluate whether it is probable that the debtor would be in payment default on any of its debt without the modification to determine if the debtor is experiencing financial difficulties; and

▪ A creditor is precluded from using the effective interest rate test.

Also, ASU 2011-02 requires disclosure of the information required in ASU 2010-20 about troubled debt restructuring, which was previously deferred by ASU 2011-01.

The provisions of ASU 2011-02 were adopted by the Company on July 1, 2011, and applied retrospectively to January 1, 2011. The Company determined, however, that there was no effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2011, as there were no troubled debt restructurings during that period.

Disclosures about the Credit Quality of Financing Receivables and the Allowance for Credit Losses

In July 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-20, “Receivables (ASC Topic 310): Disclosures about the Credit Quality of Financing Receivables and the Allowance for Credit Losses” (“ASU 2010-20”), which requires certain existing disclosures to be disaggregated by class of financing receivable, including the rollforward of the allowance for credit losses, with the ending balance further disaggregated on the basis of impairment method. For each disaggregated ending balance, an entity also is required to disclose the related recorded investment in financing receivables, the nonaccrual status of financing receivables, and impaired financing receivables.

ASU 2010-20 also requires new disclosures by class of financing receivable, including credit quality indicators, aging of past due amounts, the nature and extent of troubled debt restructurings and related defaults, and significant purchases and sales of financing receivables disaggregated by portfolio segment.

In January 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-01, which temporarily delayed the effective date of the disclosures about troubled debt restructurings in ASU 2010-20.

The provisions of ASU 2010-20 were adopted by the Company on December 31, 2010, and are included in the Financial Instruments note to these Consolidated Financial Statements, except for the disclosures about troubled debt restructurings included in ASU 2011-02, which was adopted by the Company on July 1, 2011 (see above). The disclosures that include information for activity that occurs during a reporting period were adopted by the Company on January 1, 2011 and are included in the Financial Instruments note to these Consolidated Financial Statements. As this pronouncement only

pertains to additional disclosure, the adoption had no effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

Scope Exception Related to Embedded Credit Derivatives

In March 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-11, “Derivatives and Hedging (ASC Topic 815): Scope Exception Related to Embedded Credit Derivatives” (“ASU 2010-11”), which clarifies that the only type of embedded credit derivatives that are exempt from bifurcation requirements are those that relate to the subordination of one financial instrument to another.

The provisions of ASU 2010-11 were adopted by the Company on July 1, 2010. The Company determined, however, that there was no effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows upon adoption, as the guidance is consistent with that previously applied.

Improvements to Financial Reporting by Enterprises Involved in Variable Interest Entities

In December 2009, the FASB issued ASU 2009-17, “Consolidations (ASC Topic 810): Improvements to Financial Reporting by Enterprises Involved in Variable Interest Entities,” (“ASU 2009-17”), which eliminates the exemption for qualifying special-purpose entities (“QSPEs”), as well as amends the consolidation guidance for variable interest entities (“VIEs”), as follows:

▪ Removes the quantitative-based assessment for consolidation of VIEs and, instead, requires a qualitative assessment of whether an entity has the power to direct the VIE's activities, and whether the entity has the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could be significant to the VIE;

▪ Requires an ongoing reassessment of whether an entity is the primary beneficiary of a VIE; and

▪ Requires enhanced disclosures, including (i) presentation on the balance sheet of assets and liabilities of consolidated VIEs that meet the separate presentation criteria and disclosure of assets and liabilities recognized on the balance sheet and (ii) the maximum exposure to loss for those VIEs in which a reporting entity is determined not to be the primary beneficiary, but in which the reporting entity has a variable interest.

In addition, in February 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-10, “Consolidation (ASC Topic 810): Amendments for Certain Investment Funds” (ASU 2010-10), which defers to ASU 2009-17 for reporting entity's interests in certain investment funds that have attributes of investment companies, for which the reporting entity does not have an obligation to fund losses, and that are not structured as securitization entities.

The provisions of ASU 2009-17 and ASU 2010-10 were adopted on January 1, 2010. The Company determined, however, that there was no effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows upon adoption, as the consolidation conclusions were consistent with those under previous U.S. GAAP. The disclosure provisions required by ASU 2009-17 are presented in the Financial Instruments note to these Consolidated Financial Statements.

Recognition and Presentation of Other-than-temporary Impairments

In April 2009, the FASB issued new guidance on recognition and presentation of OTTIs, included in ASC Topic 320, “Investments-Debt and Equity Securities”, which requires:

▪ Noncredit related impairments to be recognized in Other comprehensive income (loss), if management asserts that it does not have the intent to sell the security and that it is more likely than not that the entity will not have to sell the security before recovery of the amortized cost basis;

▪ Total OTTIs to be presented in the Consolidated Statements of Operations with an offset recognized in AOCI for the noncredit related impairments;

▪ A cumulative effect adjustment as of the beginning of the period of adoption to reclassify the noncredit component of a previously recognized OTTI from Retained earnings (deficit) to AOCI; and

▪ Additional interim disclosures for debt and equity securities regarding types of securities held, unrealized losses, and OTTIs.

These provisions, as included in ASC Topic 320, were adopted by the Company on April 1, 2009. As a result of implementation, the Company recognized a cumulative effect of change in accounting principle of $176.6 after considering the effects of DAC and income taxes of $(95.7) and $33.5, respectively, as an increase to April 1, 2009 Retained earnings (deficit) with a corresponding decrease to AOCI, with no overall change to shareholder's equity. See the Investments note to these Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on the Company's OTTIs, including additional required disclosures.

Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

In March 2008, the FASB issued new guidance on disclosures about derivative instruments and hedging activities, included in ASC Topic 815, “Derivatives and Hedging”, which requires enhanced disclosures about objectives and strategies for using derivatives, fair value amounts of, and gains and losses on, derivative instruments, and credit-risk-related contingent features in derivative agreements, including:

▪ How and why derivative instruments are used;

▪ How derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for; and

▪ How derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity's financial statements.

These provisions, as included in ASC Topic 815, were adopted by the Company on January 1, 2009, and are included in the “Derivative Financial Instruments” section above and the Fair Value Measurements note to these Consolidated Financial Statements. As the pronouncement only pertains to additional disclosure, the adoption had no effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets

In December 2009, the FASB issued ASU 2009-16 “Transfers and Servicing (ASC Topic 860): Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets” (“ASU 2009-16”), which eliminates the QSPE concept and requires a transferor of financial assets to:

▪ Consider the transferor's continuing involvement in assets, limiting the circumstances in which a financial asset should be derecognized when the transferor has not transferred the entire asset to an entity that is not consolidated;

▪ Account for the transfer as a sale only if an entity transfers an entire financial asset and surrenders control, unless the transfer meets the conditions for a participating interest; and

▪ Recognize and initially measure at fair value all assets obtained and liabilities incurred as a result of a transfer of financial assets accounted for as a sale.

The provisions of ASU 2009-16 were adopted on January 1, 2010. The Company determined, however, that there was no effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows upon adoption, as the Company did not have any QSPEs under previous U.S. GAAP, and the requirements for sale accounting treatment are consistent with those previously applied by the Company.

Business Combinations and Non-controlling Interests

Disclosure of Supplementary Pro Forma Information for Business Combinations

In December 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-29, “Business Combinations (ASC Topic 805): Disclosure of Supplementary Pro Forma Information for Business Combinations” (“ASU 2010-29”), which clarifies that if an entity presents comparative financial statements, it should disclose revenue and earnings of the combined entity as though the business combination that occurred during the current year had occurred as of the beginning of the comparable prior annual reporting period. Also, ASU 2010-29 expands the supplemental pro forma disclosures under Topic 805 to include a description of the nature and amount of material, nonrecurring pro forma adjustments directly attributable to the business combination included in the pro forma revenue and earnings.

The provisions of ASU 2010-29 were adopted by the Company on January 1, 2011 for business combinations occurring on or after that date. The Company determined, however, that there was no effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, or disclosures for the year ended December 31, 2011, as there were no business combinations during the period.

Accounting and Reporting for Decreases in Ownership of a Subsidiary

In January 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-02 “Consolidations (ASC Topic 810): Accounting and Reporting for Decreases in Ownership of a Subsidiary - a Scope Clarification,” (“ASU 2010-02”), which clarifies that the scope of the decrease in ownership provisions applies to the following:

▪ A subsidiary or group of assets that is a business or nonprofit activity;

▪ A subsidiary that is a business or nonprofit activity that is transferred to an equity method investee or joint venture; and

▪ An exchange of a group of assets that constitutes a business or nonprofit activity for a noncontrolling interest in an entity (including an equity method investee or joint venture).

ASU 2010-02 also notes that the decrease in ownership guidance does not apply to sales of in substance real estate and expands disclosure requirements.

The provisions of ASU 2010-02 were adopted, retrospectively, by the Company on January 1, 2010. The Company determined, however, that there was no effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, as there were no decreases in ownership of a subsidiary during those periods.

Fair Value

Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurements

In January 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-06, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosure (ASC Topic 820): Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurements,” (“ASU 2010-06”), which requires several new disclosures, as well as clarification to existing disclosures, as follows:

▪ Significant transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements and the reason for the transfers;

▪ Purchases, sales, issuances, and settlement, in the Level 3 fair value measurements reconciliation on a gross basis;

▪ Fair value measurement disclosures for each class of assets and liabilities (i.e., disaggregated); and

▪ Valuation techniques and inputs for both recurring and nonrecurring fair value measurements that fall in either Level 2 or Level 3 fair value measurements.

The provisions of ASU 2010-06 were adopted by the Company on January 1, 2010, except for the disclosures related to the Level 3 reconciliation, which were adopted by the Company on January 1, 2011. The disclosures required by ASU 2010-06 are included in the Financial Instruments note to these Consolidated Financial Statements. As the pronouncement only pertains to additional disclosure, the adoption had no effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

Measuring the Fair Value of Certain Alternative Investments

In September 2009, the FASB issued ASU 2009-12, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (ASC Topic 820): Investments in Certain Entities That Calculate Net Asset Value per Share (or Its Equivalent)” (“ASU 2009-12”), which allows the use of net asset value to estimate the fair value of certain alternative investments, such as interests in hedge funds, private equity funds, real estate funds, venture capital funds, offshore fund vehicles, and funds of funds. In addition, ASU 2009-12 requires disclosures about the attributes of such investments.

The provisions of ASU 2009-12 were adopted by the Company on December 31, 2009. The Company determined, however, that there was no effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows upon adoption, as its guidance is consistent with that previously applied by the Company. The disclosure provisions required by ASU 2009-12 are presented in the Investments note to these Consolidated Financial Statements.

Interim Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments

In April 2009, the FASB issued new guidance on interim disclosures about fair value of financial instruments, included in ASC Topic 825, “Financial Instruments”, which requires that the fair value of financial instruments be disclosed in an entity's interim financial statements, as well as in annual financial statements. The provisions included in ASC Topic 825 also require that fair value information be presented with the related carrying value and that the method and significant assumptions used to estimate fair value, as well as changes in method and significant assumptions, be disclosed.

These provisions, as included in ASC Topic 825, were adopted by the Company on April 1, 2009, and are presented in the Fair Value Measurements note to these Consolidated Financial Statements. The adoption had no effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows, as the pronouncement only pertains to additional disclosure.

Other Pronouncements

Presentation of Comprehensive Income

In June 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-05, “Comprehensive Income (ASC Topic 220): Presentation of Comprehensive Income” (“ASU 2011-05”), which states that an entity has the option to present total comprehensive income and the components of net income and other comprehensive income either in a single, continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate, consecutive statements.

In December 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-12, which defers the ASU 2011-05 requirements to present, on the face of the financial statements, the effects of reclassification out of AOCI on the components of net income and other comprehensive income.

The Company early adopted provisions of ASU 2011-05 and ASU 2010-12 as of December 31, 2011, and applied the provisions retrospectively. The Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income, with corresponding revisions to the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholder's Equity, is

included in the Consolidated Financial Statements. In addition, the required disclosures are included in the AOCI note to these Consolidated Financial Statements.

Consolidation Analysis of Investments Held through Separate Accounts

In April 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-15, “Financial Services - Insurance ASC Topic 944): How Investments Held through Separate Accounts Affect an Insurer's Consolidation Analysis of Those Investments” (“ASU 2010-15”), which clarifies that an insurance entity generally should not consider any separate account interests in an investment held for the benefit of policyholders to be the insurer's interests, and should not combine those separate account interests with its general account interest in the same investment when assessing the investment for consolidation.

The provisions of ASU 2010-15 were adopted by the Company on January 1, 2011; however, the Company determined that there was no effect on its financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows upon adoption, as the guidance is consistent with that previously applied by the Company.

Subsequent Events

In May 2009, the FASB issued new guidance on subsequent events, included in ASC Topic 855, “Subsequent Events,” which establishes:

▪ The period after the balance sheet date during which an entity should evaluate events or transactions for potential recognition or disclosure in the financial statements;

▪ The circumstances under which an entity should recognize such events or transactions in its financial statements; and

▪ Disclosures regarding such events or transactions and the date through which an entity has evaluated subsequent events.

These provisions, as included in ASC Topic 855, were adopted by the Company on June 30, 2009. In addition, in February 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-09, “Subsequent Events (Topic 855): Amendments to Certain Recognition and Disclosure Requirements”, which clarifies that a Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) filer should evaluate subsequent events through the date the financial statements are issued and eliminates the requirement for an SEC filer to disclose that date, effective upon issuance. The Company determined that there was no effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows upon adoption, as the guidance is consistent with that previously applied by the Company.

Future Adoption of Accounting Pronouncements

Disclosures about Offsetting Assets & Liabilities

In December 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-11, “Balance Sheet (ASC Topic 210): Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities” (“ASU 2011-11”), which requires an entity to disclose both gross and net information about instruments and transactions eligible for offset in the statement of financial position, as well as instruments and transactions subject to an agreement similar to a master netting arrangement. In addition, the standard requires disclosure of collateral received and posted in connection with master netting agreements or similar arrangements.

The provisions of ASU 2011-11 are effective, retrospectively, for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013, and interim periods within those annual reporting periods. The Company is currently in the process of determining the disclosure impact of adoption of the provisions of ASU 2011-11.

Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRSs”)

In May 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-04, “Fair Value Measurement (ASC Topic 820): Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and IFRSs” (“ASU 2011-04”), which includes the following amendments:

▪ The concepts of highest and best use and valuation premise are relevant only when measuring the fair value of nonfinancial assets;

▪ The requirements for measuring the fair value of equity instruments are consistent with those for measuring liabilities;

▪ An entity is permitted to measure the fair value of financial instruments managed within a portfolio at the price that would be received to sell or transfer a net position for a particular risk; and

▪ The application of premiums and discounts in a fair value measurement is related to the unit of account for the asset or liability.

ASU 2011-04 also requires additional disclosures, including use of a nonfinancial asset in a way that differs from its highest and best use, categorization by level for items in which fair value is required to be disclosed, and further information regarding Level 3 fair value measurements.

The provisions of ASU 2011-04 are effective during interim or annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011, and should be applied prospectively. As the pronouncement only pertains to additional disclosures, the adoption had no effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Reconsideration of Effective Control for Repurchase Agreements

In April 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-03, “Transfers and Servicing (ASC Topic 860): Reconsideration of Effective Control for Repurchase Agreements” (“ASU 2011-03”), which removes from the assessment of effective control (1) the criterion requiring the transferor to have the ability to repurchase or redeem the financial assets on substantially the agreed terms, and (2) the collateral maintenance implementation guidance related to that criterion.

The provisions of ASU 2011-03 are effective for the first interim or annual period beginning on or after December 15, 2011, and should be applied prospectively. The Company determined, however, that there was no effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows as the policy is consistent with that previously applied by the Company.