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Fair Value Measurements
6 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]  
Fair Value Measurements

8. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

The Fair Value Measurement Topic of the ASC establishes a framework for measuring fair value and disclosures about fair value measurements.

Fair value Hierarchy:

The Fair Value Measurement Topic of the ASC specifies a fair value hierarchy based on whether the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value are observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect Company-based assumptions. The fair value hierarchy prioritizes model inputs into three broad levels as follows:

 

Ÿ   Level 1      Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets. Assets and liabilities classified as Level 1 include US Treasury securities, exchange traded futures contracts, variable rate demand obligations, money market funds and mutual funds.
Ÿ   Level 2      Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets. Assets and liabilities classified as Level 2 generally include direct investments in fixed income securities representing municipal, asset-backed and corporate obligations, financial services derivatives (including certain interest rate derivatives), and most long-term debt of variable interest entities consolidated under the Consolidation Topic of the ASC. Also included are equity interests in pooled investment funds measured at fair value where the investment can be redeemed in the near term at a value based on the net asset value.
Ÿ   Level 3      Model derived valuations in which one or more significant inputs or significant value drivers are unobservable. This hierarchy requires the use of observable market data when available. Assets and liabilities classified as Level 3 include credit derivative contracts written as part of the financial guarantee business, certain financial services interest rate swap contracts, call options on long-term debt, equity interests in Ambac sponsored special purpose entities and certain investments in fixed income securities. Additionally, Level 3 assets and liabilities generally include fixed income securities, loan receivables, and certain long-term debt of variable interest entities consolidated under the Consolidation Topic of the ASC.

 

The following table sets forth the carrying amount and fair value of Ambac’s financial assets and liabilities as of June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, including the level within the fair value hierarchy at which fair value measurements are categorized. As required by the Fair Value Measurement Topic of the ASC financial assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

 

     Successor Ambac  
     Carrying
Amount
    Total Fair
Value
    Fair Value Measurements Categorized as:  
       Level 1      Level 2     Level 3  

June 30, 2013

           

Financial assets:

           

Fixed income securities:

           

Municipal obligations

   $ 1,637,190      $ 1,637,190      $ —         $ 1,637,190      $ —     

Corporate obligations

     982,587        982,587        —           979,166        3,421   

Foreign obligations

     105,191        105,191        —           105,191        —     

U.S. government obligations

     250,838        250,838        250,838         —          —     

U.S. agency obligations

     53,246        53,246        —           53,246        —     

Residential mortgage-backed securities

     1,520,676        1,520,676        —           1,520,676        —     

Collateralized debt obligations

     47,618        47,618        —           44,203        3,415   

Other asset-backed securities

     987,929        987,929        —           926,193        61,736   

Fixed income securities, pledged as collateral:

           

U.S. government obligations

     164,295        164,295        164,295         —          —     

Short term investments

     611,177        611,177        595,195         15,982        —     

Other investments

     240,417        240,417        —           240,317        100   

Cash

     20,515        20,515        20,515         —          —     

Loans

     7,053        7,179        —           —          7,179   

Derivative assets:

           

Interest rate swaps—asset position

     91,455        91,455        —           91,455        —     

Interest rate swaps—liability position

     (3,129     (3,129     —           (3,129     —     

Futures contracts

     2,852        2,852        2,852         —          —     

Other assets

     13,884        13,884        —           —          13,884   

Variable interest entity assets:

           

Fixed income securities:

           

Corporate obligations

     2,242,989        2,242,989        —           —          2,242,989   

Restricted cash

     22,994        22,994        22,994         —          —     

Loans

     13,820,878        13,820,878        —           —          13,820,878   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total financial assets

   $ 22,820,655      $ 22,820,781      $ 1,056,689       $ 5,610,490      $ 16,153,602   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Financial liabilities:

           

Obligations under investment and repurchase agreements

   $ 364,536      $ 365,319      $ —         $ —        $ 365,319   

Long term debt, including accrued interest

     1,193,830        1,186,821        —           —          1,186,821   

Derivative liabilities:

           

Credit derivatives

     232,267        232,267        —           —          232,267   

Interest rate swaps—asset position

     (53,252     (53,252     —           (53,252     —     

Interest rate swaps—liability position

     272,583        272,583        —           164,187        108,396   

Futures contracts

     —          —          —           —          —     

Other contracts

     192        192        —           192        —     

Liabilities for net financial guarantees written (1)

     4,634,297        4,809,530        —           —          4,809,530   

Variable interest entity liabilities:

           

Long-term debt

     14,268,493        14,268,493        —           12,694,806        1,573,687   

Derivative liabilities:

           

Interest rate swaps—liability position

     1,897,311        1,897,311        —           1,897,311        —     

Currency swaps—liability position

     92,472        92,472        —           92,472        —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total financial liabilities

   $ 22,902,729      $ 23,071,736      $ —         $ 14,795,716      $ 8,276,020   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) The carrying value of net financial guarantees written includes the following balance sheet items: Premium receivables; Reinsurance recoverable on paid and unpaid losses; Deferred ceded premium; Subrogation recoverable; Insurance intangible asset; Unearned premiums; Losses and loss expense reserve; Ceded premiums payable, premiums taxes payable and other deferred fees recorded in Other liabilities.
     Predecessor Ambac  
     Carrying
Amount
    Total Fair
Value
    Fair Value Measurements Categorized as:  
       Level 1      Level 2     Level 3  

December 31, 2012

           

Financial assets:

           

Fixed income securities:

           

Municipal obligations

   $ 1,848,932      $ 1,848,932      $ —         $ 1,848,932      $ —     

Corporate obligations

     1,077,972        1,077,972        —           1,074,316        3,656   

Foreign obligations

     70,112        70,112        —           70,112        —     

U.S. government obligations

     127,283        127,283        127,283         —          —     

U.S. agency obligations

     82,535        82,535        —           82,535        —     

Residential mortgage-backed securities

     1,455,582        1,455,582        —           1,455,582        —     

Collateralized debt obligations

     33,342        33,342        —           26,860        6,482   

Other asset-backed securities

     706,637        706,637        —           656,373        50,264   

Fixed income securities, pledged as collateral:

           

U.S. government obligations

     265,779        265,779        265,779         —          —     

Short term investments

     661,658        661,658        657,886         3,772        —     

Other investments

     100        100        —           —          100   

Cash

     43,837        43,837        43,837         —          —     

Loans

     9,203        7,387        —           —          7,387   

Derivative assets:

           

Interest rate swaps—asset position

     124,853        124,853        —           124,853        —     

Interest rate swaps—liability position

     —          —          —           —          —     

Futures contracts

     1,253        1,253        1,253         —          —     

Other assets

     14,557        14,557        —           —          14,557   

Variable interest entity assets:

           

Fixed income securities:

           

Corporate obligations

     2,261,294        2,261,294        —           —          2,261,294   

Restricted cash

     2,290        2,290        2,290         —          —     

Loans

     15,568,711        15,560,051        —           200,978        15,359,073   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total financial assets

   $ 24,355,930      $ 24,345,454      $ 1,098,328       $ 5,544,313      $ 17,702,813   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Financial liabilities:

           

Obligations under investment and repurchase agreements

   $ 362,017      $ 361,905      $ —         $ —        $ 361,905   

Liabilities subject to compromise

     1,690,312        434,823        —           434,823        —     

Long term debt, including accrued interest

     377,524        801,277        —           —          801,277   

Derivative liabilities:

           

Credit derivatives

     213,585        213,585        —           —          213,585   

Interest rate swaps—asset position

     (73,264     (73,264     —           (73,264     —     

Interest rate swaps—liability position

     390,774        390,774        —           282,022        108,752   

Futures contracts

     —         —         —           —          —     

Other contracts

     220        220        —           220        —     

Liabilities for net financial guarantees written

     7,074,808        3,091,257        —           —          3,091,257   

Variable interest entity liabilities:

           

Long-term debt

     15,436,008        15,414,233        —           12,457,732        2,956,501   

Derivative liabilities:

           

Interest rate swaps—liability position

     2,131,315        2,131,315        —           2,131,315        —     

Currency swaps—liability position

     90,466        90,466        —           90,466        —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total financial liabilities

   $ 27,693,765      $ 22,856,591      $ —        $ 15,323,314      $ 7,533,277   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Determination of Fair Value:

When available, the Company generally uses quoted active market prices specific to the financial instrument to determine fair value, and classifies such items within Level 1. Because many fixed income securities do not trade on a daily basis, pricing sources apply available information through processes such as matrix pricing to calculate fair value. In those cases the items are classified within Level 2. If quoted market prices are not available, fair value is based upon models that use, where possible, current market-based or independently-sourced market parameters. Items valued using valuation models are classified according to the lowest level input or value driver that is significant to the valuation. Thus, an item may be classified in Level 3 even though there may be significant inputs that are readily observable.

The determination of fair value for financial instruments categorized in Level 2 or 3 involves significant judgment due to the complexity of factors contributing to the valuation. Third-party sources from which we obtain independent market quotes also use assumptions, judgments and estimates in determining financial instrument values and different third parties may use different methodologies or provide different prices for securities. We believe the potential for differences in third-party pricing levels is particularly significant with respect to residential mortgage-backed and certain other asset-backed securities held in our investment portfolio and referenced in our credit derivative portfolio, due to the low levels of trading activity for such securities. In addition, the use of internal valuation models may require assumptions about hypothetical or inactive markets. As a result of these factors, the actual trade value of a financial instrument in the market, or exit value of a financial instrument position by Ambac, may be significantly different from its recorded fair value.

Ambac’s financial instruments carried at fair value are mainly comprised of investments in fixed income securities, equity interests in pooled investment funds, derivative instruments, most variable interest entity assets and liabilities and equity interests in Ambac sponsored special purpose entities. Valuation of financial instruments is performed by Ambac’s finance group using methods approved by senior financial management with consultation from risk management and portfolio managers as appropriate. Preliminary valuation results are discussed with portfolio managers quarterly to assess consistency with market transactions and trends as applicable. Market transactions such as trades or negotiated settlements of similar positions, if any, are reviewed quarterly to validate fair value model results. However many of the financial instruments valued using significant unobservable inputs have very little or no observable market activity. Methods and significant inputs and assumptions used to determine fair values across portfolios are reviewed quarterly by senior financial management. Additionally, changes to fair value methods and assumptions are reviewed with the CEO and the Audit Committee when such changes may be material to the company’s financial position or results. Other valuation control procedures specific to particular portfolios are described further below.

We reflect Ambac’s own creditworthiness in the fair value of financial liabilities by including a credit valuation adjustment (“CVA”) in the determination of fair value. A decline (increase) in Ambac’s creditworthiness as perceived by market participants will generally result in a higher (lower) CVA, thereby lowering (increasing) the fair value of Ambac’s financial liabilities as reported.

Fixed Income Securities:

The fair values of fixed income investment securities held by Ambac and its operating subsidiaries are based primarily on market prices received from dealer quotes or alternative pricing sources with reasonable levels of price transparency. Such quotes generally consider a variety of factors, including recent trades of the same and similar securities. For those fixed income investments where quotes were not available, fair values are based on internal valuation models. Key inputs to the internal valuation models include maturity date, coupon and yield curves for asset-type and credit rating characteristics that closely match those characteristics of the specific investment securities being valued. Longer (shorter) expected maturities or higher (lower) yields used in the valuation model will, in isolation, result in decreases (increases) in fair value. Generally, lower credit ratings or longer expected maturities will be accompanied by higher yields used to value a security. At June 30, 2013, approximately 12%, 87%, and 1% of the investment portfolio (excluding variable interest entity investments) was valued using dealer quotes, alternative pricing sources with reasonable levels of price transparency and internal valuation models, respectively. At December 31, 2012, approximately 10%, 89%, and 1% of the investment portfolio (excluding variable interest entity investments) was valued using dealer quotes, alternative pricing sources with reasonable levels of price transparency and internal valuation models, respectively.

Ambac performs various review and validation procedures to quoted and modeled prices for fixed income securities, including price variance analyses, missing and static price reviews, overall valuation analyses by senior traders and finance managers and reviews associated with our ongoing impairment analysis. Unusual prices identified through these procedures will be evaluated further against separate broker quotes (if available) or internally modeled prices, and the pricing source values will be challenged as necessary. Price challenges generally result in the use of the pricing source’s quote as originally provided or as revised by the source following their internal diligence process. A price challenge may result in a determination that the pricing source cannot provide a reasonable value for a security or cannot adequately support a quote, in which case Ambac would resort to using either other quotes or internal models. Results of price challenges are reviewed and approved by senior traders and finance managers.

 

The reported fair values of Level 2 fixed income securities are obtained from third party quotes. Information about the valuation inputs for fixed income securities classified as Level 3 is included below:

Corporate obligations: These securities represent interest only strips of investment grade corporate obligations. The fair value of such securities classified as Level 3 was $3,421 and $3,656 at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. Fair value was calculated using a discounted cash flow approach with the discount rate determined from the yields of corporate bonds from the same issuers. Significant inputs for the interest only strips valuation at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 include the following weighted averages:

Successor Ambac—June 30, 2013

 

  a. Coupon rate: 0.345%

 

  b. Maturity: 20.64 years

 

  c. Yield: 6.75%

Predecessor Ambac—December 31, 2012

 

  a. Coupon rate: 0.345%

 

  b. Maturity: 21.14 years

 

  c. Yield: 6.08%

Collateralized debt obligations (“CDO”): These securities are floating rate senior notes where the underlying securities of the CDO consist of subordinated bank perpetual preferred securities. The fair value of such securities classified as Level 3 was $3,415 and $6,482 at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. Fair value was calculated using a discounted cash flow approach with expected future cash flows discounted using a yield curve consistent with the security type and rating. Significant inputs for the valuation at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 include the following weighted averages:

Successor Ambac—June 30, 2013

 

  a. Coupon rate: 0.88%

 

  b. Maturity: 0.09 years

 

  c. Yield: 1.43%

Predecessor Ambac—December 31, 2012

 

  a. Coupon rate: 1.05%

 

  b. Maturity: 1.51 years

 

  c. Yield: 5.92%

Other asset-backed securities: These securities are floating rate investment grade notes collateralized by various asset types. The fair value of such securities classified as Level 3 was $61,736 and $50,264 at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. Fair value was calculated using a discounted cash flow approach with expected future cash flows discounted using a yield curve consistent with the security type and rating. Significant inputs for the valuation at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 include the following weighted averages:

Successor Ambac—June 30, 2013

 

  a. Coupon rate: 0.67%

 

  b. Maturity: 7.46 years

 

  c. Yield: 4.25%

Predecessor Ambac—December 31, 2012

 

  a. Coupon rate: 0.71%

 

  b. Maturity: 7.86 years

 

  c. Yield: 7.50%

Equity Interests in Pooled Investment Funds:

Investments in pooled investment funds are valued using the NAV per share, calculated on at least a monthly basis where NAV is the basis for determining the redemption value of the investment. These investments are classified as Level 2 as redemptions may be made in the near term (within 90 days) without significant impediments or restrictions. Ambac assesses impediments to redemption and other factors that may restrict the ability to redeem investments in the near term or at values approximating the NAV and may classify the investments as Level 3 if such factors exist.

 

Derivative Instruments:

Ambac’s derivative instruments primarily comprise interest rate and credit default swaps, and exchange traded futures contracts. All call options to repurchase surplus notes were exercised or expired in June 2012. Fair value is determined based upon market quotes from independent sources, when available. When independent quotes are not available, fair value is determined using valuation models. These valuation models require market-driven inputs, including contractual terms, credit spreads and ratings on underlying referenced obligations, yield curves and tax-exempt interest ratios. The valuation of certain interest rate as well as all credit derivative contracts also require the use of data inputs and assumptions that are determined by management and are not readily observable in the market. Under the Fair Value Measurement Topic of the ASC, Ambac is required to consider its own credit risk when measuring the fair value of derivative and other liabilities. The fair value of credit derivative liabilities was reduced by $85,724 and $261,203 at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, as a result of incorporating a CVA into the valuation model for these transactions. Interest rate swaps and other derivative liabilities may also require an adjustment to fair value to reflect Ambac’s credit risk. Derivative liabilities were reduced by $64,647 and $121,928 at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, as a result of Ambac CVA adjustments to derivative contracts other than credit derivatives. Factors considered in estimating the amount of any Ambac CVA on such contracts include collateral posting provisions, right of set-off with the counterparty, the period of time remaining on the derivatives and the pricing of recent terminations and amendments.

As described further below, certain valuation models require other inputs that are not readily observable in the market. The selection of a model to value a derivative depends on the contractual terms of, and specific risks inherent in the instrument as well as the availability of pricing information in the market.

For derivatives that are less complex and trade in liquid markets or may be valued primarily by reference to interest rates and yield curves that are observable and regularly quoted, such as interest rate swaps, we utilize vendor-developed models. These models provide the net present value of the derivatives based on contractual terms and observable market data. Downgrades of Ambac Assurance, as guarantor of the financial services derivatives, have increased collateral requirements and triggered termination provisions in certain interest rate swaps. Increased termination activity since the initial rating downgrades of Ambac Assurance provided additional information about the replacement and/or exit value of certain financial services derivatives, which has been incorporated into the fair value of these derivatives as appropriate. Generally, the need for counterparty (or Ambac) CVAs is mitigated by the existence of collateral posting agreements under which adequate collateral has been posted. Derivative contracts entered into with financial guarantee customers are not typically subject to collateral posting agreements. Counterparty credit risk related to such customer derivative assets is included in our fair value adjustments.

For derivatives that do not trade, or trade in less liquid markets such as credit derivatives, a proprietary model is used because such instruments tend to be unique, contain complex or heavily modified and negotiated terms, and pricing information is not readily available in the market. Derivative fair value models and the related assumptions are continuously re-evaluated by management and enhanced, as appropriate, based on improvements in modeling techniques. Ambac has not made any significant changes to its modeling techniques or related model inputs for the periods presented.

Credit Derivatives (“CDS”):

Fair value of Ambac’s CDS is determined using internal valuation models and represents the net present value of the difference between the fees Ambac originally charged for the credit protection and our estimate of what a financial guarantor of comparable credit quality would hypothetically charge to provide the same protection at the balance sheet date. Ambac competed in the financial guarantee market, which differs from the credit markets where Ambac-insured obligations may trade. As a financial guarantor, Ambac assumes only credit risk; we do not assume other risks and costs inherent in direct ownership of the underlying reference securities. Additionally, as a result of having the ability to influence our CDS counterparty in certain investor decisions, financial guarantors generally have the ability to actively remediate the credit, potentially reducing the loss given a default. Financial guarantee contracts, including CDS, issued by Ambac and its competitors are typically priced to capture some portion of the spread that would be observed in the capital markets for the underlying (insured) obligation, with minimum pricing constrained by objective estimates of expected loss and financial guarantor required rates of return. Such pricing was well established by historical financial guarantee fees relative to capital market spreads as observed and executed in competitive markets, including in financial guarantee reinsurance and secondary market transactions. Because of this relationship and in the absence of severe credit deterioration, changes in the fair value of our credit default swaps will generally be less than changes in the fair value of the underlying reference obligations.

Key variables used in our valuation of substantially all of our credit derivatives include the balance of unpaid notional, expected term, fair values of the underlying reference obligations, reference obligation credit ratings, assumptions about current financial guarantee CDS fee levels relative to reference obligation spreads and the CVA applied against Ambac Assurance liabilities by market participants. Notional balances, expected remaining term and reference obligation credit ratings are monitored and determined by Ambac’s risk group. Fair values of the underlying reference obligations are obtained from broker quotes when available, or are derived from other market indications such as new issuance spreads and quoted values for similar transactions. Implicit in the fair values we obtain on the underlying reference obligations are the market’s assumptions about default probabilities, default timing, correlation, recovery rates and collateral values.

Broker quotes on the reference obligations named in our CDS contracts represent an input to determine the estimated fair value of the CDS contract. Broker quotes are indicative values for the reference obligation and generally do not represent a bid or doing-business quote for the reference instrument. Such quotes follow methodologies that are generally consistent with those used to value similar assets on the quote providers’ own books. Methodologies may differ among brokers but are understood to reflect observable trading activity (when available) and modeling that relies on empirical data and reasonable assumptions. For certain CDS contracts referencing unsecuritized pools of assets, we will obtain counterparty quotes on the credit derivative itself. Such quotes are adjusted to reflect Ambac’s own credit risk when determining the fair value of credit derivative liabilities. Third party reference obligation values or specific credit derivative quotes were used in the determination of CDS fair values related to transactions representing 77% of CDS gross par outstanding and 82% of the CDS derivative liability as of June 30, 2013.

When broker quotes for reference obligations are not available, reference obligation prices used in the valuation model are estimated internally based on averages of the quoted prices for other transactions of the same bond type and Ambac rating as well as changes in published credit spreads for securities with similar collateral and ratings characteristics. When price quotes of a similar bond type vary significantly or the number of similar transactions is small, management will consider additional factors, such as specific collateral composition and performance and contractual subordination, to identify similar transactions. Reference obligation prices derived internally as described above were used in the determination of CDS fair values related to transactions representing 23% of CDS gross par outstanding and 18% of the CDS derivative liability as of June 30, 2013.

Ambac’s CDS fair value calculations are adjusted for changes in our estimates of expected loss on the reference obligations and observable changes in financial guarantee market pricing. If no adjustment is considered necessary, Ambac maintains the same percentage of the credit spread (over LIBOR) demanded in the market for the reference obligation as existed at the inception of the CDS. Therefore, absent changes in expected loss on the reference obligations or financial guarantee CDS market pricing, the financial guarantee CDS fee used for a particular contract in Ambac’s fair value calculations represent a consistent percentage, period to period, of the credit spread determinable from the reference obligation value at the balance sheet date. This results in a CDS fair value balance that fluctuates in proportion with the reference obligation value.

The amount of expected loss on a reference obligation is a function of the probability that the obligation will default and severity of loss in the event of default. Ambac’s CDS transactions were all originally underwritten with extremely low expected losses. Both the reference obligation spreads and Ambac’s CDS fees at the inception of these transactions reflect these low expected losses. When reference obligations experience credit deterioration, there is an increase in the probability of default on the obligation and, therefore, an increase in expected loss. Ambac reflects the effects of changes in expected loss on the fair value of its CDS contracts by increasing the percentage of the reference obligation spread (over LIBOR) which would be captured as a CDS fee (“relative change ratio”) at the valuation date, resulting in a higher mark-to-market loss on our CDS relative to any price decline on the reference obligation. The fundamental assumption is that financial guarantee CDS fees will increase relative to reference obligation spreads as the underlying credit quality of the reference obligation deteriorates and approaches payment default. For example, if the credit spread of an underlying reference obligation was 80 basis points at the inception of a transaction and Ambac received a 20 basis point fee for issuing a CDS on that obligation, the relative change ratio, which represents the CDS fee to cash market spread Ambac would utilize in its valuation calculation, would be 25%. If the reference obligation spread increased to 100 basis points in the current reporting period, absent any observable changes in financial guarantee CDS market pricing or credit deterioration, Ambac’s current period CDS fee would be computed by multiplying the current reference obligation spread of 100 basis points by the relative change ratio of 25%, resulting in a 25 basis point fee. Thus, the model indicates we would need to receive an additional 5 basis points (25 basis points currently less the 20 basis points contractually received) for issuing a CDS in the current reporting period for this reference obligation. We would then discount the product of the notional amount of the CDS and the 5 basis point hypothetical CDS fee increase, over the weighted average life of the reference obligation to compute the current period mark-to-market loss. Using the same example, if the reference obligation spread increased to 100 basis points and there was credit deterioration as evidenced by an internal rating downgrade which increased the relative change ratio from 25% to 35%, we would estimate a 15 basis point CDS fee increase in our model (35% of 100 basis points reference obligation spread, or 35 basis points currently, less the 20 basis points contractually received). Therefore, we would record a higher mark-to-market loss based on the computations described above absent any observable changes in financial guarantee CDS market pricing.

We do not adjust the relative change ratio until an actual internal rating downgrade has occurred unless we observe new pricing on financial guarantee CDS contracts. However, because we have active surveillance procedures in place for our entire CDS portfolio, particularly for transactions at or near a below investment grade threshold, we believe it is unlikely that an internal downgrade would lag the actual credit deterioration of a transaction for any meaningful time period. The factors used to increase the relative change ratio are based on rating agency probability of default percentages determined by management to be appropriate for the relevant bond type. That is, the probability of default associated with the respective tenor and internal rating of each CDS transaction is utilized in the computation of the relative change ratio in our CDS valuation model. The new relative change ratio in the event of an internal downgrade of the reference obligation is calculated as the weighted average of: (i) a given transaction’s inception relative change ratio and (ii) a ratio of 100%. The weight given to the inception relative change ratio is 100% minus the current probability of default (the probability of non-default) and the weight given to using a 100% relative change ratio is the probability of default. For example, assume a transaction having an inception relative change ratio of 33% is downgraded to B-during the period, at which time it has an estimated remaining life of 8 years. If the estimated probability of default for an 8 year, B-rated credit of this type is 60% then the revised relative change ratio will be 73.2%. The revised relative change ratio can be calculated as 33% x (100%-60%) + 100% x 60% = 73.2%.

As noted above, reference obligation spreads incorporate market perceptions of default probability and loss severity, as well as liquidity risk and other factors. Loss severities are generally correlated to default probabilities during periods of economic stress. By increasing the relative change ratio in our calculations proportionally to default probabilities, Ambac incorporates into its CDS fair value the higher expected loss on the reference obligation (probability of default x loss severity), by increasing the portion of reference obligation spread that should be paid to the CDS provider.

Ambac incorporates its own credit risk into the valuation of its CDS liabilities by applying a CVA to the calculations described above. Under our methodology, determination of the CDS fair value requires estimating hypothetical financial guarantee CDS fees for a given credit at the valuation date and estimating the present value of those fees. Our approach begins with pricing in the risk of default of the reference obligation using that obligation’s credit spread. The widening of the reference obligation spread results in a mark-to-market loss to Ambac, as the credit protection seller, and a gain to the credit protection buyer because the cost of credit protection on the reference obligation (ignoring CDS counterparty credit risk) will be greater than the amount of the actual contractual CDS fees. The Ambac CVA represents the difference between the present value of the hypothetical fees discounted at Libor compared to rates that incorporate Ambac credit risk. The discount rates used to determine the Ambac CVA are estimated using relevant data points, including quoted prices of securities guaranteed by Ambac Assurance which indicate the value placed by market participants on Ambac Assurance’s insurance obligations and the fair value of Ambac Assurance surplus notes. The resulting Ambac CVA, as a percentage of the CDS mark-to-market liability determined by discounting at Libor, was 27.0% and 55.0% as of June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. In instances where narrower reference obligation spreads result in a CDS asset to Ambac, those hypothetical future CDS fees are discounted at a rate which incorporates our counterparty’s credit spread (i.e. the discount rate used is LIBOR plus the current credit spread of the counterparty).

In addition, when there are sufficient numbers of new observable transactions, negotiated settlements or other market indications of a general change in market pricing trends for CDS on a given bond type, management will adjust its assumptions about the percentage of reference obligation spreads captured as CDS fees to match the current market. No such adjustments were made during the periods presented. Ambac is not transacting CDS business currently and other guarantors have stated they have exited this product. Additionally, there have been no negotiated settlements of CDS contracts during the periods presented.

Key variables which impact the “Realized gains and losses and other settlements” component of “Net change in fair value of credit derivatives” in the Consolidated Statements of Total Comprehensive Income are the most readily observable variables since they are based solely on the CDS contractual terms and cash settlements. Those variables include premiums received and accrued and losses paid and payable on written credit derivative contracts for the appropriate accounting period. Losses paid and payable reported in “Realized gains and losses and other settlements” include those arising after a credit event that requires a payment under the contract terms has occurred or in connection with a negotiated termination of a contract. The remaining key variables described above impact the “Unrealized gains (losses)” component of “Net change in fair value of credit derivatives.”

 

The net notional outstanding of Ambac’s CDS contracts were $5,861,060 and $11,281,777 at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. Credit derivative liabilities at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 had a combined fair value of $232,267 and $213,585, respectively, and related to underlying reference obligations that are classified as either collateralized loan obligations (“CLOs”) or Other. Information about the above described model inputs used to determine the fair value of each class of credit derivatives, including the CVA as a percentage of the gross mark-to-market liability before considering Ambac credit risk (“CVA percentage”), as of June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 is summarized below:

 

Successor Ambac – As of June 30, 2013             
     CLOs     Other (1)  

Notional outstanding

   $ 1,750,217      $ 2,940,586   

Weighted average reference obligation price

     97.7        88.5   

Weighted average life (WAL) in years

     2.5        4.3   

Weighted average credit rating

     AA        A-   

Weighted average relative change ratio

     35.3     37.4

CVA percentage

     15.1     31.2

Fair value of derivative liabilities

   $ (11,996   $ (134,161

 

Predecessor Ambac – As of December 31, 2012             
     CLOs     Other (1)  

Notional outstanding

   $ 6,155,767      $ 3,701,387   

Weighted average reference obligation price

     96.5        86.9   

Weighted average life (WAL) in years

     2.2        4.2   

Weighted average credit rating

     AA-        A   

Weighted average relative change ratio

     34.4     38.2

CVA percentage

     55.0     55.0

Fair value of derivative liabilities

   $ (34,645   $ (116,086

 

(1) Excludes contracts for which fair values are based on credit derivative quotes rather than reference obligation quotes. Such contracts have a combined notional outstanding of $1,170,257, WAL of 7.2 years and liability fair value of ($86,110) as of June 30, 2013. Other inputs to the valuation of these transactions at June 30, 2013 include weighted average quotes of 10% of notional, weighted average rating of A and Ambac CVA percentage of 21.0%. As of December 31, 2012, these contracts had a combined notional outstanding of $1,424,623, WAL of 7.9 years and liability fair value of ($62,854). Other inputs to the valuation of these transactions at December 31, 2012 include weighted average quotes of 10% of notional, weighted average rating of A and Ambac CVA percentage of 55.0%.

Significant unobservable inputs for credit derivatives include WAL, internal credit rating, relative change ratio and CVA percentage. A longer (shorter) WAL, lower (higher) reference obligation credit rating, higher (lower) relative change ratio or lower (higher) CVA, in isolation, would result in an increase (decrease) in the fair value liability measurement. A change in an internal credit rating of a reference obligation in our model will generally result in a directionally opposite change in the relative change ratio. Also, a shorter (longer) WAL will generally correspond with a lower (higher) CVA percentage.

Call options on long-term debt:

The fair value of Ambac Assurance’s options to repurchase Ambac Assurance surplus notes at a discount to par was estimated based on a combination of internal discounted cash flow analysis and market observations. The discounted cash flow analysis used multiple discount rate scenarios to determine the present value of the surplus notes assuming exercise and non-exercise of the options, with the difference representing the option value under that scenario. The results were probability weighted to determine the recorded option value. All options to repurchase Ambac Assurance surplus notes that were stand-alone derivatives and reported at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets were exercised in June 2012.

Financial Guarantees:

Fair value of net financial guarantees written represents our estimate of the cost to Ambac to completely transfer its insurance obligation to another market participant of comparable credit worthiness. In theory, this amount should be the same amount that another market participant of comparable credit worthiness would hypothetically charge in the market place, on a present value basis, to provide the same protection as of the balance sheet date. This fair value estimate of financial guarantees is presented on a net basis and includes direct and assumed contracts written, net of ceded reinsurance contracts.

The fair value estimate of financial guarantees is computed by utilizing cash flows calculated at the policy level. For direct and assumed contracts, projected net cash flows for each policy included: (i) installment premium receipts, (ii) estimated gross claim payments, and (iii) subrogation receipts. For ceded reinsurance contracts, projected net cash flows for each policy included: (i) installment ceded premium payments, (ii) ceding commission receipts, (iii) ceded claim receipts, and (iv) ceded subrogation payments. For each individual direct, assumed, and ceded reinsurance contract, the respective undiscounted cash flow components are aggregated to determine if we are in a net asset or net liability position. U.S. GAAP requires that the nonperformance risk of a financial liability be included in the estimation of fair value, which includes considering Ambac Assurance’s own credit risk. Accordingly, for each contract in a net liability position, we estimate the fair value using internally developed discount rates that incorporate Ambac’s own credit risk and subsequently apply a profit margin. This profit margin represents what another market participant would require to assume the financial guarantee contracts. Given the unique nature of financial guarantees and current inactive state of the industry there is a lack of observable market information to make this estimate. A profit margin was developed based on discussions with the third-party institutions with valuation expertise, discussions with industry participants and yields on Ambac Assurance surplus notes. The profit margin was 17% and 20% as of June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. The discount rates used for contracts in a net liability position are derived from the rates implicit in the fair value of surplus notes and guaranteed securities with future cash flows that are highly dependent upon Ambac financial guarantee payments. For each contract in a net asset position, we estimate the fair value using a discount rate that is commensurate with a hypothetical buyer’s cost of capital.

This methodology is based on management’s expectations of how a market participant would estimate net cash flows. We are aware of a number of factors that may cause such fair or exit value to differ, perhaps materially. For example, since no financial guarantor with Ambac’s credit quality is writing new financial guarantee business we do not have access to observable pricing data points. Additionally, although the fair value accounting guidance for liabilities requires a company to consider the cost to completely transfer its obligation to another party of comparable credit worthiness, our primary insurance obligation is irrevocable and thus there is no established active market for transferring such obligations.

The fair value of liabilities for net financial guarantees written presented above is as of June 30, 2013, which differs from our Fresh Start Reporting Date (as defined in Note 2).

Liabilities Subject to Compromise:

The fair value of Ambac’s debt included in Liabilities Subject to Compromise was based on quoted market prices.

Long-term Debt:

The fair value of surplus notes issued by Ambac Assurance and classified as long-term debt is internally estimated considering market transactions when available and internally developed discounted cash flow models. Surplus notes were recorded at fair value at the date of issuance and again at the Fresh Start Reporting Date. In subsequent periods, surplus notes are carried at their face value less unamortized discount.

Other Financial Assets and Liabilities:

The fair values of Ambac’s equity interest in Ambac sponsored special purpose entities (included in Other assets), Loans, and Obligations under investment and repurchase agreements are estimated based upon internal valuation models that discount expected cash flows using discount rates consistent with the credit quality of the obligor after considering collateralization.

Variable Interest Entity Assets and Liabilities:

The financial assets and liabilities of VIEs consolidated under the Consolidation Topic of the ASC consist primarily of fixed income securities, loans, derivative and debt instruments and are generally carried at fair value. These consolidated VIEs are securitization entities which have liabilities and/or assets guaranteed by Ambac Assurance. The fair values of VIE debt instruments are determined using the same methodologies used to value Ambac’s fixed income securities in its investment portfolio as described above. VIE debt fair value is based on market prices received from dealer quotes or alternative pricing sources with reasonable levels of price transparency. Such quotes are considered Level 2 and generally consider a variety of factors, including recent trades of the same and similar securities. For those VIE debt instruments where quotes were not available, the debt instrument fair values are considered Level 3 and are based on internal discounted cash flow models. Comparable to the sensitivities of investments in fixed income securities described above, longer (shorter) expected maturities or higher (lower) yields used in the valuation model will, in isolation, result in decreases (increases) in fair value liability measurement for VIE debt. VIE debt instruments considered Level 3 include fixed rate, floating rate and zero coupon notes secured by various asset types, primarily European ABS. Information about the valuation inputs for the various VIE debt categories classified as Level 3 is as follows:

European ABS transactions: The fair value of such obligations classified as Level 3 was $1,182,227 and $2,956,501 at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. Fair values were calculated by using a discounted cash flow approach. The discount rates used were based on the rates implied from the third party quoted values (Level 2) for comparable notes from the same securitization. Significant inputs for the valuation at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 include the following weighted averages:

Successor Ambac—June 30, 2013

 

  a. Coupon rate: 0.76%

 

  b. Maturity: 18.04 years

 

  c. Yield: 1.47%

Predecessor Ambac—December 31, 2012

 

  a. Coupon rate: 1.64%

 

  b. Maturity: 12.34 years

 

  c. Yield: 4.02%

US Commercial ABS transaction: The fair value of such obligations classified as Level 3 was $391,460 at June 30, 2013. Fair values were calculated as the sum of expected future cash flows sourced from the underlying operating assets plus the fair value of the related Ambac financial guarantee cash flows. Expected cash flows were internally modeled in using probability weighted assumptions about future operating cash flows available to fund the debt service. The discount rates applied to cash flows sourced from operating assets were based on interest rates for similar obligations. The fair value of financial guarantee cash flows include internal estimates of future loss payments by Ambac discounted at a rate that incorporates Ambac’s own credit risk. Significant inputs for the valuation at June 30, 2013 include the following weighted averages (there is no comparable Level 3 in this category for December 31, 2012):

Successor Ambac—June 30, 2013

 

  a. Coupon rate: 6.98%

 

  b. Maturity: 10.99 years

 

  c. Yield: 8.74%

VIE derivative asset and liability fair values are determined using valuation models. When specific derivative contractual terms are available and may be valued primarily by reference to interest rates, foreign exchange rates and yield curves that are observable and regularly quoted, the derivatives are valued using vendor-developed models. Other derivatives within the VIEs that include significant unobservable valuation inputs are valued using internally developed models. VIE derivative fair value balances at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 were developed using vendor-developed models and do not use significant unobservable inputs.

The fair value of VIE assets are obtained from market quotes when available. Typically the asset fair values are not readily available from market quotes and are estimated internally. The consolidated VIEs are securitization entities in which net cash flows from assets and derivatives (after adjusting for financial guarantor cash flows and other expenses) will be paid out to note holders or equity interests. Our valuation of VIE assets (fixed income securities or loans), therefore, are derived from the fair value of notes and derivatives, as described above, adjusted for the fair value of cash flows from Ambac’s financial guarantee. The fair value of financial guarantee cash flows include: (i) estimated future premiums discounted at a rate consistent with that implicit in the fair value of the VIE’s liabilities and (ii) internal estimates of future loss payments by Ambac discounted at a rate that includes Ambac’s own credit risk. Estimated future premium payments to be paid by the VIEs were discounted at a weighted average rate of 5.3% and 7.6% at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. The value of future loss payments to be paid by Ambac to the VIEs was adjusted to include an Ambac CVA appropriate for the term of expected Ambac claim payments.

Additional Fair Value Information:

The following tables present the changes in the Level 3 fair value category for the periods presented in 2013 and 2012. Ambac classifies financial instruments in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy when there is reliance on at least one significant unobservable input to the valuation model. In addition to these unobservable inputs, the valuation models for Level 3 financial instruments typically also rely on a number of inputs that are readily observable either directly or indirectly. Thus, the gains and losses presented below include changes in the fair value related to both observable and unobservable inputs.

 

Level-3 financial assets and liabilities accounted for at fair value

 

                       VIE Assets and Liabilities        

Successor Ambac – Period from May 1
through June 30, 2013

   Investments     Other
assets
    Derivatives     Investments     Loans     Long-term
debt
    Total  

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 69,412      $ 14,061      $ (415,360   $ 2,500,565      $ 14,752,053      $ (1,750,372   $ 15,170,359   

Additions of VIEs consolidated

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Total gains/(losses) realized and unrealized:

              

Included in earnings

     395        (177     70,127        (208,998     (586,641     4,347        (720,947

Included in other comprehensive income

     63        —          —          (48,578     (282,421     28,214        (302,722

Purchases

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Issuances

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Sales

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Settlements

     (1,298     —          4,570        —          (62,113     —          (58,841

Transfers in Level 3

     —          —          —          —          —          (220,922     (220,922

Transfers out of Level 3

     —          —          —          —          —          365,046        365,046   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 68,572      $ 13,884      $ (340,663   $ 2,242,989      $ 13,820,878      $ (1,573,687   $ 14,231,973   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The amount of total gains/(losses) included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

   $ —        $ (177   $ 32,525      $ (208,998   $ (586,641   $ 4,347      $ (758,944
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

                       VIE Assets and Liabilities        

Predecessor Ambac – Period from April 1
through April 30, 2013

   Investments     Other
assets
    Derivatives     Investments      Loans     Long-term
debt
    Total  

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 57,791      $ 14,230      $ (328,689   $ 2,414,607       $ 14,116,811      $ (1,910,589   $ 14,364,161   

Additions of VIEs consolidated

     —          —          —          —           —          (409,300     (409,300

Total gains/(losses) realized and unrealized:

               

Included in earnings

     (10     (169     (85,384     31,474         555,946        (11,521     490,336   

Included in other comprehensive income

     11,631        —          —          54,484         105,622        (42,918     128,819   

Purchases

     —          —          —          —           —          —          —     

Issuances

     —          —          —          —           —          —          —     

Sales

     —          —          —          —           —          —          —     

Settlements

     —          —          (1,287     —           (26,326     —          (27,613

Transfers in Level 3

     —          —          —          —           —          —          —     

Transfers out of Level 3

     —          —          —          —           —          623,956        623,956   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 69,412      $ 14,061      $ (415,360   $ 2,500,565       $ 14,752,053      $ (1,750,372   $ 15,170,359   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The amount of total gains/(losses) included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

   $ —        $ (169   $ (86,320   $ 31,474       $ 555,946      $ (11,521   $ 489,410   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

                       VIE Assets and Liabilities        

Predecessor Ambac – Period from January 1
through April 30, 2013

   Investments     Other
assets
    Derivatives     Investments     Loans     Long-term
debt
    Total  

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 60,402      $ 14,557      $ (322,337   $ 2,261,294      $ 15,359,073      $ (2,956,501   $ 14,416,488   

Additions of VIEs consolidated

     —          —          —          —          —          (409,300 )     (409,300

Total gains/(losses) realized and unrealized:

              

Included in earnings

     (33     (496     (88,546     328,768        956,402        (138,914     1,057,181   

Included in other comprehensive income

     12,329        —          —          (89,497     (849,833     150,987        (776,014

Purchases

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Issuances

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Sales

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Settlements

     (3,286     —          (4,477     —          (713,589     4,864        (716,488

Transfers in Level 3

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Transfers out of Level 3

     —          —          —          —          —          1,598,492        1,598,492   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 69,412      $ 14,061      $ (415,360   $ 2,500,565      $ 14,752,053      $ (1,750,372   $ 15,170,359   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The amount of total gains/(losses) included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

   $ —        $ (496   $ (92,002   $ 328,768      $ 956,402      $ (138,914   $ 1,053,758   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

                       VIE Assets and Liabilities        

Predecessor Ambac – Three months ended
June 30, 2012

   Investments     Other
assets
    Derivatives     Investments     Loans     Long-term
debt
    Total  

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 161,450      $ 16,023      $ (355,616   $ 2,184,665      $ 14,460,077      $ (2,786,644   $ 13,679,955   

Additions of VIEs consolidated

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Total gains/(losses) realized and unrealized:

              

Included in earnings

     88        (231     (81,290     20,103        131,807        21,235        91,712   

Included in other comprehensive income

     (1,588     —          —          (42,706     (267,190     54,510        (256,974

Purchases

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Issuances

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Sales

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Settlements

     (89,879     —          (70,698     —          (86,421     19,863        (227,135

Transfers in Level 3

     —          —          —          —          —          (312,083     (312,083

Transfers out of Level 3

     (6,301     —          —          —          —          657,059        650,758   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 63,770      $ 15,792      $ (507,604   $ 2,162,062      $ 14,238,273      $ (2,346,060   $ 13,626,233   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The amount of total gains/(losses) included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

   $ —        $ (231   $ (118,474   $ 20,103      $ 131,807      $ 21,235      $ 54,440   

 

                       VIE Assets and Liabilities        

Predecessor Ambac – Six months ended

June 30, 2012

   Investments     Other
assets
    Derivatives     Investments     Loans     Long-term
debt
    Total  

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 97,522      $ 16,779      $ (486,775   $ 2,199,338      $ 14,126,994      $ (1,934,642   $ 14,019,216   

Additions of VIEs consolidated

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Total gains/(losses) realized and unrealized:

              

Included in earnings

     40        (987     41,037        (62,713     298,472        (115,328     160,521   

Included in other comprehensive income

     6,225        —          —          25,437        148,667        (8,695     171,634   

Purchases

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Issuances

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Sales

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Settlements

     (92,621     —          (61,866     —          (335,860     32,893        (457,454

Transfers in Level 3

     58,905        —          —          —          —          (977,347     (918,442

Transfers out of Level 3

     (6,301     —          —          —          —          657,059        650,758   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 63,770      $ 15,792      $ (507,604   $ 2,162,062      $ 14,238,273      $ (2,346,060   $ 13,626,233   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The amount of total gains/(losses) included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

   $ —        $ (987   $ (72,910   $ (62,713   $ 298,953      $ (115,328   $ 47,015   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The tables below provide roll-forward information by class of investments and derivatives measured using significant unobservable inputs.

Level-3 Investments by class

 

Successor Ambac – Period from May 1 through June 30, 2013

   Collateralized
Debt
Obligations
    Other Asset
Backed
Securities
    Corporate
Obligations
    U.S. Agency
Obligations
     Total
Investments
 

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 3,949      $ 61,782      $ 3,681      $ —         $ 69,412   

Total gains/(losses) realized and unrealized:

           

Included in earnings

     18        392        (15     —           395   

Included in other comprehensive income

     (11     319        (245     —           63   

Purchases

     —          —          —          —           —     

Issuances

     —          —          —          —           —     

Sales

     —          —          —          —           —     

Settlements

     (541     (757     —          —           (1,298

Transfers in Level 3

     —          —          —          —           —     

Transfers out of Level 3

     —          —          —          —           —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 3,415      $ 61,736      $ 3,421      $ —         $ 68,572   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

The amount of total gains/(losses) included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

   $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —         $ —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

Predecessor Ambac – Period from April 1 through April 30, 2013

   Collateralized
Debt
Obligations
    Other Asset
Backed
Securities
     Corporate
Obligations
    U.S. Agency
Obligations
     Total
Investments
 

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 3,905      $ 50,234       $ 3,652      $ —         $ 57,791   

Total gains/(losses) realized and unrealized:

            

Included in earnings

     (3     —           (7     —           (10

Included in other comprehensive income

     47        11,548         36        —           11,631   

Purchases

     —          —           —          —           —     

Issuances

     —          —           —          —           —     

Sales

     —          —           —          —           —     

Settlements

     —          —           —          —           —     

Transfers in Level 3

     —          —           —          —           —     

Transfers out of Level 3

     —          —           —          —           —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 3,949      $ 61,782       $ 3,681      $ —         $ 69,412   
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

The amount of total gains/(losses) included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

   $ —        $ —         $ —        $ —         $ —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

Predecessor Ambac – Period from January 1 through April 30, 2013

   Collateralized
Debt
Obligations
    Other Asset
Backed
Securities
    Corporate
Obligations
    U.S. Agency
Obligations
     Total
Investments
 

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 6,482      $ 50,264      $ 3,656      $ —         $ 60,402   

Additions of VIEs consolidated

     —          —          —          —           —     

Total gains/(losses) realized and unrealized:

           

Included in earnings

     (6     —          (27     —           (33

Included in other comprehensive income

     160        12,117        52        —           12,329   

Purchases

     —          —          —          —           —     

Issuances

     —          —          —          —           —     

Sales

     —          —          —          —           —     

Settlements

     (2,687     (599     —          —           (3,286

Transfers in Level 3

     —          —          —          —           —     

Transfers out of Level 3

     —          —          —          —           —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 3,949      $ 61,782      $ 3,681      $ —         $ 69,412   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

The amount of total gains/(losses) included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

   $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —         $ —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

Level-3 Investments by class

 

Predecessor Ambac – Three months ended June 30, 2012

   Collateralized
Debt
Obligations
    Other Asset
Backed
Securities
    Corporate
Obligations
    U.S. Agency
Obligations
    Total
Investments
 

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 9,839      $ 137,026      $ 13,367      $ 1,218      $ 161,450   

Additions of VIEs consolidated

     —          —          —          —          —     

Total gains/(losses) realized and unrealized:

          

Included in earnings

     —          —          90        (2     88   

Included in other comprehensive income

     190        (1,696     (79     (3     (1,588

Purchases

     —          —          —          —          —     

Issuances

     —          —          —          —          —     

Sales

     —          —          —          —          —     

Settlements

     (471     (84,584     (4,075     (749     (89,879

Transfers in Level 3

     —          —          —          —          —     

Transfers out of Level 3

     —          —          (5,837     (464     (6,301
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 9,558      $ 50,746      $ 3,466      $ —        $ 63,770   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The amount of total gains/(losses) included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

   $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Level-3 Investments by class

 

Predecessor Ambac – Six months ended June 30, 2012

   Collateralized
Debt
Obligations
    Other Asset
Backed
Securities
    Corporate
Obligations
    U.S. Agency
Obligations
    Total
Investments
 

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 12,482      $ 75,886      $ 7,930      $ 1,224      $ 97,522   

Additions of VIEs consolidated

     —          —          —          —          —     

Total gains/(losses) realized and unrealized:

          

Included in earnings

     (2     —          44        (2     40   

Included in other comprehensive income

     291        6,376        (433     (9     6,225   

Purchases

     —          —          —          —          —     

Issuances

     —          —          —          —          —     

Sales

     —          —          —          —          —     

Settlements

     (3,213     (84,584     (4,075     (749     (92,621

Transfers in Level 3

     —          53,068        5,837        —          58,905   

Transfers out of Level 3

     —          —          (5,837     (464     (6,301
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 9,558      $ 50,746      $ 3,466      $ —        $ 63,770   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The amount of total gains/(losses) included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

   $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Level-3 Derivatives by class

 

Successor Ambac – May 1 through June 30, 2013

   Interest Rate
Swaps
    Credit
Derivatives
    Call Options
on Long-term
debt
     Total
Derivatives
 

Balance, beginning of period

   $ (137,947   $ (277,413   $ —         $ (415,360

Additions of VIEs consolidated

         

Total gains/(losses) realized and unrealized:

         

Included in earnings

     18,907        51,220        —           70,127   

Included in other comprehensive income

     —          —          —           —     

Purchases

     —          —          —           —     

Issuances

     —          —          —           —     

Sales

     —          —          —           —     

Settlements

     10,644        (6,074     —           4,570   

Transfers in Level 3

     —          —          —           —     

Transfers out of Level 3

     —          —          —           —     

Deconsolidation of VIEs

     —          —          —           —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ (108,396   $ (232,267   $ —         $ (340,663
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

The amount of total gains/(losses) included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

   $ 18,907      $ 13,618      $ —         $ 32,525   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Level-3 Derivatives by class

 

Predecessor Ambac – April 1 through April 30, 2013

   Interest Rate
Swaps
    Credit
Derivatives
    Call Options
on Long-term
debt
     Total
Derivatives
 

Balance, beginning of period

   $ (125,382   $ (203,307   $ —         $ (328,689

Additions of VIEs consolidated

         

Total gains/(losses) realized and unrealized:

         

Included in earnings

     (12,213     (73,171     —           (85,384

Included in other comprehensive income

     —          —          —           —     

Purchases

     —          —          —           —     

Issuances

     —          —          —           —     

Sales

     —          —          —           —     

Settlements

     (352     (935     —           (1,287

Transfers in Level 3

     —          —          —           —     

Transfers out of Level 3

     —          —          —           —     

Deconsolidation of VIEs

     —          —          —           —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ (137,947   $ (277,413   $ —         $ (415,360
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

The amount of total gains/(losses) included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

   $ (12,213   $ (74,107   $ —         $ (86,320
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

Predecessor Ambac – January 1 through April 30, 2013

   Interest Rate
Swaps
    Credit
Derivatives
    Call Options
on Long-term
debt
     Total
Derivatives
 

Balance, beginning of period

   $ (108,752   $ (213,585   $ —         $ (322,337

Additions of VIEs consolidated

         

Total gains/(losses) realized and unrealized:

         

Included in earnings

     (28,162     (60,384     —           (88,546

Included in other comprehensive income

     —          —          —           —     

Purchases

     —          —          —           —     

Issuances

     —          —          —           —     

Sales

     —          —          —           —     

Settlements

     (1,033     (3,444     —           (4,477

Transfers in Level 3

     —          —          —           —     

Transfers out of Level 3

     —          —          —           —     

Deconsolidation of VIEs

     —          —          —           —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ (137,947   $ (277,413   $ —         $ (415,360
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

The amount of total gains/(losses) included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

   $ (28,162   $ (63,840   $ —         $ (92,002
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Level-3 Derivatives by class

 

Predecessor Ambac – Three months ended June 30, 2012

   Interest Rate
Swaps
    Credit
Derivatives
    Call Options
on Long-term
debt
    Total
Derivatives
 

Balance, beginning of period

   $ (222,222   $ (201,129   $ 67,735      $ (355,616

Additions of VIEs for consolidated

     —          —          —          —     

Total gains/(losses) realized and unrealized:

        

Included in earnings

     (112,904     (7,416     39,030        (81,290

Included in other comprehensive income

     —          —          —          —     

Purchases

     —          —          —          —     

Issuances

     —          —          —          —     

Sales

     —          —          —          —     

Settlements

     39,139        (3,072     (106,765     (70,698

Transfers in Level 3

     —          —          —          —     

Transfers out of Level 3

     —          —          —          —     

Deconsolidation of VIEs

     —          —          —          —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ (295,987   $ (211,617   $ —        $ (507,604
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The amount of total gains/(losses) included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

   $ (107,861   $ (10,613   $ —        $ (118,474
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Predecessor Ambac – Six months ended June 30, 2012

   Interest Rate
Swaps
    Credit
Derivatives
    Call Options
on Long-term
debt
    Total
Derivatives
 

Balance, beginning of period

   $ (302,177   $ (190,653   $ 6,055      $ (486,775

Additions of VIEs consolidated

     —          —          —          —     

Total gains/(losses) realized and unrealized:

        

Included in earnings

     (45,035     (14,638     100,710        41,037   

Included in other comprehensive income

     —          —          —          —     

Purchases

     —          —          —          —     

Issuances

     —          —          —          —     

Sales

     —          —          —          —     

Settlements

     51,225        (6,326     (106,765     (61,866

Transfers in Level 3

     —          —          —          —     

Transfers out of Level 3

     —          —          —          —     

Deconsolidation of VIEs

     —          —          —          —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ (295,987   $ (211,617   $ —        $ (507,604
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The amount of total gains/(losses) included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

   $ (46,263   $ (26,647   $ —        $ (72,910
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Invested assets and VIE long-term debt are transferred into Level 3 when internal valuation models that include significant unobservable inputs are used to estimate fair value. All such securities that have internally modeled fair values have been classified as Level 3. Derivative instruments are transferred into Level 3 when the use of unobservable inputs becomes significant to the overall valuation. Certain interest rate swaps were transferred out of Level 3 in 2012 when appropriate observable market discount rates replaced internal estimates of such rates in the determination of fair value. All transfers into and out of Level 3 represent transfers between Level 3 and Level 2. There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 for the periods presented. All transfers between fair value hierarchy Levels 1, 2, and 3 are recognized at the beginning of each accounting period.

 

Gains and losses (realized and unrealized) relating to Level 3 assets and liabilities included in earnings for the affected periods are reported as follows:

 

    Net
investment
income
    Realized
gains or
(losses) and
other
settlements
on credit
derivative
contracts
    Unrealized
gains or
(losses) on
credit
derivative
contracts
    Derivative
products
revenues
(interest rate
swaps)
    Income on
variable
interest
entities
    Other
income
 

Successor Ambac:

           

Period from May 1 through June 30, 2013

           

Total gains or losses included in earnings for the period

  $ 395      $ 6,074      $ 45,146      $ 18,907      $ (791,292   $ (177

Changes in unrealized gains or losses relating to the assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

    —          —          13,618        18,907        (791,292     (177

Predecessor Ambac:

           

Period from April 1 through April 30, 2013

           

Total gains or losses included in earnings for the period

  $ (10   $ 935      $ (74,106   $ (12,213   $ 575,899      $ (169

Changes in unrealized gains or losses relating to the assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

    —          —          (74,107     (12,213     575,899        (169

Predecessor Ambac:

           

Period from January 1 through April 30, 2013

           

Total gains or losses included in earnings for the period

  $ (33   $ 3,444      $ (63,828   $ (28,162   $ 1,146,256      $ (496

Changes in unrealized gains or losses relating to the assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

    —          —          (63,840     (28,162     1,146,256        (496

Predecessor Ambac:

           

Three months ended June 30, 2012

           

Total gains or losses included in earnings for the period

  $ 88      $ 3,072      $ (10,489   $ (112,904   $ 173,145      $ 38,799   

Changes in unrealized gains or losses relating to the assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

    —          —          (10,613     (107,861     173,145        (231

Predecessor Ambac:

           

Six month Period ended June 30, 2012

           

Total gains or losses included in earnings for the period

  $ 40      $ 6,326      $ (20,964   $ (45,035   $ 120,431      $ 99,723   

Changes in unrealized gains or losses relating to the assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date

    —          —          (26,647     (46,263     120,912        (987