FAIR VALUE OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

Fair Value Measurement

General accounting principles for Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures define fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. These principles also establish a fair value hierarchy which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value and describes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:

Level 1 - Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Active markets are defined as having the following characteristics for the measured asset/liability: (i) many transactions, (ii) current prices, (iii) price quotes not varying substantially among market makers, (iv) narrow bid/ask spreads and (v) most information publicly available. The Company’s Level 1 assets and liabilities are traded in active exchange markets.

Level 2 - Observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or market standard valuation techniques and assumptions that use significant inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities. Such observable inputs include benchmarking prices for similar assets in active, liquid markets, quoted prices in markets that are not active and observable yields and spreads in the market. The Company’s Level 2 assets and liabilities include investment securities with quoted prices that are traded less frequently than exchange-traded instruments and derivative contracts whose values are determined using market standard valuation techniques. Level 2 valuations are generally obtained from third party pricing services for identical or comparable assets or liabilities or through the use of valuation methodologies using observable market inputs. Prices from servicers are validated through analytical reviews and assessment of current market activity.

Level 3 - Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the related assets or liabilities. Level 3 assets and liabilities include those whose value is determined using market standard valuation techniques described above. When observable inputs are not available, the market standard techniques for determining the estimated fair value of certain securities that trade infrequently, and therefore have little transparency, rely on inputs that are significant to the estimated fair value and that are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. These unobservable inputs can be based in large part on management judgment or estimation and cannot be supported by reference to market activity. Even though unobservable, management believes these inputs are based on assumptions deemed appropriate given the circumstances and consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing similar assets and liabilities. Prices are determined using valuation methodologies such as discounted cash flow models and other similar techniques that require management’s judgment or estimation in developing inputs that are consistent with those other market participants would use when pricing similar assets and liabilities. Non-binding broker quotes, which are utilized when pricing service information is not available, are reviewed for reasonableness based on the Company’s understanding of the market, and are generally considered Level 3. Under certain circumstances, based on its observations of transactions in active markets, the Company may conclude the prices received from independent third party pricing services or brokers are not reasonable or reflective of market activity. In those instances, the Company would apply internally developed valuation techniques to the related assets or liabilities. Additionally, the Company’s embedded derivatives, all of which are associated with reinsurance treaties, and longevity and mortality swaps are classified in Level 3 since their values include significant unobservable inputs.

When inputs used to measure the fair value of an asset or liability fall within different levels of the hierarchy, the level within which the fair value measurement is categorized is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety, except for fair value measurements using NAV. For example, a Level 3 fair value measurement may include inputs that are observable (Levels 1 and 2) and unobservable (Level 3). Therefore, gains and losses for such assets and liabilities categorized within Level 3 may include changes in fair value that are attributable to both observable inputs (Levels 1 and 2) and unobservable inputs (Level 3).

Assets and Liabilities by Hierarchy Level

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 are summarized below (dollars in thousands):



December 31, 2017:				Fair Value Measurements Using:
	Total			Level 1		Level 2			Level 3
Assets:
Fixed maturity securities – available-for-sale:
Corporate	$	23,210,968		$	—	$	21,873,696		$	1,337,272
Canadian government	4,220,076			—		3,626,134			593,942
RMBS	1,719,880			—		1,611,998			107,882
ABS	1,648,362			—		1,524,888			123,474
CMBS	1,303,387			—		1,300,153			3,234
U.S. government	1,943,592			1,818,006		103,075			22,511
State and political subdivisions	703,428			—		662,225			41,203
Other foreign government	3,401,127			—		3,396,035			5,092
Total fixed maturity securities – available-for-sale	38,150,820			1,818,006		34,098,204			2,234,610
Funds withheld at interest – embedded derivatives	122,194			—		—			122,194
Cash equivalents	356,788			354,071		2,717			—
Short-term investments	50,746			—		47,650			3,096
Other invested assets:
Non-redeemable preferred stock	39,806			39,806		—			—
Other equity securities	60,346			60,346		—			—
Derivatives:
Interest rate swaps	51,359			—		51,359			—
Foreign currency forwards	730			—		730			—
CPI swaps	(221		)	—		(221		)	—
Credit default swaps	5,908			—		5,908			—
Equity options	16,932			—		16,932			—
Foreign currency swaps	62,905			—		62,905			—
FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments	218,541			217,618		923			—
Total other invested assets	456,306			317,770		138,536			—
Other assets - longevity swaps	40,659			—		—			40,659
Total	$	39,177,513		$	2,489,847	$	34,287,107		$	2,400,559
Liabilities:
Interest sensitive contract liabilities – embedded derivatives	$	1,014,228		$	—	$	—		$	1,014,228
Other liabilities:
Derivatives:
Interest rate swaps	14,311			—		14,311			—
Foreign currency forwards	7,213			—		7,213			—
CPI swaps	1,939			—		1,939			—
Credit default swaps	(760		)	—		(760		)	—
Equity options	(6,339		)	—		(6,339		)	—
Foreign currency swaps	6,194			—		6,194			—
Mortality swaps	1,683			—		—			1,683
Total	$	1,038,469		$	—	$	22,558		$	1,015,911



December 31, 2016:				Fair Value Measurements Using:
	Total			Level 1		Level 2			Level 3
Assets:
Fixed maturity securities – available-for-sale:
Corporate	$	19,619,084		$	310,995	$	18,035,836		$	1,272,253
Canadian government	3,644,046			—		3,168,081			475,965
RMBS	1,278,576			—		1,118,285			160,291
ABS	1,429,344			—		1,210,064			219,280
CMBS	1,363,654			—		1,342,509			21,145
U.S. government	1,468,302			1,345,755		98,059			24,488
State and political subdivisions	591,796			—		550,130			41,666
Other foreign government	2,698,823			276,729		2,409,225			12,869
Total fixed maturity securities – available-for-sale	32,093,625			1,933,479		27,932,189			2,227,957
Funds withheld at interest – embedded derivatives	(22,529		)	—		—			(22,529		)
Cash equivalents	338,601			338,601		—			—
Short-term investments	44,241			8,276		32,619			3,346
Other invested assets:
Non-redeemable preferred stock	51,123			38,317		12,806			—
Other equity securities	224,238			224,238		—			—
Derivatives:
Interest rate swaps	93,508			—		93,508			—
Credit default swaps	9,136			—		9,136			—
Equity options	26,070			—		26,070			—
Foreign currency swaps	100,394			—		100,394			—
FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments	190,120			188,891		1,229			—
Other	11,036			11,036		—			—
Total other invested assets	705,625			462,482		243,143			—
Other assets - longevity swaps	26,958			—		—			26,958
Total	$	33,186,521		$	2,742,838	$	28,207,951		$	2,235,732
Liabilities:
Interest sensitive contract liabilities – embedded derivatives	$	990,308		$	—	$	—		$	990,308
Other liabilities:
Derivatives:
Interest rate swaps	24,374			—		24,374			—
Foreign currency forwards	5,070			—		5,070			—
CPI swaps	262			—		262			—
Credit default swaps	(5		)	—		(5		)	—
Equity options	(7,389		)	—		(7,389		)	—
Foreign currency swaps	(3,231		)	—		(3,231		)	—
Mortality swaps	2,462			—		—			2,462
Total	$	1,011,851		$	—	$	19,081		$	992,770

The Company may utilize information from third parties, such as pricing services and brokers, to assist in determining the fair value for certain assets and liabilities; however, management is ultimately responsible for all fair values presented in the Company’s financial statements. This includes responsibility for monitoring the fair value process, ensuring objective and reliable valuation practices and pricing of assets and liabilities, and approving changes to valuation methodologies and pricing sources. The selection of the valuation technique(s) to apply considers the definition of an exit price and the nature of the asset or liability being valued and significant expertise and judgment is required.

The Company performs initial and ongoing analysis and review of the various techniques utilized in determining fair value to ensure that they are appropriate and consistently applied, and that the various assumptions are reasonable. The Company analyzes and reviews the information and prices received from third parties to ensure that the prices represent a reasonable estimate of the fair value and to monitor controls around pricing, which includes quantitative and qualitative analysis and is overseen by the Company’s investment and accounting personnel. Examples of procedures performed include, but are not limited to, review of pricing trends, comparison of a sample of executed prices of securities sold to the fair value estimates, comparison of fair value estimates to management’s knowledge of the current market, and ongoing confirmation that third party pricing services use, wherever possible, market-based parameters for valuation. In addition, the Company utilizes both internal and external cash flow models to analyze the reasonableness of fair values utilizing credit spread and other market assumptions, where appropriate. As a result of the analysis, if the Company determines there is a more appropriate fair value based upon the available market data, the price received from the third party is adjusted accordingly. The Company also determines if the inputs used in estimated fair values received from pricing services are observable by assessing whether these inputs can be corroborated by observable market data.

For assets and liabilities reported at fair value, the Company utilizes when available, fair values based on quoted prices in active markets that are regularly and readily obtainable. Generally, these are very liquid investments and the valuation does not require management judgment. When quoted prices in active markets are not available, fair value is based on market valuation techniques, market comparable pricing and the income approach. The use of different techniques, assumptions and inputs may have a material effect on the estimated fair values of the Company’s securities holdings. For the periods presented, the application of market standard valuation techniques applied to similar assets and liabilities has been consistent.

The methods and assumptions the Company uses to estimate the fair value of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below.

Fixed Maturity Securities – The fair values of the Company’s publicly-traded fixed maturity securities are generally based on prices obtained from independent pricing services. Prices from pricing services are sourced from multiple vendors, and a vendor hierarchy is maintained by asset type based on historical pricing experience and vendor expertise. The Company generally receives prices from multiple pricing services for each security, but ultimately uses the price from the vendor that is highest in the hierarchy for the respective asset type. To validate reasonableness, prices are periodically reviewed as explained above. Consistent with the fair value hierarchy described above, securities with quotes from pricing services are generally reflected within Level 2, as they are primarily based on observable pricing for similar assets and/or other market observable inputs. If the pricing information received from third party pricing services is not reflective of market activity or other inputs observable in the market, the Company may challenge the price through a formal process with the pricing service.

If the Company ultimately concludes that pricing information received from the independent pricing service is not reflective of fair value, non-binding broker quotes are used, if available. If the Company concludes that the values from both pricing services and brokers are not reflective of fair value an internally developed valuation may be prepared; however, this occurs infrequently. Internally developed valuations or non-binding broker quotes are also used to determine fair value in circumstances where vendor pricing is not available. These valuations may use significant unobservable inputs, which reflect the Company’s assumptions about the inputs that market participants would use in pricing the asset. Observable market data may not be available in certain circumstances such as market illiquidity and credit events related to the security. Pricing service overrides, internally developed valuations and non-binding broker quotes are generally based on significant unobservable inputs and are reflected as Level 3 in the valuation hierarchy.

The inputs used in the valuation of corporate and government securities include, but are not limited to standard market observable inputs which are derived from, or corroborated by, market observable data including market yield curve, duration, call provisions, observable prices and spreads for similar publicly traded or privately traded issues that incorporate the credit quality and industry sector of the issuer. For structured securities, valuation is based primarily on matrix pricing or other similar techniques using standard market inputs including spreads for actively traded securities, spreads off benchmark yields, expected prepayment speeds and volumes, current and forecasted loss severity, rating, weighted average coupon, weighted average maturity, average delinquency rates, geographic region, debt-service coverage ratios and issuance-specific information including, but not limited to: collateral type, payment terms of the underlying assets, payment priority within the tranche, structure of the security, deal performance and vintage of loans.

When observable inputs are not available, the market standard valuation techniques for determining the estimated fair value of certain types of securities that trade infrequently, and therefore have little or no price transparency, rely on inputs that are significant to the estimated fair value that are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. These unobservable inputs can be based in large part on management judgment or estimation, and cannot be supported by reference to market activity. Even though unobservable, these inputs are based on assumptions deemed appropriate given the circumstances and are believed to be consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing such securities.

The fair values of private placement securities are primarily determined using a discounted cash flow model. In certain cases these models primarily use observable inputs with a discount rate based upon the average of spread surveys collected from private market intermediaries who are active in both primary and secondary transactions, taking into account, among other factors, the credit quality and industry sector of the issuer and the reduced liquidity associated with private placements. Generally, these securities have been reflected within Level 3. For certain private fixed maturities, the discounted cash flow model may also incorporate significant unobservable inputs, which reflect the Company’s own assumptions about the inputs market participants would use in pricing the security. To the extent management determines that such unobservable inputs are not significant to the price of a security, a Level 2 classification is made. Otherwise, a Level 3 classification is used.

Embedded Derivatives – The fair value of embedded derivative liabilities, including those calculated by third parties, are monitored through the use of attribution reports to quantify the effect of underlying sources of fair value change, including capital market inputs based on policyholder account values, interest rates and short-term and long-term implied volatilities, from period to period. Actuarial assumptions are based on experience studies performed internally in combination with available industry information and are reviewed on a periodic basis, at least annually.

For embedded derivative liabilities associated with the underlying products in reinsurance treaties, primarily equity-indexed and variable annuity treaties, the Company utilizes a discounted cash flow model, which includes an estimate of future equity option purchases and an adjustment for a CVA. The variable annuity embedded derivative calculations are performed by third parties based on methodology and input assumptions provided by the Company. To validate the reasonableness of the resulting fair value, the Company’s internal actuaries perform reviews and analytical procedures on the results. The capital market inputs to the model, such as equity indexes, short-term equity volatility and interest rates, are generally observable. The valuation also requires certain significant inputs, which are generally not observable and accordingly, the valuation is considered Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy, see “Level 3 Measurements and Transfers” below for a description.

The fair value of embedded derivatives associated with funds withheld reinsurance treaties is determined based upon a total return swap technique with reference to the fair value of the investments held by the ceding company that support the Company’s funds withheld at interest asset with an adjustment for a CVA. The fair value of the underlying assets is generally based on market observable inputs using industry standard valuation techniques. The valuation also requires certain significant inputs, which are generally not observable and accordingly, the valuation is considered Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy, see “Level 3 Measurements and Transfers” below for a description.

Credit Valuation Adjustment – The Company uses a structural default risk model to estimate a CVA. The input assumptions are a combination of externally derived and published values (default threshold and uncertainty), market inputs (interest rate, equity price per share, debt per share, equity price volatility) and insurance industry data (Loss Given Default), adjusted for market recoverability.

Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments – Cash equivalents and short-term investments include money market instruments, commercial paper and other highly liquid debt instruments. Money market instruments are generally valued using unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible for identical assets and are primarily classified as Level 1. The fair value of certain other cash equivalents and short-term investments, such as bonds with original maturities less than twelve months, are based upon other market observable data and are typically classified as Level 2. However, certain short-term investments may incorporate significant unobservable inputs resulting in a Level 3 classification. Various time deposits, certificates of deposit and sweeps carried as cash equivalents or short-term investments are not measured at estimated fair value and therefore are excluded from the tables presented.

Equity Securities – Equity securities consist principally of exchange-traded funds and preferred stock of publicly and privately traded companies. The fair values of publicly traded equity securities are primarily based on quoted market prices in active markets and are classified within Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair values of preferred equity securities, for which quoted market prices are not readily available, are based on prices obtained from independent pricing services and these securities are generally classified within Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. Non-binding broker quotes for equity securities are generally based on significant unobservable inputs and are reflected as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.

FVO Contractholder-Directed Unit-Linked Investments – FVO contractholder-directed investments supporting unit-linked variable annuity type liabilities primarily consist of exchange-traded funds and, to a lesser extent, fixed maturity securities and cash and cash equivalents. The fair values of the exchange-traded securities are primarily based on quoted market prices in active markets and are classified within Level 1 of the hierarchy. The fair value of the fixed maturity contractholder-directed securities is determined on a basis consistent with the methodologies described above for fixed maturity securities and are classified within Level 2 of the hierarchy.

Derivative Assets and Derivative Liabilities – All of the derivative instruments utilized by the Company, except for longevity and mortality swaps, are classified within Level 2 on the fair value hierarchy. These derivatives are principally valued using an income approach. Valuations of interest rate contracts are based on present value techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) basis curves, and repurchase rates. Valuations of foreign currency contracts are based on present value techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, LIBOR basis curves, currency spot rates, and cross currency basis curves. Valuations of credit contracts, are based on present value techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, credit curves, and recovery rates. Valuations of equity market contracts, are based on present value techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, spot equity index levels, and dividend yield curves. Valuations of equity market contracts, option-based, are based on option pricing models, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, spot equity index levels, dividend yield curves, and equity volatility. The Company does not currently have derivatives, except for longevity and mortality swaps, included in Level 3 measurement.

Longevity and Mortality Swaps – The Company utilizes a discounted cash flow model to estimate the fair value of longevity and mortality swaps. The fair value of these swaps includes an accrual for premiums payable and receivable. Some inputs to the valuation model are generally observable, such as interest rates and actual population mortality experience. The valuation also requires significant inputs that are generally not observable and, accordingly, the valuation is considered Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.

Level 3 Measurements and Transfers

As of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively, the Company classified approximately 5.9% and 6.9% of its fixed maturity securities in the Level 3 category. These securities primarily consist of private placement corporate securities, bank loans, Canadian provincial strips, below investment grade mortgage-backed securities and subprime asset-backed securities with inactive trading markets.

The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s corporate, sovereign, government-backed, and other political subdivision investments are probability of default, liquidity premium and subordination premium. Significant increases (decreases) in any of those inputs in isolation would result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement. Generally, a change in the assumption used for the probability of default is accompanied by a directionally similar change in the assumptions used for the liquidity premium and subordination premium. For securities with a fair value derived using the market comparable pricing valuation technique, liquidity premium is the only significant unobservable input.

The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s asset and mortgage-backed securities are prepayment rates, probability of default, liquidity premium and loss severity in the event of default. Significant increases (decreases) in any of those inputs in isolation would result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement. Generally, a change in the assumption used for the probability of default is accompanied by a directionally similar change in the assumption used for the liquidity premium and loss severity and a directionally opposite change in the assumption used for prepayment rates.

The actuarial assumptions used in the fair value of embedded derivatives which include assumptions related to lapses, withdrawals, and mortality, are based on experience studies performed by the Company in combination with available industry information and are reviewed on a periodic basis, at least annually. The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of embedded derivatives are assumptions associated with policyholder experience and selected capital market assumptions for equity-indexed and variable annuities. The selected capital market assumptions, which include long-term implied volatilities, are projections based on short-term historical information. Changes in interest rates, equity indices, equity volatility, CVA, and actuarial assumptions regarding policyholder experience may result in significant fluctuations in the value of embedded derivatives.

Fair value measurements associated with funds withheld reinsurance treaties are generally not materially sensitive to changes in unobservable inputs associated with policyholder experience. The primary drivers of change in these fair values are related to movements of credit spreads, which are generally observable. Increases (decreases) in market credit spreads tend to decrease (increase) the fair value of embedded derivatives. Increases (decreases) in the CVA assumption tend to decrease (increase) the magnitude of the fair value of embedded derivatives.

Fair value measurements associated with variable annuity treaties are sensitive to both capital markets inputs and policyholder experience inputs. Increases (decreases) in lapse rates tend to decrease (increase) the value of the embedded derivatives associated with variable annuity treaties. Increases (decreases) in the long-term volatility assumption tend to increase (decrease) the fair value of embedded derivatives. Increases (decreases) in the CVA assumption tend to decrease (increase) the magnitude of the fair value of embedded derivatives.

The actuarial assumptions used in the fair value of longevity and mortality swaps include assumptions related to the level and volatility of mortality. The assumptions are based on studies performed by the Company in combination with available industry information and are reviewed on a periodic basis, at least annually.

The following table presents quantitative information about significant unobservable inputs used in Level 3 fair value measurements that are developed internally by the Company as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 (dollars in thousands):



	Fair Value					Valuation	Unobservable	Range (Weighted Average)
Assets:	2017		2016			Technique	Input	2017		2016
Corporate	$	173,579	$	167,815		Market comparable securities	Liquidity premium	0-2% (1%)		0-2% (1%)
U.S. government	22,511		24,488			Market comparable securities	Liquidity premium	0-1% (1%)		0-1% (1%)
State and political subdivisions	4,616		4,670			Market comparable securities	Liquidity premium	1	%	1	%
Funds withheld at interest- embedded derivatives	122,194		(22,529		)	Total return swap	Mortality	0-100% (2%)		0-100% (2%)
							Lapse	0-35% (9%)		0-35% (8%)
							Withdrawal	0-5% (3%)		0-5% (3%)
							CVA	0-5% (1%)		0-5% (1%)
							Crediting rate	2-4% (2%)		2-4% (2%)
Longevity swaps	40,659		26,958			Discounted cash flow	Mortality	0-100% (2%)		0-100% (2%)
							Mortality improvement	(10%)-10% (3%)		(10%)-10% (3%)

Liabilities:
Interest sensitive contract liabilities- embedded derivatives- indexed annuities	861,758		805,672			Discounted cash flow	Mortality	0-100% (2%)		0-100% (2%)
							Lapse	0-35% (9%)		0-35% (8%)
							Withdrawal	0-5% (3%)		0-5% (3%)
							Option budget projection	2-4% (2%)		2-4% (2%)
Interest sensitive contract liabilities- embedded derivatives- variable annuities	152,470		184,636			Discounted cash flow	Mortality	0-100% (1%)		0-100% (2%)
							Lapse	0-25% (5%)		0-25% (6%)
							Withdrawal	0-7% (3%)		0-7% (3%)
							CVA	0-5% (1%)		0-5% (1%)
							Long-term volatility	0-27% (8%)		0-27% (14%)
Mortality swaps	1,683		2,462			Discounted cash flow	Mortality	0-100% (1%)		0-100% (1%)

The Company recognizes transfers of assets and liabilities into and out of levels within the fair value hierarchy at the beginning of the quarter in which the actual event or change in circumstances that caused the transfer occurs. Transfers between Levels 1 and 2 are made to reflect changes in observability of inputs and market activity. There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 for year ended December 31, 2016. The transfers from level 1 to level 2 during the year ended December 31, 2017 were due to the Company refining its process related to the observability of inputs and market activity. The following tables present the transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the year ended December 31, 2017 (dollars in thousands):



	2017
	Transfers from Level 1 to Level 2		Transfers from Level 2 to Level 1
Fixed maturity securities - available-for-sale:
Corporate	$	596,809	$	88,674
Other foreign government	317,640		—

Assets and liabilities transferred into Level 3 are due to a lack of observable market transactions and price information. Certain transfers into Level 3 were also due to ratings downgrades on mortgage-backed securities that previously had investment-grade ratings. Assets and liabilities are transferred out of Level 3 when circumstances change such that significant inputs can be corroborated with market observable data. This may be due to a significant increase in market activity for the asset or liability, a specific event, or one or more significant input(s) becoming observable. Transfers out of Level 3 were primarily the result of the Company obtaining observable pricing information or a third party pricing quotation that appropriately reflects the fair value of those assets and liabilities. In addition, certain transfers out of Level 3 were also due to ratings upgrades on mortgage-backed securities that previously had below investment-grade ratings.

The reconciliations for all assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) are as follows:



For the year ended December 31, 2017:	Fixed maturity securities - available-for-sale
	Corporate			Canadian government		RMBS			ABS
Fair value, beginning of period	$	1,272,253		$	475,965	$	160,291		$	219,280
Total gains/losses (realized/unrealized)
Included in earnings, net:
Investment income, net of related expenses	(1,429		)	13,180		(346		)	1,776
Investment related gains (losses), net	4,991			—		729			245
Included in other comprehensive income	(6,719		)	104,797		2,341			7,044
Purchases⁽¹⁾	408,995			—		76,792			45,215
Sales⁽¹⁾	(89,248		)	—		(28,043		)	—
Settlements⁽¹⁾	(285,958		)	—		(18,988		)	(87,328		)
Transfers into Level 3	47,360			—		9,100			85,152
Transfers out of Level 3	(12,973		)	—		(93,994		)	(147,910		)
Fair value, end of period	$	1,337,272		$	593,942	$	107,882		$	123,474
Unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings for the period relating to those Level 3 assets and liabilities that were still held at the end of the period
Included in earnings, net:
Investment income, net of related expenses	$	(1,457	)	$	13,180	$	(196	)	$	669
Investment related gains (losses), net	(5,389		)	—		(346		)	—



For the year ended December 31, 2017 (continued):	Fixed maturity securities - available-for-sale
	CMBS			U.S. government			State and political subdivisions			Other foreign government			Short-term investments
Fair value, beginning of period	$	21,145		$	24,488		$	41,666		$	12,869		$	3,346
Total gains/losses (realized/unrealized)
Included in earnings, net:
Investment income, net of related expenses	709			(461		)	(55		)	(1		)	—
Investment related gains (losses), net	(595		)	—			—			—			—
Included in other comprehensive income	(71		)	19			(15		)	(252		)	11
Purchases⁽¹⁾	—			465			—			496			3,703
Sales⁽¹⁾	(3,720		)	—			—			—			—
Settlements⁽¹⁾	(5,404		)	(2,000		)	(843		)	(672		)	(335		)
Transfers into Level 3	1,302			—			7,294			—			—
Transfers out of Level 3	(10,132		)	—			(6,844		)	(7,348		)	(3,629		)
Fair value, end of period	$	3,234		$	22,511		$	41,203		$	5,092		$	3,096
Unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings for the period relating to those Level 3 assets and liabilities that were still held at the end of the period
Included in earnings, net:
Investment income, net of related expenses	$	—		$	(461	)	$	(54	)	$	(1	)	$	—



For the year ended December 31, 2017 (continued):
	Funds withheld at interest-embedded derivatives			Other assets - longevity swaps		Interest sensitive contract liabilities embedded derivatives			Other liabilities - mortality swaps
Fair value, beginning of period	$	(22,529	)	$	26,958	$	(990,308	)	$	(2,462	)
Total gains/losses (realized/unrealized)
Included in earnings, net:
Investment related gains (losses), net	144,723			—		32,166			—
Interest credited	—			—		(80,062		)	—
Included in other comprehensive income	—			4,343		—			—
Other revenue	—			9,358		—			(921		)
Purchases⁽¹⁾	—			—		(55,237		)	—
Sales⁽¹⁾	—			—		—			—
Settlements⁽¹⁾	—			—		79,213			1,700
Fair value, end of period	$	122,194		$	40,659	$	(1,014,228	)	$	(1,683	)
Unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings for the period relating to those Level 3 assets and liabilities that were still held at the end of the period
Included in earnings, net:
Investment related gains (losses), net	$	144,723		$	—	$	23,472		$	—
Other revenue	—			9,358		—			(921		)
Interest credited	—			—		(159,276		)	—



For the year ended December 31, 2016:	Fixed maturity securities - available-for-sale
	Corporate			Canadian government		RMBS			ABS
Fair value, beginning of period	$	1,226,970		$	416,076	$	330,649		$	303,836
Total gains/losses (realized/unrealized)
Included in earnings, net:
Investment income, net of related expenses	(2,399		)	12,197		(595		)	801
Investment related gains (losses), net	(4,756		)	—		(2,153		)	1,101
Included in other comprehensive income	10,022			47,692		(1,621		)	(2,696		)
Purchases⁽¹⁾	312,720			—		103,553			138,522
Sales⁽¹⁾	(60,399		)	—		(167,684		)	(38,681		)
Settlements⁽¹⁾	(195,016		)	—		(38,495		)	(61,770		)
Transfers into Level 3	14,098			—		1,728			56,105
Transfers out of Level 3	(28,987		)	—		(65,091		)	(177,938		)
Fair value, end of period	$	1,272,253		$	475,965	$	160,291		$	219,280
Unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings for the period relating to those Level 3 assets and liabilities that were still held at the end of the period
Included in earnings, net:
Investment income, net of related expenses	$	(2,343	)	$	12,197	$	(158	)	$	734
Investment related gains (losses), net	(817		)	—		(231		)	—



For the year ended December 31, 2016 (continued):	Fixed maturity securities - available-for-sale
	CMBS			U.S. government			State and political subdivisions			Other foreign government			Short-term investments
Fair value, beginning of period	$	68,563		$	26,265		$	38,342		$	14,065		$	—
Total gains/losses (realized/unrealized)
Included in earnings, net:
Investment income, net of related expenses	1,677			(487		)	215			—			—
Investment related gains (losses), net	(876		)	—			—			—			—
Included in other comprehensive income	(5,887		)	39			962			110			—
Purchases⁽¹⁾	1,545			508			6,952			—			3,365
Sales⁽¹⁾	(41,143		)	—			—			—			—
Settlements⁽¹⁾	(552		)	(1,837		)	(599		)	(1,306		)	(19		)
Transfers into Level 3	—			—			—			—			—
Transfers out of Level 3	(2,182		)	—			(4,206		)	—			—
Fair value, end of period	$	21,145		$	24,488		$	41,666		$	12,869		$	3,346
Unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings for the period relating to those Level 3 assets and liabilities that were still held at the end of the period
Included in earnings, net:
Investment income, net of related expenses	$	1,552		$	(487	)	$	215		$	—		$	—



For the year ended December 31, 2016 (continued):
	Funds withheld at interest-embedded derivatives			Other assets - longevity swaps			Interest sensitive contract liabilities embedded derivatives			Other liabilities - mortality swaps
Fair value, beginning of period	$	(76,698	)	$	14,996		$	(1,070,584	)	$	(2,619	)
Total gains/losses (realized/unrealized)
Included in earnings, net:
Investment related gains (losses), net	54,169			—			7,834			—
Interest credited	—			—			10,709			—
Included in other comprehensive income	—			(1,133		)	—			—
Other revenue	—			13,095			—			(172		)
Purchases⁽¹⁾	—			—			(12,725		)	—
Sales⁽¹⁾	—			—			—			—
Settlements⁽¹⁾	—			—			74,458			329
Fair value, end of period	$	(22,529	)	$	26,958		$	(990,308	)	$	(2,462	)
Unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings for the period relating to those Level 3 assets and liabilities that were still held at the end of the period
Included in earnings, net:
Investment related gains (losses), net	$	54,169		$	—		$	(4,579	)	$	—
Other revenue	—			13,095			—			(172		)
Interest credited	—			—			(63,748		)	—



For the year ended December 31, 2015:	Fixed maturity securities - available-for-sale
	Corporate			Canadian government		RMBS			ABS
Fair value, beginning of period	$	1,310,427		$	—	$	188,094		$	572,960
Total gains/losses (realized/unrealized)
Included in earnings, net:
Investment income, net of related expenses	(3,517		)	2,788		(1,754		)	4,526
Investment related gains (losses), net	(2,814		)	—		(216		)	808
Included in other comprehensive income	(32,452		)	70,144		(944		)	(2,490		)
Purchases⁽¹⁾	243,871			—		249,208			229,220
Sales⁽¹⁾	(3,949		)	—		(985		)	(13,105		)
Settlements⁽¹⁾	(279,495		)	—		(39,494		)	(98,918		)
Transfers into Level 3	15,455			343,144		2,853			13,542
Transfers out of Level 3	(20,556		)	—		(66,113		)	(402,707		)
Fair value, end of period	$	1,226,970		$	416,076	$	330,649		$	303,836
Unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings for the period relating to those Level 3 assets and liabilities that were still held at the end of the period
Included in earnings, net:
Investment income, net of related expenses	$	(3,396	)	$	2,788	$	(1,753	)	$	2,465
Investment related gains (losses), net	(2,278		)	—		—			—



For the year ended December 31, 2015 (continued):	Fixed maturity securities - available-for-sale
	CMBS			U.S. government			State and political subdivisions			Other foreign government
Fair value, beginning of period	$	86,746		$	28,529		$	42,711		$	19,663
Total gains/losses (realized/unrealized)
Included in earnings, net:
Investment income, net of related expenses	2,817			(48		)	32			—
Investment related gains (losses), net	(4,737		)	(233		)	(19		)	—
Included in other comprehensive income	(337		)	(602		)	(3,055		)	(7		)
Purchases⁽¹⁾	42			544			—			—
Sales⁽¹⁾	(6,153		)	—			—			—
Settlements⁽¹⁾	(7,226		)	(1,925		)	(492		)	(1,258		)
Transfers into Level 3	12,828			—			—			—
Transfers out of Level 3	(15,417		)	—			(835		)	(4,333		)
Fair value, end of period	$	68,563		$	26,265		$	38,342		$	14,065
Unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings for the period relating to those Level 3 assets and liabilities that were still held at the end of the period
Included in earnings, net:
Investment income, net of related expenses	$	2,718		$	(48	)	$	32		$	—
Investment related gains (losses), net	(3,593		)	—			—			—



For the year ended December 31, 2015 (continued):
	Funds withheld at interest-embedded derivatives			Other invested assets - non- redeemable preferred stock			Other assets - longevity swaps			Interest sensitive contract liabilities embedded derivatives			Other liabilities - mortality swaps
Fair value, beginning of period	$	22,094		$	7,904		$	7,727		$	(1,085,166	)	$	(797	)
Total gains/losses (realized/unrealized)
Included in earnings, net:
Investment related gains (losses), net	(98,792		)	—			—			(33,191		)	—
Interest credited	—			—			—			19,440			—
Included in other comprehensive income	—			(412		)	(959		)	—			—
Other revenue	—			—			8,228			—			(1,822		)
Purchases⁽¹⁾	—			4,529			—			(42,798		)	—
Sales⁽¹⁾	—			—			—			—			—
Settlements⁽¹⁾	—			—			—			71,131			—
Transfers out of Level 3	—			(12,021		)	—			—			—
Fair value, end of period	$	(76,698	)	$	—		$	14,996		$	(1,070,584	)	$	(2,619	)
Unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings for the period relating to those Level 3 assets and liabilities that were still held at the end of the period
Included in earnings, net:
Investment related gains (losses), net	$	(98,792	)	$	—		$	—		$	(43,496	)	$	—
Other revenue	—			—			8,228			—			(1,822		)
Interest credited	—			—			—			(51,691		)	—


(1)	The amount reported within purchases, sales and settlements is the purchase price (for purchases) and the sales/settlement proceeds (for sales and settlements) based upon the actual date purchased or sold/settled. Items purchased and sold/settled in the same period are excluded from the rollforward. The Company had no issuances during the period.

Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements

The following table presents information for assets measured at estimated fair value on a nonrecurring basis during the periods presented and still held at the reporting dates (for example, when there is evidence of impairment). The estimated fair values for these assets were determined using significant unobservable inputs.



	Carrying Value After Measurement				Net Investment Gains (Losses)
	At December 31,				Years ended December 31,
(dollars in thousands)	2017		2016		2017			2016
Limited partnership interests⁽¹⁾	$	4,656	$	6,192	$	(7,204	)	$	(9,277	)
Private equities⁽²⁾	106		—		(531		)	—


(1)	The impaired limited partnership interests presented above were accounted for using the cost method. Impairments on these cost method investments were recognized at estimated fair value determined using the net asset values of the Company’s ownership interest as provided in the financial statements of the investees. The market for these investments has limited activity and price transparency.


(2)	The fair value of the Company’s private equity investments is based on external valuation models.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The Company is required by general accounting principles for Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures to disclose the fair value of certain financial instruments including those that are not carried at fair value. The following table presents the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments, which were not measured at fair value on a recurring basis, as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 (dollars in thousands).This table excludes any payables or receivables for collateral under repurchase agreements and other transactions. The estimated fair value of the excluded amount approximates carrying value as they equal the amount of cash collateral received/paid.



			Estimated Fair		Fair Value Measurement Using:
December 31, 2017:	Carrying Value ⁽¹⁾		Value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		NAV
Assets:
Mortgage loans on real estate	$	4,400,533	$	4,477,654	$	—	$	—	$	4,477,654	$	—
Policy loans	1,357,624		1,357,624		—		1,357,624		—		—
Funds withheld at interest	5,955,092		6,275,623		—		—		6,275,623		—
Cash and cash equivalents	946,736		946,736		946,736		—		—		—
Short-term investments	42,558		42,558		42,558		—		—		—
Other invested assets	690,198		718,282		28,540		67,778		286,839		335,125
Accrued investment income	392,721		392,721		—		392,721		—		—
Liabilities:
Interest-sensitive contract liabilities	$	12,683,872	$	12,917,243	$	—	$	—	$	12,917,243	$	—
Long-term debt	2,788,365		2,959,912		—		—		2,959,912		—
Collateral finance and securitization notes	783,938		722,145		—		—		722,145		—

December 31, 2016:
Assets:
Mortgage loans on real estate	$	3,775,522	$	3,786,987	$	—	$	—	$	3,786,987	$	—
Policy loans	1,427,602		1,427,602		—		1,427,602		—		—
Funds withheld at interest	5,893,381		6,193,166		—		—		6,193,166		—
Cash and cash equivalents	862,117		862,117		862,117		—		—		—
Short-term investments	32,469		32,469		32,469		—		—		—
Other invested assets	477,132		510,640		26,294		55,669		131,904		296,773
Accrued investment income	347,173		347,173		—		347,173		—		—
Liabilities:
Interest-sensitive contract liabilities	$	10,225,099	$	10,234,544	$	—	$	—	$	10,234,544	$	—
Long-term debt	3,088,635		3,186,173		—		—		3,186,173		—
Collateral finance and securitization notes	840,700		745,805		—		—		745,805		—


(1)	Carrying values presented herein may differ from those in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets because certain items within the respective financial statement captions may be measured at fair value on a recurring basis.

Mortgage Loans on Real Estate – The fair value of mortgage loans on real estate is estimated by discounting cash flows, both principal and interest, using current interest rates for mortgage loans with similar credit ratings and similar remaining maturities. As such, inputs include current treasury yields and spreads, which are based on the credit rating and average life of the loan, corresponding to the market spreads. The valuation of mortgage loans on real estate is considered Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.

Policy Loans – Policy loans typically carry an interest rate that is adjusted annually based on an observable market index and therefore carrying value approximates fair value. The valuation of policy loans is considered Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.

Funds Withheld at Interest – The carrying value of funds withheld at interest approximates fair value except where the funds withheld are specifically identified in the agreement. When funds withheld are specifically identified in the agreement, the fair value is based on the fair value of the underlying assets which are held by the ceding company. Ceding companies use a variety of sources and pricing methodologies, which are not transparent to the Company and may include significant unobservable inputs, to value the securities that are held in distinct portfolios, therefore the valuation of these funds withheld assets are considered Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.

Cash and Cash Equivalents and Short-term Investments – The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments approximates fair values due to the short-term maturities of these instruments and are considered Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy.

Other Invested Assets – This primarily includes limited partnership interests accounted for using the cost method, structured loans, FHLB common stock, cash collateral and equity release mortgages. The fair value of limited partnership interests and other investments accounted for using the cost method is determined using the NAV of the Company’s ownership interest as provided in the financial statements of the investees. The fair value of structured loans is estimated based on a discounted cash flow analysis using discount rates applicable to each structured loan, this is considered Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the Company’s common stock investment in the FHLB is considered to be the carrying value and it is considered Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the Company’s cash collateral is considered to be the carrying value and considered to be Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the Company’s equity release mortgage loan portfolio, considered Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy, is estimated by discounting cash flows, both principal and interest, using a risk free rate plus an illiquidity premium. The cash flow analysis considers future expenses, changes in property prices, and actuarial analysis of borrower behavior, mortality and morbidity.

Accrued Investment Income – The carrying value for accrued investment income approximates fair value as there are no adjustments made to the carrying value. This is considered Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.

Interest-Sensitive Contract Liabilities – The carrying and fair values of interest-sensitive contract liabilities reflected in the table above exclude contracts with significant mortality risk. The fair value of the Company’s interest-sensitive contract liabilities utilizes a market standard technique with both capital market inputs and policyholder behavior assumptions, as well as cash values adjusted for recapture fees. The capital market inputs to the model, such as interest rates, are generally observable. Policyholder behavior assumptions are generally not observable and may require use of significant management judgment. The valuation of interest-sensitive contract liabilities is considered Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.

Long-term Debt/Collateral Finance and Securitization Notes – The fair value of the Company’s long-term debt, and collateral finance and securitization notes is generally estimated by discounting future cash flows using market rates currently available for debt with similar remaining maturities and reflecting the credit risk of the Company, including inputs when available, from actively traded debt of the Company or other companies with similar credit quality. The valuation of long-term debt, and collateral finance and securitization notes is generally obtained from brokers and is considered Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.