10-K 1 amic10k.htm AMIC 10-K To Our Shareholders

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C.  20549


FORM 10-K

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF

THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934


FOE THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010

COMMISSION FILE NUMBER 001-05270


AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE CORP.

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)


 

                DELAWARE

 

11-1817252

(State of Incorporation)

 

(I. R.S. Employer Identification No.)


485 Madison Avenue, New York, New York

10022

   (Address of Principal Executive Offices)

(Zip Code)

(212) 355-4141

Registrant's telephone number, including area code:


NONE

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act


COMMON STOCK, PAR VALUE $0.01 PER SHARE

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act


Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

[   ] Yes    

        [X] No


Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act.

[   ] Yes    

        [X] No


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes[X]     No [   ]


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).      [   ] Yes            [   ] No


Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. [X]


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act:


Large accelerated filer [   ]      Accelerated filer [   ]

Non-accelerated filer [X]

Smaller reporting company [   ]


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).

[   ] Yes    

        [X] No


The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to the price at which the common equity was last sold, as of June 30, 2010 was $21,110,000.


Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

Class

Outstanding at March 17, 2011

Common Stock, $0.01 par value

8,513,313



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Documents Incorporated by Reference

Portions of the registrant’s definitive proxy statement to be delivered (or made available, pursuant to applicable regulations) to stockholders in connection with the 2011 annual meeting of stockholders to be held in June 2011 are incorporated by reference in response to Part III of this Report.



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FORM 10-K CROSS REFERENCE INDEX


PART I

Item 1.

Business

5

 

 

 

 

 

Item 1A.

Risk Factors

10

 

 

 

 

 

Item 1B.

Unresolved Staff Comments

16

 

 

 

 

 

Item 2.

Properties

16

 

 

 

 

 

Item 3.

Legal Proceedings

16

 

 

 

 

 

Item 4.

Removed and Reserved

16

 

 

 

 

PART II

Item 5.

Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related

 

 

 

 

Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

17

 

 

 

 

 

Item 6.

Selected Financial Data

19

 

 

 

 

 

Item 7.

Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition

 

 

 

 

and Results of Operations

19

 

 

 

 

 

Item 7A.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

37

 

 

 

 

 

Item 8.

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

39

 

 

 

 

 

Item 9.

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting

 

 

 

 

and Financial Disclosure

74

 

 

 

 

 

Item 9A.

Controls and Procedures

74

 

 

 

 

 

Item 9B.

Other Information

75

 

 

 

 

PART III

Item 10.

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

75

 

 

 

 

 

Item 11.

Executive Compensation

76

 

 

 

 

 

Item 12.

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and

 

 

 

 

Management and Related Stockholder Matters

76

 

 

 

 

 

Item 13.

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director

 

 

 

 

Independence

76

 

 

 

 

 

Item 14

Principal Accounting Fees and Services

76

 

 

 

 

PART IV

Item 15.

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

76




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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This report on Form 10−K contains certain “forward−looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which are intended to be covered by the safe harbors created by those laws. We have based our forward−looking statements on our current expectations and projections about future events. Our forward−looking statements include information about possible or assumed future results of our operations. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included or incorporated by reference in this report that address activities, events or developments that we expect or anticipate may occur in the future, including such things as the growth of our business and operations, our business strategy, competitive strengths, goals, plans, future capital expenditures and references to future successes may be considered forward−looking statements. Also, when we use words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “probably” or similar expressions, we are making forward−looking statements.


Numerous risks and uncertainties may impact the matters addressed by our forward−looking statements, any of which could negatively and materially affect our future financial results and performance.  We describe some of these risks and uncertainties in greater detail in Item 1A of this report, Risk Factors.


Although we believe that the assumptions underlying our forward−looking statements are reasonable, any of these assumptions, and, therefore, also the forward−looking statements based on these assumptions, could themselves prove to be inaccurate. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward−looking statements that are included in this report, our inclusion of this information is not a representation by us or any other person that our objectives and plans will be achieved. Our forward−looking statements speak only as of the date made, and we will not update these forward−looking statements unless the securities laws require us to do so. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, any forward−looking event discussed in this report may not occur.



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PART I


Item 1.  BUSINESS


Business Overview


American Independence Corp. is a Delaware corporation (NASDAQ: AMIC).  We are a holding company principally engaged in health insurance and reinsurance with principal executive offices located at 485 Madison Avenue, New York, New York 10022.  


Our website is located at www.americanindependencecorp.com.  Detailed information about AMIC, its corporate affiliates and insurance products and services can be found on our website.  In addition, we make our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and all amendments to such reports available, free of charge, through our website, as soon as reasonably practicable after they are filed with or furnished to the SEC.  The information on our website, however, is not incorporated by reference in, and does not form part of, this Annual Report on Form 10-K.


We provide specialized health coverage and related services to commercial customers and individuals.  We focus on niche health products and/or narrowly defined distribution channels in the United States.  Our wholly owned subsidiary, Independence American Insurance Company ("Independence American"), markets its products through AMIC’s managing general underwriter and agency subsidiaries and through independent brokers, producers and agents.


As used in this report, unless otherwise required by the context, AMIC and its subsidiaries are sometimes collectively referred to as the "Company" or "AMIC", or are implicit in the terms "we", "us" and "our".


AMIC retains much of the risk that it underwrites, and focuses on the following lines of business:


Medical excess or “stop-loss”

Major medical for individuals and families

Group major medical

Short-term medical

Limited Medical

Vision

Dental


Independence American, which is domiciled in Delaware, is licensed to write property and/or casualty insurance in 49 states and the District of Columbia, and has an A- (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best Company, Inc. ("A.M. Best").  We have been informed by A.M. Best that an A.M. Best rating is assigned after an extensive quantitative and qualitative evaluation of a company's financial condition and operating performance, and is also based upon factors relevant to policyholders, agents, and intermediaries, and is not directed towards protection of investors. A.M. Best ratings are not recommendations to buy, sell or hold securities of the Company.  


We own controlling interests in two managing general underwriter subsidiaries: Marlton Risk Group LLC ("Marlton") and Risk Assessment Strategies, Inc. ("RAS").  AMIC also has a minority investment in Majestic Underwriters LLC ("Majestic").  During 2010, AMIC owned another managing general underwriter, IndependenceCare Underwriting Services – Minneapolis, L.L.C. ("IndependenceCare"), which was put into runoff prior the end of 2009.  Marlton, IndependenceCare and RAS are collectively referred to as "our MGUs."  Our MGUs are responsible for marketing and underwriting their medical stop-loss business. In 2010, AMIC formed a stop-loss sales office, IHC Risk Solutions – IIG (“IIG”).  The underwriting for IIG business is performed by RAS and RAS purchased a block of stop-loss business that had formerly been managed by the management of IIG.  Another one of our subsidiaries, IHC Risk Solutions, Inc. (“RSI”), bills and collects premiums, administers and processes claims and performs medical management services for our MGUs, Majestic, IIG and third parties.  These functions, which were previously performed by each MGU separately, were consolidated in order to generate cost savings through economies of scale and provide more uniform results among the MGUs.



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Marlton, which is headquartered near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, markets and underwrites employer medical stop-loss and group life for Standard Security Life Insurance Company of New York ("Standard Security Life"), Independence American and two other carriers. RAS, which is headquartered near Hartford, Connecticut, markets and underwrites employer medical stop-loss and group life for Standard Security Life, Madison National Life Insurance Company, Inc. ("Madison National Life"), Independence American and one other carrier.  Standard Security Life and Madison National Life are wholly owned, indirect subsidiaries of Independence Holding Company.  IIG, which is based in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, markets employer medical stop-loss and group life for Independence American and one other carrier.  Independence Holding Company and its subsidiaries including Standard Security Life and Madison National Life are collectively referred to as "IHC". In March 2010, upon approval of the AMIC Board of Directors, IHC acquired control of AMIC through the purchase of approximately 28,000 shares of common stock of AMIC in the open market.  IHC owned 50.1% of AMIC’s outstanding stock as of December 31, 2010.  Subsequent to December 31, 2010, IHC acquired 1,100,325 shares of AMIC, bringing its ownership to 63.0%.  AMIC also has a 51% ownership in HealthInsurance.org, LLC (“HIO”), an insurance and marketing agency, and a 51% ownership in Independent Producers of America, LLC (“IPA”), a national, career agent marketing organization.  IIG, RSI, HIO, and IPA are collectively referred to as “our Agencies”.


Independence American began writing group major medical, medical stop-loss, major medical plans for individuals and families, and short-term medical in 2007, and added dental in 2009.  Given its A- (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best, Independence American expects to expand the distribution of its medical stop-loss products, and slightly increase the business written on its paper, especially major medical plans for individuals and families.


In addition, AMIC expects that the number of insurance leads produced by HIO will continue to grow and that the revenue from HIO will continue to accelerate.  When AMIC acquired 51% of HIO in November, 2007 it was producing approximately 20,000 unique visitors per month and generating $30,000 of gross revenue.  By December 2010, HIO was producing nearly 100,000 unique visitors and generating $200,000 of gross revenue.  In October, 2010 HIO launched the Medicare Resource Center and anticipates generating unique visitors and revenue in mid 2011 as baby boomers increasingly use the internet to purchase Medicare-related products.


Our Philosophy


Our business strategy consists of maximizing underwriting profits through a variety of niche health products and/or through distribution channels that enable us to access underserved markets or markets in which we believe we have a competitive advantage.  In addition to distributing through independent agents and brokers, Independence American focuses on alternative distribution sources, such as captive agencies and direct-to-consumer initiatives.  While management considers a wide range of factors in its strategic planning and decision-making, underwriting profit is consistently emphasized as the primary goal in all decisions.


Our Products


Medical Stop-Loss


Self-insured group major medical plans permit employers flexibility in designing employee health coverages at a cost that may be lower than that available through other health care plans provided by an insurer or managed care organizations (“MCO”).  Employer medical stop-loss insurance provides coverage to public and private entities that elect to self-insure their employees' medical coverage for losses within specified ranges, which permits such groups to manage the risk of excessive health insurance costs by limiting specific and aggregate losses to predetermined amounts.


This stop-loss coverage is available on either a "specific" or a "specific and aggregate" or an “aggregate only” basis.  Specific stop-loss coverage reimburses employers for large claims incurred by an individual employee or dependent.  When an employee’s or dependent's covered claims exceed the specific stop-loss deductible, covered amounts in excess of the deductible are reimbursable to the employer under the specific stop-loss policy.  The specific stop-loss deductible is selected based on the number of covered employees, the



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employer's capacity to assume some of the risk, and the medical claim experience of the plan. Aggregate stop-loss coverage protects the employer against fluctuations due to claim frequency.  The employer's overall claim liability is limited to a certain dollar amount, often referred to as the attachment point.  An aggregate stop-loss policy usually provides reimbursement when coverage claims for the plan as a whole exceed the aggregate attachment point.


Standard Security Life, Madison National Life and Independence American market employer medical stop-loss insurance nationally through a network of managing general underwriters ("MGUs"), which are non-salaried contractors that receive administrative fees. As of December 31, 2010, Standard Security Life and Madison National Life marketed this product through multiple MGUs, including, RAS, Marlton and Majestic.  As of December 31, 2010, Independence American marketed this product through primarily two MGUs (see Note 20 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements), including the entity that sold the IIG block of business.  MGUs are responsible for establishing an employer's conditions for coverage in accordance with guidelines formulated and approved by Standard Security Life, Madison National Life and Independence American, billing and collecting premiums from the employers, paying commissions to agents, and third-party administrators ("TPAs") and/or brokers.  Standard Security Life, Madison National Life and Independence American are responsible for selecting MGUs, establishing underwriting guidelines, maintaining approved policy forms and reviewing employers' claims for reimbursement, as well as establishing appropriate accounting procedures and reserves.


Fully Insured Health


Independence American writes fully insured health business, including consumer-driven health plans ("CDHPs").  This group major medical business, generally written through agents and brokers that receive commissions, is fully insured major medical coverage designed to work with health reimbursement accounts ("HRA") and health savings accounts ("HSA") which are implemented by employers that wish to provide this benefit as part of an employee welfare benefit plan.  These plans are offered primarily as preferred provider organizations ("PPO") plans, and provide a variety of cost-sharing options, including deductibles, coinsurance and co-payment. In 2010, Independence American wrote approximately $12.4 million of this business and retained 100% of the risk, subject to a contractual undertaking by the producer of this business to share in 35% of all profits and losses. Independence American expects the premium from this line of business to be relatively flat in 2011.  In 2010, Independence American wrote approximately $14.1 million of health plans for individual and families through IPA and ceded 50% to a third-party reinsurer.  AMIC anticipates growth in this line of business in 2011 both through this production source and modest growth in assumed reinsurance premiums derived from health plans for individual and families written by Standard Security Life and Madison National Life.  In addition, in late 2010 Independence American began to make available limited and scheduled benefit plans through IPA.  It anticipates writing about $3.0 to $4.0 million of gross written premium in 2011.  Short-term medical business, which is primarily written through agents and brokers that receive commissions, is designed specifically for people with short-term needs for health coverage.  Independence American is licensed to write this product in the vast majority of states, and will continue to seek alternative distribution channels that would give it an opportunity to write this business on its paper.  Independence American expects this premium to be relatively flat in 2011.


Short-term Statutory Disability


Independence American reinsures 20% of Standard Security Life's short-term statutory disability benefit product in New York State ("DBL").  All companies with more than one employee in New York State are required to provide DBL insurance for their employees.  DBL coverage provides temporary cash payments to replace wages lost as a result of disability due to non-occupational injury or illness.  The DBL policy provides for (i) payment of 50% of salary to a maximum of $170 per week; (ii) a maximum of 26 weeks in a consecutive 52 week period; and (iii) benefit commencement on the eighth consecutive day of disability.  Policies covering fewer than 50 employees have fixed rates approved by the New York State Insurance Department. Policies covering 50 or more employees are individually underwritten.  The DBL business is marketed primarily through independent general agents.  Independence American expects the reinsurance premium from this line of business to remain steady in 2011.




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Reinsurance


Reinsurance is an arrangement in which an insurance company (the "reinsurer") agrees to indemnify another insurance company (the "ceding company") against all or a portion of the insurance risks underwritten by the ceding company under one or more insurance contracts.  Reinsurance provides a ceding company with additional underwriting capacity by permitting it to accept larger risks and write more business than would be possible without an accompanying increase in statutory capital and surplus.  There are two basic types of reinsurance arrangements: treaty and facultative reinsurance. In treaty reinsurance, the ceding company is obligated to cede and the reinsurer is obligated to assume a specified portion of a type of category of risks insured by the ceding company.  Treaty reinsurers do not separately evaluate each of the individual risks assumed under their treaties and, consequently, after a review of the ceding company's underwriting practices, are largely dependent on the original risk underwriting decisions made by the ceding company.  In facultative reinsurance, the ceding company cedes and the reinsurer assumes all or part of the risk under a single insurance contract.  Independence American currently only participates in treaty reinsurance. Both treaty and facultative reinsurance can be written on either a pro rata basis or an excess of loss basis.  Under pro rata reinsurance, the ceding company and the reinsurer share the premiums as well as the losses and expenses in an agreed proportion.  Under excess of loss reinsurance, the reinsurer indemnifies the ceding company against all or a specified portion of losses and expenses in excess of a specified dollar amount, known as the ceding company's retention or reinsurer's attachment point, generally subject to a negotiated reinsurance contract limit.  Premiums paid by the ceding company to a reinsurer for excess of loss reinsurance are not directly proportional to the premiums that the ceding company receives because the reinsurer does not assume a proportionate risk.  In pro rata reinsurance, the reinsurer generally pays the ceding company a ceding commission.  The ceding commission generally is based on the ceding company's cost of acquiring and managing the business being reinsured (commissions, premium taxes, assessments and miscellaneous administrative expenses).  Independence American participates in pro rata reinsurance for their medical stop-loss business.


During 2010, 61% of Independence American’s premiums earned were derived from assumed reinsurance premiums, compared to 66% in 2009.  In 2010, 67% of this premium was related to medical stop-loss business, 26% was related to fully insured health business, and 7% was related to DBL.  Of the medical stop-loss premiums, 69% was generated from pro rata reinsurance treaties with Standard Security Life and Madison National Life pursuant to which they cede, at treaty renewals, at least 15%, and may cede up to 30%, of their gross medical stop-loss premiums written to Independence American under most of IHC’s medical stop-loss programs.  For 2010, Standard Security Life and Madison National Life ceded, on average, approximately 20% of their medical stop-loss business to Independence American.  The reinsurance treaties between Independence American and Standard Security Life and Independence American and Madison National Life terminate December 31, 2014, unless terminated sooner by Independence American.  Standard Security Life, which is domiciled in New York, is licensed as an insurance company in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.  Madison National Life, which is domiciled in Wisconsin, is licensed to sell insurance products in 49 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, American Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and is an accredited reinsurer in New York.  Both companies are rated A- (Excellent) by A.M. Best.  The balance of the medical stop-loss assumed reinsurance premium was related to business written by unaffiliated carriers on ten other programs.  For 2010, Independence American received between 10% and 25% of the premium on these unaffiliated programs.  The Company's strategic plan is to continue to expand the fully insured health and medical stop-loss business written by Independence American.


Federal Net Operating Loss Carryforwards


At December 31, 2010, AMIC had consolidated net operating loss (“NOL”) carryforwards of approximately $274 million for federal income tax purposes.  Some or all of the NOL carryforwards may be available to offset, for federal income tax purposes, the future taxable income, if any, of AMIC as described in more detail in Note 15 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.  The Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") has not audited any of AMIC's tax returns for any of the years during the carryforward period, including those returns for the years in which the losses giving rise to the NOL carryforward were reported.  


Our ability to utilize our NOLs would be substantially reduced if AMIC were to undergo an "ownership change" within the meaning of Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code").  



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Generally, an "ownership change" occurs if one or more "5% Stockholders" (which generally includes any stockholder who owns five percent or more in value of a company's capital stock) increase their aggregate percentage ownership by more than 50 percentage points over the lowest percentage of stock owned by such stockholders over the preceding three-year period.  For this purpose, all holders who each own less than five percent of a company's capital stock generally are treated together as a single "5% Stockholder."  In addition, certain attribution rules, which generally attribute ownership of stock to the ultimate beneficial owner thereof without regard to ownership by nominees, trusts, corporations, partnerships, or other entities, are applied to determine the level of stock ownership of a particular stockholder.  Transactions in the public markets among stockholders owning less than five percent of the equity securities are generally not included in the calculation, but acquisitions by a person causing that person to become a five percent or more stockholder may be treated as a five percentage (or more) point change in ownership, regardless of the size of the purchase that caused the threshold to be exceeded.


In order to reduce the risk of an ownership change, in November 2002, AMIC's stockholders approved an amendment to its certificate of incorporation restricting transfers of shares of its common stock that could result in the imposition of limitations on the use, for federal, state and city income tax purposes, of AMIC's NOL carryforwards and certain federal income tax credits.  The certificate of incorporation generally restricts any person from attempting to sell, transfer or dispose, or purchase or acquire any AMIC stock, if such transfer would affect the percentage of AMIC stock owned by a 5% Stockholder.  Any person attempting such a transfer will be required, prior to the date of any proposed transfer, to request in writing that the board of directors review the proposed transfer and authorize or not authorize such proposed transfer.  Any attempted transfer made in violation of the stock transfer restrictions will be null and void.  In the event of an attempted or purported transfer involving a sale or disposition of capital stock in violation of stock transfer restrictions, the transferor will remain the owner of such shares.  Notwithstanding such transfer restrictions, there could be circumstances under which an issuance by AMIC of a significant number of new shares of common stock or other new class of equity security having certain characteristics (for example, the right to vote or convert into common stock) might result in an ownership change under the Code.


Investments and Reserves


Independence American's securities portfolio is managed by employees of IHC and its affiliates, and ultimate investment authority rests with Independence American's board of directors.  As a result of the nature of its insurance liabilities, Independence American endeavors to maintain a significant percentage of its assets in investment grade securities, cash and cash equivalents.  At December 31, 2010, 97.6% of the fixed maturities were investment grade.  The internal investment group provides a summary of the investment portfolio and the performance thereof at the meetings of the Company's board of directors.


Under Delaware insurance law, there are restrictions relating to the percentage of an insurer's admitted assets that may be invested in a specific issuer or in the aggregate in a particular type of investment.  In addition, there are qualitative investment restrictions.


Liabilities for insurance reserves were computed using information derived from actual historical premium and claims data.  This method is widely used in the health insurance industry to estimate the liabilities for insurance reserves.  Inherent in this calculation are management and actuarial judgments and estimates which could significantly impact the ending reserve liabilities and, consequently, operating results.  Actual results may differ, and these estimates are subject to interpretation and change.  See Critical Accounting Policies for further explanation of insurance reserve calculation.


Competition and Regulation


Independence American competes with many larger insurance and reinsurance companies and managed care organizations.  Our MGUs compete with many other managing general underwriters, insurance companies, and MCOs.


AMIC is an insurance holding company; as such, AMIC and its subsidiaries are subject to regulation and supervision by multiple state insurance regulators, including the Office of the Insurance Commissioner of the



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State of Delaware (Independence American’s domestic regulator).  Independence American is subject to regulation and supervision in every state in which it is licensed to transact business. These supervisory agencies have broad administrative powers with respect to the granting and revocation of licenses to transact business, the licensing of agents, the approval of policy forms, the approval of commission rates, the form and content of mandatory financial statements, reserve requirements and the types and maximum amounts of investments which may be made. Such regulation is primarily designed for the benefit of policyholders rather than the stockholders of an insurance company or insurance holding company.


Certain transactions within the AMIC holding company system are also subject to regulation and supervision by such regulatory agencies.  All such transactions must be fair and equitable.  Notice to or prior approval by the applicable insurance department is required with respect to transactions affecting the ownership or control of an insurer and of certain material transactions, including dividend declarations, between an insurer and any person in its holding company system.  Under Delaware insurance laws, "control" is defined as the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of a person, and is presumed to exist if any person, directly or indirectly, owns, controls or holds with the power to vote ten percent or more of the voting securities of any other person.  An agreement to acquire control of an insurer domiciled in Delaware must be approved by the Office of the Insurance Commissioner of the State of Delaware.  In addition, periodic disclosure is required concerning the operations, management and financial condition of the insurer within the holding company system.  An insurer is also required to file detailed annual statements with each supervisory agency, and its affairs and financial conditions are subject to periodic examination.


The National Association of Insurance Commissioners has developed a formula for analyzing insurance companies called risk−based capital. The risk−based capital formula is intended to establish minimum capital thresholds that vary with the size and mix of an insurance company’s business and assets. It is designed to identify companies with capital levels that may require regulatory attention.  The risk-based capital ratio is determined by dividing an insurance company's total adjusted capital, as defined, by its authorized control level risk-based capital.  Companies that do not meet certain minimum standards require specified corrective action.  At December 31, 2010, Independence American's total adjusted capital was significantly in excess of the authorized control level risk−based capital.


Discontinued Operations


Prior to becoming an insurance holding company in November 2002, the Company (then known as SoftNet Systems, Inc.) was a holding company principally engaged in providing Internet services.  Due to difficult and deteriorating conditions in that market, the Company wound down those businesses.


The operating results of these discontinued operations have been segregated from continuing operations and are reported as a loss from discontinued operations on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.  The estimated loss on disposition reserve of all discontinued operations is reflected in net liabilities associated with discontinued operations in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The cash flows used in discontinued operations are presented separately in the operating activities section of the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.  There were no cash flows associated with investing and financing activities for the years presented for discontinued operations.   


Employees


The Company and its subsidiaries, collectively, had 52 employees as of December 31, 2010.


Item 1A. Risk Factors

The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only ones that we face, but are those that we have identified as being the most significant factors that make investment in our stock speculative or risky or that have special application to us.  Additional risks and uncertainties that we do not know about, or that we deem less significant than those identified below, may also make investment in our stock speculative or risky. If any of



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the adverse events associated with the risks described below occurs, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially adversely affected. In such a case, the trading price of our stock could decline.


Federal health care reform and financial reform may adversely affect our business, cash flows, financial condition and results of operations.


The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (“PPACA”) was signed into law by President Obama during March 2010.  PPACA requires us, for certain products in certain lines of business, to increase benefits, to limit rescission to cases of intentional fraud and, eventually, to insure pre-existing conditions, among other things.  If, for those products, our actual loss ratios fall short of required minimum loss ratios (by state and legal entity, subject to certain adjustments), we will be required to rebate the difference to consumers. We have made, and are continuing to make, significant changes to our operations, products and strategy to adapt to the new environment.  If our plans for operating in the new environment are unsuccessful or if there is less demand than we expect for our products in the new environment, our results could be adversely affected.


Additionally, in July 2010, President Obama signed into law the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”), which implements comprehensive changes to the regulation of financial services in the U.S. Among other things, the Dodd-Frank Act created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (“CFPB”).  While the CFPB does not have direct jurisdiction over insurance products, it is possible that regulations promulgated by the CFPB may extend its authority more broadly to cover certain insurance products and thereby may adversely affect our results of operations.


Our investment portfolio is subject to various risks that may result in realized investment losses.  In particular, decreases in the fair value of fixed maturities may greatly reduce the value of our investments, and as a result, our financial condition may suffer.


We are subject to credit risk in our investment portfolio. Defaults by third parties in the payment or performance of their obligations under these securities could reduce our investment income and realized investment gains or result in the continued recognition of investment losses. The value of our investments may be materially adversely affected by increases in interest rates, downgrades in the preferred stocks and bonds included in our portfolio and by other factors that may result in the continued recognition of other-than-temporary impairments. Each of these events may cause us to reduce the carrying value of our investment portfolio.  


In particular, at December 31, 2010, fixed maturities represented $53.7 million or 83% of our total investments of $64.4 million.  The fair market value of fixed maturities and the related investment income fluctuates depending on general economic and market conditions. The fair market value of these investments generally increases or decreases in an inverse relationship with fluctuations in interest rates, while net investment income realized by us will generally increase or decrease in line with changes in market interest rates. In addition, actual net investment income and/or cash flows from investments that carry prepayment risk, such as mortgage-backed securities, may differ from those anticipated at the time of investment as a result of interest rate fluctuations. An investment has prepayment risk when there is a risk that the timing of cash flows that result from the repayment of principal might occur earlier than anticipated because of declining interest rates or later than anticipated because of rising interest rates.  For mortgage−backed securities, credit risk exists if mortgagees default on the underlying mortgages. Although at December 31, 2010, approximately 97.6% of the fixed maturities were investment grade, all of our fixed maturities are subject to credit risk. If any of the issuers of our fixed maturities suffer financial setbacks, the ratings on the fixed maturities could fall (with a concurrent fall in fair value) and, in a worst case scenario, the issuer could default on its financial obligations. If the issuer defaults, we could have realized losses associated with the impairment of the securities.


The impact of market value fluctuations affects our Consolidated Financial Statements. Because all of our fixed maturities are classified as available for sale, changes in the fair market value of our securities are reflected in our stockholders' equity (accumulated other comprehensive income or loss). No similar adjustment is made for liabilities to reflect a change in interest rates. Therefore, interest rate fluctuations and economic conditions could adversely affect our stockholders' equity, total comprehensive income and/or cash flows.




11



We review our investment securities regularly and determine whether other-than-temporary impairments have occurred.  For fixed maturities, if a decline in fair value is judged by management to be other-than-temporary, and we do not intend to sell the security and it is not more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security prior to recovery of the security’s amortized cost, the impairment is bifurcated into (a) the amount of the total impairment related to the credit loss, and (b) the amount of the total impairment related to all other factors. The amount of the other-than-temporary impairment related to the credit loss is recognized by a charge to total other-than-temporary impairment losses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations, establishing a new cost basis for the security. The amount of the other-than-temporary impairment related to all other factors is recognized in other comprehensive income in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The factors considered by management in its regular review include, but are not limited to:  the length of time and extent to which the fair value has been less than cost; the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer; adverse changes in ratings announced by one or more rating agencies; subordinated credit support; whether the issuer of a debt security has remained current on principal and interest payments; current expected cash flows; whether the decline in fair value appears to be issuer specific or, alternatively, a reflection of general market or industry conditions (including, in the case of fixed maturities, the effect of changes in market interest rates); and our intent to sell, or be required to sell, the debt security before the anticipated recovery of our remaining amortized cost basis. Therefore, changes in facts and circumstances and critical assumptions could result in management’s decision that further impairments have occurred. This could lead to additional losses on investments, particularly those that management has the intent and ability to hold until recovery in value occurs.


Our earnings could be materially affected by an impairment of goodwill.

 

Goodwill represented $23.6 million of our $133.3 million in total assets as of December 31, 2010.  We review our goodwill annually for impairment or more frequently if indicators of impairment exist. We regularly assess whether any indicators of impairment exist, which requires a significant amount of judgment. Such indicators may include: a sustained significant decline in our share price and market capitalization; a decline in our expected future cash flows; a significant adverse change in the business climate; and/or slower growth rates, among others. Any adverse change in one of these factors could have a significant impact on the recoverability of these assets and could have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. If we experience a sustained decline in our results of operations and cash flows, or other indicators of impairment exist, we may incur a material non-cash charge to earnings relating to impairment of our goodwill, which could have a material adverse effect on our results.


Changes in state regulations, or the application thereof, may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

A number of states are contemplating significant reform of their health insurance markets. These proposals include provisions affecting both public programs and privately financed health insurance arrangements.   We cannot assure you that, if enacted into law, any of these proposals would not have a material, adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.  


Less-fundamental change in the regulatory requirements imposed on us may also harm our business or results of operations. For example, some states have imposed time limits for the payment of uncontested covered claims and required health care and dental service plans to pay interest on uncontested claims not paid promptly within the required time period. Some states have also granted their insurance regulatory agencies additional authority to impose monetary penalties and other sanctions on health and dental plans engaging in certain unfair payment practices. If we were unable, for any reason, to comply with these requirements, it could result in substantial costs to us and could materially adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.


If rating agencies downgrade our insurance company, our results of operations and competitive position in the industry may suffer.


Ratings have become an increasingly important factor in establishing the competitive position of insurance companies. Independence American is rated A- (Excellent) by A.M. Best, whose ratings reflect its opinions of an insurance company's financial strength, operating performance, strategic position, and ability to



12



meet its obligations to policyholders and are not evaluations directed to investors.  The rating of Independence American is subject to periodic review by A.M. Best.  If A.M. Best were to reduce Independence American's ratings from current levels, our business would be adversely affected.


Our loss reserves are based on an estimate of our future liability, and if actual claims prove to be greater than our reserves, our results of operations and financial condition may be adversely affected.


We maintain loss reserves to cover our estimated liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses where material, including legal and other fees, and costs not associated with specific claims but related to the claims payment functions for reported and unreported claims incurred as of the end of each accounting period. Because setting reserves is inherently uncertain, we cannot be sure that current reserves will prove adequate. If our reserves are insufficient to cover our actual losses and loss adjustment expenses, we would have to augment our reserves and incur a charge to our earnings, and these charges could be material. Reserves do not represent an exact calculation of liability.  Rather, reserves represent an estimate of what we expect the ultimate settlement and administration of claims will cost. These estimates, which generally involve actuarial projections, are based on our assessment of known facts and circumstances. Many factors could affect these reserves, including economic and social conditions, frequency and severity of claims, medical trend resulting from the influences of underlying cost inflation, changes in utilization and demand for medical services, and changes in doctrines of legal liability and damage awards in litigation. Many of these items are not directly quantifiable in advance. Additionally, there may be a significant reporting lag between the occurrence of the insured event and the time it is reported to us.  The inherent uncertainties of estimating reserves are greater for certain types of liabilities, particularly those in which the various considerations affecting the type of claim are subject to change and in which long periods of time may elapse before a definitive determination of liability is made. Reserve estimates are continually refined in a regular and ongoing process as experience develops and further claims are reported and settled, and are reflected in the results of the periods in which such estimates are changed.


Our results may fluctuate as a result of factors generally affecting the insurance and reinsurance industry.


The results of companies in the insurance and reinsurance industry historically have been subject to significant fluctuations and uncertainties. Factors that affect the industry in general could also cause our results to fluctuate. The industry and our financial condition and results of operations may be affected significantly by:


·

Fluctuations in interest rates, inflationary pressures and other changes in the investment environment, which affect returns on invested capital;

·

Rising levels of actual costs that are not known by companies at the time they price their products;

·

Losses related to epidemics, terrorist activities, random acts of violence or declared or undeclared war;

·

Changes in reserves resulting from different types of claims that may arise and the development of judicial interpretations relating to the scope of insurers' liability;  

·

The overall level of economic activity and the competitive environment in the industry;

·

Greater than expected use of health care services by members;

·

New mandated benefits or other regulatory changes that change the scope of business or increase our costs; and

·

Failure of MGUs to adhere to underwriting guidelines as required by us in its MGU agreements.

The occurrence of any or a combination of these factors, which is beyond our control, could have a material adverse effect on our results.


The stock transfer restriction in our certificate of incorporation may not protect against adverse tax consequences.

Although the stock transfer restrictions contained in our certificate of incorporation are intended to reduce the likelihood of an ownership change, it will not prevent all transfers that might result in an "ownership



13



change."  Furthermore, certain changes in relationships and other events not addressed by the stock transfer restrictions could cause us to undergo an "ownership change."  Section 382 of the Code is an extremely complex provision with respect to which there are many uncertainties.  In addition, we have not requested a ruling from the IRS regarding the effectiveness of the stock transfer restrictions and, therefore, we cannot be certain that the IRS will agree that the stock transfer restrictions are effective for purposes of Section 382 of the Code.  Further, we cannot assure that the stock transfer restrictions or portions thereof will be enforceable in Delaware courts or that the IRS would agree that all of our tax net operating loss carryforwards are allowable.  In addition, our board of directors may determine, in its sole discretion, to permit a restricted transfer that results in an "ownership change" if it determines that such transfer is in our best interests. Therefore, the stock transfer restrictions were to reduce, but not necessarily eliminate, the risk that Section 382 of the Code will cause limitations on the use of our tax attributes.

Our inability to assess underwriting risk accurately could reduce our net income.

Our success is dependent on our ability to assess accurately the risks associated with the businesses on which we retain risk. If we fail to assess accurately the risks we retain, we may fail to establish the appropriate premium rates and our reserves may be inadequate to cover our losses, requiring augmentation of the reserves, which in turn would reduce our net income.

Our agreements with our producers (including our MGUs) require that each producer follow underwriting guidelines published by us and amended from time to time.  Failure to follow these guidelines may result in termination or modification of the agreement. We perform periodic audits to confirm adherence to the guidelines, but it is possible that we would not detect a breach in the guidelines for some time after the infraction, which could result in a material impact on the Net Loss Ratio (defined as insurance benefits, claims and reserves divided by (premiums earned less underwriting expenses)) for that producer and could have an adverse impact on our operating results.


If we fail to comply with extensive state and federal regulations, we will be subject to penalties, which may include fines and suspension and which may adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

We are subject to extensive governmental regulation and supervision. Most insurance regulations are designed to protect the interests of policyholders rather than stockholders and other investors. This regulation, generally administered by a department of insurance in each state in which we do business, relates to, among other things:


·

Approval of policy forms and premium rates;

·

Standards of solvency, including risk-based capital measurements, which are a measure developed by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners and used by state insurance regulators to identify insurance companies that potentially are inadequately capitalized;

·

Licensing of insurers and their agents and regulation of their conduct in the market;

·

Restrictions on the nature, quality and concentration of investments;

·

Restrictions on transactions between insurance companies and their affiliates;

·

Restrictions on the size of risks insurable under a single policy;

·

Requiring deposits for the benefit of policyholders;

·

Requiring certain methods of accounting;

·

Prescribing the form and content of records of financial condition required to be filed; and

·

Requiring reserves for unearned premium, losses and other purposes.

State insurance departments also conduct periodic examinations of the affairs of insurance companies and require the filing of annual and other reports relating to the financial condition of insurance companies, holding company issues and other matters.

A large portion of our business depends on our compliance with applicable laws and regulations and our ability to maintain valid licenses and approvals for our operations. Regulatory authorities have broad discretion to



14



grant, renew, or revoke licenses and approvals. Regulatory authorities may deny or revoke licenses for various reasons, including the violation of regulations. In some instances, we follow practices based on our interpretations of regulations, or interpretations that we believe to be generally followed by the industry, which may be different from the requirements or interpretations of regulatory authorities. If we do not have the requisite licenses and approvals and do not comply with applicable regulatory requirements, the insurance regulatory authorities could preclude or temporarily suspend us from carrying on some or all of our insurance-related activities or otherwise penalize us. That type of action could have a material adverse effect on our business. Also, changes in the level of regulation of the insurance industry (whether federal, state or foreign), or changes in laws or regulations themselves or interpretations by regulatory authorities, could have a material adverse effect on our business.


We may be unsuccessful in competing against larger or better-established business rivals.

Our industry is highly competitive and has experienced severe price competition from time to time over the last several years.  We face competition from domestic and international insurance and reinsurance companies, from underwriting agencies, and from diversified financial services companies that are much larger than we are.  Some of these competitors have greater financial, marketing and other resources, have been operating longer than we have and have established long-term and continuing business relationships through the industry, which can be a significant competitive advantage.  In addition to competition in the operation of its business, we face competition from a variety of sources in attracting and retaining qualified employees.  We cannot assure you that we will maintain our current competitive position in the markets in which we operate, or that we will be able to expand our operations into new markets and compete effectively in the future.  If we fail to do so, our business could be materially adversely affected.


The occurrence of various events may adversely affect our ability to utilize fully our NOL carryforwards.

We have U.S. federal NOL carryforwards of approximately $274 million, which may be used against any profits from our business.  However, events outside of our or IHC’s control, such as certain acquisitions and dispositions of our common stock, may limit the use of all or a portion of our NOL carryforwards.  If such events were to occur, our expectation of using our NOL carryforwards against potential profits would not be realized and we could potentially have a higher tax liability in the future than we would otherwise have had.  As the NOL carryforwards are utilized by AMIC, the amount of our NOL carryforwards could be reduced upon audit by the IRS for those tax years open for assessment under the statute of limitations.

We rely on reinsurance arrangements to help manage our business risks, and failure to perform by the counterparties to our reinsurance arrangements may expose us to risks we had sought to mitigate.

We utilize reinsurance to mitigate our risks in various circumstances. Reinsurance does not relieve us of our direct liability to our policyholders, even when the reinsurer is liable to us. Accordingly, we bear credit risk with respect to our reinsurers.  Our reinsurers may be unable or unwilling to pay the reinsurance recoverable owed to us now or in the future or on a timely basis. A reinsurer’s insolvency, inability or unwillingness to make payments under the terms of its reinsurance agreement with us could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Failure to protect our policyholders’ confidential information and privacy could adversely affect our business.

In the conduct of our business, we are subject to privacy regulations and to confidentiality obligations. For example, the collection and use of patient data in our health insurance operations is the subject of national and state legislation, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, or HIPAA, and certain other activities we conduct are subject to the privacy regulations of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act. We also have contractual obligations to protect certain confidential information we obtain from our existing vendors, partners and policyholders. These obligations generally include protecting such confidential information in the same manner and to the same extent as we protect our own confidential information. If we do not properly comply with privacy regulations and protect confidential information, we could experience adverse



15



consequences, including regulatory sanctions, such as penalties, fines and loss of license, as well as loss of reputation and possible litigation.

Certain of our business arrangements are terminable by other parties.


Independence American currently reinsures 20% of Standard Security Life’s short-term statutory disability benefit product, but Standard Security Life is not contractually obligated to continue to cede this business to Independence American after termination of the current treaty year.  Standard Security Life and Madison National Life also ceded approximately 9% of the majority of their fully insured health business lines to Independence American.  Standard Security Life and Madison National Life are not contractually obligated to continue to cede this business to Independence American after termination of the current treaty years.  Standard Security Life and Madison National Life ceded approximately 20%, on average, of their medical stop-loss business to Independence American in 2009, however, they are not contractually obligated to cede amounts in excess of 15%.  Our MGUs are significant producers of medical stop-loss business for IHC, producing 44% of total IHC stop-loss premium in 2010.


Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments


None


Item 2. Properties


IndependenceCare leases 4,200 square feet of office space in Minneapolis, Minnesota, which expires on May 31, 2011.  This space is currently sublet.  RAS leases 4,200 square feet of office space in South Windsor, Connecticut, which expires on February 28, 2014.  Marlton leases 6,000 square feet of office space in Voorhees, New Jersey, and shares the facility with RSI.  The lease expires on March 31, 2011.  RSI signed a new lease for 6,200 square feet of office space in Marlton, New Jersey, which commences on April 1, 2011 and expires on June 30, 2016.  RSI will be sharing the facility with Marlton.


Item 3.

Legal Proceedings


We are involved in legal proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of our businesses.  We have established reserves that we believe are sufficient given information presently available relating to our outstanding legal proceedings and claims.  We do not anticipate that the result of any pending legal proceeding or claim will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or cash flows, although there could be such an effect on our results of operations for any particular period.


Item 4.

(Removed and Reserved)


 



16



PART II


Item 5.

 Market for the Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters And Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities


Market Information


Since November 15, 2002, American Independence Corp. (“AMIC or the “Company”) common stock has been listed and traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market ("NASDAQ") under the symbol "AMIC".


Quarter Ended:

 

High

 

Low

 

December 31, 2010

$

5.63 

$

4.44 

 

September 30, 2010

$

5.54 

$

4.36 

 

June 30, 2010

$

6.29 

$

4.60 

 

March 31, 2010

$

6.55 

$

4.16 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Quarter Ended:

 

High

 

Low

 

December 31, 2009

$

5.20 

$

4.10 

 

September 30, 2009

$

5.25 

$

3.89 

 

June 30, 2009

$

4.78 

$

3.30 

 

March 31, 2009

$

4.17 

$

2.60 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Holders of Record


At February 28, 2011, there were 82 record holders of the Company's common stock.  The closing price for the Company's common stock at December 31, 2010 was $4.85.


Our ability to utilize our federal NOL carrryforwards would be substantially reduced if AMIC were to undergo an "ownership change" within the meaning of Section 382(g)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code.  AMIC will be treated as having had an "ownership change" if there is more than a 50% increase in stock ownership during a three year '"testing period" by "5% stockholders".  In order to reduce the risk of an ownership change, in November 2002, AMIC's stockholders approved an amendment to its certificate of incorporation restricting transfers of shares of its common stock that could result in the imposition of limitations on the use, for federal, state and city income tax purposes, of AMIC's NOL carryforwards and certain federal income tax credits.  The certificate of incorporation generally restricts any person from attempting to sell, transfer or dispose, or purchase or acquire any AMIC stock, if such transfer would affect the percentage of AMIC stock owned by a 5% stockholder.  Any person attempting such a transfer will be required, prior to the date of any proposed transfer, to request in writing that the board of directors review the proposed transfer and authorize or not authorize such proposed transfer.  Any attempted transfer made in violation of the stock transfer restrictions will be null and void.  In the event of an attempted or purported transfer involving a sale or disposition of capital stock in violation of stock transfer restrictions, the transferor will remain the owner of such shares.  Notwithstanding these transfer restrictions, there could be circumstances under which an issuance by AMIC of a significant number of new shares of common stock or other new class of equity security having certain characteristics (for example, the right to vote or convert into common stock) might result in an ownership change under the Code.


Dividends


The Company does not have any legal restriction on paying dividends, and no dividend on the Company’s stock was declared during 2010.


Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans


The information under the heading “Equity Compensation Plan Information” in the Company’s definitive proxy statement for the 2011 annual meeting of stockholders is incorporated herein by reference.




17



Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities


In June 2010, the Board of Directors of AMIC authorized the repurchase of up to 200,000 shares of AMIC’s common stock.  The repurchase program may be discontinued or suspended at any time.  As of December 31, 2010, 188,268 shares were still authorized to be repurchased under the program.  There were no share repurchases during the quarter ended December 31, 2010.


Performance Graph


Set forth below is a line graph comparing the five year cumulative total return of the AMIC’s common stock with that of the NASDAQ Market Index (US) and the NASDAQ Stock Market Insurance Index.  The graph assumes that dividends were reinvested and is based on a $100 investment on December 31, 2005.  Indices data was obtained from the Center for Research in Security Price (CRSP).  The performance graph represents past performance and should not be considered to be an indication of future performance.


Comparison of Five Year Cumulative Total Return

Among AMIC, NASDAQ Stock Index (US) and NASDAQ Insurance Index

[amic10k002.gif]



18



Item 6.

Selected Financial Data

The following is a summary of selected consolidated financial data of the Company for each of the last five years.  


 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

(In thousands, except per share data)

Income Data:

 

 

 

Total revenues

$

89,404 

$

104,247 

$

113,312 

$

119,096 

$

81,485 

 

Income from continuing

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

operations

 

2,982 

 

3,166 

 

 1,511  

 

1,353 

 

1,770 

Balance Sheet Data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total investments

 

64,449 

 

    57,630 

 

52,847

 

 60,148   

 

56,206 

 

Total assets

 

133,349 

 

134,382 

 

130,625

 

 142,115   

 

134,760 

 

Insurance liabilities

 

29,192 

 

34,807 

 

39,740

 

 47,512   

 

40,150 

 

AMIC stockholders’ equity

 

92,060 

 

88,973 

 

82,932

 

 84,677   

 

 83,084   

Per Share Data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic income per common share

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

from continuing operations

 

.25 

 

.31 

 

 .12  

 

.13 

 

.18 

 

Diluted income per common

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

share from continuing operations

 

.25 

 

.31 

 

 .12  

 

.13 

 

.18 

 

Book value per common share

 

10.82 

 

10.46 

 

 9.75  

 

9.96 

 

9.82 

The Selected Financial Data should be read in conjunction with the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto included in Item 8 of this report.


Item 7.

Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations


Overview


We are an insurance holding company engaged in the insurance and reinsurance business through our wholly owned insurance company, Independence American Insurance Company ("Independence American"), our marketing organizations, including our two medical stop-loss managing general underwriter subsidiaries (“our MGUs"), our three insurance and marketing agencies IIG, IPA and HIO, and our claims administration company, RSI.  Since November 2002, AMIC has been affiliated with Independence Holding Company ("IHC"), which owned 50.1% of AMIC's stock as of December 31, 2010.  In March 2010, upon approval of the AMIC Board of Directors, IHC acquired control of AMIC through the purchase of approximately 28,000 shares of common stock of AMIC in the open market.  Subsequent to December 31, 2010, IHC acquired 1,100,325 shares of AMIC, bringing its ownership to 63%.  IHC's senior management has provided direction to us through service agreements between us and IHC.  In 2010, the majority of Independence American’s revenue was from reinsurance premiums.  The majority of these premiums are ceded to Independence American from IHC under long-term reinsurance treaties to cede its gross medical stop-loss premiums written to Independence American.  In addition, Independence American assumes fully insured health and short-term statutory disability benefit product in New York State ("DBL") premiums from IHC, and assumes medical stop-loss premiums from unaffiliated carriers.  Independence American began writing group major medical, medical stop-loss, major medical plans for individuals and families, and short-term medical in 2007, and added dental in 2009.  Given its A- (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best, Independence American expects to expand the distribution of its medical stop-loss products, and slightly increase the business written on its paper, especially major medical plans for individuals and families.


While management considers a wide range of factors in its strategic planning, the overriding consideration is underwriting profitability.  Management's assessment of trends in healthcare and in the medical stop-loss market play a significant role in determining whether to expand Independence American's health insurance premiums.  Since Independence American reinsures a portion of all of the business produced by our MGUs, and since these companies are also eligible to earn profit sharing commissions based on the profitability of the business they place, our MGUs also emphasize underwriting profitability.  In addition, management focuses on controlling operating costs.  By sharing employees with IHC and sharing resources among our subsidiaries, we strive to maximize our earnings.



19




The following is a summary of key performance information and events (in thousands):


 

 

Year Ended

 

 

December 31,

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

$

89,404 

$

104,247 

$

113,312 

Expenses

 

85,331 

 

99,609 

 

111,170 

 

Income from continuing operations before income tax

 

4,073 

 

4,638 

 

2,142 

 

Provision for income taxes

 

1,091 

 

1,472 

 

631 

 

Income from continuing operations

 

2,982 

 

3,166 

 

1,511 

Loss on disposition of discontinued operations, net of tax

 

 

 

(75)

Net income

 

2,982 

 

3,166 

 

1,436 

 

Less: Net income attributable to the non-controlling interest

 

(883)

 

(554)

 

(471)

Net income attributable to American Independence Corp.

$

2,099 

$

2,612 

$

965 


·

The book value of the Company’s stockholders’ equity increased to $10.82 per share at December 31, 2010 compared to $10.46 per share at December 31, 2009.


·

Net income per share decreased to $.25 per share, diluted, or $2.1 million, for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $.31 per share, diluted, or $2.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2009.  


·

At December 31, 2010, 97.6% of the Company's fixed maturities were investment grade.


·

Consolidated investment yields were 4.0% and 4.6% for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.  The lower yield is due to a decrease in investments in collateralized mortgage obligations and mortgage-backed securities, and an increase in higher rated government sponsored enterprise investments and municipal investments which bear lower interest rates.


·

Premiums earned decreased 14% to $73.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2010 from $85.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, primarily due to lower assumed medical stop-loss premiums and lower group major medical premiums written.


·

The Company recorded improved loss ratios in fully insured health for the year ended December 31, 2010.  The Company was adversely impacted by higher losses on one medical stop-loss program which caused an increase in loss ratio for the year ended December 31, 2010 (see Note 20 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements).


·

For the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, Independence American wrote $14.1 million and $10.9 million, respectively, of individual health business produced by our marketing organization IPA.


·

Underwriting experience, as indicated by its GAAP Combined Ratios on our three lines of business for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009 are as follows (in thousands):


§

Medical Stop-Loss

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Premiums Earned

$

39,247

$

46,378

$

54,574

Insurance Benefits Claims and Reserves

 

28,789

 

30,937

 

37,838

Expenses

 

11,070

 

14,333

 

17,105

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss Ratio(A)

 

73.4%

 

66.7%

 

69.3%

Expense Ratio (B)

 

28.2%

 

30.9%

 

31.3%

Combined Ratio (C)

 

101.6%

 

97.6%

 

100.6%



20




§

Fully Insured Health

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Premiums Earned

$

31,394

$

35,834

$

38,975

Insurance Benefits Claims and Reserves

 

19,568

 

26,823

 

30,370

Expenses

 

8,227

 

8,220

 

8,932

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss Ratio(A)

 

62.3%

 

74.9%

 

77.9%

Expense Ratio (B)

 

26.2%

 

22.9%

 

22.9%

Combined Ratio (C)

 

88.5%

 

97.8%

 

100.8%


§

DBL

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Premiums Earned

$

3,218

$

3,303

$

3,435

Insurance Benefits Claims and Reserves

 

1,869

 

1,898

 

1,906

Expenses

 

936

 

999

 

999

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss Ratio(A)

 

58.1%

 

57.5%

 

55.5%

Expense Ratio (B)

 

29.1%

 

30.2%

 

29.1%

Combined Ratio (C)

 

87.2%

 

87.7%

 

84.6%


(A)

Loss ratio represents insurance benefits claims and reserves divided by premiums earned.

(B)

Expense ratio represents net commissions (including profit commissions), administrative fees, premium taxes and other underwriting expenses divided by premiums earned.

(C)

The combined ratio is equal to the sum of the loss ratio and the expense ratio.


·

In 2010, our MGUs wrote an aggregate of $39.9 million of annualized gross premium compared to $54.8 million in 2009.  This reduction in premiums was due, in part, to planned pricing increases, stricter underwriting guidelines, the continuing generally "soft" market, and liquidation of IndependenceCare.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES


The accounting and reporting policies of the Company conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). The preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with GAAP requires the Company's management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. A summary of the Company's significant accounting policies and practices is provided in Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8. Management has identified the accounting policies described below as those that, due to the judgments, estimates and assumptions inherent in those policies, are critical to an understanding of the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements and this Management's Discussion and Analysis.


Insurance Reserves


The Company maintains loss reserves to cover its estimated liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses, where material, including legal and other fees, for reported and unreported claims incurred as of the end of each accounting period.  These loss reserves are based on actuarial assumptions and are maintained at levels that are estimated in accordance with GAAP.  The Company’s estimate of loss reserves represents management’s best estimate of the Company’s liability at the balance sheet date.


All of the Company’s policies are short-duration and are accounted for based on actuarial estimates of the amount of loss inherent in that period’s claims or open claims from prior periods, including losses incurred for



21



claims that have not been reported (“IBNR”). Short-duration contract loss estimates rely on actuarial observations of ultimate loss experience for similar historical events.

Management believes that the Company's methods of estimating the liabilities for insurance reserves provided appropriate levels of reserves at December 31, 2010. Changes in the Company's reserve estimates are recorded through a charge or credit to its earnings.


Medical Stop-Loss


The Company’s medical stop-loss business is comprised of employer stop-loss and HMO Reinsurance.  The two “primary” or “key” assumptions underlying the calculation of loss reserves for medical stop-loss business are (i) projected net loss ratio, and (ii) claim development patterns.  The projected net loss ratio is set at expected levels consistent with the underlying assumptions (“Projected Net Loss Ratio”). Claim development patterns are set quarterly as reserve estimates are developed and are based on recent claim development history (“Claim Development Patterns”).  The Company uses the Projected Net Loss Ratio to establish reserves until developing losses provide a better indication of ultimate results and it is feasible to set reserves based on Claim Development Patterns.  The Company has concluded that a reasonably likely change in the Projected Net Loss Ratio assumption could have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity (“Material Effect”) but a reasonably likely change in the Claim Development Pattern would not have a Material Effect.


Projected Net Loss Ratio


Generally, during the first twelve months of an underwriting year, reserves for medical stop-loss are first set at the Projected Net Loss Ratio, which is determined using assumptions developed using completed prior experience trended forward. The Projected Net Loss Ratio is the Company’s best estimate of future performance until such time as developing losses provide a better indication of ultimate results.  


While the Company establishes a best estimate of the Projected Net Loss Ratio, actual experience may deviate from this estimate.  This was the case with the 2007, 2008 and 2009 underwriting years that increased (decreased) by (1.0), (0.6), and 4.2 Loss Ratio points, respectively.  While the Company believes that larger variations are possible, based on the Company’s experience to date, it is reasonably likely that the actual experience will fall within a range up to five Net Loss Ratio points above or below the expected Projected Net Loss Ratio for the 2010 underwriting year at December 31, 2010.  The impact of these reasonably likely changes at December 31, 2010, would be an increase in net reserves (in the case of a higher ratio) or a decrease in net reserves (in the case of a lower ratio) of up to approximately $0.8 million with a corresponding increase or decrease in the pre-tax expense for insurance benefits, claims and reserves in the 2010 Consolidated Statement of Operations.


Major factors that affect the Projected Net Loss Ratio assumption in reserving for medical stop-loss relate to: (i) frequency and severity of claims; (ii) changes in medical trend resulting from the influences of underlying cost inflation, changes in utilization and demand for medical services, the impact of new medical technology and changes in medical treatment protocols; and (iii) the adherence by the MGUs that produce and administer this business to applicable underwriting guidelines.  Changes in these underlying factors are what determine the reasonably likely changes in the Projected Net Loss Ratio as discussed above.


Claim Development Patterns


Subsequent to the first twelve months of an underwriting year, the Company’s developing losses provide a better indication of ultimate losses. At this point, claims have developed to a level where Claim Development Patterns can be applied to generate reasonably reliable estimates of ultimate claim levels.  Development factors based on historical patterns are applied to paid and reported claims to estimate fully developed claims. Claim Development Patterns are reviewed quarterly as reserve estimates are developed and are based on recent claim development history. The Company must determine whether changes in development represent true indications of emerging experience or are simply due to random claim fluctuations.




22



The Company also establishes its best estimates of claim development factors to be applied to more developed treaty year experience.  While these factors are based on historical Claim Development Patterns, actual claim development may vary from these estimates.  The Company does not believe that reasonably likely changes in its actual claim development patterns would have a Material Effect.


Predicting ultimate claims and estimating reserves in medical stop-loss is more complex than fully insured medical and disability business due to the “excess of loss” nature of these products with very high deductibles applying to specific claims on any individual claimant and in the aggregate for a given group.  The level of these deductibles makes it more difficult to predict the amount and payment pattern of such claims.  Fluctuations in results for specific coverage are primarily due to the severity and frequency of individual claims, whereas fluctuations in aggregate coverage are largely attributable to frequency of underlying claims rather than severity. Liabilities for first dollar medical reserves and disability coverages are computed using completion factors and expected loss ratios derived from actual historical premium and claim data.


Due to the short-term nature of medical stop-loss, redundancies or deficiencies will typically emerge during the course of the following year rather than over a number of years.  For Employer Stop-Loss, as noted above, the Company maintains its reserves based on underlying assumptions until it determines that an adjustment is appropriate based on emerging experience from all of its MGUs for prior underwriting years.  

Fully Insured Health

Reserves for fully insured medical and dental business are established using historical claim development patterns.  Claim development by number of months elapsed from the incurred month is studied each month and development factors are calculated.  These claim development factors are then applied to the amount of claims paid to date for each incurred month to estimate fully complete claims.  The difference between fully complete claims and the claims paid to date is the estimated reserve.  Total reserves are the sum of the reserves for all incurred months.


The primary assumption in the determination of fully insured health reserves is that historical claim development patterns are representative of future claim development patterns.  Factors which may affect this assumption include changes in claim payment processing times and procedures, changes in product design, changes in time delay in submission of claims and the incidence of unusually large claims.  The reserving analysis includes a review of claim processing statistical measures and large claim early notifications; the potential impact of any changes in these factors are minimal.  The time delay in submission of claims tends to be stable over time and not subject to significant volatility.  Since our analysis considered a variety of outcomes related to these factors, the Company does not believe that any reasonably likely change in these factors will have a Material Effect.

Premium and MGU Fee Income Revenue Recognition


Direct and assumed premiums from short-duration contracts are recognized as revenue over the period of the contracts in proportion to the amount of insurance protection provided.  The Company records MGU fee income as policy premium payments are earned.  Our MGUs are compensated in two ways.  They earn fee income based on the volume of business produced, and collect profit-sharing commissions if such business exceeds certain profitability benchmarks.  Profit-sharing commissions are accounted for beginning in the period in which the Company believes they are reasonably estimable, which is typically at the point that claims have developed to a level where Claim Development Patterns can be applied to generate reasonably reliable estimates of ultimate claim levels.


Reinsurance


Amounts recoverable or paid for under reinsurance contracts are included in total assets or total liabilities as due from reinsurers or due to reinsurers.  In 2010, Independence American derived a majority of its business from pro rata quota share reinsurance treaties with Standard Security Life and Madison National Life, which are wholly owned subsidiaries of IHC.  These treaties terminate on December 31, 2014, unless terminated sooner by Independence American.  Standard Security Life and Madison National Life must cede at least 15% of



23



their medical stop-loss business to Independence American under these treaties.  Additionally, Standard Security Life, Madison National Life and Independence American have received regulatory approval to cede up to 30% to Independence American under most of IHC’s medical stop-loss programs. For each of the twelve months ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, Standard Security Life and Madison National Life ceded an average of approximately 20% of their medical stop-loss business to Independence American. Independence American reinsures 20% of Standard Security Life’s DBL business.  Standard Security Life and Madison National Life also ceded approximately 9% of the majority of their fully insured health business lines to Independence American.  In addition, in 2010, Independence American ceded 50% of its major medical for individuals and families business to unaffiliated reinsurers.

Income Taxes

In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the period in which those temporary differences become deductible.  Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies in making this assessment.  Management believes that although sufficient uncertainty exists regarding the future realization of deferred tax assets, the valuation allowance has been adjusted to account for the expected utilization of net operating losses against future taxable income.

The Company has net operating loss carryforwards for federal income tax purposes available to reduce future income subject to income taxes.  The net operating loss carryforwards expire between 2019 and 2029.


U.S. Federal and California tax laws impose substantial restrictions on the utilization of net operating loss and credit carryforwards in the event of an "ownership change" for tax purposes, as defined in Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code.


Investments


The Company has classified all of its investments as available-for-sale securities.  These investments are carried at fair value with unrealized gains and losses reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Fixed maturities and equity securities available-for-sale totaled $57.7 million and $55.1 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.  Premiums and discounts on debt securities purchased at other than par value are amortized and accreted, respectively, to interest income in the Consolidated Statements of Operations, using the constant yield method over the period to maturity.  Net realized gains and losses on investments are computed using the specific identification method and are reported in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.


Fair value is determined using quoted market prices when available. In some cases, we use quoted market prices for similar instruments in active markets and/or model-derived valuations where inputs are observable in active markets. When there are limited or inactive trading markets, we use industry-standard pricing methodologies, including discounted cash flow models, whose inputs are based on management assumptions and available current market information. Further, we retain independent pricing vendors to assist in valuing certain instruments.


Declines in value of securities available-for-sale that are judged to be other-than-temporary are determined based on the specific identification method. The Company reviews its investment securities regularly and determines whether other-than-temporary impairments have occurred. The factors considered by management in its regular review include, but are not limited to:  the length of time and extent to which the fair value has been less than cost; the Company's intent to sell, or be required to sell, the debt security before the anticipated recovery of its remaining amortized cost basis; the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer; adverse changes in ratings announced by one or more rating agencies; subordinated credit support; whether the issuer of a debt security has remained current on principal and interest payments; current expected cash flows; whether the decline in fair value appears to be issuer specific or, alternatively, a reflection of general market or industry conditions including the effect of changes in market interest rates.  For fixed maturities, if the



24



Company intends to sell a security, or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security prior to recovery of the security’s amortized cost basis, the entire difference between the security’s amortized cost basis and its fair value at the balance sheet date is recognized by a charge to total other-than-temporary impairment losses in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. If a decline in fair value of a debt security is judged by management to be other-than-temporary, and: (i) the Company does not intend to sell the security; and (ii) it is not more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security prior to recovery of the security’s amortized cost, the Company assesses whether the present value of the cash flows to be collected from the security is less than its amortized cost basis. To the extent that the present value of the cash flows generated by a debt security is less than the amortized cost basis, a credit loss exists. For any such security, the impairment is bifurcated into: (a) the amount of the total impairment related to the credit loss; and (b) the amount of the total impairment related to all other factors. The amount of the other-than-temporary impairment related to the credit loss is recognized by a charge to total other-than-temporary impairment losses in the Consolidated Statement of Operations, establishing a new cost basis for the security. The amount of the other-than-temporary impairment related to all other factors is recognized in other comprehensive income in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.


Equity securities may experience other-than-temporary impairment in the future based on the prospects for full recovery in value in a reasonable period of time and the Company’s ability and intent to hold the security to recovery. If a decline in fair value is judged by management to be other-than-temporary or management does not have the intent and ability to hold a security, a loss is recognized by a charge to total other-than-temporary impairment losses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the difference between the carrying value and the fair value of the securities. For the purpose of other-than-temporary impairment evaluations, preferred stocks with maturities are treated in a manner similar to debt securities. Declines in the creditworthiness of the issuer of debt securities with both debt and equity-like features require the use of the equity model in analyzing the security for other-than-temporary impairment.


Goodwill and Other Intangibles


Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives, which consist of licenses, are not amortized but are evaluated for impairment in the aggregate at the end of the fourth quarter of each year, or more frequently if indicators arise.  If the fair value of the Company is less than its carrying amount (including goodwill), further evaluation is required to determine if a write-down of goodwill is required.  Any impairment write-down of goodwill would be charged to expense.  No impairment charge was required in 2010 or 2009.  If the Company experiences a sustained decline in its results of operations and cash flows, or other indicators of impairment exist, the Company may incur a material non-cash charge to earnings relating to impairment of our goodwill, which could have a material adverse effect on our results.




25



RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Results of Operations for the Year Ended December 31, 2010, compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2009


 

 

 

 

Benefits,

Selling,

 

 

 

 

Fees and

Net

Claims

General

Amortization

 

December 31,

Premiums

Other

Investment

and

and

and

 

2010

Earned

Income

Income

Reserves

Admin

Depreciation

Total

(In thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Independence

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      American:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Medical stop-loss

$

39,247 

1,683 

28,789 

10,923 

147 

$

1,071 

   Fully Insured Health

31,394 

508 

19,568 

7,725 

502 

4,107 

   DBL

3,218 

75 

1,869 

936 

488 

Total Independence

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      American

73,859 

2,266 

50,226 

19,584 

649 

5,666 

MGU Subs and

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      Agencies

13,450 

236 

13,071 

212 

403 

Corporate

16 

1,589 

(1,573)

Subtotal

$

73,859 

 

13,450 

 

2,518 

 

50,226 

 

34,244 

 

861 

 

4,496 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net realized investment losses

 

(244)

Other-than-temporary impairment losses

 

(179)

Income before income taxes

4,073 

Income taxes

 

 

 

 

(1,091)

Net income

 

 

 

 

2,982 

 

Less: Net income attributable to the non-controlling interest

 

 

 

(883)

Net income attributable to American Independence Corp.

 

 

 

$

2,099 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Benefits,

Selling,

 

 

 

 

Fees and

Net

Claims

General

Amortization

 

December 31,

Premiums

Other

Investment

and

and

and

 

2009

Earned

Income

Income

Reserves

Admin

Depreciation

Total

(In thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Independence

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      American:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Medical stop-loss

$

46,378 

46 

1,942 

30,937 

14,186 

147 

$

3,096 

   Fully Insured Health

35,834 

162 

548 

26,823 

7,719 

501 

1,501 

   DBL

3,303 

72 

1,898 

999 

478 

Total Independence

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      American

85,515 

208 

2,562 

59,658 

22,904 

648 

5,075 

MGU Subs and

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      Agencies

15,324 

361 

14,768 

194 

723 

Corporate

1,437 

(1,435)

Subtotal

$

85,515 

 

15,533 

 

2,924 

 

59,658 

 

39,109 

 

842 

 

4,363 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net realized investment gains

 

275 

Other-than-temporary impairment losses

 

 

 

 

Income before income taxes

 

 

 

 

4,638 

Income taxes

 

 

 

 

(1,472)

Net Income

 

 

 

 

3,166 

 

Less: Net income attributable to the non-controlling interest

 

 

 

(554)

Net income attributable to American Independence Corp.

 

 

 

$

2,612 


Premiums Earned.  Premiums earned decreased 14%, or $11,656,000 from 2009 to 2010.  The Company currently has three lines of business.  Premiums relating to medical stop-loss business decreased $7,131,000.  This is due to a decrease in medical stop-loss premiums assumed by Independence American ($9,285,000), offset by an increase in medical stop-loss premiums written by Independence American ($2,154,000).  Premiums relating to fully insured health consisting of group major medical, limited medical, short-term medical, dental, vision, and individual health decreased $4,440,000.  The decrease is primarily due to a decrease in group major medical premiums written by Independence American ($4,193,000) and a decrease in group major medical premiums assumed from IHC ($2,347,000), offset by an increase in individual health



26



premiums written by Independence American ($1,608,000).  Premiums relating to DBL decreased $85,000.  For 2010, Independence American assumed 10% of IHC’s short-term medical business, approximately 9% of certain of IHC’s group major medical business, 20% of IHC’s DBL business and approximately 20% of IHC’s medical stop-loss business.  There were no significant changes to these percentages from the prior year.


MGU and Agency Income.  MGU and agency income decreased $1,915,000 from 2009 to 2010.  MGU fee income-administration decreased $1,457,000 to $4,129,000 for 2010, compared to $5,586,000 for 2009, as our MGUs have decreased their volume of business as a result of market conditions.  MGU fee income-profit commission decreased $102,000 to $919,000 for 2010, compared to $1,021,000 for 2009.  Profit commissions for a given year are based primarily on the performance of business written during portions of the three preceding years.  Therefore, profit commissions for 2010 are based on business written during portions of 2007, 2008 and 2009.  In 2010, income from our Agencies consisted of commission income and other fees of $5,752,000 from IPA, revenue of $2,261,000 from HIO, and $364,000 of claims administration fees from RSI.  In 2009, income from our Agencies consisted of commission income and other fees of $6,772,000 from IPA, revenue of $1,455,000 from HIO, and $506,000 of claims administration fees from RSI.


Net Investment Income.  Net investment income decreased $406,000 from 2009 to 2010.  The investment yields were 4.0% for 2010 and 4.6% for 2009.  The lower yield is due to a decrease in investments in collateralized mortgage obligations and mortgage-backed securities, and an increase in higher rated government sponsored enterprise investments and municipal investments which bear lower interest rates.


Net Realized Investment Gains and Other-Than-Temporary Impairment Losses.  The Company recorded a net realized investment loss of $244,000 for 2010, compared to a gain of $275,000 for 2009.  The Company recorded realized gains of $1,022,000 on bonds and equity securities offset by an additional loss of $1,266,000 resulting from discussions in the fourth quarter of 2010 with the trustee in bankruptcy pertaining to the resolution of claims related to the non-affiliate broker-dealer that managed the trading accounts of the Company in 2008 (see Note 7 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements).  The $1,266,000 pre-tax loss consisted of the reversal of $500,000 of anticipated Securities Investor Protection Corporation (“SIPC”) recoveries initially recorded in 2008 and $766,000 of withdrawals by AMIC deemed subject to return.  A settlement agreement was entered into with the trustee in the first quarter of 2011 and payment by the Company is expected to be made on or before July 15, 2011.  The Company's decision as to whether to sell securities is based on management’s ongoing evaluation of investment opportunities and economic market conditions, thus creating fluctuations in realized gains or losses from period to period.  For 2010 and 2009, the Company recorded $179,000 and $0, respectively, of other-than-temporary-impairment losses.  This credit loss was a result of the expected cash flows of debt securities being less than their amortized cost.


Other Income.  Other income decreased $168,000 from 2009 to 2010.  Included in 2009 is income of $205,000 representing a decrease in the fair value of the derivative liability relating to the agreement with Employers Direct Health, Inc. (“EDH”) (see Note 20 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements).  


Insurance Benefits, Claims and Reserves.  Insurance benefits claims and reserves decreased 16%, or $9,432,000 from 2009 to 2010.  The decrease is primarily comprised of a decrease in direct group major medical of $5,558,000 due to lower premiums written and improved loss ratios, a decrease in assumed medical stop-loss of $6,160,000 due to lower earned premiums, and a decrease in assumed fully insured of $1,862,000 due to lower premiums written and lower loss ratios, offset by an increase of $4,011,000 in direct medical stop-loss as a result of higher premiums and higher loss ratios.


Selling, General and Administrative.  Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $4,865,000 from 2009 to 2010.  This decrease is primarily due to (i) a decrease in commission and brokerage expenses of $3,847,000 incurred by Independence American, which resulted, in large part, from a decrease in assumed medical stop-loss premiums, assumed fully insured premiums, and direct group major medical premiums written, offset slightly by higher profit commission expense and administration fees, and (ii) lower expenses at IndependenceCare of $683,000, primarily due to lower payroll expenses as a result of closing the operation, and lower expenses at IPA of $893,000, primarily due to lower agent commissions and expenses.  




27



Amortization and Depreciation.  Amortization and depreciation expense increased $19,000 from 2009 to 2010.  


Income Taxes.  The provision for income taxes decreased $381,000 to $1,091,000, an effective rate of 34.2%, for 2010, compared to $1,472,000, an effective rate of 36.0%, for 2009.  Net income for 2010 and 2009 includes a non-cash provision for federal income taxes of $1,023,000 and $1,311,000, respectively.  The state tax effective rate decreased to 1.0% for 2010, compared to 3.1% for 2009.  As compared to our MGUs, Independence American pays a nominal amount of state income tax; therefore, the Company’s state tax effective rate will decrease relative to an increase in Independence American’s pre-tax income or a decrease in MGU pre-tax income.  For as long as AMIC utilizes its NOL carryforwards, it will not pay any income taxes, except for federal alternative minimum taxes and state income taxes.


Net Income attributable to the non-controlling interest.  Net income attributable to the non-controlling interest increased $329,000 from 2009 to 2010.  The net income for 2010 and 2009 relates to the 49% non-controlling interest in HIO and the 49% non-controlling interest in IPA.  


Net Income attributable to American Independence Corp.  The net income attributable to the Company decreased to $2,099,000, or $.25 per share, diluted, for 2010, compared to $2,612,000, or $.31 per share, diluted, for 2009.




28



Results of Operations for the Year Ended December 31, 2009, compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2008


 

 

 

 

Benefits,

Selling,

 

 

 

 

Fees and

Net

Claims

General

Amortization

 

December 31,

Premiums

Other

Investment

and

and

and

 

2009

Earned

Income

Income

Reserves

Admin

Depreciation

Total

(In thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Independence

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      American:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Medical stop-loss

$

46,378 

46 

1,942 

30,937 

14,186 

147 

$

3,096 

   Fully Insured Health

35,834 

162 

548 

26,823 

7,719 

501 

1,501 

   DBL

3,303 

72 

1,898 

999 

478 

Total Independence

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      American

85,515 

208 

2,562 

59,658 

22,904 

648 

5,075 

MGU Subs and

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      Agencies

15,324 

361 

14,768 

194 

723 

Corporate

1,437 

(1,435)

Subtotal

$

85,515 

 

15,533 

 

2,924 

 

59,658 

 

39,109 

 

842 

 

4,363 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net realized investment gains

 

275 

Other-than-temporary impairment losses

 

Income before income taxes

4,638 

Income taxes

 

 

 

 

(1,472)

Net income

 

 

 

 

3,166 

 

Less: Net income attributable to the non-controlling interest

 

 

 

(554)

Net income attributable to American Independence Corp.

 

 

 

$

2,612 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Benefits,

Selling,

 

 

 

 

Fees and

Net

Claims

General

Amortization

 

December 31,

Premiums

Other

Investment

and

and

and

 

2008

Earned

Income

Income

Reserves

Admin

Depreciation

Total

(In thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Independence

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      American:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Medical stop-loss

$

54,574 

197 

2,273 

37,838 

16,958 

147 

$

2,101 

   Fully Insured Health

38,975 

846 

715 

30,370 

8,430 

502 

1,234 

   DBL

3,435 

76 

1,906 

999 

606 

Total Independence

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      American

96,984 

1,043 

3,064 

70,114 

26,387 

649 

3,941 

MGU Subs and

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      Agencies

14,534 

436 

12,448 

144 

2,378 

Corporate

70 

83 

1,428 

(1,275)

Subtotal

$

96,984 

 

15,647 

 

3,583 

 

70,114 

 

40,263 

 

793 

 

5,044 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net realized investment losses

 

(1,896)

Other-than-temporary impairment losses

 

 

 

 

(1,006)

Income before income taxes

 

 

 

 

2,142 

Income taxes

 

 

 

 

(631)

Income from continuing operations

 

 

 

 

1,511 

Loss on disposition of discontinued operations, net of tax

 

 

 

 

(75)

Net income

 

 

 

 

1,436 

 

Less: Net income attributable to the non-controlling interest

 

 

 

(471)

Net income attributable to American Independence Corp.

 

 

 

$

965 


Premiums Earned.  Premiums earned decreased 12%, or $11,469,000 from 2008 to 2009.  The Company currently has three lines of business.  Premiums relating to medical stop-loss business decreased $8,196,000.  This is due to a decrease in medical stop-loss premiums assumed by Independence American ($9,443,000), partially offset by an increase in medical stop-loss written by Independence American ($1,247,000).  Premiums relating to fully insured health consisting of group major medical, limited medical, short-term medical, dental, vision, and individual health decreased $3,141,000.  The decrease is primarily due to a decrease in group major medical premiums written by Independence American ($5,888,000) and a decrease in group major medical premiums assumed from IHC ($862,000), offset by an increase in individual health premiums written by Independence American ($3,306,000).  Premiums relating to DBL decreased $132,000.  



29



For 2009, Independence American assumed 10% of IHC’s short-term medical business, approximately 9% of certain of IHC’s group major medical business, 20% of IHC’s DBL business and approximately 23% of IHC’s medical stop-loss business.  There were no significant changes to these percentages from the prior year.


MGU and Agency Income.  MGU and agency income increased $792,000 from 2008 to 2009.  MGU fee income-administration decreased $2,236,000 to $5,586,000 for 2009, compared to $7,822,000 for 2008, as our MGUs have decreased their volume of business as a result of stricter underwriting guidelines.  MGU fee income-profit commission decreased $15,000 to $1,021,000 for 2009, compared to $1,036,000 for 2008.  Profit commissions for a given year are based primarily on the performance of business written during portions of the three preceding years.  Therefore, profit commissions for 2009 are based on business written during portions of 2006, 2007 and 2008.  In 2009, income from our Agencies consisted of commission income and other fees of $6,772,000 from IPA, revenue of $1,455,000 from HIO, and $506,000 of claims administration fees from ECA.  In 2008, income from our Agencies consisted of commission income and other fees of $4,749,000 from IPA and revenue of $965,000 from HIO.  


Net Investment Income.  Net investment income decreased $659,000 from 2008 to 2009.  The investment yields were 4.6% 2009 and 5.3% for 2008.  The lower yield is due to an increase in more liquid assets which bear lower interest rates.


Net Realized Investment Gains and Other-Than-Temporary Impairment Losses.  The Company recorded a net realized investment gain of $275,000 for 2009, compared to a loss of $1,896,000 for 2008.  For 2009 and 2008, the Company recorded a realized loss of $0 and $1,006,000, respectively, for other-than-temporary impairments.  The loss of $1,006,000 as of December 31, 2008 represents a loss on bonds and preferred stock that the Company determined to be other-than-temporary due to the severity of the decrease in market values and the length of time that these securities were in a loss position.  Also, in the fourth quarter of 2008, the Company became aware of certain activities engaged in by the non-affiliate broker-dealer that managed a trading account of the Company.  Accordingly, the Company recorded a $2,006,000 loss, net of expected recoveries, in the fourth quarter of 2008 relating to assets invested with this broker-dealer.  The Company's decision as to whether to sell securities is based on management’s ongoing evaluation of investment opportunities and economic market conditions, thus creating fluctuations in realized gains or losses from period to period.  


Other Income.  Other income decreased $882,000 from 2008 to 2009.  Included in 2009 is income of $205,000 representing a decrease in the fair value of the derivative liability relating to the agreement with Employers Direct Health, Inc. (“EDH”) (see Note 20 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements).  Included in 2008 is income of $1,043,000 representing a decrease in the fair value of the derivative liability relating to the agreement with EDH.  The unrealized gain for 2009 and 2008 reflects the lower probability of EDH business meeting target benchmarks.


Insurance Benefits, Claims and Reserves.  Insurance benefits claims and reserves decreased 15%, or $10,456,000 from 2008 to 2009.  The decrease is primarily comprised of a decrease in assumed medical stop-loss of $6,892,000 and a decrease in direct fully insured of $3,533,000 due to lower premiums written and improved loss ratios in group major medical, slightly offset by higher premiums and higher loss ratios in individual health.


Selling, General and Administrative.  Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $1,154,000 from 2008 to 2009.  This decrease is primarily due to (i) lower commission expense of $4,022,000 incurred by Independence American primarily resulting from a decrease in premiums assumed in medical stop-loss business and group major medical premiums written, and (ii) lower expenses at IndependenceCare and Marlton of $1,022,000 and $608,000, respectively, primarily due to lower payroll expenses. This was offset by (i) the additional expense at IPA of $3,157,000 which includes commissions and other general expenses of the agency, (ii) $934,000 at ECA, which was formed in the fourth quarter of 2008, and (iii) an increase in underwriting expenses at Independence American of $540,000 due to costs associated with higher individual health premiums written.




30



Amortization and Depreciation.  Amortization and depreciation expense increased $49,000 from 2008 to 2009.  The increase in amortization is primarily due to the acquisition of 51% of IPA in 2008.


Income Taxes.  The provision for income taxes increased $841,000 to $1,472,000, an effective rate of 36.0%, for 2009, compared to $631,000, an effective rate of 37.8%, for 2008.  Net income for 2009 and 2008 includes a non-cash provision for federal income taxes of $1,311,000 and $497,000, respectively.  The state tax effective rate decreased to 3.1% for 2009, compared to 8.1% for 2008.  As compared to our MGUs, Independence American pays a nominal amount of state income tax; therefore, the Company’s state tax effective rate will decrease relative to an increase in Independence American’s pre-tax income.  For as long as AMIC utilizes its NOL carryforwards, it will not pay any income taxes, except for federal alternative minimum taxes and state income taxes.


Gain (loss) on Discontinued Operations.  Loss on discontinued operations, net of tax was $0 for 2009, compared to $75,000 for 2008.  The loss of $75,000 in 2008 was due to the loss of rental income associated with the sublease of a property located in Livermore, California, and a re-estimation of expected expenses related to the lease (see Note 11 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements).


Net Income attributable to the non-controlling interest.  Net income attributable to the non-controlling interest increased $83,000.  The net income for 2009 relates to the 49% non-controlling interest in IPA and the 49% non-controlling interest in HIO.  The net income for 2008 relates to the 20% non-controlling interest in Marlton (through March 31, 2008), the 49% non-controlling interest in IPA, and the 49% non-controlling interest in HIO.


Net Income attributable to American Independence Corp.  The net income attributable to the Company increased 171% to $2,612,000 or $.31 per share, diluted, for 2009, compared to $965,000, or $.11 per share, diluted, for 2008.


LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES


Independence American


Independence American principally derives cash flow from: (i) operations; (ii) the receipt of scheduled principal payments on its portfolio of fixed income securities; and (iii) earnings on investments and other investing activities.  Such cash flow is partially used to finance liabilities for insurance policy benefits and reinsurance obligations.


Corporate


Corporate derives cash flow funds principally from: dividends and tax payments from its subsidiaries and investment income from corporate liquidity.  The ability of Independence American to pay dividends to its parent company is governed by Delaware insurance laws and regulations; otherwise, there are no regulatory constraints on the ability of any of our subsidiaries to pay dividends to its parent company.  For the twelve months ended December 31, 2010, Independence American and our MGUs and Agencies paid $3,318,000 in dividends to Corporate.


Corporate utilizes cash primarily for the payment of general overhead expenses and common stock repurchases.


Cash Flows


As of December 31, 2010, the Company had $65,801,000 of cash, cash equivalents, and investments net of amounts due to/from brokers compared with $60,894,000 as of December 31, 2009.


Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 2010 was $3,479,000.




31



Net cash used by investing activities of continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 2010 was $4,830,000.  


At December 31, 2010, the Company had $4,194,000 of restricted cash at RSI.  The amount at RSI is directly offset by corresponding liabilities for Premium and Claim Funds Payable of $4,194,000.  This asset, in part, represents the premium that is remitted by the insureds and is collected by RSI on behalf of the insurance carriers RSI represents.  Each month the premium is remitted to the insurance carriers by RSI.  Until such remittance is made the collected premium is carried as an asset on the balance sheet of RSI with a corresponding payable to each insurance carrier.  In addition to the premium being held at RSI, RSI is in possession of cash to pay claims.  The cash is deposited by each insurance carrier into a bank account that RSI can access.  The cash is used by RSI to pay claims on behalf of the insurance carriers RSI represents.  The availability of cash enables RSI to reimburse claims in a timely manner.


At December 31, 2010, the Company had $24,998,000 of insurance reserves that it expects to pay out of current assets and cash flows from future business.  If necessary, the Company could utilize the cash received from maturities and repayments of its fixed maturity investments if the timing of claim payments associated with the Company's insurance resources does not coincide with future cash flows.


The chart below reflects the maturity distribution of AMIC’s contractual obligations at December 31, 2010 (in thousands):


 

 

Net Operating

 

Insurance

 

 

 

 

Leases

 

Reserves

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2011

$

129

$

24,101

$

24,230

2012

 

105

 

173

 

278

2013

 

100

 

140

 

240

2014

 

65

 

127

 

192

2015

 

60

 

90

 

150

2016 and thereafter

 

31

 

367

 

398

 

Total

$

490

$

24,998

$

25,488


The Company believes it has sufficient cash to meet its currently anticipated business requirements over the next twelve months including working capital requirements and capital investments.


BALANCE SHEET


Total investments, net of amounts due to/from brokers, increased $6,366,000 to $63,187,000 at December 31, 2010 from $56,821,000 at December 31, 2009, primarily due to the purchase of additional fixed maturity securities and repurchase agreements, and an increase in unrealized gains on fixed maturity securities.  


The Company had receivables from reinsurers of $9,155,000 at December 31, 2010.  Substantially all of the business ceded to such reinsurers is of short duration.  All of such receivables are either due from related parties, highly rated companies or are adequately secured.  No allowance for doubtful accounts was deemed necessary at December 31, 2010.




32



The Company's insurance reserves by line of business are as follows (in thousands):


 

 

Total Insurance Reserves

 

 

December 31,

 

December 31,

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

 

 

 

 

Medical Stop-Loss

$

18,078

$

20,716

Fully Insured Health

 

6,272

 

7,890

DBL

 

648

 

680

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

24,998

$

29,286


Generally, during the first twelve months of an underwriting year, reserves for medical stop-loss are first set at the Projected Net Loss Ratio, which is determined using assumptions developed using completed prior experience trended forward. The Projected Net Loss Ratio is the Company’s best estimate of future performance until such time as developing losses provide a better indication of ultimate results.


Major factors that affect the Projected Net Loss Ratio assumption in reserving for medical stop-loss relate to: (i) frequency and severity of claims; (ii) changes in medical trend resulting from the influences of underlying cost inflation, changes in utilization and demand for medical services, the impact of new medical technology and changes in medical treatment protocols; and (ii) the adherence by the MGUs that produce and administer this business to the Company's underwriting guidelines. Changes in these underlying factors are what determine the reasonably likely changes in the Projected Net Loss Ratio.


The primary assumption in the determination of fully insured reserves is that historical claim development patterns tend to be representative of future claim development patterns. Factors which may affect this assumption include changes in claim payment processing times and procedures, changes in product design, changes in time delay in submission of claims, and the incidence of unusually large claims. The reserving analysis includes a review of claim processing statistical measures and large claim early notifications; the potential impacts of any changes in these factors are minimal. The time delay in submission of claims tends to be stable over time and not subject to significant volatility. Since our analysis considered a variety of outcomes related to these factors, the Company does not believe that any reasonably likely change in these factors will have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity.


The $3,087,000 increase in AMIC’s stockholders' equity is primarily due to net income of $2,099,000 and a $929,000 decrease in net unrealized losses on investments.


Asset Quality and Investment Impairments


The nature and quality of insurance company investments must comply with all applicable statutes and regulations, which have been promulgated primarily for the protection of policyholders. Although the Company's gross unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities totaled $103,000 at December 31, 2010, approximately 97.6% of the Company’s fixed maturities were investment grade and continue to be rated on average AA.  The Company marks all of its available-for-sale securities to fair value through accumulated other comprehensive income or loss.  These investments tend to carry less default risk and, therefore, lower interest rates than other types of fixed maturity investments. At December 31, 2010, approximately 2.4% (or $1,253,000) of the carrying value of fixed maturities was invested in non-investment grade fixed maturities (primarily mortgage securities) (investments in such securities have different risks than investment grade securities, including greater risk of loss upon default, and thinner trading markets).  The Company does not have any non-performing fixed maturity investments at December 31, 2010.  


At December 31, 2010, the Company had $1,524,000 invested in whole loan CMOs backed by Alt-A mortgages.  Of this amount, 59.3% were in CMOs that originated in 2005 or earlier and 40.7% were in CMOs that originated in 2006 or later.  The Company’s mortgage security portfolio has no direct exposure to sub-prime mortgages.




33



Approximately 1.8% of fixed maturities, primarily municipal obligations, in our investment portfolio are insured by financial guaranty insurance companies.  The purpose of this insurance is to increase the credit quality of the fixed maturities and their credit ratings.  If the obligations of these financial guarantors ceased to be valuable, either through a credit rating downgrade or default, these debt securities would likely receive lower credit ratings by the rating agencies that would reflect the creditworthiness of the various obligors as if the fixed maturities were uninsured.  The following table summarizes the credit quality of our fixed maturity portfolio as rated, and as rated if the fixed maturities were uninsured, at December 31, 2010:  


Bond Ratings

As Rated %

 

 

If Uninsured %

 

 

 

 

 

AAA

63.3%

 

 

63.3%

AA

18.1%

 

 

18.1%

A

14.8%

 

 

14.1%

BBB

1.4%

 

 

2.1%

 

 

 

 

 

Total Investment Grade

97.6%

 

 

97.6%

 

 

 

 

 

BB or lower

2.4%

 

 

2.4%

 

 

 

 

 

Total Fixed Maturities

100%

 

 

100%


Changes in interest rates, credit spreads, and investment quality ratings may cause the market value of the Company’s investments to fluctuate.  The Company does not have the intent to sell nor is it more likely than not that the Company will have to sell debt securities in unrealized loss positions that are not other-than-temporarily impaired before recovery.  In the event that the Company’s liquidity needs require the sale of fixed maturity securities in unfavorable interest rate, liquidity or credit spread environments, the Company may realize investment losses.


The Company reviews its investments regularly and monitors its investments continually for impairments as discussed in Note 2 (I) (vi) of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.  For 2010 and 2009, the Company recorded a realized loss of $179,000 and $0, respectively, for other-than-temporary impairments.  The following table summarizes the carrying value of securities with fair values less than 80% of their amortized cost at December 31, 2010 by the length of time the fair values of those securities were below 80% of their amortized cost (in thousands):


 

 

 

 

Greater than

 

Greater than

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3 months,

 

6 months,

 

 

 

 

 

 

Less than

 

less than

 

less than

 

Greater than

 

 

 

 

3 months

 

6 months

 

12 months

 

12 months

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed maturities

$

-

$

-

$

16

$

256

$

272

Equity securities

 

-

 

12

 

-

 

-

 

12

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

$

-

$

12

$

16

$

256

$

284


The unrealized losses on all available-for-sale securities have been evaluated in accordance with the Company's impairment policy and were determined to be temporary in nature at December 31, 2010.  In 2010, the Company experienced a decrease in net unrealized losses of $929,000 which increased stockholders' equity by $929,000 (reflecting net unrealized gains of $103,000 at December 31, 2010 compared to net unrealized losses of $826,000 at December 31, 2009).  From time to time, as warranted, the Company may employ investment strategies to mitigate interest rate and other market exposures.  Further deterioration in credit quality of the companies backing the securities, further deterioration in the condition of the financial services industry, a continuation of the current imbalances in liquidity that exist in the marketplace, a continuation or worsening of the current economic recession, or additional declines in real estate values may further affect the fair value of these



34



securities and increase the potential that certain unrealized losses be designated as other-than-temporary in future periods and the Company may incur additional write-downs.


Goodwill


Goodwill represents the excess of the amount we paid to acquire subsidiaries and other businesses over the fair value of their net assets at the date of acquisition.  The Company tests goodwill for impairment at least annually and between annual tests if an event or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the Company below its carrying amount. Goodwill is considered impaired when the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value.


The Company performed its annual test at December 31, 2010 and determined that goodwill was not impaired.  No impairment charge was required for 2010 as fair value exceeded carrying value by more than 20%.  Any impairment write-down of goodwill would be charged to expense.  See Note 3 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


In determining the fair value of the Company, we used an income approach, applying a discounted cash flow method which included a residual value.  Based on historical experience, we made assumptions as to: (i) expected future performance and future economic conditions, (ii) projected operating earnings, (iii) projected new and renewal business as well as profit margins on such business, and (iv) a discount rate that incorporated an appropriate risk level for the Company.  


Management uses a significant amount of judgment in estimating the fair value of the Company.  The key assumptions underlying the fair value process are subject to uncertainty and change.  The following represent some of the potential risks that could impact these assumptions and the related expected future cash flows: (i) increased competition; (ii) an adverse change in the insurance industry and overall business climate; (iii) changes in state and federal regulations; (iv) rating agency downgrades of our insurance companies; and (v) a sustained and significant decrease in our share price and market capitalization.  As a result of the global economic crisis that began in 2008, we experienced a significant decline in our stock price. Due to this significant decline, our market capitalization as of December 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010 was significantly below the Company’s fair value.  If we experience a sustained decline in our results of operations and cash flows, or other indicators of impairment exist, we may incur a material non-cash charge to earnings relating to impairment of our goodwill, which could have a material adverse effect on our results.


CAPITAL RESOURCES


As Independence American’s total adjusted capital was significantly in excess of the authorized control level risk-based capital, the Company remains well positioned to increase or diversify its current activities. It is anticipated that future acquisitions or other expansion of operations will be funded internally from existing capital and surplus and parent company liquidity. In the event additional funds are required, it is expected that they would be borrowed or raised in the public or private capital markets to the extent determined to be necessary or desirable.


OUTLOOK


Independence American


Independence American, which is domiciled in Delaware, is licensed to write property and/or casualty insurance in 49 states and the District of Columbia, and has an A- (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best Company, Inc. ("A.M. Best"). An A.M. Best rating is assigned after an extensive quantitative and qualitative evaluation of a company's financial condition and operating performance, and is also based upon factors relevant to policyholders, agents, and intermediaries, and is not directed towards protection of investors. A.M. Best ratings are not recommendations to buy, sell or hold securities of the Company.


Since its acquisition by AMIC in 2002, the majority of Independence American’s revenue has been from reinsurance premiums.  The portion of our revenue attributable to reinsurance premiums will decrease as we



35



increase the amount of business written by Independence American.  During 2010, Independence American wrote group major medical, medical stop-loss, major medical plans for individuals and families, a small amount of short-term medical and dental.  Given its A- (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best, Independence American expects to expand the distribution of its products.  With respect to major medical plans for individuals and families, the acquisition of a controlling interest in IPA in 2008, has meaningfully increased the amount of this line of business written by Independence American.


IHC Treaties


With respect to the IHC Treaties, the Company’s operating results are affected by the following factors: (i) the percentage of business ceded to Independence American pursuant to the IHC Treaties; (ii) the amount of gross premium written by Standard Security Life or Madison National Life that is ceded to the IHC Treaties; and (iii) the amount of gross premium produced by the MGUs and other distribution sources written by carriers other than Standard Security Life or Madison National Life that is ceded to Independence American.  The profitability of the business ceded will also impact our operating results.  Independence American assumes medical stop-loss, fully insured health and DBL premiums from IHC under the IHC Treaties.


Percentage of Business Ceded


In 2011 and beyond, the percentage of medical stop-loss ceded to Independence American will depend on how much IHC determines it has available to reinsure and Independence American’s desire to reinsure IHC’s business.  Since the percentage being ceded is now well in excess of the contractual minimum, there is no guarantee that IHC will continue to increase the percentage of business ceded to Independence American or, in fact, cede in excess of 15%.  However, our MGUs are significant producers of medical stop-loss business for IHC.


Independence American reinsures 20% of Standard Security Life’s DBL product.  Standard Security Life is not contractually obligated to continue to cede this business to Independence American after termination of the current treaty year.  Standard Security Life and Madison National Life ceded approximately 9% of their fully insured health business to Independence American.  Standard Security Life and Madison National Life are not contractually obligated to continue to cede this business to Independence American after termination of the current treaty years.  The Company does not expect the percentage ceded to it from IHC will change significantly in the next twelve months.


If Independence American, Standard Security Life, and Madison National Life had agreed to increase the average percentage ceded to Independence American by 1% (from approximately 20% ceded for the twelve months ended December 31, 2010) and Standard Security Life’s and Madison National Life’s gross written premium had remained unchanged, Independence American’s premium would have increased by approximately $1.1 million, which is approximately 1.4% of total net premiums earned for the year ended December 31, 2010.  That increase in premium, however, would not have flowed directly to pre-tax operating income because of corresponding changes in insurance benefits, claims and reserves and other expenses attributable to the increase in premiums.


Amount of Premiums Written


The gross medical stop-loss premiums written by IHC decreased in 2010 by approximately 19% and such premiums produced by our MGUs decreased by approximately 12% in 2010 as a result of termination of unprofitable programs and writing and/or renewing fewer policies due to competitors' willingness to write business at profit margins lower than those acceptable to the Company, partially offset by increased rates on the policies retained.  This resulted in a decrease in the gross amount of premium available to be ceded to Independence American in 2010, which decrease could extend into 2011.  Our MGUs do not anticipate materially increasing their production of medical stop-loss business in 2011, although they were able to show some increase in business written in January 2011.  IHC has reported that it expects its fully insured premiums to increase slightly and its DBL premiums to decrease slightly in 2011.




36



Profitability


The medical stop-loss market is generally cyclical in nature. When a product experiences several consecutive years of underwriting profitability, it is not unusual for there to be more competitors entering that line which can increase pressure on pricing and create a “softer” market. The medical stop-loss market began to “soften” in 2003 and less favorable conditions continued through 2010.  As a result of these market conditions, the rate that the carriers that cede business to the Company were able to charge for medical stop-loss increased at a lesser rate in recent years although increases in medical trend have also been held in check to a greater extent and deductibles and attachment points have increased. This reduces the risk taker’s overall risk exposure.


Our results depend on the adequacy of our product pricing, our underwriting and the accuracy of our reserving methodology, returns on our invested assets and our ability to manage expenses.  Therefore, factors affecting these items, including unemployment and global financial markets, may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.


Marketing Agreements


In 2006, Independence American entered into an agreement with a marketing organization with a block of fully insured health business primarily sold to small employer groups, and medical stop-loss, to begin writing for Independence American.  The organization that produces this business also began writing employer medical stop-loss through Independence American in 2006, and moved the majority of its existing block of fully insured and stop-loss health insurance to Independence American during 2007.  Independence American will be the exclusive issuing carrier for business underwritten by this organization through December 31, 2011.  Subject to certain conditions, the agreement will automatically extend until December 31, 2016, and this organization could be entitled to additional cash consideration (see Note 20 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements).


In addition, in 2007 IPA, a national career agent marketing organization, began marketing health plans to individuals and families utilizing Independence American as the carrier.  Independence American retains 50% of the risk on this business.  Gross premiums of $14,122,000 and $10,906,000 were written under this program in 2010 and 2009, respectively.  The program is administered by IHC Health Solutions, a wholly owned subsidiary of IHC.  AMIC purchased a 51% interest in IPA in April 2008.


Item 7A.

 Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk


The Company manages interest rate risk by seeking to maintain an investment portfolio with a duration and average life that falls within the band of the duration and average life of the applicable liabilities.  Options may be utilized to modify the duration and average life of such assets.


The following summarizes the estimated pre-tax change in fair value (based upon hypothetical parallel shifts in the U.S. Treasury yield curve) of the fixed income portfolio assuming immediate changes in interest rates at specified levels at December 31, 2010:


 

Change in Interest Rates

 

200 basis

 

100 basis

 

Base

 

100 basis

 

200 basis

 

 

 point rise

 

point rise

 

scenario

 

point decline

 

 point decline

Corporate securities

$

14,460 

$

15,092 

$

15,769 

$

16,466 

$

17,106 

CMO

 

2,251 

 

2,375 

 

2,516 

 

2,688 

 

2,828 

U.S. Government obligations

 

9,636 

 

9,959 

 

10,296 

 

10,639 

 

10,840 

Agency MBS

 

259 

 

267 

 

273 

 

275 

 

276 

GSE

 

7,400 

 

7,604 

 

7,818 

 

8,043 

 

8,198 

State & Political Subdivisions

 

15,506 

 

16,255 

 

17,064 

 

17,926 

 

18,741 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Estimated fair value

$

49,512 

$

51,552 

$

53,736 

$

56,037 

$

57,989 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Estimated change in value

$

(4,224) 

$

(2,184)

 

 

$

2,301 

$

4,253 



37







The Company monitors its investment portfolio on a continuous basis and believes that the liquidity of the Company will not be adversely affected by its current investments.  This monitoring includes the maintenance of an asset-liability model that matches current insurance liability cash flows with current investment cash flows.  This is accomplished by first creating an insurance model of the Company's in-force policies using current assumptions on mortality, lapses and expenses.  Then, current investments are assigned to specific insurance blocks in the model using appropriate prepayment schedules and future reinvestment patterns.


The results of the model specify whether the investments and their related cash flows can support the related current insurance cash flows.  Additionally, various scenarios are developed changing interest rates and other related assumptions.  These scenarios help evaluate the market risk due to changing interest rates in relation to the business.


In the Company's analysis of the asset-liability model, a 100 to 200 basis point change in interest rates on the Company's liabilities would not be expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company.  With respect to its investments, the Company employs (from time to time as warranted) investment strategies to mitigate interest rate and other market exposures.




38




Item 8.  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


 

 

Page

 

 

 

Report of Management on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

40

 

 

 

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:

 

 

 

 

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

41

 

 

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009

 

42

 

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009

 

 

 

and 2008

 

43

 

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the years ended

 

 

 

December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

 

44

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009

 

 

 

and 2008

 

45

 

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

46

 

 

 

SCHEDULES:*

 

 

 

 

 

Summary of investments - Other than investments in related parties at

 

 

 

December 31, 2010 (Schedule I)

 

79

 

 

 

Financial information of parent company (Schedule II)

 

80-82

 

 

 

Supplementary insurance information (Schedule III)

 

83

 

 

 

Statements of Cash Flows – Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Schedule V)

 

84

 

 

 



*All other schedules have been omitted as they are not applicable or not required, or the information is included in the Consolidated Financial Statements or Notes thereto.



39



 Report of Management on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting


The Board of Directors and Stockholders

American Independence Corp.


The management of American Independence Corp. ("AMIC") is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. AMIC's internal control system was designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company's management and Board of Directors regarding reliability of financial reporting and the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.


All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.  Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.


Management assessed the effectiveness of AMIC's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control –Integrated Framework. Based on our assessment we concluded that, as of December 31, 2010, AMIC's internal control over financial reporting is effective.




40




 Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

American Independence Corp.:



We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of American Independence Corp. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2010.  In connection with our audits of the consolidated financial statements, we have also audited financial statement schedules I to III and V.  These consolidated financial statements and schedules are the responsibility of the Company’s management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements and schedules based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the auditing standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.  The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting.  Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.  Accordingly, we express no such opinion.  An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.  We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of American Independence Corp. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2010 in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.  Also in our opinion, the related financial statement schedules, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

As discussed in Note 2 and Note 6, effective April 1, 2009, the Company changed its method of evaluating other-than-temporary impairments of fixed maturity securities due to the adoption of new accounting requirements issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board.



/s/ KPMG LLP

New York, New York

March 17, 2011



41



 American Independence Corp. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(In thousands, except share data)



 

 

December 31,

ASSETS:

 

2010

 

 

2009

 

Investments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Securities purchased under agreements to resell

$

6,716 

 

$

2,577 

 

Fixed maturities available-for-sale, at fair value

 

53,736 

 

 

49,641 

 

Equity securities available-for-sale, at fair value

 

3,997 

 

 

5,412 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total investments

 

64,449 

 

 

57,630 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

2,614 

 

 

4,073 

 

Restricted cash ($2,562 and $3,198, respectively, restricted by related parties)

 

4,194 

 

 

5,521 

 

Accrued investment income

 

429 

 

 

454 

 

Premiums receivable ($4,157 and $4,946, respectively, due from related parties)

 

10,065 

 

 

10,540 

 

Net deferred tax asset

 

10,250 

 

 

11,272 

 

Due from reinsurers ($5,300 and $7,047, respectively, due from related parties)

 

9,155 

 

 

11,011 

 

Goodwill

 

23,561 

 

 

23,561 

 

Intangible assets

 

1,689 

 

 

2,473 

 

Accrued fee income ($541 and $452, respectively, due from related parties)

 

1,233 

 

 

804 

 

Due from securities brokers

 

65 

 

 

19 

 

Other assets

 

5,645 

 

 

7,024 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL ASSETS

$

133,349 

 

$

134,382 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Insurance reserves ($13,440 and $18,630, respectively, due to related parties)

$

24,998 

 

$

29,286 

 

Premium and claim funds payable ($2,562 and $3,198, respectively,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

due to related parties)

 

4,194 

 

 

5,521 

 

Commission payable ($2,404 and $2,391, respectively, due to related parties)

 

4,181 

 

 

3,928 

 

Accounts payable, accruals and other liabilities ($357 and $276, respectively,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

due to related parties)

 

3,557 

 

 

3,071 

 

State income taxes payable

 

835 

 

 

703 

 

Due to securities brokers

 

1,327 

 

 

828 

 

Due to reinsurers ($162 and $160 respectively, due to related parties)

 

2,080 

 

 

1,680 

 

Net liabilities associated with discontinued operations

 

 

 

106 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

 

41,172 

 

 

45,123 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:

 

 

 

 

 

 

American Independence Corp. stockholders’ equity:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Preferred stock, $0.10 par value, 1,000 shares designated; no shares issued

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    and outstanding

 

 - 

 

 

 

 

Common stock, $0.01 par value, 15,000,000 shares authorized; 9,181,793

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    shares issued, respectively; 8,508,591 and 8,506,489 shares outstanding,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

respectively

 

92 

 

 

92 

 

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

479,910 

 

 

479,864 

 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

 

103 

 

 

(826)

 

 

Treasury stock, at cost, 673,202 shares and 675,304 shares, respectively

 

(7,976)

 

 

(8,082)

 

 

Accumulated deficit

 

(380,069)

 

 

(382,075)

 

 

Total American Independence Corp. stockholders’ equity

 

92,060 

 

 

88,973 

 

Non-controlling interest in subsidiaries

 

117 

 

 

286 

 

 

Total equity

 

92,177 

 

 

89,259 

 

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

$

133,349 

 

$

134,382 



See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.



42



American Independence Corp. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Operations

(In thousands, except per share data)



 

 

Year Ended

 

 

December 31,

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

REVENUES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Premiums earned ($34,299, $45,519 and $57,031,

$

73,859 

$

85,515 

$

96,984 

 

 

respectively, from related parties)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MGU and agency income ($4,904, $5,272 and $6,871,

 

13,425 

 

15,340 

 

14,572 

 

 

respectively, from related parties)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net investment income

 

2,518 

 

2,924 

 

3,583 

 

Net realized investment gains (loss)

 

(244)

 

275 

 

(1,896)

 

Total other-than-temporary impairment losses (no current period

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

impairment losses were recognized in other comprehensive income)

 

(179)

 

 

(1,006)

 

Other income

 

25 

 

193 

 

1,075 

 

 

89,404 

 

104,247 

 

113,312 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EXPENSES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Insurance benefits, claims and reserves ($22,982, $31,009 and $39,670,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

respectively, from related parties)

 

50,226 

 

59,658 

 

70,114 

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses ($11,927, $14,825 and

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$18,239, respectively, from related parties)

 

34,244 

 

39,109 

 

40,263 

 

Amortization and depreciation

 

861 

 

842 

 

793 

 

 

85,331 

 

99,609 

 

111,170 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from continuing operations before income tax

 

4,073 

 

4,638 

 

2,142 

Provision for income taxes

 

1,091 

 

1,472 

 

631 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from continuing operations

 

2,982 

 

3,166 

 

1,511 

Loss on disposition of discontinued operations, net of tax

 

 

 

(75)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

2,982 

 

3,166 

 

1,436 

 

Less: Net income attributable to the non-controlling interest

 

(883)

 

(554)

 

(471)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income attributable to American Independence Corp.

$

2,099 

$

2,612 

$

965 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic income per common share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from continuing operations attributable to American Independence

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corp. common stockholders

$

.25 

$

.31 

$

.12 

 

Loss from discontinued operations attributable to American Independence

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corp. common stockholders

 

 

 

(.01)

 

Net income attributable to American Independence Corp. common stockholders

$

.25 

$

.31 

$

.11 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average shares outstanding

 

8,509 

 

8,505 

 

8,504 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted income per common share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from continuing operations attributable to American Independence

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corp. common stockholders

$

.25 

$

.31 

$

.12 

 

Loss from discontinued operations attributable to American Independence

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corp. common stockholders

 

 

 

(.01)

 

Net income attributable to American Independence Corp. common stockholders

$

.25 

$

.31 

$

.11 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average diluted shares outstanding

 

8,509 

 

8,505 

 

8,504 



See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.




43



American Independence Corp. and Subsidiaries

 Consolidated Statements of Changes In Stockholders’ Equity

Years Ended December 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010

(In thousands)


 

 

 

 

 

 

ACCUMULATED

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NON-

 

 

 

 

 

 

ADDITIONAL

 

OTHER

 

TREASURY

 

 

 

TOTAL AMIC

 

CONTROLLING

 

 

 

 

COMMON

 

PAID-IN

 

COMPREHENSIVE

 

STOCK,

 

ACCUMULATED

 

STOCKHOLDERS’

 

INTERESTS IN

 

TOTAL

 

 

STOCK

 

CAPITAL

 

INCOME (LOSS)

 

AT COST

 

DEFICIT

 

EQUITY

 

SUBSIDIARIES

 

EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2007

$

92 

$

479,640 

$

(1,204)

$

(8,112)

$

(385,739)

$

84,677 

$

52 

$

84,729 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

965 

 

965 

 

471 

 

1,436 

 

Net change in unrealized gains (losses)

 

 

 

 

 

(2,853)

 

 

 

 

 

(2,853)

 

 

(2,853)

 

Total comprehensive income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,888)

 

471 

 

(1,417)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Acquisition of IPA, LLC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

432 

 

432 

 

Acquisition of Marlton 20% interest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(64)

 

(64)

 

Dividends paid to non-controlling interest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(462)

 

(462)

 

Share-based compensation expense

 

 

 

143 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

143 

 

 

143 

BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2008

 

92 

 

479,783 

 

(4,057)

 

(8,112)

 

(384,774)

 

82,932 

 

429 

 

83,361 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,612 

 

2,612 

 

554 

 

3,166 

 

Net change in unrealized gains (losses)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

on certain available-for-sale securities

 

 

 

 

 

3,330 

 

 

 

 

 

3,330 

 

 

3,330 

 

Total comprehensive income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,942 

 

554 

 

6,496 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cumulative effect of adjustment on

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

April 1, 2009 due to adoption of new

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

accounting guidance, net of tax

 

 

 

 

 

(99)

 

 

 

99 

 

 

 

 

Dividends paid to non-controlling interest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(697)

 

(697)

 

Other stock issuances

 

 

 

(18)

 

 

 

30 

 

(12)

 

 

 

 

Share-based compensation expense

 

 

 

99 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

99 

 

 

99 

BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2009

 

92 

 

479,864 

 

(826)

 

(8,082)

 

(382,075)

 

88,973 

 

286 

 

89,259 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,099 

 

2,099 

 

883 

 

2,982 

 

Net change in unrealized gains (losses)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

on certain available-for-sale securities

 

 

 

 

 

929 

 

 

 

 

 

929 

 

 

929 

 

Total comprehensive income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3,028 

 

883 

 

3,911 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercise of stock options

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

120 

 

(75)

 

45 

 

 

 

45 

 

Repurchase of common stock

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(60)

 

 

 

(60)

 

 

 

(60)

 

Dividends paid to non-controlling interest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,052)

 

(1,052)

 

Other stock issuances

 

 

 

(28)

 

 

 

46 

 

(18)

 

 

 

 

Share-based compensation expense

 

 

 

74 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

74 

 

 

74 

BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2010

$

92 

$

479,910 

$

103 

$

(7,976)

$

(380,069)

$

92,060 

$

117 

$

92,177 



See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.





44






American Independence Corp. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(In thousands)


 

 

Year Ended

 

 

December 31,

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

2,982 

3,166 

1,436 

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net change in

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

cash from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net realized investment (gains) losses

 

244 

 

(275)

 

 1,896 

 

Other-than-temporary impairment losses

 

179 

 

 

 1,006 

 

Loss on disposal of discontinued operations

 

 

 

75 

 

Amortization and depreciation

 

861 

 

842 

 

 793 

 

Equity loss

 

45 

 

29 

 

56 

 

Deferred tax expense

 

1,154 

 

1,438 

     

620 

 

Non-cash stock compensation expense

 

74 

 

99 


143 

 

Change in operating assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales of trading securities

 

 


142 

 

Change in insurance reserves

 

(4,288)

 

(3,474)


449 

 

Change in net amounts due from and to reinsurers

 

2,256 

 

30 

 

(312)

 

Change in accrued fee income

 

(429)

 

151 

 

158 

 

Change in premiums receivable

 

475 

 

(969)

 

355 

 

Change in current income tax liability

 

(102)

 

(23)

 

(106)

 

Change in other assets and other liabilities

 

28 

 

(494)

 

(4,108)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations

 

3,479 

 

520 

 

2,603 

Net cash used by operating activities of discontinued operations

 

(93)

 

(260)

 

(148)

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

3,386 

 

260 

 

2,455 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales of short-term investments

 

 

 

2,368 

 

Change in net amount due from and to securities brokers

 

453 

 

809 

 

 

Change in securities under resale and repurchase agreements

 

(4,139)

 

1,340 

 

2,006 

 

Sales of and principal repayments on fixed maturities

 

39,396 

 

27,226 

 

11,649 

 

Maturities and other repayments of fixed maturities

 

8,329 

 

8,838 

 

5,230 

 

Purchases of fixed maturities

 

(50,380)

 

(37,219)

 

(19,994)

 

Sales of equity securities

 

8,239 

 

607 

 

622 

 

Purchases of equity securities

 

(6,728)

 

(2,189)

 

(962)

 

Acquisition of Marlton 20% interest

 

 

 

(3,700)

 

Acquisition of IPA, LLC, net of cash acquired

 

 

 

(1,557)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash used by investing activities

 

(4,830)

 

(588)

 

(4,338)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

 

45 

 

 

Repurchase of common stock

 

(60)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash used by financing activities

 

(15)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Decrease in cash and cash equivalents

 

(1,459)

 

(328)

 

(1,883)

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

 

4,073 

 

4,401 

 

6,284 

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

2,614 

4,073 

4,401 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash paid during period for:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income taxes

28 

108 



See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.



45



American Independence Corp. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements


1.

Nature of Business


American Independence Corp. is a Delaware corporation (NASDAQ: AMIC).  We are a holding company principally engaged in the insurance and reinsurance business through: a) our wholly owned insurance company, Independence American Insurance Company ("Independence American"); b) our managing general underwriter subsidiaries: Risk Assessment Strategies, Inc. ("RAS"), and Marlton Risk Group LLC ("Marlton"); c) our 23% investment in Majestic Underwriters LLC ("Majestic"); d) our 51% ownership in HealthInsurance.org, LLC (“HIO”), an insurance and marketing agency; e) our 51% ownership in Independent Producers of America, LLC (“IPA”), a national career agent marketing organization; f) our wholly owned stop-loss sales office, IHC Risk Solutions – IIG (“IIG”); and g) our wholly owned claims administration company, IHC Risk Solutions, Inc. (“RSI”), formerly known as Excess Claims Administrators, Inc.  During 2010, AMIC owned another managing general underwriter, IndependenceCare Underwriting Services – Minneapolis, L.L.C. ("IndependenceCare"), which was put into runoff prior the end of 2009.  IndependenceCare, RAS and Marlton are collectively referred to as "our MGUs".  HIO, IIG, IPA, and RSI are collectively referred to as “our Agencies”.


Prior to November 14, 2002, the Company (then known as SoftNet Systems, Inc.) was a holding company principally engaged in providing Internet services.  All previously reported business segments have ceased operations or have been sold, and accordingly are reported as discontinued operations (see Note 11 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements).


Since November 2002, AMIC has been affiliated with Independence Holding Company ("IHC"), an insurance holding company, which owned 50.1% of AMIC's stock as of December 31, 2010.  In March 2010, upon approval of the AMIC Board of Directors, IHC acquired control of AMIC through the purchase of approximately 28,000 shares of common stock of AMIC in the open market.  Subsequent to December 31, 2010, IHC acquired 1,100,325 shares of AMIC, bringing its ownership to 63%.  The senior management of IHC provides direction to the Company through a service agreement between the Company and IHC.  IHC has also entered into long-term reinsurance treaties through its wholly owned subsidiaries, Standard Security Life Insurance Company of New York (“Standard Security Life”) and Madison National Life Insurance Company, Inc. (“Madison National Life”), whereby the Company assumes reinsurance premiums from the following lines of business: medical stop-loss, New York statutory disability (“DBL”), short-term medical and group major medical.


2.

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies


(A)

Principles of Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements


The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) and include the accounts of AMIC and its consolidated subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect:  (i) the reported amounts of assets and liabilities; (ii) the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements; and (iii) the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.


(B)

Reclassifications


Certain amounts in prior years' Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto have been reclassified to conform to the 2010 presentation.




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(C)

Subsequent Events


Subsequent events are events or transactions that occur after the balance sheet date but before the financial statements are issued or are available to be issued.  The Company has evaluated all such events occurring subsequent to the balance sheet date herein of December 31, 2010.  The effects of all subsequent events that provided additional evidence about conditions that existed at the date of the balance sheet, including estimates, if any, have been recognized in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet and Consolidated Statement of Operations as of and for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2010.  The Company did not recognize subsequent events that provided evidence about conditions that arose after the balance sheet date.


(D)

Investment in Majestic Underwriters LLC


The Company's investment in Majestic Underwriters LLC (see Note 9 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements) is carried on the equity method with the Company's share of income or loss credited or charged, as appropriate, to net investment income in the Consolidated Statements of Operations with a corresponding charge to the Company's investment account. The Company also reduces its investment for its proportionate share of the amortization expense for the intangible assets recorded in the acquisition.


(E)

Goodwill and Other Intangibles

Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives, which consist of licenses, are not amortized but are evaluated for impairment in the aggregate at the end of the fourth quarter of each year, or more frequently if indicators arise.  If the fair value of the Company is less than its carrying amount (including goodwill), further evaluation is required to determine if a write-down of goodwill is required.  In determining the fair value of the Company, the Company used an income approach, applying a discounted cash flow method which included a residual value.  Based on historical experience, we made assumptions as to: (i) expected future performance and future economic conditions, (ii) projected operating earnings, (iii) projected new and renewal business as well as profit margins on such business, and (iv) a discount rate that incorporated an appropriate risk level for the Company.  Any impairment write-down of goodwill would be charged to expense.  No impairment charge was required in 2010 or 2009.

The Company's intangible assets with definite lives, consisting of broker/third party relationships and marketing agreements, are amortized over the expected life of the assets (see Note 4 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements).


(F)

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash

Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and highly liquid securities with maturities of three months or less from date of purchase.  Restricted cash primarily consists of funds held by our MGUs for the benefit of their insurers and reinsurers.  These funds are restricted and are to be used to facilitate expeditious payment of approved claims.  The funds are replenished by the insurers and reinsurers as claims are paid by our MGUs.


(G)

Short-Term Investments


Investments with original maturities of 91-days to 1 year are considered short-term investments and are carried at cost which approximates fair value.


(H)

Securities Purchased Under Agreements to Resell and Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase




47



Securities purchased under agreements to resell ("resale agreements") and securities sold under agreements to repurchase ("repurchase agreements") are carried at the amounts at which the securities will be subsequently resold or repurchased as specified in the agreements.  


(I)

Investment Securities


(i) Investments in fixed income securities, redeemable preferred stock equity securities and derivatives (options and options on future contracts) are accounted for as follows:

(a) Securities which are held for trading purposes are carried at estimated fair value ("fair value").  Changes in fair value are credited or charged, as appropriate, to net realized investment gains in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

(b) Securities not held for trading purposes which may or may not be held to maturity ("available-for-sale securities") are carried at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses deemed temporary are credited or charged, as appropriate, directly to accumulated other comprehensive income (a component of stockholders' equity).  Premiums and discounts on debt securities purchased at other than par value are amortized and accreted, respectively, to interest income in the Consolidated Statements of Operations, using the constant yield method over the period to maturity.  Realized gains and losses on sales of available-for-sale securities are credited or charged, as appropriate, to net realized investment gains in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.  

(ii) Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, represent obligations to replace borrowed securities that have been sold.  Such transactions occur in anticipation of declines in the fair value of the securities. The Company's risk is an increase in the fair value of the securities sold in excess of the consideration received, but that risk is mitigated as a result of relationships to certain securities owned.  Unrealized gains or losses on open transactions are credited or charged, as appropriate, to net realized investment gains in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.  While the transaction is open, the Company will also incur an expense for any accrued dividends or interest payable to the lender of the securities.  When the transaction is closed, the Company realizes a gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between the price at which the securities were sold and the cost of replacing the borrowed securities.  There were no such transactions outstanding at December 31, 2010 and 2009.

(iii) Realized gains or losses on sales of securities are determined on the basis of specific identification.

(iv) The Company enters into derivative transactions, such as put and call option contracts and options on interest rate futures contracts, to minimize losses on portions of the Company's fixed income portfolio in a rapidly changing interest rate environment.  Equity index options are entered into to offset price fluctuations in the equity markets. These derivative financial instruments are all readily marketable and are carried on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at their current fair value with changes in fair value (unrealized gains or losses), credited or charged, as appropriate, to net realized investment gains in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. All realized gains and losses are reflected currently in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.  Gains on these instruments were $0, $205,000 and $1,196,000 during 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  There were no such derivative transactions outstanding at December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008.

(v) Fair value is determined using quoted market prices when available. In some cases, we use quoted market prices for similar instruments in active markets and/or model-derived valuations where inputs are observable in active markets. When there are limited or inactive trading markets, we use industry-standard pricing methodologies, including discounted cash flow models, whose inputs are based on management assumptions and available current market information. Further, we retain independent pricing vendors to assist in valuing certain instruments.

(vi) The Company reviews its investment securities regularly and determines whether other-than-temporary impairments have occurred. Beginning April 1, 2009, the Company adopted new accounting guidance that specified new criteria for identifying and recognizing other-than-temporary impairment losses on fixed maturities.  The factors considered by management in its regular review include, but are not limited to:  the length of time and extent to which the fair value has been less than cost; the Company's intent to sell, or be required to sell, the debt security before the anticipated recovery of its remaining amortized cost basis; the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer; adverse changes in ratings announced by one or more rating



48



agencies; subordinated credit support; whether the issuer of a debt security has remained current on principal and interest payments; current expected cash flows; whether the decline in fair value appears to be issuer specific or, alternatively, a reflection of general market or industry conditions including the effect of changes in market interest rates.  If the Company intends to sell a debt security, or it is more likely than not that it would be required to sell a debt security before the recovery of its amortized cost basis, the entire difference between the security's amortized cost basis and its fair value at the balance sheet date would be recognized by a charge to total other-than-temporary impairment losses in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.  If a decline in fair value of a debt security is judged by management to be other-than-temporary and; (i) the Company does not intend to sell the security; and (ii) it is not more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security prior to recovery of the security’s amortized cost, the Company assesses whether the present value of the cash flows to be collected from the security is less than its amortized cost basis. To the extent that the present value of the cash flows generated by a debt security is less than the amortized cost basis, a credit loss exists.  For any such security, the impairment is bifurcated into (a) the amount of the total impairment related to the credit loss, and (b) the amount of the total impairment related to all other factors. The amount of the other-than-temporary impairment related to the credit loss is recognized by a charge to total other-than-temporary impairment losses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations, establishing a new cost basis for the security. The amount of the other-than-temporary impairment related to all other factors is recognized in other comprehensive income in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  It is reasonably possible that further declines in estimated fair values of such investments, or changes in assumptions or estimates of anticipated recoveries and/or cash flows, may cause further other-than-temporary impairments in the near term, which could be significant.

In assessing corporate debt securities for other-than-temporary impairment, the Company evaluates the ability of the issuer to meet its debt obligations and the value of the company or specific collateral securing the debt position. For mortgage-backed securities where loan level data is not available, the Company uses a cash flow model based on the collateral characteristics. Assumptions about loss severity and defaults used in the model are primarily based on actual losses experienced and defaults in the collateral pool. Prepayment speeds, both actual and estimated, are also considered. The cash flows generated by the collateral securing these securities are then determined with these default, loss severity and prepayment assumptions. These collateral cash flows are then utilized, along with consideration for the issue’s position in the overall structure, to determine the cash flows associated with the mortgage-backed security held by the Company. In addition, the Company evaluates other asset-backed securities for other-than-temporary impairment by examining similar characteristics referenced above for mortgage-backed securities.  The Company evaluates U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. Government corporations, U.S. Government agencies, and obligations of states and political subdivisions for other-than-temporary impairment by examining the terms and collateral of the security.

Prior to April 1, 2009, the Company assessed its ability and intent to hold a fixed maturity for a period of time sufficient to allow for a recovery in fair value. If the Company could not assert this condition, an other-than-temporary impairment loss was recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Equity securities may experience other-than-temporary impairment in the future based on the prospects for full recovery in value in a reasonable period of time and the Company’s ability and intent to hold the security to recovery. If a decline in fair value is judged by management to be other-than-temporary or management does not have the intent and ability to hold a security, a loss is recognized by a charge to total other-than-temporary impairment losses in the Consolidated Statement of Operations for the difference between the carrying value and the fair value of the securities. For the purpose of other-than-temporary impairment evaluations, preferred stocks with maturities are treated in a manner similar to debt securities. Declines in the creditworthiness of the issuer of debt securities with both debt and equity-like features requires the use of the equity model in analyzing the security for other-than-temporary impairment.

Subsequent increases and decreases, if not an other-than-temporary impairment, in the fair value of available-for-sale securities that were previously impaired, are included in other comprehensive income in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.




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(J)

Fixed Assets


Fixed assets are stated at cost net of accumulated depreciation.  Improvements are capitalized, while repair and maintenance costs are charged to operations as incurred.  Depreciation of property and equipment has been provided on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the respective assets (3 years for computer equipment and 7 years for furniture and fixtures).  Amortization of leasehold improvements has been provided on the straight-line method over the shorter of the lease term or the estimated useful life of the asset.


(K)

Premium, MGU Fee, and Agency Income Revenue Recognition

Direct and assumed premiums from short-duration contracts are recognized as revenue over the period of the contracts in proportion to the amount of insurance protection provided.  The Company records MGU fee income as policy premium payments are earned.  Our MGUs are compensated in two ways.  They earn fee income based on the volume of business produced, and collect profit-sharing commissions if such business exceeds certain profitability benchmarks. Profit-sharing commissions are accounted for beginning in the period in which the Company believes they are reasonably estimable, which is typically at the point that claims have developed to a level where Claim Development Patterns can be applied to generate reasonably reliable estimates of ultimate claim levels. Profit-sharing commissions are a function of an MGU attaining certain profitability thresholds and could greatly vary from quarter to quarter.  Agency income consists of commissions, fees and lead revenue earned by our Agencies.


MGU and agency income consisted of the following:


 

 

Year Ended

 

 

December 31,

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

(In thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Agency Income

$

8,377

$

8,733

$

5,714

MGU fee income - administration

 

4,129

 

5,586

 

7,822

MGU fee income - profit commissions

 

919

 

1,021

 

1,036

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

13,425

$

15,340

$

14,572


(L)

Insurance Reserves


The Company maintains loss reserves to cover its estimated liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses, where material, including legal and other fees and a portion of the Company's general expenses, for reported and unreported claims incurred as of the end of each accounting period.  These loss reserves are based on actuarial assumptions and are maintained at levels that are in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.  Many factors could affect these reserves, including economic and social conditions, frequency and severity of claims, medical trend resulting from the influences of underlying cost inflation, changes in utilization and demand for medical services, and changes in doctrines of legal liability and damage awards in litigation.  Therefore, the Company's reserves are necessarily based on estimates, assumptions and analysis of historical experience.  The Company's results depend upon the variation between actual claims experience and the assumptions used in determining reserves and pricing products. Reserve assumptions and estimates require significant judgment and, therefore, are inherently uncertain.  The Company cannot determine with precision the ultimate amounts that will be paid for actual claims or the timing of those payments.  The Company's estimate of loss represents management's best estimate of the Company's liability at the balance sheet date.


All of the Company’s contracts are short-duration and are accounted for based on actuarial estimates of the amount of loss inherent in that period’s claims, including losses incurred for claims



50



that have not been reported (“IBNR”). Short-duration contract loss estimates rely on actuarial observations of ultimate loss experience for similar historical events.


Medical Stop-Loss


Liabilities for insurance reserves on medical stop-loss coverages are computed using completion factors and expected Net Loss Ratios derived from actual historical premium and claim data.  Reserves for medical stop-loss insurance are more volatile in nature than those for fully insured medical insurance.  This is primarily due to the excess nature of medical stop-loss, with very high deductibles applying to specific claims on any individual claimant and in the aggregate for a given group.  The level of these deductibles makes it more difficult to predict the amount and payment pattern of such claims.  Furthermore, these excess claims are highly sensitive to changes in factors such as medical trend, provider contracts and medical treatment protocols, adding to the difficulty in predicting claim values and estimating reserves.  Also, because medical stop-loss is in excess of an underlying benefit plan, there is an additional layer of claim reporting and processing that can affect claim payment patterns.  Finally, changes in the distribution of business by effective month can affect reserve estimates due to the timing of claim occurrences and the time required to accumulate claims against the stop-loss deductible.


The two “primary” or “key” assumptions underlying the calculation of loss reserves for medical stop-loss business are (i) projected net loss ratio, and (ii) claim development patterns.  The projected net loss ratio is set at expected levels consistent with the underlying assumptions (“Projected Net Loss Ratio”). Claim development patterns are set quarterly as reserve estimates are developed and are based on recent claim development history (“Claim Development Patterns”).  The Company uses the Projected Net Loss Ratio to establish reserves until developing losses provide a better indication of ultimate results and it is feasible to set reserves based on Claim Development Patterns.  The Company has concluded that a reasonably likely change in the Projected Net Loss Ratio assumption could have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity (“Material Effect”) but a reasonably likely change in the Claim Development Pattern would not have a Material Effect.


Projected Net Loss Ratio


Generally, during the first twelve months of an underwriting year, reserves for medical stop-loss are first set at the Projected Net Loss Ratio, which is set using assumptions developed using completed prior experience trended forward. The Projected Net Loss Ratio is the Company’s best estimate of future performance until such time as developing losses provide a better indication of ultimate results.  


Major factors that affect the Projected Net Loss Ratio assumption in reserving for medical stop-loss relate to: (i) frequency and severity of claims; (ii) changes in medical trend resulting from the influences of underlying cost inflation, changes in utilization and demand for medical services, the impact of new medical technology and changes in medical treatment protocols; and (iii) the adherence by the MGUs that produce and administer this business to the Company’s underwriting guidelines.


Claim Development Patterns


Subsequent to the first twelve months of an underwriting year, the Company’s developing losses provide a better indication of ultimate losses.  At this point, claims have developed to a level where Claim Development Patterns can be applied to generate reasonably reliable estimates of ultimate claim levels.  Development factors based on historical patterns are applied to paid and reported claims to estimate fully developed claims.  Claim Development Patterns are reviewed quarterly as reserve estimates are developed and are based on recent claim development history.  The Company must determine whether changes in development represent true indications of emerging experience or are simply due to random claim fluctuations.




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The Company also establishes its best estimates of claim development factors to be applied to more developed treaty year experience.  While these factors are based on historical Claim Development Patterns, actual claim development may vary from these estimates.


Predicting ultimate claims and estimating reserves in Medical Stop-Loss is more complex than first dollar medical and disability business due to the “excess of loss” nature of these products with very high deductibles applying to specific claims on any individual claimant and in the aggregate for a given group.  The level of these deductibles makes it more difficult to predict the amount and payment pattern of such claims.  Fluctuations in results for specific coverage are primarily due to the severity and frequency of individual claims, whereas fluctuations in aggregate coverage are largely attributable to frequency of underlying claims rather than severity.


Due to the short-term nature of Medical Stop-Loss, redundancies or deficiencies will typically emerge during the course of the following year rather than over a number of years.  For Employer Stop-Loss, as noted above, the Company typically maintains its reserves based on underlying assumptions until it determines that an adjustment is appropriate based on emerging experience from all of its MGUs for prior underwriting years.  Reserves for HMO Reinsurance are adjusted on a policy by policy basis.  Because of the small number of HMO Reinsurance policies it writes or reinsures, the Company is able to evaluate each policy individually for potential liability by reviewing open claims with each HMO and applying completion factors using historical data.


Fully Insured Health


Liabilities for insurance reserves for fully insured medical business are established to provide for the liability for incurred but not paid claims.  Reserves are calculated using standard actuarial methods and practices.  Historical paid claim patterns are reviewed and estimated development factors are applied to immature incurred months to calculate these reserves.  The primary assumption in the determination of fully insured reserves is that historical claim development patterns are representative of future claim development patterns.  Factors which may affect this assumption include changes in claim payment processing times and procedures, changes in time delay in submission of claims and the incidence of unusually large claims.  Liabilities for fully insured medical reserves and disability coverages are computed using completion factors and expected Net Loss Ratios derived from actual historical premium and claim data.  The reserving analysis includes a review of claim processing statistical measures and large claim early notifications; the potential impacts of any changes in these factors are not material.  The delay in submission of claims tends to be stable over time and not subject to significant volatility.


While these calculations are based on standard methodologies, they are estimates based on historical patterns.  To the extent that actual claim payment patterns differ from historical patterns, such estimated reserves may be redundant or inadequate.  The effects of such deviations are evaluated by considering claim backlog statistics and reviewing the reasonableness of projected claim ratios.  Other factors which may affect the accuracy of reserve estimates include the proportion of large claims which may take longer to adjudicate, changes in billing patterns by providers and changes in claim management practices such as hospital bill audits.


Liabilities for insurance reserves on short-term medical and disability coverages are computed using claim development patterns and projected loss ratios derived from actual historical premium and claim data.


Management believes that the Company's methods of estimating the liabilities for insurance reserves provided appropriate levels of reserves at December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009. Changes in the Company's reserve estimates are recorded through a charge or credit to its earnings in the period in which they arise.




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(M)

Reinsurance


Amounts recoverable or paid for under reinsurance contracts are included in total assets or total liabilities as due from reinsurers or due to reinsurers.  In 2010, Independence American derived a majority of its business from pro rata quota share reinsurance treaties with Standard Security Life and Madison National Life, which are wholly owned subsidiaries of IHC.


(N)

Income Taxes

The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis, and operating loss and tax credit carry forwards.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled.  The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets where it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will not be realized (see Note 15 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements).


(O)

Income Per Common Share

Basic income per common share is computed using the weighted average number of common stock shares outstanding during the period.  Diluted income per common share is computed using the weighted average number of common stock shares and common stock equivalent shares outstanding during the period.  Common stock equivalents consist of stock options and restricted stock (using the "treasury stock" method).  Common stock equivalent shares are excluded from the computation if the effect is anti-dilutive.  As a result of the anti-dilutive effect, common stock equivalent shares have been excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share for periods presented with a net loss.  For the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 such shares were deemed anti-dilutive.  Net income does not change as a result of the assumed dilution.


(P)

Recent Accounting Pronouncements


Recently Adopted Accounting Standards


In January 2010, the FASB issued standards requiring new disclosures regarding (i) transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements and (ii) activity in Level 3 fair value measurements.  This guidance also clarifies existing disclosures regarding (i) the level of asset and liability disaggregation and (ii) fair value measurement inputs and valuation techniques.  The guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2009, except for the requirement to provide Level 3 activity of purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements on a gross basis, which will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010; early adoption is permitted.  The adoption of this guidance, effective January 1, 2010, did not have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements.


In June 2009, the FASB issued standards which among other things, amends former guidance on the consolidation of variable interest entities. The standards (i) require an entity to perform an analysis to determine whether an entity's variable interest or interests give it a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity; (ii) require ongoing reassessments of whether an entity is the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity and eliminate the quantitative approach previously required for determining the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity; (iii) amend previous guidance for determining whether an entity is a variable interest entity; and (iv) require enhanced disclosure that will provide users of financial statements with more transparent information about an entity's involvement in a variable interest entity. In December 2009, these standards were added to the Codification.  The adoption of this guidance, effective



53



January 1, 2010, did not have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements.


In June 2009, the FASB issued standards to revise previous authoritative guidance related to accounting for transfers of financial assets, and will require more disclosures about transfers of financial assets, including securitization transactions, and where entities have continuing exposure to the risks related to transferred financial assets. In December 2009, these standards were added to the Codification. Among other things, the guidance eliminates the concept of a "qualifying special-purpose entity", changes the requirements for derecognizing financial assets and enhances information reported to users of financial statements by providing greater transparency about transfers of financial assets and an entity's continuing involvement in transferred financial assets.  The guidance is effective for the first annual reporting period that begins after November 15, 2009, for interim periods within that first annual reporting period, and for interim and annual reporting periods thereafter with earlier application prohibited.  The recognition and measurement provisions shall be applied to transfers that occur on or after the effective date.  The adoption of this guidance, effective January 1, 2010, did not have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements.


In April 2009, the FASB provided guidance on debt securities classified as available-for-sale and held-to-maturity that are subject to other-than-temporary impairment guidance. These provisions modified the accounting guidance for determining fair value of financial instruments under distressed market conditions, revised the recognition and measurement requirements for other-than-temporary impairment losses on debt securities and expanded the related disclosures about other-than-temporary impairments for both debt and equity securities. This guidance was effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009 to be applied to existing and new investments held by an entity as of the beginning of the interim period in which it was adopted. For debt securities held at the beginning of the interim period for which an other-than-temporary impairment was previously recognized, if an entity did not intend to sell and it was not more likely than not that the entity would be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, the entity recognized the cumulative effect of initially applying this guidance as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings with a corresponding adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax. The amortized cost basis of the security was to be adjusted by the cumulative-effect adjustment before taxes. As of March 31, 2009, the Company had previously recognized $436,000 and $199,000 of other-than-temporary impairments on available-for-sale fixed maturities and certain preferred stocks evaluated as debt securities, respectively, in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. The Company has determined that (a) the portion of the previously recorded losses on debt securities and preferred stocks evaluated as debt securities representing a credit loss is $535,000, and (b) the amount of a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings and corresponding adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income representing the amount of previously recorded losses on debt securities and preferred stocks evaluated as debt securities related to all other factors is $99,000.


Recently Issued Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted


In December 2010, the FASB issued guidance that amends existing goodwill impairment test guidance to include a requirement that entities perform Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test for reporting units with zero or negative carrying amounts if it is more likely than not that an impairment exists.  This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2010.  The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.


In December 2010, the FASB issued guidance that clarifies the existing requirements for pro forma revenue and earnings disclosures, and expands the supplemental pro forma revenue and earnings disclosures, for public companies that have completed business acquisitions.  The amendments in this guidance are effective prospectively for business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after



54



December 15, 2010.  The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.


In October 2010, the FASB issued guidance that specifies the accounting treatment for the costs incurred by insurance entities when acquiring new and renewal insurance contracts. The guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2011 and should be applied prospectively upon adoption. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact the amendments in this update will have on its consolidated financial statements.


In April 2010, the FASB issued guidance on the accounting effect, if any, that arises from the different signing dates between the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, which is a reconciliation bill that amends the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.  This guidance is applicable for registrants with a period end that falls between the signing dates for which the timing difference could have an accounting impact.  The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements.


In January 2010, the FASB issued standards requiring entities to provide the activity of Level 3 security purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements on a gross basis, which will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements.


3.  Goodwill  


The Company recorded goodwill of $23,561,000 for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009.


The Company performed its annual test at December 31, 2010 and determined that goodwill was not impaired.  


At December 31, 2010, the Company’s market capitalization was less than its book value indicating a potential impairment of goodwill.  As a result, the Company assessed the factors contributing to the performance of AMIC stock in 2010, and concluded that the market capitalization does not represent the fair value of the Company.  The Company noted several factors that have led to a difference between the market capitalization and the fair value of the Company, including (i) the Company’s stock is thinly traded and a sale of even a small number of shares can have a large percentage impact on the price of the stock, (ii) IHC and insiders own over 52% of the outstanding shares, which has had a significant adverse impact on the number of shares available for sale and therefore the trading potential of AMIC stock, and (iii) lack of analyst coverage of the Company.  The Company will continue to monitor AMIC’s book value against market capitalization to determine whether an interim test of goodwill is warranted.  If the Company experiences a sustained decline in its results of operations and cash flows, or other indicators of impairment exist, the Company may incur a material non-cash charge to earnings relating to impairment of our goodwill, which could have a material adverse effect on our results.  




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4.  Intangible Assets


Intangible assets at December 31, 2010 and 2009 consist of the following (in thousands):


 

December 31, 2010

 

December 31, 2009

 

Definitive

 

Indefinite

 

 

 

Definitive

 

Indefinite

 

 

 

Lives (a)

 

Lives

 

Total

 

Lives

 

Lives

 

Total

Gross Carrying Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance beginning of period

$

9,373 

 

$

100 

 

$

9,473 

 

$

9,373 

 

$

100 

 

$

9,473 

Additions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance end of period

 

9,373 

 

 

100 

 

 

9,473 

 

 

9,373 

 

 

100 

 

 

9,473 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accumulated Amortization

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance beginning of period

 

(7,000)

 

 

 

 

(7,000)

 

 

(6,217)

 

 

 

 

(6,217)

Amortization expense

 

(784)

 

 

 

 

(784)

 

 

(783)

 

 

 

 

(783)

Balance end of period

 

(7,784)

 

 

 

 

(7,784)

 

 

(7,000)

 

 

 

 

(7,000)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net intangible assets

$

1,589 

 

$

100 

 

$

1,689 

 

$

2,373 

 

$

100 

 

$

2,473 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average remaining life in years

 

 

 

1.45 

 

 

 

 

 

1.93 


Expected amortization expense for the next five years is as follows (in thousands):


 

 

 

Year Ending

 

 

 

December 31,

2011 

 

$

783 

2012 

 

 

124 

2013 

 

 

120 

2014 

 

 

120 

2015 and thereafter 

 

 

442 

 

 

$

1,589 


5.  Securities Purchased Under Agreements to Resell


Securities purchased under agreements to resell are utilized to invest excess funds on a short-term basis. At December 31, 2010, the Company had $6,716,000 in resale agreements outstanding, all of which settled on January 3, 2011 and were subsequently reinvested. The Company maintains control of securities purchased under resale agreements, values the collateral on a daily basis and obtains additional collateral, if necessary, to protect the Company in the event of default by the counterparties.




56



6.  Investments


The cost (amortized cost with respect to certain fixed maturities), gross unrealized gains, gross unrealized losses and fair value of long-term investment securities are as follows:


 

 

DECEMBER 31, 2010

 

 

 

 

GROSS

 

GROSS

 

 

 

 

AMORTIZED 

 

UNREALIZED

 

UNREALIZED

 

FAIR

 

 

    COST 

 

GAINS

 

LOSSES

 

VALUE

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

 

FIXED MATURITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corporate securities

 

$

15,850 

 

$

167 

 

(248)

 

$

15,769 

 

Collateralized mortgage obligations (CMO) –

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

residential

 

2,021 

 

 279 

 

(107)

 

2,193 

 

CMO – commercial

 

579 

 

 

(256)

 

323 

 

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

 

17,239 

 

 152 

 

(327)

 

17,064 

 

U.S. Government

 

10,137 

 

 159 

 

 

10,296 

 

Government sponsored enterprise (GSE)

 

7,678 

 

 145 

 

(5)

 

7,818 

 

Agency mortgage backed pass

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

through securities (MBS)

 

 

 256 

 

 

 17 

 

 

 

 

273 

 

 Total fixed maturities

 

$

 53,760 

 

$

 919 

 

(943)

 

$

 53,736 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EQUITY SECURITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock

 

$

604 

 

$

26 

 

$

(20)

 

$

610 

 

Preferred stock with maturities

 

 

273 

 

 

 54 

 

 

 

 

 327 

 

Preferred stock without maturities

 

 

 2,993 

 

 

 77 

 

 

 (10)

 

 

 3,060 

 

Total equity securities

 

$

3,870 

 

$

 157 

 

$

(30)

 

$

3,997 


 

 

DECEMBER 31, 2009

 

 

 

 

GROSS

 

GROSS

 

 

 

 

AMORTIZED 

 

UNREALIZED

 

UNREALIZED

 

FAIR

 

 

    COST 

 

GAINS

 

LOSSES

 

VALUE

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

 

FIXED MATURITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corporate securities

 

$

18,448 

 

$

186 

 

(323)

 

$

18,311 

 

CMO – residential

 

5,053 

 

 181 

 

(446)

 

4,788 

 

CMO – commercial

 

578 

 

 - 

 

(268)

 

310 

 

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

 

9,892 

 

 43 

 

(431)

 

9,504 

 

U.S. Government

 

4,874 

 

 54 

 

 

4,928 

 

Government sponsored enterprise (GSE)

 

7,063 

 

 51 

 

(61)

 

7,053 

 

Agency mortgage backed pass

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

through securities (MBS)

 

 

 4,692 

 

 

 55 

 

 

 

 

4,747 

 

 Total fixed maturities

 

$

 50,600 

 

$

 570 

 

(1,529)

 

$

 49,641 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EQUITY SECURITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock

 

$

948 

 

$

37 

 

$

(17)

 

$

968 

 

Preferred stock with maturities

 

 

820 

 

 

13 

 

 

(10)

 

 

 823 

 

Preferred stock without maturities

 

 

3,511 

 

 

117 

 

 

(7)

 

 

3,621 

 

Total equity securities

 

$

5,279 

 

$

167 

 

$

(34)

 

$

5,412 


Government-sponsored enterprise mortgage-backed securities consist of Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation and Federal National Mortgage Association securities.


The unrealized gains (losses) on certain preferred stocks with maturities at December 31, 2010 and 2009 includes $99,000 related to the non-credit related component of other-than-temporary impairment losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income in connection with new accounting standards adopted on April 1, 2009.


The amortized cost and fair value of fixed maturities at December 31, 2010, by contractual maturity, are shown below.  Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because



57



borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.  The average life of mortgage backed securities is affected by prepayments on the underlying loans and, therefore, is materially shorter than the original stated maturity.


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

% OF

 

 

 

AMORTIZED

 

 

FAIR

 

 

 TOTAL FAIR

 

 

 

COST

 

 

VALUE

 

 

 VALUE

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Due in one year or less

 

 

 

 

0% 

Due after one year through five years

 

 

22,991 

 

 

23,249 

 

 

43% 

Due after five years through ten years

 

 

13,408 

 

 

13,310 

 

 

25% 

Due after ten years

 

 

8,139 

 

 

7,929 

 

 

15% 

 

 

 

44,538 

 

 

44,488 

 

 

83% 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CMO and MBS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

15 years

 

 

4,183 

 

 

4,117 

 

 

8% 

 

20 years

 

 

 

 

 

 

0% 

 

30 years

 

 

5,039 

 

 

5,131 

 

 

9% 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

53,760 

 

53,736 

 

 

100% 


The following tables summarize, for all securities in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, the aggregate fair value and gross unrealized loss by length of time, those securities that have continuously been in an unrealized loss position (in thousands):


 

 

December 31, 2010

 

 

Less than 12 Months

12 Months or Longer

Total

 

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

 

Value

 

Loss

 

Value

 

Losses

 

Value

 

Losses

FIXED MATURITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corporate securities

$

6,970 

$

216 

$

359 

$

32 

$

7,329 

$

248 

CMO – residential

 

88 

 

16 

 

642 

 

91 

 

730 

 

107 

CMO – commercial

 

 

 

323 

 

256 

 

323 

 

256 

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

 

6,351 

 

189 

 

2,413 

 

138 

 

8,764 

 

327 

GSE

 

544 

 

 

 

 

544 

 

 

Total fixed maturities

$

13,953 

$

426 

$

3,737 

$

517 

$

17,690 

$

943 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EQUITY SECURITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock

$

141 

$

20 

$

$

$

141 

$

20 

Preferred stock without maturities

 

1,283 

 

10 

 

 

 

1,283 

 

10 

 

Total equity securities

$

1,424 

$

30 

$

$

$

1,424 

$

30 


 

 

December 31, 2009

 

 

Less than 12 Months

 

12 Months or Longer

 

Total

 

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

 

Value

 

Losses

 

Value

 

Losses

 

Value

 

Losses

FIXED MATURITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corporate securities

$

4,714 

$

69 

$

4,287 

$

254 

$

9,001 

$

323 

CMO – residential

 

617 

 

11 

 

1,769 

 

435 

 

2,386 

 

446 

CMO – commercial

 

 

 

310 

 

268 

 

310 

 

268 

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

 

6,278 

 

314 

 

1,161 

 

117 

 

7,439 

 

431 

GSE

 

5,577 

 

61 

 

 

 

5,577 

 

61 

 

Total fixed maturities

$

17,186 

$

455 

$

7,527 

$

1,074 

$

24,713 

$

1,529 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EQUITY SECURITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock

$

465 

$

17 

$

$

$

465 

$

17 

Preferred stock with maturities

 

 

 

240 

 

10 

 

240 

 

10 

Preferred stock without maturities

 

 

 

1,044 

 

 

1,044 

 

 

Total equity securities

$

465 

$

17 

$

1,284 

$

17 

$

1,749 

$

34 



58







At December 31, 2010, a total of 20 fixed maturities and 9 equity securities were in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than 12 months.  Also, at December 31, 2010, a total of 7 fixed maturities were in a continuous unrealized loss position for 12 months or longer.  At December 31, 2009 a total of 25 fixed maturities and 12 equity securities were in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than 12 months.  Also, at December 31, 2009, a total of 24 fixed maturities and 3 equity securities were in a continuous unrealized loss position for 12 months or longer.  Except for certain fixed maturities which are determined to be other-than-temporarily impaired, there are no securities past due or securities for which the Company currently believes it is not probable that it will collect the current amortized cost basis of the security.


Substantially all of the unrealized losses on fixed maturities at December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009 were attributable to changes in market interest rates and general disruptions in the credit market subsequent to purchase. The unrealized losses on corporate securities and state and political subdivisions are due to wider spreads.  Spreads have widened in recent years as investors shifted funds to US Treasuries in response to the current market turmoil.  Because the Company does not intend to sell, nor is it more likely than not that the Company will have to sell, such investments before recovery of their amortized cost bases, the Company does not consider those investments to be other-than-temporarily impaired at December 31, 2010.


At December 31, 2010, the Company had $1,524,000 invested in whole loan CMOs backed by Alt-A mortgages.  Of this amount, 59.3% were in CMOs that originated in 2005 or earlier and 40.7% were in CMOs that originated in 2006 or later.  The unrealized losses on all other CMO’s relate to prime rate CMO’s and are primarily attributable to general disruptions in the credit market subsequent to purchase.  The Company’s mortgage security portfolio has no direct exposure to sub-prime mortgages.  


Major categories of net investment income for years 2010, 2009 and 2008 are summarized as follows:


 

 

Year Ended

 

 

December 31,

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

(In thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed maturities

$

2,052 

$

2,346 

$

2,707 

Equity securities

 

262 

 

219 

 

238 

Short-term investments

 

 

10 

 

154 

Other

 

201 

 

349 

 

484 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net investment income

$

 2,518 

$

2,924

$

3,583 


Other-Than-Temporary Impairment Evaluations


Based on management’s review of the portfolio, which considered the various factors described in Note 2 (I) (vi), the Company recorded the following losses for other-than-temporary impairments in the Consolidated Statements of Operations for years 2010, 2009 and 2008 (in thousands):



59




 

 

Year Ended

 

 

December 31,

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other-than-temporary impairments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed maturities

 

179 

 

 

435 

 

Preferred Stocks

 

 

 

571 

 

 

$

179 

$

$

1,006 


For the year ended December 31, 2010, other-than-temporary impairments of $179,000 represent credit losses on fixed maturities as a result of the expected cash flows of certain securities being less than the securities’ amortized cost.  No losses for other-than-temporary impairments were recognized in other comprehensive income since the adoption of the new accounting standards in 2009.


As of March 31, 2009, the Company had previously recognized a total of $436,000 and $199,000 of other-than-temporary impairments on available-for-sale fixed maturities and certain preferred stocks evaluated as debt securities, respectively, in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.  As a result of new accounting standards adopted on April 1, 2009, the Company determined that (a) the portion of the previously recorded losses on debt securities and preferred stocks evaluated as debt securities representing a credit loss was $535,000, and (b) the amount of a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings and corresponding adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income representing the amount of previously recorded losses on debt securities and preferred stocks evaluated as debt securities related to all other factors was $99,000.  Of the $535,000 of credit losses identified above, $99,000 relates to credit losses for which a portion of an other-than-temporary impairment was recognized in other comprehensive income.  


Cumulative credit losses for other-than-temporary impairments recorded on securities for which a portion of an other-than-temporary impairment was recognized in other comprehensive income were as follows (in thousands):


 

 

 

2010

 

 

2009

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at beginning of year

 

$

99 

 

$

-

Adoption of new accounting standard

 

 

-

 

 

99 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at end of year

 

$

99 

 

$

99 


Further deterioration in credit quality of the companies backing the securities, further deterioration in the condition of the financial services industry, a continuation of the current imbalance in liquidity that exist in the marketplace, a continuation or worsening of the current economic recession, or additional declines in real estate values may further affect the fair value of these securities and increase the potential that certain unrealized losses be designated as other-than-temporary in future periods and the Company may incur additional write-downs.




60



7.

Net Realized Investment Gains (Losses)


Net realized investment gains (losses) for years 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows (in thousands):

 

 

Year Ended

 

 

December 31,

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net realized investment gains (losses):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed maturities

$

919 

$

244 

$

(46)

 

Common stock

 

127 

 

11 

 

(10)

 

Preferred stock

 

(24)

 

20 

 

12 

 

Short-term investments

 

 

 

 

 

1,022 

 

275 

 

(42)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trading account write-off

 

(1,266)

 

 

(2,006)

Trading and other gains (losses)

 

 

 

152 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net realized investment gains (losses)

$

(244)

$

275 

$

(1,896)


For the twelve months ended December 31, 2010, the Company recorded realized gross gains of $1,312,000 and gross losses of $290,000 on sales of available-for-sale securities.  For the twelve months ended December 31, 2009, the Company recorded realized gross gains of $581,000 and gross losses of $306,000 on sales of available-for-sale securities.  For the twelve months ended December 31, 2008, the Company recorded realized gross gains of $50,000 and gross losses of $83,000 on sales of available-for-sale securities. As of December 31, 2008, the Company no longer has any trading accounts.


In the fourth quarter of 2008, the Company became aware of certain activities engaged in by the non-affiliate broker-dealer that managed a trading account of the Company.  Net realized investment gains reported in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Operations for 2008 include income related to the trading account of $142,000.  The carrying amount of the Company’s investment at the time of loss was $2,566,000.  The broker-dealer is now in bankruptcy.  The Company filed a claim to recover the $500,000 maximum amount available from the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (“SIPC”).  Accordingly, the Company recorded a pre-tax loss of $2,006,000, net of expected recoveries, in net realized investment losses in the fourth quarter of 2008 in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.  Based on discussions with the trustee in bankruptcy in the fourth quarter of 2010 pertaining to the resolution of these claims, the Company recorded an additional $1,266,000 of pre-tax losses consisting of: (i) the reversal of $500,000 of anticipated SIPC recoveries initially recorded; and (ii) $766,000 of withdrawals by AMIC deemed subject to return.  A settlement agreement was entered into with the trustee in the first quarter of 2011 and payment by the Company is expected to be made on or before July 15, 2011.


8.  Fair Value Measurements


For all financial and non-financial instruments accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis, the Company utilizes valuation techniques based upon observable and unobservable inputs. Observable inputs reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect our market expectations. These two types of inputs create the following fair value hierarchy:



61




Level 1 –

Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.

 

 

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 whose inputs are observable or whose significant value drivers are observable.

 

 

Level 3 –

Instruments where significant value drivers are unobservable.

  

The following section describes the valuation methodologies we use to measure different financial instruments at fair value.


Investments in fixed maturities and equity securities


Available-for-sale securities included in Level 1 are equity securities with quoted market prices.  Level 2 is primarily comprised of our portfolio of corporate fixed income securities, government agency mortgage-backed securities, government sponsored enterprises, certain CMO securities, municipals and certain preferred stocks that were priced with observable market inputs.  Level 3 securities consist of certain CMO securities, primarily Alt-A mortgages.  For these securities, we use industry-standard pricing methodologies, including discounted cash flow models, whose inputs are based on management’s assumptions and available market information. Further, we retain independent pricing vendors to assist in valuing certain instruments.

    

The following table presents our financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively (in thousands):


 

 

December 31, 2010

 

 

Level 1

 

 

Level 2

 

 

Level 3

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINANCIAL ASSETS:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed maturities available-for-sale:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Corporate securities

$

-

 

$

15,769

 

$

-

 

$

15,769

    CMO - residential

 

-

 

 

634

 

 

1,559

 

 

2,193

    CMO – commercial

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

323

 

 

323

    States, municipalities and political   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

subdivisions

 

-

 

 

17,064

 

 

-

 

 

17,064

    U.S. Government

 

-

 

 

10,296

 

 

-

 

 

10,296

    Government sponsored enterprise (GSE)

 

-

 

 

7,818

 

 

-

 

 

7,818

    Agency mortgage-backed pass through

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

securities (MBS) - residential

 

-

 

 

273

 

 

-

 

 

273

 

Total fixed maturities

 

-

 

 

51,854

 

 

1,882

 

 

53,736

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equity securities available-for-sale:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Common stock

 

610

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

610

    Preferred stock with maturities

 

327

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

327

    Preferred stock without maturities

 

3,060

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

3,060

 

Total equity securities

 

3,997

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

3,997

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total financial assets

$

3,997

 

$

51,854

 

$

1,882

 

$

57,733




62




 

 

December 31, 2009

 

 

Level 1

 

 

Level 2

 

 

Level 3

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINANCIAL ASSETS:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed maturities available-for-sale:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Corporate securities

$

-

 

$

18,311

 

$

-

 

$

18,311

    CMO – residential

 

-

 

 

3,002

 

 

1,786

 

 

4,788

    CMO – commercial

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

310

 

 

310

    States, municipalities and political

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

subdivisions

 

-

 

 

9,504

 

 

-

 

 

9,504

    U.S. Government

 

-

 

 

4,928

 

 

-

 

 

4,928

    Government sponsored enterprise (GSE)

 

-

 

 

7,053

 

 

-

 

 

7,053

    Agency mortgage-backed pass through

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

securities (MBS) – residential

 

-

 

 

4,747

 

 

-

 

 

4,747

 

Total fixed maturities

 

-

 

 

47,545

 

 

2,096

 

 

49,641

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equity securities available-for-sale:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Common stock

 

968

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

968

    Preferred stock with maturities

 

523

 

 

300

 

 

-

 

 

823

    Preferred stock without maturities

 

3,621

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

3,621

 

Total equity securities

 

5,112

 

 

300

 

 

-

 

 

5,412

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total financial assets

$

5,112

 

$

47,845

 

$

2,096

 

$

55,053


It is the Company’s policy to recognize transfers of assets and liabilities between levels of the fair value hierarchy at the end of a reporting period.  For the year ending December 31, 2010, there were no transfers of assets and liabilities between Level 1 and Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.  The Company does not transfer out of Level 3 and into Level 2 until such time as observable inputs become available and reliable or the range of available independent prices narrow.  One security was sold out of the Level 3 category in 2010.  For the year ended December 31, 2010, the Company included realized investment losses of $8,000 in earnings..  The Company included $179,000 of other-than-temporary impairments related to securities categorized as Level 3 securities. The changes in the carrying value of Level 3 assets and liabilities for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009 are summarized as follows (in thousands):


 

 

CMOs

 

 

Residential

 

Commercial

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance, December 31, 2008

$

626 

$

420 

$

1,046 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers into Level 3

 

986 

 

 

986 

Repayments of fixed maturities

 

(198)

 

 

(198)

Net unrealized gain (loss)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

included in accumulated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

other comprehensive loss

 

372 

 

(110)

 

262 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance, December 31, 2009

$

1,786 

$

310 

$

2,096 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers into Level 3

 

 

 

Repayments of fixed maturities

 

(257)

 

 

(257)

Realized losses included in earnings

 

(8)

 

 

(8)

Security sold out of level 3

 

(232)

 

 

(232)

Other-than-temporary

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Impairment losses

 

(179)

 

 

 

(179)

Net unrealized gain (loss)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

included in accumulated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

other comprehensive loss

 

449 

 

13 

 

462 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance, December 31, 2010

$

1,559 

$

323 

$

1,882 




63



9.  Investment in Majestic

At December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, the Company had an equity investment in Majestic with a carrying value of $788,000 and $833,000, respectively.  For years 2010, 2009 and 2008, the Company recorded $45,000, $29,000 and $56,000, respectively, for its share of loss from its investment in other income in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

10.  Fixed Assets

Fixed assets, which are included in other assets, consist of the following (in thousands):

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2010 

 

 

2009 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Furniture and fixtures

 

$

682 

 

$

662 

Leasehold improvements

 

 

126 

 

 

126 

Equipment

 

 

1,011 

 

 

991 

Total

 

 

1,819 

 

 

1,779 

Less: allowance for depreciation

 

 

(1,707)

 

 

(1,630)

Fixed assets, net

 

$

112 

 

$

149 


11.  Discontinued Operations


Prior to becoming an insurance holding company as a result of the acquisition of Independence American Holdings Corp. (“IAHC”) on November 14, 2002, the Company was a holding company principally engaged in providing internet services through its discontinued operations.  The operating results of discontinued operations, when applicable, have been segregated from continuing operations and are reported as discontinued operations on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.  The estimated loss on disposition reserve for the discontinued operations of Intelligent Communications, Inc., (“Intellicom”) is reflected in net liabilities associated with discontinued operations in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.  All liabilities have been settled at December 31, 2010.


12.  Commitments and Contingencies

Fixed maturities with a carrying value of $4,574,000 are on deposit with various state insurance departments at December 31, 2010.

The Company has operating leases for office space and certain other office equipment.  These operating leases provide for minimum rents and generally include options to renew for additional periods.

Future minimum lease payments under non-cancelable operating leases as of December 31, 2010, are as follows (in thousands):


 

Year Ending

 

 

Net Operating

 

December 31,

 

 

Leases

 

2011

 

129 

 

2012

 

 

105 

 

2013

 

 

100 

 

2014

 

 

65 

 

2015

 

 

60 

 

2016 and thereafter

 

 

31 

Total

 

490 



64






The Company's net rent expense for years 2010, 2009, and 2008 were $355,000, $482,000, and $412,000, respectively.


The Company potentially has additional obligations in regard to its agreement with EDH as further described in Note 20 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Legal Proceedings


The Company is involved in legal proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of its businesses.  The Company has established reserves that it believes are sufficient given information presently available relating to its outstanding legal proceedings and claims.  The Company does not anticipate that the result of any pending legal proceeding or claim will have a material adverse effect on its financial condition or cash flows, although there could be such an effect on its results of operations for any particular period.


13.  Share-Based Compensation

2009 Stock Incentive Plan ("2009 Plan")


Effective July 1, 2009, the Company implemented the 2009 Plan, which the Company's stockholders approved on June 19, 2009.  The 2009 Plan provided for the grants of non-statutory and incentive stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock awards, performance shares, and other awards to officers, employee and other individuals.  Under the terms of the 2009 Plan, stock options have a maximum term of ten years from the date of grant, and have various vesting criteria depending on the grant with most grants vesting 25% on the first year anniversary date of the grant and ratably over the next 36 months.  The 1998 Plan, which expired by its terms on October 7, 2008, had reserved for issuance a total of 7,154,198 common stock shares.  At December 31, 2010, stock options for 359,234 common stock shares were outstanding, stock options for 344,525 common stock shares were vested, and 6,537,222 common stock shares that had not been issued remained available for future stock options grants and other awards.  Awards made under the 1998 Plan prior to its expiration are still in effect.


Total share-based compensation expense was $74,000, $99,000 and $143,000 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  Related tax benefits of $26,000, $35,000 and $50,000 were recognized for the twelve months ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  

Stock Options

The Company’s stock option activity for the year ended December 31, 2010 was as follows:

 

No. of

 

Weighted

 

Shares

 

Average

 

Under

 

Exercise

 

Option

 

Price

 

 

 

 

Balance, December 31, 2009

355,900 

 

$

10.00 

 

 

 

 

 

Granted

13,334 

 

 

4.60 

Exercised

(10,000)

 

 

4.50 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance, December 31, 2010

359,234 

 

$

9.95 


Compensation expense was $56,000, $74,000, and $128,000 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.  As of December 31, 2010, there was



65



approximately $51,000 of total unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested options which will be recognized over the remaining requisite service periods.


The following table summarizes information regarding outstanding and exercisable options as of December 31, 2010:


 

 

Outstanding

 

Exercisable

 

 

 

 

 

Number of options

 

359,234

 

344,525

Weighted average exercise price per share

$

9.95

$

10.14

Aggregate intrinsic value of options

$

22,154

$

19,376

Weighted average contractual term remaining

 

3.33 years

 

3.09 years


The fair value of each stock option on the date of grant was estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions for years 2010 and 2009:


 

 

 

Year Ended

 

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

 

 

 

 

 

Volatility

 

 

45.00%

 

-

Risk-free interest rate

 

 

3.69%

 

-

Dividend yield

 

 

-

 

-

Expected lives in years

 

 

5.0

 

-

Weighted average fair value

 

2.79

$

-


No options were granted in 2009.


Restricted Stock


The Company issued 12,000 restricted stock awards in the second quarter of 2008, with a weighted average grant-date fair value of $6.92 per share.  No restricted stock awards were issued in 2010 and 2009.  Restricted stock expense was $18,000, $25,000 and $15,000 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.


The following table summarizes restricted stock activity for the year ended December 31, 2010:


 

 

 

Weighted

 

No. of

 

Average

 

Non-vested

 

Exercise

 

Shares

 

Price

 

 

 

 

Balance, December 31, 2009

6,333 

 

$

6.92 

 

 

 

 

 

Vested

(2,500)

 

 

6.92 

Forfeited

(1,333)

 

 

6.92 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance, December 31, 2010

2,500 

 

$

6.92 


As of December 31, 2010, there was approximately $8,000 of total unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested restricted stock which will be recognized over the remaining requisite service periods.




66



14.  Related Party Transactions


Independence American is primarily a reinsurer, and currently derives most of its business from pro rata quota share reinsurance treaties with Standard Security Life and Madison National Life, which are wholly owned subsidiaries of IHC.  These treaties were entered into in 2002 and terminate on December 31, 2014, unless terminated sooner by Independence American.  Standard Security Life and Madison National Life must cede at least 15% of their medical stop-loss business to Independence American under these treaties.  Additionally, Standard Security Life and Madison National Life have received regulatory approval to cede up to 30% to Independence American under most of IHC’s medical stop-loss programs. For the twelve months ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, Standard Security Life and Madison National Life ceded an average of approximately 20% and 23%, respectively, of their medical stop-loss business to Independence American. Commencing in July 2004, Independence American began reinsuring 20% of Standard Security Life’s DBL business.  Standard Security Life and Madison National Life ceded approximately 9% of the majority of its fully insured health business to Independence American in 2010 and 2009.


Independence American assumes these premiums from Standard Security Life and Madison National Life, and records related insurance income, expenses, assets and liabilities.  Independence American pays administrative fees and commissions to subsidiaries of IHC in connection with fully insured health business written by Independence American.  Additionally, our MGUs market, underwrite and provide administrative services, and RSI provides medical management and claims adjudication, for a substantial portion of the medical stop-loss business written by the insurance subsidiaries of IHC.  Our MGUs and RSI record related income, assets and liabilities in connection with that business.  Such related party information is disclosed on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Operations.  The Company also contracts for several types of insurance coverage (e.g. directors and officers and professional liability coverage) jointly with IHC.  The cost of this coverage is split proportionally between the Company and IHC according to the type of risk and the Company’s portion is recorded in Selling, General and Administrative Expenses.

IHC provides the Company with pro rata quota share reinsurance on business written by Independence American.  In June 2008, Independence American began ceding 30% of its direct stop-loss business sold through Marlton to Madison National Life.  Independence American incurs an administration expense on its retained share of major medical for individual and families business that is paid to IHC Health Solutions, a subsidiary of IHC.


The Company and its subsidiaries incurred expense of $1,151,000 and $1,083,000 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, from service agreements with IHC and its subsidiaries.  These payments reimburse IHC and its subsidiaries, at agreed upon rates including an overhead factor, for management services provided to the Company and its subsidiaries, including accounting, legal, compliance, underwriting, and claims.


15.  Income Taxes


The Company and its subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return on a September 30 fiscal tax year.  The provision for income taxes for the periods ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:



67




 

 

Year Ended

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 2010

 

 2009

 

 2008

 

 

(In thousands)

CURRENT:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

U.S. Federal

$

36 

$

35 

$

(1)

 

State and local

 

(99)

 

(1)

 

12 

 

 

(63)

 

34 

 

11 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DEFERRED:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

U.S. Federal

 

1,023 

 

1,311 

 

497 

 

State and local

 

131 

 

127 

 

123 

 

 

1,154 

 

1,438 

 

620 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

1,091 

$

1,472 

$

631 


Taxes computed at the federal statutory rate of 35% for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 are reconciled to the Company's actual income tax expense as follows:


 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

(In thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tax computed at the statutory rate

$

1,117 

$

1,430 

$

585 

Dividends received deduction and tax exempt interest

 

(55)

 

(46)

 

(46)

State and local income taxes, net of federal effect

 

21 

 

82 

 

88 

Other, net

 

 

 

Income tax

$

1,091 

$

1,472 

$

631 


The federal income tax provision for the periods ending December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 include income tax benefits of $1,023,000, $1,311,000 and $497,000, respectively, for the utilization of the Company's federal NOL carryforwards.  The Company recorded deferred tax benefits on discontinued operations of $40,000 for the period ending December 31, 2008, which were included in Loss on Disposition of Discontinued Operations, net of tax, in the Consolidated Statement of Operations


The tax effect of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the net deferred tax assets at December 31, 2010 and 2009 are as follows:



68




 

 

 

2010

 

 

2009

 

 

 

(In thousands)

DEFERRED TAX ASSETS:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net liabilities associated with discontinued

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

operations

 

$

 

$

43 

Investments

 

 

742 

 

 

679 

Unpaid accruals

 

 

161 

 

 

161 

Property and equipment

 

 

141 

 

 

141 

Other

 

 

35 

 

 

11 

Compensation accruals

 

 

1,012 

 

 

986 

Derivative liability

 

 

908 

 

 

681 

Insurance reserves

 

 

131 

 

 

166 

Unrealized securities losses

 

 

(36)

 

 

281 

Net operating loss carryforwards

 

 

97,655 

 

 

98,177 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total gross deferred tax assets

 

 

100,749 

 

 

101,326 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Less valuation allowance

 

 

(86,059)

 

 

(86,384)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net deferred tax assets

 

 

14,690 

 

 

14,942 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DEFERRED TAX LIABILITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Goodwill

 

 

(516)

 

 

(282)

MGU partnership income

 

 

(3,924)

 

 

(3,388)

 

Total gross deferred tax liabilities

 

 

(4,440)

 

 

(3,670)

Net deferred tax asset

 

10,250 

 

11,272 


During the year ended December 31, 2010 and 2009 the Company decreased its valuation allowance by $325,000 and $1,131,000, respectively, due to deferred tax on unrealized gains allocated to equity.  


In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the period in which those temporary differences become deductible. Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. Management believes that it is more likely than not that the Company will realize the benefits of these net deferred tax assets recorded at December 31, 2010.


At December 31, 2010, the Company had federal NOL carryforwards of approximately $273,544,000 which expire as follows (in thousands):



69




Tax Year:

 

 

2019

$

16,677 

 

2020

 

70,827 

 

2021

 

142,530 

 

2022

 

41,252 

 

2023

 

528 

 

2024

 

 

2025

 

 

2026

 

354 

 

2027

 

 

2028

 

 

2029

 

1,372 

 

 

$

273,544 


At December 31, 2010, the Company also had NOL carryforwards of approximately $25,814,000 for state income tax purposes, primarily in the State of California.  Management believes that it is more likely than not that the state tax benefit of these net operating loss carryforwards will not be realized and has provided a valuation allowance against the full amount.


AMIC's ability to utilize its federal NOL carrryforwards would be substantially reduced if AMIC were to undergo an "ownership change" within the meaning of Section 382(g)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code. AMIC will be treated as having had an "ownership change" if there is more than a 50% increase in stock ownership during a three year '"testing period" by "5% stockholders."  In order to reduce the risk of an ownership change, in November 2002, AMIC's stockholders approved an amendment to its certificate of incorporation restricting transfers of shares of its common stock that could result in the imposition of limitations on the use, for federal, state and city income tax purposes, of AMIC's NOL carryforwards and certain federal income tax credits.  The certificate of incorporation generally restricts any person from attempting to sell, transfer or dispose, or purchase or acquire any AMIC stock, if such transfer would affect the percentage of AMIC stock owned by a 5% stockholder.  Any person attempting such a transfer will be required, prior to the date of any proposed transfer, to request in writing that the board of directors review the proposed transfer and authorize or not authorize such proposed transfer.  Any transfer attempted to be made in violation of the stock transfer restrictions will be null and void.  In the event of an attempted or purported transfer involving a sale or disposition of capital stock in violation of stock transfer restrictions, the transferor will remain the owner of such shares.  Notwithstanding such transfer restrictions, there could be circumstances under which an issuance by AMIC of a significant number of new shares of common stock or other new class of equity security having certain characteristics (for example, the right to vote or convert into Common Stock) might result in an ownership change under the Code.


As of December 31, 2010, AMIC believes there were no material uncertain tax positions that would require disclosure under GAAP.

16.  Insurance Reserves


The Company maintains loss reserves to cover its estimated liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses, including legal and other fees and a portion of the Company's general expenses, for reported and unreported claims incurred as of the end of each accounting period. These loss reserves are based on actuarial assumptions and are maintained at levels that are in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Many factors could affect these reserves, including economic and social conditions, inflation, healthcare costs, changes in doctrines of legal liability and damage awards in litigation. Therefore, the Company's reserves are necessarily based on estimates, assumptions and analysis of historical experience. The Company's results depend upon the variation between actual claims experience and the assumptions used in determining reserves and pricing products. Reserve assumptions and estimates require significant judgment and, therefore



70



are inherently uncertain. The Company cannot determine with precision the ultimate amounts that will be paid for actual claims or the timing of those payments.


Reserves are based on approved actuarial methods, but necessarily include assumptions about expenses, mortality, morbidity, lapse rates and future yield on related investments.


All of the Company's short-duration contracts are generated from its accident and health business, and are accounted for based on actuarial estimates of the amount of loss inherent in that period's claims, including losses incurred for which claims have not been reported. Short-duration contract loss estimates rely on actuarial observations of ultimate loss experience for similar historical events.


 

 

 

Year Ended

 

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at a beginning of period

 

$

29,286 

$

32,760 

Less: reinsurance recoverables

 

 

(5,982)

 

(3,943)

Net balance at beginning of period

 

 

23,304 

 

28,817 

Amount incurred:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current year

 

 

51,035 

 

59,990 

 

Prior years

 

 

(809)

 

(332)

 

 

Total

 

 

50,226 

 

59,658 

Amount paid, related to:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current year

 

 

33,944 

 

39,196 

 

 

Prior years

 

 

20,388 

 

25,975 

 

 

Total

 

 

54,332 

 

65,171 

Net balance at end of period

 

 

19,198 

 

23,304 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Plus: reinsurance recoverables

 

 

5,800 

 

5,982 

Balance at end of period

 

$

24,998 

29,286 


The preceding schedule reflects (i) due and unpaid claims, (ii) claims in the course of settlement, (iii) estimated incurred but not reported reserves and (iv) the present value of amounts not yet due on claims. The incurred and paid data above reflects all activity for the year.  The amount incurred in 2010 for prior years of $(809,000) is a result of a redundancy of $1,355,000 of fully insured health reserves and of $340,000 of DBL reserves, offset by the re-estimation of unpaid losses on medical stop-loss reserves of $886,000.  The amount incurred in 2009 for prior years of $(332,000) is a result of a redundancy of $294,000 of medical stop-loss reserves and of $247,000 of DBL reserves, offset by the re-estimation of unpaid losses on fully insured health reserves of $209,000.  Fluctuations are generally the result of on-going analysis of recent loss development trends.


Medical stop-loss business is excess coverage with a short duration.  Predicting ultimate claims and estimating reserves in medical stop-loss is especially complicated due to the “excess of loss” nature of these products with very high deductibles applying to specific claims on any individual claimant and in the aggregate for a given group.  Fluctuations in results for specific coverage are primarily due to the severity and frequency of individual claims.  Due to the short-term nature of medical stop-loss, redundancies and deficiencies will typically emerge during the following year rather than over a number of years.




71



17.  Reinsurance


Independence American reinsures a portion of its direct business in order to limit the assumption of disproportionate risks.  Amounts not retained are ceded to other companies on an automatic basis.  Independence American is contingently liable with respect to reinsurance in the unlikely event that the assuming reinsurers are unable to meet their obligations.  The ceding of reinsurance does not discharge the primary liability of the original insurer to the insured.  At December 31, 2010, Independence American ceded to highly rated reinsurers.


The effect of reinsurance on insurance benefits and premiums earned is as follows (in thousands):


 

 

 

ASSUMED

 

CEDED

 

 

 

% OF

 

 

 

FROM

 

TO

 

 

 

AMOUNT

 

DIRECT

 

OTHER

 

OTHER

 

NET

 

ASSUMED

 

AMOUNT

 

COMPANIES

 

COMPANIES

 

AMOUNT

 

TO NET

Insurance Benefits:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year ended December 31, 2010

$

25,265 

 

$

31,467 

 

$

6,506 

 

$

50,226 

 

63%

Year ended December 31, 2009

25,272 

 

39,516 

 

5,131 

 

59,657 

 

66%

Year ended December 31, 2008

24,684 

 

46,430 

 

1,000 

 

70,114 

 

66%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Premiums Earned:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year ended December 31, 2010

$

41,264 

 

$

45,315 

 

$

12,720 

 

$

73,859 

 

61%

Year ended December 31, 2009

37,396 

 

56,664 

 

8,545 

 

85,515 

 

66%

Year ended December 31, 2008

32,342 

 

66,911 

 

2,269 

 

96,984 

 

69%


18.  Dividend Restrictions on Insurance Subsidiary


Dividends from Independence American to its parent, a subsidiary of AMIC, are subject to the prior notification to the Delaware Insurance Commissioner, if such dividends, together with the fair market value of other dividends or distributions made within the preceding twelve months, exceed the greater of (i) 10% of surplus as regards policyholders as of the preceding December 31 or (ii) net income, not including realized capital gains, for the twelve-month period ending the December 31 next preceding.  Such dividends may be paid as long as they have not been disapproved by the Delaware Insurance Commissioner within 30 days of its receipt of notice thereof.  Independence American paid dividends of $1,500,000 in 2010 and no dividends 2009.


Independence American’s statutory surplus was $47,392,000 (unaudited) as of December 31, 2010 and $44,215,000 as of December 31, 2009.  Independence American’s statutory net income was $2,697,000 (unaudited) for 2010, $2,760,000 for 2009, and $2,323,000 for 2008.


19.  Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)


The components of other comprehensive income (loss) include (i) net income or loss reported in the Consolidated Statements of Operations, (ii) certain amounts reported directly in stockholders’ equity, principally the after-tax net unrealized gains and losses on investment securities available for sale including the subsequent increases and decreases in fair value of available-for-sale securities previously impaired, and (iii) effective April 1, 2009, the non-credit related component of other-than-temporary impairments of fixed maturities.


The comprehensive income (loss) for years 2010, 2009 and 2008 is summarized as follows (in thousands):



72




 

 

Year Ended

 

 

December 31,

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

$

 2,982 

$

 3,166 

$

 1,436 

 

Unrealized holdings gains (losses) arising

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

during the period

 

506 

 

3,605 

 

(4,897)

 

Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

included in earnings

 

244 

 

(275)

 

1,038 

 

Reclassification of losses recognized as other-than-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

temporary impairments in earnings

 

 179 

 

 - 

 

1,006 

 

Net unrealized gains (losses) on certain available-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

for-sale securities arising during the period

 

 929 

 

 3,330 

 

 (2,853)

Comprehensive income (loss)

 

 3,911 

 

 6,496 

 

 (1,417)

Comprehensive income attributable to

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

non-controlling interests

 

 (883)

 

 (554)

 

 (471)

Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

American Independence Corp.

$

 3,028 

$

 5,942 

$

 (1,888)


Accumulated other comprehensive income at December 31, 2010 and 2009 includes an adjustment of $99,000 related to the non-credit related component of other-than-temporary impairment losses recorded in connection with new accounting standards adopted on April 1, 2009.  No losses for other-than-temporary impairments were recognized in other comprehensive income since the adoption, in the second quarter of 2009, of the new accounting standards related to other-than-temporary impairments.


20.  Marketing Agreements


In February 2006, Independence American entered into an agreement (the “EDH Agreement”) with Employers Direct Health, Inc. (“EDH”).  Under the EDH Agreement, EDH began writing employer medical stop-loss for Independence American in 2006, and moved the majority of its existing block of employer-sponsored group major medical and medical stop-loss to Independence American during 2007.  The employer-sponsored group major medical product is part of the Company’s fully insured health line of business.  Independence American paid EDH $2,500,000, which EDH simultaneously paid to IHC in consideration of IHC issuing 125,000 shares of IHC common stock (“IHC Stock”) to EDH.  As part of the EDH Agreement, an affiliate of EDH and Independence American agreed to a profit/loss sharing arrangement whereby Independence American will pay to, or receive from, such affiliate 35% of the underwriting profit or loss associated with the fully insured and medical stop-loss business written by Independence American through treaty year 2009.  For treaty year 2010, the profit/loss sharing percentage remained at 35% for fully insured business and increased to 50% for medical stop-loss business.  Accordingly, the Company has recorded a profit sharing commission expense on the business underwritten in the twelve months period ended December 31, 2010.  The IHC stock is held by Independence American as collateral to satisfy EDH’s obligation under the profit/loss sharing agreement.


Derivative Liability


The EDH Agreement terminates on December 31, 2011; provided, it will automatically be extended to December 31, 2016, subject to satisfaction of certain conditions as to premium volume and profitability. Assuming these conditions are satisfied, EDH would be entitled to up to an additional $2,500,000 depending on the value of the IHC Stock as of December 31, 2011.  The Company recorded a derivative liability (“EDH Derivative”) and an intangible asset on its balance sheet in the amount of $743,000 to account for the fair value of such contingent payment at closing.  The EDH Derivative is evaluated each quarter and is recorded in the Consolidated



73



Balance Sheet as a liability at fair value.  The corresponding changes in unrealized gains or losses are reported in other income (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.  


As a result of an actuarial evaluation of certain performance thresholds of EDH’s block of business, the Company determined that such thresholds are not likely to be achieved.  Therefore, the fair value of the derivative liability representing the contingent payment to EDH was $0 as of December 31, 2010 and 2009.


The gain recognized on the derivative for the twelve months ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows (in thousands):


 

 

 

 

Amount of Gain

 

 

 

 

Recognized in Income

 

 

 

 

on Derivative

 

 

Location of Gain

 

Year Ended

Derivatives Not Designated as

 

Recognized in Income on

 

December 31,

Hedging Instruments

 

Derivative

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

EDH Derivative

 

Other income

$

-

$

205 

$

1,043 

Total

 

 

$

-

$

205 

$

1,043 


If the EDH Agreement is extended to December 31, 2016, subject to satisfaction of certain further conditions as to premium volume and profitability, EDH would be entitled to up to an additional $5,000,000 depending on the value of the IHC Stock as of December 31, 2016.  In addition, EDH could be entitled to a $1,000,000 bonus on December 31, 2013, subject to satisfaction of certain conditions as to premium volume and profitability.

Item 9.

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None


Item 9A. Controls and Procedures


Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures


A review and evaluation was performed by management under the supervision and with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of the effectiveness of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures, as required by Rule 13a-15(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as of December 31, 2010.  Based upon that most recent evaluation, which was completed as of the end of the period covered by this Form 10-K, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective at December 31, 2010 to ensure that information required to be disclosed in reports that the Company files under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and timely reported as provided in the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") rules and forms.  As a result of this evaluation, there were no significant deficiencies in the Company's internal control over financial reporting during the twelve months ended December 31, 2010 that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect the Company's internal control over financial reporting.


Management Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting


Management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(b) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as a process designed by, or under the supervision of the Company's principal executive and principal financial officers and effected by the Company's board, management and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability



74



of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("US GAAP") and includes those policies and procedures that:


- pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company;


- provide reasonable assurance that the transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with US GAAP and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorization of management and directors of the Company; and


- provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.


Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or overriding of controls, material misstatements may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risks that controls may become inadequate because of changes and conditions or that the degree of compliance with policies or procedures may deteriorate.  Accordingly, even internal controls determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in and reports filed under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and represented within the time periods required.


Management's report was not subject to attestation by the Company's registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules of the SEC that permit the Company to provide only management's report in this annual report.  As a result, this annual report does not include an attestation report of the Company's registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting.


Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting


There has been no change in the Company's internal control over financial reporting during the year ended December 31, 2010, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.


Item 9B. Other Information


None

PART III

Item 10.

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance


The information required by this Item is hereby incorporated by reference from our definitive proxy statement relating to the annual meeting of AMIC’s stockholders to be held in June 2011, which definitive proxy statement will be filed with the SEC.


Our written Code of Business Ethics and Corporate Code of Conduct may be found on our website, www.americanindependencecorp.com, under the Corporate Information / Corporate Governance tabs.  Collectively, the two Codes apply to all of our directors, officers and employees, including our principal executive officer and our senior financial officers.  Any amendment to or waiver from either of the Codes will be posted to the same location on our website, to the extent such disclosure is legally required.



75



Item 11.

Executive Compensation


The information required by this Item is hereby incorporated by reference from our definitive proxy statement relating to the annual meeting of AMIC’s stockholders to be held in June 2011, which definitive proxy statement will be filed with the SEC.

Item 12.

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

The information required by this Item is hereby incorporated by reference from our definitive proxy statement relating to the annual meeting of AMIC’s stockholders to be held in June 2011, which definitive proxy statement will be filed with the SEC.

Item 13.

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence


The information required by this Item is hereby incorporated by reference from our definitive proxy statement relating to the annual meeting of AMIC’s stockholders to be held in June 2011, which definitive proxy statement will be filed with the SEC.


Item 14.

Principal Accounting Fees and Services


The information required by this Item is hereby incorporated by reference from our definitive proxy statement relating to the annual meeting of AMIC’s stockholders to be held in June 2011, which definitive proxy statement will be filed with the SEC.

PART IV

Item 15.

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

(a) Financial Statements and Exhibits

* (1) Financial Statement Schedules.

 

 

Page

 

Schedule I – Summary of investments – other than investments in related parties

 

 

79

 

Schedule II – Financial information of Parent Company

 

 

80-82

 

Schedule III – Supplementary insurance information

 

 

     83

 

Schedule V – Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

 

 

      84

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

* All other schedules have been omitted as they are not applicable or not required, or the information is included in the Consolidated Financial Statements or Notes thereto.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(2) Exhibits. See Index to Exhibits included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K

 

 

    78

 

Page

 

 

 



76



SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized on March 17, 2011.

AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE CORP.


Signature

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Roy T.K. Thung

 

Chief Executive Officer and President

 

(Roy T.K. Thung)

 

 

(Principal Executive Officer)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/S/ Teresa A. Herbert

 

Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President

 

(Teresa A. Herbert)

 

 

(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

 

 

 

 

 

 


Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities on March 17, 2011.


Signature

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Edward A. Bennett

 

Director

 

(Edward A. Bennett)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Ronald I. Simon

 

Director

 

(Ronald I. Simon)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Roy T. K. Thung

 

Director

 

(Roy. T.K. Thung)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Myron M. Picoult

 

Director

 

(Myron M. Picoult)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Martin E. Winter

 

Director

 

(Martin E. Winter)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



77



AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX TO EXHIBITS

Item 15(A) (3)


Exhibit No.

Description of Document

 

 

2.1

Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of July 30, 2002, between Registrant, SSH Corporation and Independence Holding Company. Incorporated by reference to exhibit 10.1 of the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 31, 2002

3.1

Second Amended and restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the registrant's Annual Report on form 10K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2002.

3.2

Amended By-Laws of the Registrant. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the registrant's Annual Report on form 10K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2002.

4.1

Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of July 30, 2002, between Registrant and Madison Investors Corporation. Incorporated by reference to exhibit 4.1 of the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 31, 2002.

4.2

Stock Agreement, dated as of July 30, 2002, between Registrant, Independence Holding Company and Madison Investors Corporation. Incorporated by reference to exhibit 10.2 of the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 31, 2002.

4.3

Rights Agreement, dated as of July 30, 2002, between Registrant and Mellon Investor Services LLC which includes the form of Certificate of Designations of the Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock of Registrant as Exhibit A, the form of Right Certificate as Exhibit B and the Summary of Rights to Purchase Preferred Shares as Exhibit C. Incorporated by reference to exhibit 4.1 of the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 31, 2002.

10.1

Services Agreement, dated as of November 15, 2002, by and between American Independence Corp. and Independence Holding Company.  Incorporated by reference to exhibit 10.2 of the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 14, 2002.

10.2

Agency Agreement, dated February 22, 2006, between the Registrant and First Integrated Health, Inc.  Incorporated by reference to exhibit 10.2 of the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005.

10.3

Registrant’s 1998 Stock Incentive Plan Incorporated by reference to exhibit 99.1 of the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 dated May 10, 1999.

10.4

Registrant’s 1999 Supplemental Stock Incentive Plan. Incorporated by reference to exhibit 99.1 of the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 dated June 8, 1999.

10.5

Contribution Agreement dated April 15, 2008 by and among Independent Producers of America, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Registrant, Insurance Producers Group of America, Inc., Insurance Producers of America Agency, Inc. and Independent Producers of America Agency, Inc. Incorporated by reference to exhibit 10.1 of the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated April 22, 2008.

10.6

Registrant’s 2009 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2009 Plan”), form of Restricted Share Award Agreement under the 2009 Plan and form of Stock Option Award Agreement under the 2009 Plan. (The 2009 Plan was filed as Appendix A to the Proxy Statement for the Registrant’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on June 19, 2009 and is incorporated herein by reference; the form of restricted share award agreement was filed as Exhibit 4.4 to the Registrant’s Form S-8 filed with the SEC on July 31, 2009 and is incorporated herein by reference; and the form of stock option award agreement was filed as Exhibit 4.5 to the Registrant’s Form S-8 filed with the SEC on July 31, 2009 and is incorporated herein by reference.)

10.7

Quota Share Reinsurance Agreement between Madison National Life Insurance, Inc. and Independence American Insurance Company, as amended.  Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009 (as amended).

10.8

Quota Share Reinsurance Agreement between Standard Security Life Insurance Company of New York and Independence American Insurance Company, as amended.  Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009 (as amended).

21.1

Subsidiaries of the Registrant

23.1

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

31.1

Certification of President and Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.1

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.2

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.



78



SCHEDULE I


AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS – OTHER THAN INVESTMENTS IN RELATED PARTIES

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2010

(In thousands)


 

 

 

 

AMOUNT

 

 

 

 

 

SHOWN ON

 

 

 

AMORTIZED

 

 

FAIR

 

 

BALANCE

 

TYPE OF INVESTMENT

 

COST

 

 

 VALUE

 

 

SHEET

 

 

 

 

 

FIXED MATURITIES:

 

 

 

 

BONDS:

 

 

 

 

Corporate securities

$

15,850

 

$

15,769

 

$

15,769

 

 

Collateralized mortgage obligations (CMO) -

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

residential

 

2,021

 

 

2,193

 

 

2,193

 

 

CMO - commercial

 

579

 

 

323

 

 

323

 

 

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

 

17,239

 

 

17,064

 

 

17,064

 

 

U.S. Government

 

10,137

 

 

10,296

 

 

10,296

 

 

Government sponsored enterprise (GSE)

 

7,678

 

 

7,818

 

 

7,818

 

 

Agency mortgage backed pass through

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

securities (MBS)

 

256

 

 

273

 

 

273

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL FIXED MATURITIES

 

53,760

 

 

53,736

 

 

53,736

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EQUITY SECURITIES

 

 

 

 

Common stock

 

604

 

 

610

 

 

610

 

 

Preferred stock with maturities

 

273

 

 

327

 

 

327

 

 

Preferred stock without maturities

 

2,993

 

 

3,060

 

 

3,060

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL EQUITY SECURITIES

 

3,870

 

3,997

 

 

3,997

 

 

 

 

 

 

Securities purchased under agreements to resell

 

6,716

 

 

6,716

 

 

6,716

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL INVESTMENTS

$

64,346

 

$

64,449

 

$

64,449

 



79



SCHEDULE II

AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE CORP.

BALANCE SHEETS

(PARENT COMPANY ONLY)

(In thousands, except share data)


 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

 

 

 

 

ASSETS:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

594 

 

$

1,625 

 

Fixed maturities available-for-sale, at fair value

 

4,756 

 

 

Investments in continuing consolidated subsidiaries

 

77,151 

 

75,319 

 

Other receivables

 

 

565 

 

Other assets

 

506 

 

495 

 

Deferred tax asset

 

 

10,250 

 

 

11,272 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL ASSETS

 

$

93,260 

 

$

89,276 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable and other liabilities

 

$

1,200 

 

$

197 

 

Net liabilities associated with discontinued operations

 

 

 

 

106 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL LIABIITIES

 

 

1,200 

 

 

303 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

Preferred stock (none issued)

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock, 9,181,793 shares

 

 

 

 

 

issued, respectively; 8,508,591 shares and 8,506,489

 

 

 

 

 

outstanding, respectively

 

 

92 

 

 

92 

 

Paid-in capital

 

 

479,910 

 

 

479,864 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive loss:

 

 

 

 

 

Unrealized gain (loss) on investments, net

 

 

103 

 

 

(826)

 

Treasury stock, at cost, 673,202 shares and 675,304, respectively

 

 

(7,976)

 

 

 (8,082)

 

Accumulated deficit

 

 

(380,069)

 

 

(382,075)

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

 

92,060 

 

 

88,973 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

$

93,260 

 

$

89,276 

The financial information of American Independence Corp. (Parent Company Only) should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto.



80



SCHEDULE II


(Continued)


AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE CORP.

STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(PARENT COMPANY ONLY)

(In thousands)

 

 

YEAR ENDED

 

 

DECEMBER 31,

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

REVENUES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net investment income

$

16 

$

$

82 

 

Net realized investment losses

 

(1,266)

 

 

(1,863)

 

Other income

 

 

 

71 

 

 

(1,250)

 

 

(1,710)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EXPENSES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

General and administrative expenses and other

 

1,589 

 

1,438 

 

1,486 

 

 

1,589 

 

1,438 

 

1,486 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss before income tax expense

 

(2,839)

 

(1,436)

 

(3,196)

Income tax benefit

 

(989)

 

(495)

 

(1,102)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss before equity in net income of subsidiaries

 

(1,850)

 

(941)

 

(2,094)

Equity in net income of subsidiaries, net of tax

 

4,832 

 

4,107 

 

3,605 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from continuing operations

 

2,982 

 

3,166 

 

1,511 

Loss on disposition of discontinued operations, net of tax

 

 

 

(75)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

2,982 

 

3,166 

 

1,436 

 

Less: Net income attributable to the non-controlling interest

 

(883)

 

(554)

 

(471)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income attributable to American Independence Corp.

$

2,099 

$

2,612 

$

965 



The financial information of American Independence Corp. (Parent Company Only) should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto.



81



SCHEDULE II


(Continued)


AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE CORP.

STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(PARENT COMPANY ONLY)

(In thousands)


 

 

YEAR ENDED

 

 

DECEMBER 31,

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

$

2,982 

$

3,166 

$

1,436 

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

to net cash provided from operating

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deferred tax expense

 

1,154 

 

1,438 

 

620 

 

Equity in net income of subsidiaries

 

(4,832)

 

(4,107)

 

(3,605)

 

Net realized investment losses

 

1,266 

 

 

1,863 

 

Loss from discontinued operations

 

 

 

75 

 

Non-cash compensation expense

 

74 

 

99 

 

143 

Change in operating assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales of trading securities

 

 

 

142 

 

Change in deferred tax asset

 

(131)

 

(126)

 

(708)

 

Change in other assets and liabilities

 

288 

 

(290)

 

(325)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used by) operating activities of continuing

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

operations

 

801 

 

180 

 

(359)

Net cash used by operating activities of discontinued operations

 

(93)

 

(260)

 

(148)

 

Net cash provided by (used by) operating activities

 

708 

 

(80)

 

(507)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Decrease in investments in and advances to

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

consolidated subsidiaries

 

3,023 

 

496 

 

2,255 

 

Acquisition of subsidiaries

 

 

 

(5,257)

 

Purchases of fixed maturities  

 

(4,747)

 

- 

 

- 

 

Net sales of short-term investments

 

 

 

2,368 

 

Net sales of securities under resale and

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

repurchase agreements

 

 

 

2,083 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used by) investing activities

 

(1,724)

 

496 

 

1,449 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

 

45 

 

 

 

Repurchase of common stock

 

(60)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash used by financing activities

 

(15)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

 

(1,031)

 

416 

 

942 

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

 

1,625 

 

1,209 

 

267 

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

$

594 

$

1,625 

$

1,209 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash paid during the period for:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income taxes

$

$

28 

$

108 

The financial information of American Independence Corp. (Parent Company Only) should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto.  



82




SCHEDULE III

AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

SUPPLEMENTARY INSURANCE INFORMATION

(In thousands)


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INSURANCE

 

SELLING,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BENEFITS,

 

GENERAL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NET

 

CLAIMS

 

AND

 

 

 

INSURANCE

 

UNEARNED

 

PREMIUMS

 

INVESTMENT

 

AND

 

ADMINISTRATIVE

 

PREMIUMS

 

RESERVES

 

PREMIUMS

 

EARNED

 

INCOME (1)

 

RESERVES

 

EXPENSES (2)

 

WRITTEN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Independence American:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Medical stop-loss

$

18,078 

 

$

 

$

39,247 

 

$

1,683 

 

$

28,789 

 

$

10,923 

 

$

39,247 

 

Fully Insured Health

 

6,272 

 

 

11 

 

 

31,394 

 

 

508 

 

 

19,568 

 

 

7,725 

 

 

31,376 

 

DBL

 

648 

 

 

120 

 

 

3,218 

 

 

75 

 

 

1,869 

 

 

936 

 

 

3,218 

Total Independence American

 

24,998 

 

 

131 

 

 

73,859 

 

 

2,266 

 

 

50,226 

 

 

19,584 

 

 

73,841 

MGU Subs and Agencies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

236 

 

 

 

 

13,071 

 

 

Corporate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

16 

 

 

 

 

1,589 

 

 

Total

$

24,998 

 

$

131 

 

$

73,859 

 

$

2,518 

 

$

50,226 

 

$

34,244 

 

$

73,841 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Independence American:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Medical stop-loss

$

20,716 

 

$

 

$

46,378 

 

$

1,942 

 

$

30,937 

 

$

14,186 

 

$

46,378 

 

Fully Insured Health

 

7,890 

 

 

29 

 

 

35,834 

 

 

548 

 

 

26,823 

 

 

7,719 

 

 

35,783 

 

DBL

 

680 

 

 

120 

 

 

3,303 

 

 

72 

 

 

1,898 

 

 

999 

 

 

3,303 

Total Independence American

 

29,286 

 

 

149 

 

 

85,515 

 

 

2,562 

 

 

59,658 

 

 

22,904 

 

 

85,464 

MGU Subs and Agencies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

361 

 

 

 

 

14,768 

 

 

Corporate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,437 

 

 

Total

$

29,286 

 

$

149 

 

$

85,515 

 

$

2,924 

 

$

59,658 

 

$

39,109 

 

$

85,464 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2008:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Independence American:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Medical stop-loss

$

22,953 

$

 

 

$

54,574 

 

$

2,273 

 

$

37,838 

 

$

16,958 

 

$

54,574 

 

Fully Insured Health

 

9,157 

 

 

80 

 

 

38,975 

 

 

715 

 

 

30,370 

 

 

8,430 

 

 

38,950 

 

DBL

 

650 

 

 

120 

 

 

3,435 

 

 

76 

 

 

1,906 

 

 

999 

 

 

3,423 

Total Independence American

 

32,760 

 

 

200 

 

 

96,984 

 

 

3,064 

 

 

70,114 

 

 

26,387 

 

 

96,947 

MGU Subs and Agencies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

436 

 

 

 

 

12,448 

 

 

Corporate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

83 

 

 

 

 

1,428 

 

 

Total

$

32,760 

$

 

200 

 

$

96,984 

 

$

3,583 

 

$

70,114 

 

$

40,263 

 

$

96,947 



(1)

Net investment income is allocated between product lines based on the mean reserve method.

(2)

Where possible, direct operating expenses are specifically identified and charged to product lines. Indirect expenses are allocated based on time studies; however, other acceptable methods of allocation might produce different results.




83



SCHEDULE V


AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE CORP.

STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

(In thousands)


 

 

Balance at

 

Charged to

 

Charged to

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning

 

Costs and

 

Other

 

 

 

Balance at

 

 

 

Of Period

 

Expenses

 

Accounts

 

Deductions

 

End of Period

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Valuation Allowance on Deferred

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tax Asset:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year ended December 31, 2010

 

$

86,384 

 

$

(325)

 

$

 

$

 

$

86,059 

Year ended December 31, 2009

 

$

87,515 

 

$

(1,131)

 

$

 

$

- 

 

$

86,384 

Year ended December 31, 2008

 

$

87,101 

 

$

999 

 

$

 

$

585 (a)

 

$

87,515 



Net Liabilities Associated with

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Discontinued Operations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year ended December 31, 2010

 

$

106 

 

$

 

$

 

$

106 

 

$

Year ended December 31, 2009

 

$

366 

 

$

 

$

 

$

260 

 

$

106 

Year ended December 31, 2008

 

$

399 

 

$

115 (b)

 

$

 

$

148 

 

$

366 



______________________________________________________

a) $436 of this reduction is due to the acquisition of 20% of Marlton, the remaining $149 is due to the acquisition of 51% of IPA, both occurring in April 2008.


(b) Expected payments were more than original reserve estimate.




84