UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549 __________________________________________  FORM 10-Q  [X] Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2008  [   ] Transition Report under Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. For the transition period from: ________ to _________  Commission File Number: 0-10306  INDEPENDENCE HOLDING COMPANY (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)  Delaware58-1407235(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)  96 CUMMINGS POINT ROAD, STAMFORD, CONNECTICUT                     06902 (Address of principal executive offices)                                              (Zip Code)  Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (203) 358-8000  NOT APPLICABLE Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report.  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 is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of accelerated filer and large accelerated filer in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.  Large Accelerated Filer [    ]Accelerated Filer   [ X ]Non-Accelerated Filer   [    ]Smaller Reporting Company   [     ]  Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes   [  ]   No   [X]  ClassOutstanding at November 7, 2008Common stock, $ 1.00  par value15,401,234   Shares       INDEPENDENCE HOLDING COMPANY  INDEX   PART I  FINANCIAL INFORMATIONPAGENO.Item 1. Financial StatementsCondensed Consolidated Balance Sheets -September 30, 2008 (Unaudited) and December 31, 20074Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations -Three Months and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 (Unaudited)5Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows -Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 (Unaudited)6Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)7Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditionand Results of Operations23Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk38Item 4. Controls and Procedures39PART II - OTHER INFORMATIONItem 1.    Legal Proceedings39Item 1A. Risk Factors40Item 2.    Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds40Item 3.    Defaults Upon Senior Securities40Item 4.    Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders40Item 5.    Other Information40Item 6.    Exhibits40Signatures41  Copies of the Company’s SEC filings can be found on its website at www.ihcgroup.com.    2  Forward-Looking Statements  This report on Form 10−Q 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, Risk Factors, of IHCs annual report on from 10-K as filed with Securities and Exchange Commission.  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.    3    PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION Item 1. Financial Statements  INDEPENDENCE HOLDING COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIESCONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS(In thousands, except share data)  September 30,December 31,20082007(Unaudited)ASSETS:Investments:Short-term investments$5,851$9,001Securities purchased under agreements to resell28,40013,757Fixed maturities667,067611,906Equity securities61,40598,496Other investments41,57442,899Total investments804,297776,059Cash and cash equivalents9,29972,823Due from securities brokers17,4435,188Investment in American Independence Corp. ("AMIC")42,18740,475Deferred acquisition costs58,83045,447Due and unpaid premiums57,28564,444Due from reinsurers139,526143,710Premium and claim funds50,11249,468Notes and other receivables17,54613,872Goodwill52,33151,695Other assets70,54444,962Total assets$1,319,400$1,308,143LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:LIABILITIES:Insurance reserves-health$208,654$212,261Insurance reserves-life and annuity279,707248,253Funds on deposit412,762383,711Unearned premiums17,69322,415Policy claims-health2,5011,340Policy claims-life9,91210,639Other policyholders' funds22,36017,738Due to securities brokers23,6951,852Due to reinsurers41,17743,571Accounts payable, accruals and other liabilities64,26770,303Liabilities related to discontinued operations5,07822,563Debt10,00012,500Junior subordinated debt securities38,14638,146Total liabilities1,135,9521,085,292STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:Preferred stock (none issued)--Common stock $1.00 par value, 20,000,000 shares authorized;15,431,274 and 15,366,281 shares issued, respectively;15,421,534 and 15,228,521 shares outstanding, respectively15,43115,366Paid-in capital100,84499,805Accumulated other comprehensive loss(45,288)(16,125)Treasury stock, at cost, 9,740 and 137,760 shares, respectively(193)(2,626)Retained earnings112,654126,431Total stockholders' equity183,448222,851Total liabilities and stockholders' equity$1,319,400$1,308,143  See the accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.  4     INDEPENDENCE HOLDING COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIESCONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS(In thousands, except per share data)(Unaudited)  Three Months EndedNine Months EndedSeptember 30,September 30,2008200720082007REVENUES:Premiums earned:Health$67,676$70,172$212,188$206,380Life and annuity9,2568,08528,08225,607Net investment income11,88711,00233,68835,118Fee income9,35111,00730,76831,540Net realized investment gains (losses)(17,138)471(32,111)1,473Equity income (loss) from AMIC297(696)1,087401Other income6055241,9682,98281,934100,565275,670303,501EXPENSES:Insurance benefits, claims and reserves:Health46,88362,124145,189156,078Life and annuity12,58812,07436,68135,663Selling, general and administrative expenses35,43636,738108,146103,517Amortization of deferred acquisitions costs1,4191,6764,8284,594Interest expense on debt9001,0512,7953,16997,226113,663297,639303,021Income (loss) from continuing operationsbefore income taxes(15,292)(13,098)(21,969)480Income tax (benefits)(5,836)(4,820)(8,892)(182)Income (loss) from continuing operations(9,456)(8,278)(13,077)662Discontinued operations:Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax541(145)541(554)Gain on disposition of discontinued operations, net of tax167-167-NET INCOME (LOSS)$(8,748)$(8,423)$(12,369)$108Basic income (loss) per common share:Income (loss) from continuing operations$(.61)$(.54)$(.85)$.04Income (loss) from discontinued operations.03(.01).04(.03)Gain on disposition of discontinued operations.01-.01-Basic income (loss) per common share$(.57)$(.55)$(.80)$.01WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING15,42115,19515,38015,190Diluted income (loss) per common shareIncome (loss) from continuing operations$(.61)$(.54)$(.85)$.04Income (loss) from discontinued operations.03(.01).04(.03)Gain on disposition of discontinued operations.01-.01-Diluted income (loss) per common share$(.57)$(.55)$(.80)$.01WEIGHTED AVERAGE DILUTED SHARES OUTSTANDING15,42115,19515,38015,302   See the accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.  5   INDEPENDENCE HOLDING COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIESCONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS(In thousands) (Unaudited)Nine Months Ended September 30,20082007CASH FLOWS PROVIDED BY (USED BY) OPERATING ACTIVITIES:Net income (loss)$(12,369)$108Adjustments to reconcile net income to net change in cash fromoperating  activities:(Gain) loss from discontinued operations(541)554(Gain) loss on disposition of discontinued operations(167)-Amortization of deferred acquisition costs4,8284,594Net realized investment (gains) losses32,111(1,473)Equity income from AMIC and other equity method investments(1,616)(726)Depreciation and amortization3,9643,521Share-based compensation expenses1,0261,163Deferred tax (benefit)(11,470)(863)Other(1,780)646Changes in assets and liabilities:Net sales of trading securities486516Change in insurance liabilities(11,870)30,819Additions to deferred acquisition costs, net(2,730)(3,315)Change in net amounts due from and to reinsurers1,790(11,707)Change in premium and claim funds(644)(4,583)Change in income tax liability1,427(6,224)Change in due and unpaid premiums7,221(37,306)Change in other assets(555)(3,402)Change in other liabilities(5,771)13,065Net change in cash from operating activities of continuing operations3,340(14,613)Net change in cash from operating activities of discontinued operations(16,396)(754)Net change in cash from operating activities(13,056)(15,367)CASH FLOWS PROVIDED BY (USED BY) INVESTING ACTIVITIES:Change in net amount due from and to securities brokers9,5883,015Net (purchases) proceeds of short-term investments3,254(678)Net (purchases) sales of securities under resale and repurchase agreements(14,643)50,044Sales of equity securities52,75247,388Purchases of equity securities(44,535)(82,590)Sales of fixed maturities370,424183,652Maturities and other repayments of fixed maturities56,37237,758Purchases of fixed maturities(534,879)(227,438)Sales of other investments-13,334Additional investments in other investments, net of distributions4,810(4,092)Cash paid in acquisitions of companies, net of cash acquired(998)(9,034)Cash received in acquisitions of policy blocks57,279-Investment in AMIC(1,401)-Change in notes and other receivables(1,258)(1,692)Other(5,143)(1,278)Net change in cash from investing activities(48,378)8,389CASH FLOWS PROVIDED BY (USED BY)  FINANCING ACTIVITIES:Proceeds from issuance of common stock1,401-Repurchases of common stock-(398)Repayment of long-term debt(2,500)(2,500)Exercises of common stock options173309Excess tax (expense) benefit from exercise of stock options(363)48Proceeds (withdrawals) of investment-type insurance contracts(33)1,223Dividends paid(768)(760)Net change in cash from financing activities(2,090)(2,078)Net change in cash and cash equivalents(63,524)(9,056)Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year72,82317,543Cash and cash equivalents, end of period$9,299$8,487  See the accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.  6    INDEPENDENCE HOLDING COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)  Note 1. Significant Accounting Policies and Practices  (A) Business and Organization  Independence Holding Company, a Delaware corporation ("IHC"), is a holding company principally engaged in the life and health insurance business through: (i) its wholly owned insurance companies, Standard Security Life Insurance Company of New York ("Standard Security Life") and Madison National Life Insurance Company, Inc. ("Madison National Life"); and (ii) its marketing and administrative companies, including Insurers Administrative Corporation (IAC), managing general underwriters ("MGUs") in which it owns a significant voting interest, Health Plan Administrators, Inc. (HPA), GroupLink, Inc. (GroupLink), IHC Health Solutions, Inc. (IHC Health Solutions), and Actuarial Management Corporation (AMC).  These companies are sometimes collectively referred to as the "Insurance Group," and IHC and its subsidiaries (including the Insurance Group) are collectively referred to as the "Company." At September 30, 2008, the Company also owned a 49.7% equity interest in American Independence Corp. ("AMIC"), which owns Independence American Insurance Company (Independence American), several MGUs and controlling interests in two agencies.  The Company sold its credit life and disability segment by entering into a 100% coinsurance agreement with an unaffiliated insurer effective December 31, 2007. Amounts in prior years have been restated on the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto in order to present the credit life and disability segment as discontinued operations.  Geneve Corporation, a diversified financial holding company, and its affiliated entities held approximately 53% of IHC's outstanding common stock at September 30, 2008.  (B) Basis of Presentation  The condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and include the accounts of IHC and its consolidated subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles 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. IHCs annual report on Form 10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission should be read in conjunction with the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.  In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring accruals) that are necessary for a fair presentation of the consolidated financial position and results of operations for the interim periods have been included. The consolidated results of operations for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2008 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be anticipated for the entire year.   7  (C) Reclassifications  Certain amounts in prior years' Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto have been reclassified to conform to the 2008 presentation, primarily for the results of discontinued operations.  (D) Recent Accounting Pronouncements  Recently Issued Accounting Standards  In September 2008, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued FASB Staff Position (FSP) FAS 133-1 and FIN 45-4, "Disclosures about Credit Derivatives and Certain Guarantees: An Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133 and Interpretation No. 45; and Clarification of the Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 161"("FSP FAS 133-1 and FIN 45-4"). FSP FAS 133-1 and FIN 45-4 expands the disclosure requirements of SFAS 133 for sellers of credit derivatives and hybrid instruments that have embedded credit derivatives to include (a) the nature of the credit derivative, including the approximate term, the reasons for entering into the credit derivative and the events or circumstances that would require the seller to perform under the credit derivative and the current status of the payment/performance risk of the credit derivative, (b) the maximum potential amount of future payments (undiscounted) the seller could be required to make under the credit derivative, (c) the fair value of the credit derivative, and (d) the nature of (1) any recourse provisions that would enable the seller to recover from third parties any of the amounts paid under the credit derivative, and (2) any assets held either as collateral or by third parties that, upon the occurrence of any specified triggering event or condition, the seller can obtain and liquidate to recover all or a portion of the amounts paid under the credit derivative. With respect to hybrid instruments that have an embedded credit derivative, the seller shall disclose the required information for the entire hybrid instrument, not just the embedded derivative. Disclosure requirements of Interpretation 45 were expanded to include the current status of the payment/performance risk of the guarantee. FSP FAS 133-1 and FIN 45-4 shall be effective for annual or interim periods ending after November 15, 2008. FSP FAS 133-1 and FIN 45-4 encourages, but does not require, comparative disclosures for earlier periods at initial adoption. The adoption of FSP FAS 133-1 and FIN 45-4 is not expected to have a material effect on the Companys consolidated financial statements.  In June 2008, the FASB issued FSP EITF No. 03-6-1, Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities (FSP EITF No. 03-6-1).  FSP EITF No. 03-6-1 addresses whether instruments granted in share-based payment transactions are participating securities prior to vesting and therefore need to be included in the earnings allocation in calculating earnings per share under the two-class method described in Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 128, Earnings per Share. FSP EITF No. 03-6-1 requires companies to treat unvested share-based payment awards that have non-forfeitable rights to dividend or dividend equivalents as a separate class of securities in calculating earnings per share.  FSP EITF No. 03-6-1 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008; earlier application is not permitted. The adoption of FSP EITF No. 03-6-1 is not expected to have a material effect on the Companys consolidated financial statements.  In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 163, "Accounting for Financial Guarantee Insurance Contracts - An interpretation of FASB Statement No. 60" (SFAS 163). SFAS 163 requires that an insurance enterprise recognize a claim liability prior to an event of default when there is evidence that credit deterioration has occurred in an insured financial obligation.  It also clarifies how Statement 60 applies to financial guarantee insurance contracts, including the recognition and measurement to be used to account for premium revenue and claim liabilities, and requires expanded disclosures about financial  8  guarantee insurance contracts.  It is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, except for some disclosures about the insurance enterprise's risk-management activities. SFAS 163 requires that disclosures about the risk-management activities of the insurance enterprise be effective for the first period beginning after issuance.  Except for those disclosures, earlier application is not permitted.  The adoption of SFAS 163 is not expected to have a material effect on the Companys consolidated financial statements.  In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 162, "The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles" (SFAS 162). SFAS 162 identifies the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting the principles to be used in the preparation of financial statements of nongovernmental entities that are presented in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States.  It is effective 60 days following the Securities and Exchange Commissions approval of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board amendments to AU Section 411, "The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity With Generally Accepted Accounting Principles".  The adoption of SFAS 162 is not expected to have a material effect on the Companys consolidated financial statements.  In April 2008, the FASB issued FSP 142-3, Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets. (FSP 142-3).  FSP 142-3 amends the factors that should be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under SFAS No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.  FSP 142-3 applies prospectively to intangible assets that are acquired, individually or with a group of other assets, after the effective date in either a business combination or asset acquisition.  FSP 142-3 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is prohibited. The adoption of FSP 142-3 is not expected to have a material effect on the Companys consolidated financial statements.  In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activitiesan amendment of FASB Statement No. 133 (SFAS 161).  SFAS 161 expands the current disclosure requirements for derivative instruments and hedging activities. Entities are required to provide enhanced disclosures about (a) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (b) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under FASB Statement 133 and its related interpretations, and (c) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entitys financial position, financial performance, and cash flows.  In addition, SFAS 161 requires disclosure of fair values of derivative instruments and their gains and losses in a tabular format as well as cross-referencing within the footnotes to allow users of financial statements to locate important information about derivative instruments.  SFAS 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008, with early application encouraged. SFAS 161 encourages, but does not require, comparative disclosures for earlier periods at initial adoption. The adoption of SFAS 161 is not expected to have a material effect on the Companys consolidated financial statements.  In February 2008, the FASB issued FSP on SFAS No. 140-3, Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets and Repurchase Financing Transactions (FSP SFAS 140-3). The objective of FSP SFAS 140-3 is to provide guidance on accounting for a transfer of a financial asset and a repurchase financing.  FSP SFAS 140-3 presumes that an initial transfer of a financial asset and a repurchase financing are considered part of the same arrangement (linked transaction) under SFAS No. 140, Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities ("SFAS 140"). However, if certain criteria are met, the initial transfer and repurchase financing shall not be evaluated as a linked transaction and shall be evaluated separately under SFAS No. 140.  FSP SFAS 140-3 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008, and interim periods within these fiscal years. Earlier application is not permitted. The adoption of FSP SFAS  9  140-3 is not expected to have a material effect on the Companys consolidated financial statements.  In November 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), Business Combinations (SFAS 141(R)) and SFAS No. 160, Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements, an amendment of ARB No. 51 (SFAS 160). These standards aim to improve, simplify, and converge internationally the accounting for business combinations and the reporting of non-controlling interests in consolidated financial statements. SFAS 141(R) will change how business acquisitions are accounted for and will impact financial statements both on the acquisition date and in subsequent periods.  SFAS 160 will change the accounting and reporting for minority interests, which will be re-characterized as non-controlling interests and classified as a component of equity. SFAS 141(R) and SFAS 160 are effective for both public and private companies for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2008.  SFAS 141(R) will be applied prospectively. SFAS 160 requires retroactive adoption of the presentation and disclosure requirements for existing minority interests. All other requirements of SFAS 160 will be applied prospectively.  Early adoption is prohibited for both standards.  The adoption of SFAS 141(R) and SFAS 160 is not expected to have a material effect on the Companys consolidated financial statements.  Recently Adopted Accounting Standards  In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements (SFAS 157), which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements.  This Statement applies under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements. FSP FAS 157-2, "Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157", amends SFAS 157 to defer its effective date to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008, and for interim periods within those fiscal years. The delayed effective date applies to all non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities except for items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis (at least annually). FSP FAS 157-3, "Determining the Fair Value of a Financial Asset When the Market for That Asset Is Not Active" clarifies the application of SFAS 157 in a market that is not active and provides an example to illustrate key considerations in determining the fair value of a financial asset when the market for that financial asset is not active. Revisions resulting from a change in the valuation technique or its application shall be accounted for as a change in accounting estimate. The adoption of SFAS 157 for financial assets and liabilities did not have a material impact on the Companys consolidated financial statements.  In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, "The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities - Including an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 115" ("SFAS 159").  SFAS 159 would create a fair value option of accounting for qualifying financial assets and liabilities under which an irrevocable election could be made at inception to measure such assets and liabilities initially and subsequently at fair value, with all changes in fair value reported in earnings.  SFAS 159 is effective as of the beginning of the first fiscal year beginning after November 15, 2007.  The adoption of SFAS 159 did not impact the Company's consolidated financial statements, as no items were initially elected for fair value measurement. For financial assets and liabilities acquired in subsequent periods, the Company will determine whether to use the fair value election at the time of acquisition.  Note 2.  American Independence Corp.  AMIC is an insurance holding company engaged in the insurance and reinsurance business. AMIC does business with the Insurance Group, including reinsurance treaties under which, in 2007, Standard Security Life and Madison National Life ceded to Independence American an average of 23% of their medical stop-loss business, 10% of certain of their fully insured health business and 20% of their New York Statutory Disability business. IHC owned 49.7% and 48% of AMIC's outstanding common  10  stock at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively, which was purchased in various transactions from 2002 through 2008. During the first quarter of 2008, IHC purchased 165,656 shares of AMIC stock at $8.46 per share, and recorded negative goodwill of $248,000. IHC accounts for its investment in AMIC under the equity method. At September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, IHC's investment in AMIC had a total carrying value of $46,409,000 and $44,945,000, respectively, including goodwill of $4,222,000 and $4,470,000, respectively. This goodwill represents the excess of IHC's cost over the underlying equity in AMIC's net assets at the respective purchase dates. At September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, based on the closing market price of AMIC's common stock, the fair value of the AMIC shares owned by IHC was approximately $28,703,000 and $36,758,000, respectively.  For the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, IHC recorded $297,000 and $(696,000), respectively, of equity income(loss) from its investment in AMIC, representing IHC's proportionate share of income based on its ownership interests during those periods. IHC's equity income for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 was $1,087,000 and $401,000, respectively. AMIC paid no dividends on its common stock in the three-month and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008 and 2007.  IHC and its subsidiaries earned $203,000 and $188,000 for the quarters ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and $616,000 and $568,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively, from service agreements with AMIC and its subsidiaries. These are reimbursements to IHC and its subsidiaries, at agreed upon rates including an overhead factor, for management services provided by IHC and its subsidiaries, including accounting, legal, compliance, underwriting and claims. The Company ceded premiums to AMIC of $13,209,000 and $16,226,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and $44,005,000 and $52,381,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  Benefits to policyholders on business ceded to AMIC were $9,445,000 and $14,084,000, in the third quarter of 2008 and 2007, respectively, and $30,561,000 and $39,217,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  Additionally, AMIC subsidiaries market, underwrite and provide administrative services (including premium collection, medical management and claims adjudication) for a substantial portion of the medical stop-loss business written by the insurance subsidiaries of IHC. IHC recorded net commission expense of $913,000 and $995,000 in the third quarter of 2008 and 2007, respectively, and $2,799,000 and $3,069,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively, for these services. The Company also contracts for several types of insurance coverage (e.g. directors and officers and professional liability converge) jointly with AMIC. The cost of this coverage is allocated between the Company and AMIC according to the type of risk, and IHCs portion is recorded in Selling, General and Administrative Expenses.  Included in the Companys Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively, are the following balances arising from transactions in the normal course of business with AMIC and its subsidiaries: Due from reinsurers $18,457,000 and $19,263,000; Other assets $4,703,000 and $6,592,000; and Other liabilities $140,000 and $242,000.  Note 3. Income Per Common Share  Included in the diluted income per share calculations are 112,000 shares for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 from the assumed exercise of options and vesting of restricted stock, using the treasury stock method. For the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, and the nine months ended September 30, 2008, such shares were deemed anti-dilutive. Net income does not change as a result of the assumed dilution.   11  Note  4. Investments  The cost (amortized cost with respect to certain fixed maturities), gross unrealized gains, gross unrealized losses and fair value of investment securities are as follows:  September 30, 2008GROSSGROSSAMORTIZEDUNREALIZEDUNREALIZEDFAIRCOSTGAINSLOSSESVALUE(In thousands)FIXED MATURITIESAVAILABLE-FOR-SALE:Corporate securities$213,226$191$(24,787)$188,630CMOs and ABS(1)145,20661(11,996)133,271U.S. Government obligations6,423100(19)6,504Agency MBS(2)52,106149(134)52,121GSEs(3)10,025-(322)9,703States and political subdivisions301,741160(25,063)276,838Total fixed maturities$728,727$661$(62,321)$667,067EQUITY SECURITIESAVAILABLE-FOR-SALE:Common stock$9,892$184$(31)$10,045Preferred stock68,53812(17,190)51,360Total equity securities$78,430$196$(17,221)$61,405  December 31, 2007GROSSGROSSAMORTIZEDUNREALIZEDUNREALIZEDFAIRCOSTGAINSLOSSESVALUE(In thousands)FIXED MATURITIESAVAILABLE-FOR-SALE:Corporate securities$273,186$623$(10,609)$263,200CMOs and ABS(1)166,449333(4,501)162,281U.S. Government obligations6,284146-6,430Agency MBS(2)40,039293(202)40,130GSEs(3)86,741203(1,059)85,885States and political subdivisions54,088453(561)53,980Total fixed maturities$626,787$2,051$(16,932)$611,906EQUITY SECURITIESAVAILABLE-FOR-SALE:Common stock$19,479$416$(1,567)$18,328Preferred stock91,883204(11,919)80,168Total equity securities$111,362$620$(13,486)$98,496  (1) Collateralized mortgage obligations (CMO) and asset-backed securities (ABS). (2) Mortgage-backed securities (MBS). (3) Government-sponsored enterprises (GSE) which are the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, Federal National Mortgage Association and Federal Home Loan Banks. GSEs are private enterprises established and chartered by the Federal Government.   12  The following tables summarize, for all securities in an unrealized loss position at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively, the aggregate fair value and gross unrealized loss by length of time those securities had continuously been in an unrealized loss position:  Less than 12 Months12 Months or LongerTotalFairUnrealizedFairUnrealizedFairUnrealizedSeptember 30, 2008ValueLossesValueLossesValueLosses(In thousands)Corporate securities$67,014$9,708$113,349$15,079$180,363$24,787CMO and ABS (1)70,9974,56346,3337,433117,33011,996U.S. Government obligations3,52819--3,52819Agency MBS (2)25,674666,8386832,512134GSE (3)2,949566,7542669,703322States and politicalsubdivisions232,35823,8339,3321,230241,69025,063Total fixed maturities402,52038,245182,60624,076585,12662,321Common stock61331--61331Preferred stock-perpetual27,53611,4152,33552529,87111,940Preferred stock-other11,7724,6004,40865016,1805,250Total temporarilyimpaired securities$442,441$54,291$189,349$25,251$631,790$79,542     Less than 12 Months12 Months or LongerTotalFairUnrealizedFairUnrealizedFairUnrealizedDecember 31, 2007ValueLossesValueLossesValueLosses(In thousands)Corporate securities$35,545$1,244$165,054$9,365$200,599$10,609CMO and ABS (1)55,7451,79581,9532,706137,6984,501Agency MBS (2)--16,44120216,441202GSE (3)1,4022041,6211,03943,0231,059States and politicalsubdivisions16,1264275,57113421,697561Total fixed maturities108,8183,486310,64013,446419,45816,932Common stock10,1771,4845008310,6771,567Preferred stock-perpetual42,8169,1933,37034646,1869,539Preferred stock-other19,3821,6653,59771522,9792,380Total temporarilyimpaired securities$181,193$15,828$318,107$14,590$499,300$30,418   Substantially all of the unrealized losses at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007 relate to investment grade securities and are attributable to changes in market interest rates and general disruptions in the credit market subsequent to purchase. At September 30, 2008, the Company had $33.0 million invested in whole loan CMOs backed by Alt-A mortgages, all of which were rated AAA. Of this amount, 41.4% were in CMOs that originated in 2005 or earlier and 58.6% were in CMOs that originated in 2006. The Companys mortgage security portfolio has no direct exposure to sub-prime mortgages. The unrealized loss for the equity securities was primarily due to wider spreads for preferred stocks issued by financial institutions following the disruption in credit markets in late 2007.  Some of these financial institutions have exposure to sub-prime mortgages.  The unrealized loss for CMO and ABS securities is primarily attributable to Alt-A mortgages as described above.  The unrealized losses on corporate securities are due to wider spreads.  Spreads have widened as investors shifted funds to US Treasuries in response to the current market turmoil.  13   At September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, a total of 117 and 73 securities,respectively, were in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than 12 months and 70 and 82 securities, respectively, had continuous unrealized losses for 12 months or longer. The Company only has one non-performing fixed maturity investment at September 30, 2008 amounting to $.7 million or .1% of the total carrying value of fixed maturities.  The Company reviews its investment securities regularly and determines whether other-than- temporary impairments have occurred. If a decline in fair value is judged by management to be other- than-temporary, a loss is recognized by a charge to net realized investment gains (losses) in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations, establishing a new cost basis for the security. 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; whether the issuer of a debt security has remained current on principal and interest payments; 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 the Company's intent and ability to hold the security for a period of time sufficient to allow for a recovery in fair value. Based on managements review of the portfolio, which considered these factors, the Company recorded a loss for other-than-temporary impairments of $15,783,000 and $33,256,000 in the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2008, respectively. The loss for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008 represents a loss on investment grade preferred stocks of financial institutions, fixed maturities (primarily Alt-A securities) and common stocks that the Company determined to be other than temporary due to the severity of the decrease in fair value and length of time that these securities were in a loss position. For the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2007 the Company did not record any losses for other-than-temporary impairments.  Net realized investment gains (losses) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 are as follows (in thousands):  Three Months EndedNine Months EndedSeptember 30,September 30,2008200720082007Net realized investment gains (losses):Fixed maturities$63$(85)$805$(682)Common stock(1,750)364(846)1,203Preferred stock(3)-708346(1,690)279667867Other than temporary impairments:Fixed maturities(8,679)-(8,679)-Common stock(2,316)-(4,454)-Preferred stock(4,788)-(20,123)-(15,783)-(33,256)-Trading and other gains (losses)62201516539IHC stock puts/call273(9)(38)67Net realized investment gains (losses)$(17,138)$471$(32,111)$1,473    14  Note 5. Fair Value  Effective January 1, 2008, the Company adopted SFAS 157, "Fair Value Measurements", for all financial instruments and non-financial instruments accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis.  The adoption of SFAS 157 did not have a material impact on our financial statements.  SFAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles and expands disclosures about fair value measurements.  SFAS 157 applies whenever other standards require or permit assets or liabilities to be measured at fair value but does not expand the use of fair value in any new circumstances.  In this standard, the FASB clarifies the principle that fair value should be based on the assumptions market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability. In support of this principle, SFAS 157 establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the information used to develop those assumptions.  The valuation techniques required by SFAS 157 are 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:  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.  When available, we use quoted market prices to determine fair value and classify such items in Level 1. 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 and classify such items in Level 2.  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.  These items are classified in Level 3.  Further, we retain independent pricing vendors to assist in valuing certain instruments.  The following section describes the valuation methodologies we use to measure different financial instruments at fair value.  Investments in fixed maturities and equity securities:  Investments included in Level 1 are primarily government, agency mortgage-backed securities, certain government sponsored enterprises ("GSEs") and equities with quoted market prices. Level 2 is primarily comprised of our portfolio of corporate fixed income securities, collateralized mortgage obligations, asset-backed securities, municipals and certain GSEs and certain preferred stocks that were priced with observable market inputs.  Level 3 securities consist of CMO and ABS securities, primarily Alt-A mortgages.  Other:  The other financial liability included in Level 2 consists of an interest rate swap on IHC debt.  It is  valued using market observable inputs including market price, interest rate, and volatility within a Black Scholes model.   15  The following table presents our financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2008 (in thousands):  Level 1Level 2Level 3TotalFINANCIAL ASSETS:Fixed maturities$67,108$580,943$19,016$667,067Equity securities59,3042,101-61,405FINANCIAL LIABILITIES:Other177-177  Inputs for $19,016,000 of fixed maturity securities that were observable during the second quarter of 2008 were unobservable at September 30, 2008 as a result of limited or inactive markets. As of September 30, 2008 these securities were transferred out of Level 2 and into the Level 3 category.  Note 6. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets  The change in the carrying amount of goodwill and other intangible assets (included in other assets in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets) for the first nine months of 2008 is as follows (in thousands):  Other IntangibleGoodwillAssetsBalance at December 31, 2007$51,695$17,584Purchase AMIC Shares(248)-Majestic acquisition88488Capitalized software development-487Amortization expense-(2,158)Balance at September 30, 2008$52,331$16,001  Effective April 1, 2008 the Company purchased an additional 14.7% interest in Majestic pursuant to terms set forth in the limited liability company agreement of Majestic, thereby increasing its controlling interest in the medical stop-loss MGU to 77%. The interest was purchased from a senior officer of Majestic for a total purchase price of $998,000. The Company recorded goodwill of $884,000 and other intangible assets of $88,000 for the fair value of broker relationships, which is being amortized over 10 years.  Note 7. Discontinued Operations  The Company sold its credit life and disability segment by entering into a 100% coinsurance agreement with an unaffiliated insurer effective December 31, 2007.  The transaction closed in February 2008 with a payment of $10,940,000, representing the net statutory unearned premium reserve as of December 31, 2007 less a ceding fee of $8,820,000. In accordance with the terms of the coinsurance agreement, the Company continued to administer this block of business through June 30, 2008. Unearned premium reserves of this block and the corresponding amount in due from reinsurers of $14,118,000 and $15,742,000 are included in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively.  16   During the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Company recorded income from discontinued operations of $541,000, net of $290,000 of income taxes, which represents expenses and changes in claims and reserves related to the insurance liabilities (currently in run-off status) for claims incurred prior to the sale on December 31, 2007. The Company also recorded a gain on the disposition of discontinued operations in the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2008 amounting to $167,000, net of $90,000 of income taxes, representing an adjustment to the initial ceding fee. Changes in the liabilities related to discontinued operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 were as follows (in thousands):  ClaimsAccruedTerminationDue toLiabilityExpensesBenefitsReinsurerTotalBalance at beginning of year$9,103$1,931$589$10,940$22,563Cash settlements of saletransaction---(10,683)(10,683)Gain on disposition ofdiscontinued operations:Ceding fee adjustment---(257)(257)Income from discontinuedoperations:Changes in claims andreserves related to blockin run-off(1,998)---(1,998)Expenses incurred relatedto block in run-off-1,167--1,167(831)Payments of expenses accruedto administer the businesssold-(3,047)(261)-(3,308)Claim payments relatedto block in run-off(2,406)---(2,406)Balance at September 30, 2008$4,699$51$328$-$5,078  The Company believesthat the net liabilities of discontinued operations at September 30, 2008 adequately estimate the remaining costs associated with the credit life and disability discontinued operations.  Note 8. Common Stock  In January 2008, IHC issued 127,520 shares of common stock as a private placement of unregistered securities under section 4(2) of Securities Act of 1993 (Securities Act). Accordingly, the shares will be restricted securities, subject to legend and will not be freely tradable in the United States until the shares are registered for resale under the Securities Act, or to the extent they are tradable under Rule 144 promulgated under the Securities Act or any other available exemption. The IHC shares were issued from treasury stock at a fair value of $1,401,000. The difference between the fair value and the $2,422,000 cost basis of the treasury stock resulted in a $1,021,000 charge to retained earnings.  17   Note 9. Share-Based Compensation  Total share-based compensation expense was $381,000 and $366,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and $1,026,000 and $1,163,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Related tax benefits of $152,000 and $146,000 were recognized for the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and $409,000 and $464,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  Under the terms of the Companys stock-based compensation plans, option exercise prices are equal to the quoted market price of the shares at the date of grant; option terms range from five to ten years; and vesting periods are three years for employee options.  The Company may also grant shares of restricted stock, share appreciated rights (SARs) and share-based performance awards. Restricted shares are valued at the quoted market price of the shares at the date of grant, and have a three year vesting period.  The SARs have an exercise price equal to the quoted market price of the underlying shares at the date of the grant and have three year vesting periods. There were 745,038 shares available for future option or restricted stock grants under the shareholder-approved plans at September 30, 2008.  All of these available shares relate to the Companys 2006 Stock Incentive Plan that was approved by shareholders in June 2006.  The Companys stock option activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 is as follows:  SharesWeighted- AverageUnder OptionExercise PriceDecember 31, 2007839,310$17.56Granted225,00010.99Exercised(291,800)11.29September 30, 2008772,51018.01  The following table summarizes information regarding outstanding and exercisable options as of September 30, 2008:  OutstandingExercisableNumber of options772,510439,501Weighted average exercise price per share$18.01$20.82Aggregate intrinsic value for all options$140,000$19,000Weighted average contractual term remaining2.5 years1.5 years   18  The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black Scholes option valuation model. The weighted average grant-date fair value of options granted during the first nine months of 2008 and 2007 was $3.44 and $6.51 per share, respectively. The assumptions set forth in the table below were used to value the stock options granted during the nine month period ended September 30:  20082007Weighted-average risk-free interest rate2.214.44%Annual dividend rate per share$.05$.05Weighted-average volatility factor of the Company's common stock36.630.3%Weighted-average expected term of options4.5 years4.5 years  Compensation expense of $240,000 and $176,000 was recognized in the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and $668,000 and $660,000 in the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively, for the portion of the grant-date fair value of stock options vesting during that period.  No options were exercised in the three months ended September 30, 2008. During the nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Company received cash proceeds of $173,000 upon the exercise of 15,608 options with an intrinsic value of $31,000. In addition, another 276,192 options were exercised and, pursuant to the terms of the Companys applicable stock option plans, payments were made equal to the difference between the fair value of such shares, with respect to the options at such exercise date, and the aggregate option strike price. The intrinsic value of such totaled $640,000 and the payments were made in the form of IHC common stock totaling 29,486 shares after deducting applicable income taxes. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the three-month and the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2007 was $141,000 and $268,000, respectively. Cash proceeds received from those options exercised during the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2007 were $178,000 and $309,000, respectively.  The Company issued 2,250 and 7,050 restricted stock awards during the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively, with weighted-average grant-date fair values of $12.26 and $20.67 per share, respectively. The total fair value of restricted stock that vested during the first nine months of 2008 and 2007 was $223,000 and $372,000, respectively. Restricted stock expense was $99,000 and $102,000, for the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and $299,000 and $294,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  The following table summarizes restricted stock activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2008: Weighted-AverageNo. ofGrant-DateSharesFair ValueDecember 31, 200738,329$21.89Granted2,25012.26Vested(18,476)21.90Forfeited(334)22.55September 30, 200821,76920.87   19  As of September 30, 2008, there was $1,080,000 and $236,000 of total unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested options and non-vested restricted stock awards, respectively, which will be recognized over the remaining requisite weighted-average service periods of 1.4 years and .9 years, respectively.  The fair value of SARs is calculated using the Black-Scholes valuation model at the grant date and each subsequent reporting period until settlement. Compensation cost is based on the proportionate amount of the requisite service that has been rendered to date. Once fully vested, changes in fair value of the SARs continue to be recognized as compensation expense in the period of the change until settlement No SARs were exercised in the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2008 or 2007. Other liability-classified awards include share-based performance awards. Compensation costs for these plans are recognized and accrued as performance conditions are met, based on the current share price. No share-based liabilities were paid in the three months ended September 30, 2008. The intrinsic value of share-based liabilities paid in the three months ended September 30, 2007 was $26,000.The intrinsic value of share-based liabilities paid in the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 were $70,000 and $101,000, respectively. Included in Other Liabilities on the Companys Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007 are liabilities of $128,000 and $138,000, respectively, pertaining to SARs and other shared-based performance awards.  Note 10. Debt  On August 22, 2008, the Company made a $2,500,000 principal repayment on its outstanding line of credit with a commercial bank reducing both the outstanding balance and the available credit line from $12,500,000 to $10,000,000 in accordance with the terms of the credit agreement, as amended.  Note 11. Income Taxes  The provision for income taxes shown in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations was computed based on the Company's actual results which approximate the effective tax rate expected to be applicable for the balance of the current fiscal year in accordance with consolidated life/non-life group income tax regulations. Such regulations adopt a subgroup method in determining consolidated taxable income, whereby taxable income is determined separately for the life insurance company group and the non-life insurance company group.  The total deferred tax asset included in other assets on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007 was $28,320,000 and $901,000, respectively. The portion of the deferred income tax benefit for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 allocated to stockholders' equity (principally for net unrealized losses on investment securities) was $16,255,000 representing the increase in the related net deferred tax asset allocated to stockholders' equity to $25,281,000 at September 30, 2008 from $9,026,000 at December 31, 2007. The Company has certain tax-planning strategies that were used in determining that a valuation allowance was not necessary on its deferred tax assets.  Note 12. Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information  Cash payments for income taxes, net of refunds, were $1,016,000 and $6,153,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Cash payments for interest were $2,755,000 and $3,020,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.   20  Note 13. Acquisition of a Policy Block  Effective April 1, 2008 Madison National Life acquired a block of life insurance and annuity policies by entering into a coinsurance agreement with an unaffiliated insurer, whereby Madison National Life assumes 25% of the business covered under the agreement. Under the terms of acquisition, Madison National Life assumed administration of the policies on November 1, 2008.  A summary of the policy block acquired by the Company as of the effective date is as follows (in thousands):  Liabilities:Insurance reserves - life$33,461Funds on deposit32,251Other policyholders' reserves3,422Other2769,161Non-cash assets:Deferred acquisition costs8,850Other investments (policy loans)2,971Due and unpaid premiums6111,882Cash received$57,279  Note 14. Comprehensive Income (Loss)  The components of comprehensive income (loss) include (i) net income or loss reported in the Consolidated Statements of Operations, and (ii) certain amounts reported directly in stockholders equity, principally the after-tax net unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale (net of deferred acquisition costs). The comprehensive income (loss) for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 is summarized as follows:  Three Months EndedNine Months EndedSeptember30,September30,2008200720082007Net income (loss)$(8,748)$(8,423)$(12,369)$108Unrealized gains (losses) arisingduring the period, net of income taxes(22,767)1,337(29,163)(3,136)Comprehensive income (loss)$(31,515)$(7,086)$(41,532)$(3,028)   21  Note 15. Segment Reporting  The Insurance Group principally engages in the life and health insurance business. Information by business segment for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 is presented below:  Three Months EndedNine Months EndedSeptember30,September30,2008200720082007Revenues:Medical Stop-Loss (A)$39,930$46,017$125,675$129,743Fully Insured Health (B)29,45228,10292,95884,426Group disability, life, annuities and DBL (C)14,08612,64643,29141,084Individual life, annuities and other15,82313,93947,25946,289Corporate(219)(610)(1,402)48699,072100,094307,781302,028Net realized investment gains (losses)(17,138)471(32,111)1,473Revenues$81,934$100,565$275,670$303,501Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes:Medical Stop-Loss (A)$714$(10,773)$4,174$(2,870)Fully Insured Health(B) (D)(553)(794)1,768(1,353)Group disability, life, annuities and DBL (C)2,6956556,5534,009Individual life, annuities and other8378074,9426,702Corporate(947)(2,413)(4,500)(4,312)2,746(12,518)12,9372,176Net realized investment gains (losses)(17,138)471(32,111)1,473Interest expense(900)(1,051)(2,795)(3,169)Income (loss) from continuingoperations before income taxes$(15,292)$(13,098)$(21,969)$480  (A) The amount includes equity income from AMIC of $223,000 and $(432,000) for the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and $848,000 and $249,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  (B) The amount includes equity income from AMIC of $54,000 and $(216,000) for the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and $174,000 and $(216,000) for nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  (C) The amount includes equity income from AMIC of $20,000 and $(48,000) for the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and $65,000 and $28,000 for nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  (D) The Fully Insured Health segment includes amortization of intangible assets recorded as a result of purchase accounting for the recent acquisitions. Total amortization expense was $671,000 and $736,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and $2,039,000 and $2,122,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Amortization expense for the other segments is insignificant.  22  ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS  The following discussion of the financial condition and results of operations of Independence Holding Company ("IHC") and its subsidiaries (collectively, the "Company") should be read in conjunction with, and is qualified in its entirety by reference to, the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company and the related Notes thereto appearing in our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and our unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and related Notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this quarterly report.  Overview  Independence Holding Company, a Delaware corporation (NYSE: IHC), is a holding company principally engaged in the life and health insurance business through: (i) its wholly owned insurance companies, Standard Security Life Insurance Company of New York ("Standard Security Life") and Madison National Life Insurance Company, Inc. ("Madison National Life"), (the companies are sometimes collectively referred to as the insurance group); and (ii) its marketing, administrative and actuarial  companies, including Insurers Administrative Corporation (IAC), Majestic Underwriters LLC (Majestic), Health Plan Administrators, Inc. (HPA), GroupLink Inc., in which it owns a majority interest (GroupLink), IHC Health Solutions, Inc. (IHC Health Solutions) and, Actuarial Management Corporation (AMC). IHC and its subsidiaries (including the Insurance Group) are sometimes collectively referred to as the "Company."  The Company also owns a 49.7% equity interest in American Independence Corp. (NASDAQ:AMIC) which owns Independence American Insurance Company (Independence American), three managing general underwriters (MGUs), and controlling interests in two agencies.  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 as to whether or not to increase our retention in a core line, expand into new products, acquire an entity or a block of business, or otherwise change our business model.  Management's assessment of trends in healthcare and morbidity, with respect to medical stop-loss, fully insured medical, disability and DBL; mortality rates with respect to life insurance; and changes in market conditions in general play a significant role in determining the rates charged, deductibles and attachment points quoted, and the percentage of business retained. The Company believes that the acquisition of AMC has further enabled it to make these assessments. IHC also seeks transactions that permit it to leverage its vertically integrated organizational structure by generating fee income from production and administrative operating companies as well as risk income for its carriers and profit commissions.  Management has always focused on managing the costs of its operations and providing its insureds with the best cost containment tools available.  23  The following is a summary of key performance information and events:  The results of operations for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 are summarized as follows (in thousands): Three Months EndedNine Months EndedSeptember30,September30,2008200720082007Revenues$81,934$100,565$275,670$303,501Expenses97,226113,663297,639303,021Income (loss) from continuing operationsbefore income taxes (benefit)(15,292)(13,098)(21,969)480Income taxes (benefit)(5,836)(4,820)(8,892)(182)Income (loss) from continuing operations(9,456)(8,278)(13,077)662Discontinued operations:Income (loss) from discontinued operations541(145)541(554)Gain on disposition of discontinued operations167-167-Net income (loss)$(8,748)$(8,423)$(12,369)$108  · Loss from continuing operations of $9.5 million, or $.61 per share, diluted, for the three months ended September 30, 2008 compared to a loss of $8.3 million, or $.54 per share, diluted, for the three months ended September 30, 2007. Loss from continuing operations of $13.1 million, or $.85 per share, diluted, for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to income of $.7 million, or $.04 per share, diluted, for the nine months ended September 30, 2007. The loss in 2008 is primarily attributable to $15.8 million and $33.3 million of pre-tax losses recorded in the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2008, respectively, from other-than-temporary impairments due to the write down in value of preferred stocks of certain financial institutions, fixed maturities (primarily Alt-A securities) and common stocks. The loss in 2007 is primarily attributable to reserve strengthening of $14.9 million, before income taxes, or $10.5 after taxes, in the Medical Stop-Loss segment as more fully described in the Reserve Strengthening discussion under Results of Operations for the three months ended September 30, 2007;  · Consolidated investment yields of 5.3% and 5.0% for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to 5.2% and 5.4% for the comparable periods in 2007. The decrease in the nine-month yields is primarily a result of losses from investment partnerships in 2008;  · Revenues of $81.9 million and $275.7 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2008, respectively, representing decreases of 18.5% and 9.2% over the respective three-month and nine-month periods in 2007. The decrease is primarily the result of realized losses from other than temporary impairments;  · Book value of $11.90 per common share; a 18.7% decrease from December 31, 2007, primarily reflecting net realized and unrealized losses on securities;   24  · Effective April 1, 2008, acquired a block of life insurance policies with approximately $65.7 million of life reserves. The block consists of approximately $33.4 million of older, traditional life reserves and $32.3 million of annuity reserves. Under the terms of the acquisition, Madison National Life assumed administration of the policies on November 1, 2008;  · Effective April 1, 2008, increased the Company's controlling interest in Majestic Underwriters LLC ("Majestic"), a medical stop-loss MGU, to 77% with the purchase of an additional 14.7% interest from a retired senior officer;  · Income from discontinued operations of $.5 million, net of taxes, is primarily a result of an adjustment to the credit claim reserve for claims prior to December 31, 2007; and  · Income from the disposition of discontinued operations is a result of the final settlement on the sale of the credit segment, net of taxes.  The following is a summary of key performance information by segment:  · Income before taxes from the Medical Stop-Loss segment increased $11.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2008 compared to the same period in 2007 and $7.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to the same period in 2007. The third quarter results for 2007 include a $14.9 million charge for Reserve Strengthening as more fully discussed under the Results of Operation for the Three Months Ended September 30, 2007;  o Underwriting experience, as indicated by its GAAP Combined Ratios, for the Medical Stop-Loss segment is as follows for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 (in thousands):  Three Months EndedNine Months EndedSeptember30,September30,2008200720082007Premiums Earned$38,124$44,535$120,745$124,777Insurance Benefits, Claims & Reserves28,90944,32188,75599,075Expenses9,64211,65930,53230,962Loss Ratio(A)75.8%99.5%73.5%79.4%Expense Ratio (B)25.3%26.2%25.3%24.8%Combined Ratio (C)101.1%125.7%98.8%104.2% (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 expenses ratio.  · The Fully Insured Health segment reported a loss before taxes of $.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2008 as compared to a loss of $.8 million for the comparable period in 2007, and income before taxes of $1.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 as  25  compared to a loss of $1.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007. Included in the nine month results of 2007 is $1.3 million of adverse development recorded in 2007 on premiums earned in 2006 on certain fully insured programs. The loss ratio on the fully insured business decreased due to an increase in volume in the dental and student accident lines which have higher profit margins, improved margins in our short term medical business, and improved margins in our small group major medical line. The expense ratio is higher due to a greater portion of higher-commission lines of business;  o Premiums earned from this segment have increased $2.5 million and $8.2 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2008, respectively, over the comparable periods in 2007. o Underwriting experience, as indicated by its GAAP Combined Ratios, for the Fully Insured segment for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 is as follows (in thousands):  Three Months EndedNine Months EndedSeptember30,September30,2008200720082007Premiums Earned$19,977$17,501$61,726$53,457Insurance Benefits, Claims & Reserves13,08312,65439,54438,565Expenses5,8714,08117,45912,871Loss Ratio65.5%72.3%64.0%72.1%Expense Ratio29.4%23.3%28.3%24.1%Combined Ratio94.9%95.6%92.3%96.2%  · Income before taxes from the Group disability, life, annuities and DBL segment increased $2.0 million and $2.6 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2008, respectively, compared to 2007 primarily due to a refund of DBL premiums in 2007 and lower claims in 2008;  · Income before taxes from the Individual life, annuities and other segment remained flat for the three months ended September 30, 2008 and decreased $1.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008, compared to the prior year. Prior year results include $.9 million of other income due to adjustments in settlement of a reinsurance agreement;  · Loss before taxes from the Corporate segment decreased $1.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2008 due to lower expenses and increased $.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to the prior year due to losses from partnership income slightly offset by lower expenses;  · Net realized investment losses were $17.1 million and $32.1 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2008, respectively, compared to net realized investment income of $.5 million and $1.5 million for the comparable periods in 2007. Included in realized losses for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2008 are $15.8 million and $33.3 million from other than temporary impairments primarily due to the write down in value of  26  preferred stocks of certain financial institutions, fixed maturities (primarily Alt-A securities) and common stocks due to the severity of the decrease in fair value and length of time that these securities were in a loss position;  · Premiums by principal product for the three months and nine months ended 2008 and 2007 are as follows (in thousands):  Three Months EndedNine Months EndedSeptember 30,September 30,Gross Direct and AssumedEarned Premiums:2008200720082007Medical Stop-Loss$60,978$73,109$194,363$210,586Fully Insured Health49,20548,963152,463159,402Group disability, life, annuities and DBL18,96217,53758,52158,079Individual, life, annuities and other7,8607,10324,26523,016$137,005$146,712$429,612$451,083   Three Months EndedNine Months EndedSeptember 30,September 30,Net Premiums Earned:2008200720082007Medical Stop-Loss$38,124$44,535$120,745$124,777Fully Insured Health19,97717,50161,72653,457Group disability, life, annuities and DBL11,4369,81035,10932,781Individual, life, annuities and other7,3956,41122,69020,972$76,932$78,257$240,270$231,987   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 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007. Management has identified the accounting policies related to Insurance Premium Revenue Recognition and Policy Charges, Insurance Reserves, Deferred Acquisition Costs,andInvestmentsas 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. A full discussion of these policies is included under the heading, Critical Accounting Policies in Item 7 of the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007.  During the nine months ended September 30, 2008, there were no additions to or changes in the critical accounting policies disclosed in the 2007 Form 10-K.  27  Results of Operations for the Three Months Ended September 30, 2008 Compared to the Three Months Ended September 30, 2007  Loss from continuing operations was $9.5 million, or $.61 per share, diluted, for the three months ended September 30, 2008, an increase of $1.2 million compared to loss from continuing operations of $8.3 million, or $.54 per share, diluted, for the three months ended September 30, 2007. The Company's loss from continuing operations before taxes increased $2.2 million to a loss of $15.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2008 from $13.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2007. Information by business segment for the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 is as follows:  EquityBenefits,AmortizationSelling,NetIncomeFee andClaimsof  DeferredGeneralPremiumsInvestmentFromOtherandAcquisitionAndSeptember  30,  2008EarnedIncomeAMICIncomeReservesCostsAdministrativeTotal(In thousands)Medical Stop-Loss$38,1241,30422327928,909-10,307$714Fully Insured Health19,977226549,19513,0831216,910(553)Group disability,life, annuitiesand DBL11,4362,54020907,290384,0632,695Individual life,annuities and other7,3958,036-39210,1891,3693,428837Corporate-(219)----728(947)Sub total$76,932$11,887$297$9,956$59,471$1,419$35,4362,746Net realized investment losses(17,138)Interest expense(900)Loss from continuing operations before income taxes(15,292)Income tax benefits(5,836)Loss from continuing operations(9,456)Income from discontinued operations541Gain on disposition of discontinued operations167Net loss$(8,748)  EquityBenefits,AmortizationSelling,NetIncomeFee andClaimsof  DeferredGeneralPremiumsInvestmentFromOtherandAcquisitionAndSeptember  30, 2007EarnedIncomeAMICIncomeReservesCostsAdministrativeTotal(In thousands)Medical Stop-Loss$44,5351,482(432)43244,321-12,469$(10,773)Fully Insured Health17,501176(216)10,64112,6544816,194(794)Group disability,life, annuitiesand DBL9,8102,781(48)1038,420363,535655Individual life,annuities andother6,4117,173-3558,8031,5922,737807Corporate(610)-1,803(2,413)Sub total$78,257$11,002$(696)$11,531$74,198$1,676$36,738(12,518)Net realized investment gains471Interest expense(1,051)Loss from continuing operations before income taxes(13,098)Income tax benefits(4,820)Loss from continuing operations(8,278)Loss from discontinued operations(145)Net loss$(8,423)  28  Premiums Earned  Total premiums earned decreased $1.4 million to $76.9 million in the third quarter of 2008 from $78.3 million in the comparable period of 2007. The decrease is primarily due to: (i) the Medical Stop-Loss segment which decreased $6.5 million primarily due to stricter underwriting guidelines and reduced production sources in 2008; offset by (ii) the Fully Insured Health segment which had a $2.5 million increase in premiums in the third quarter of 2008 compared to the third quarter of 2007, comprised primarily of: (a) a $1.5 million increase in student accident premiums as a result of new programs, (b) a $1.3 million increase in dental premiums as a result of continuing growth, (c) an increase of $.5 million in the small group business primarily from increased retention in assumed major medical business, offset by (d) a decrease of $.9 million in short-term medical premiums primarily due to lower production caused in part by an increase in rates; (iii) an increase of $1.6 million in group disability, life, annuities and DBL segment primarily due to lower premiums in the prior year resulting from a refund of DBL premiums in 2007 as Standard Security Life experienced loss ratios below mandated minimums in this line of business; and (iv) a $1.0 million increase in the individual life, annuities and other segment primarily as a result of the recent acquisition of a block of life and annuity business.  Net Investment Income  Total net investment income increased $.9 million compared to the same period in 2007. The overall investment yields were 5.3% and 5.2% in the third quarter of 2008 and 2007, respectively. Income from partnerships was $.5 million higher in the third quarter of 2008 compared to the same period in 2007.  Net Realized Investment Gains (Losses)  Net realized investment gains (losses) include gains and losses from sales of fixed maturities and equity securities available-for-sale, as well as trading securities and other investments, and other-than-temporary impairments. Decisions to sell securities are based on management's ongoing evaluation of investment opportunities and economic and market conditions, thus creating fluctuations in gains and losses from period to period. Included in the net realized investment gains (losses) for the three months ended September 30, 2008 are $15.8 million of other than temporary impairments primarily due to the write down in value of preferred stocks of certain financial institutions, fixed maturities (primarily Alt-A securities) and common stocks due to the severity of the decrease in fair value and length of time that these securities were in a loss position.  Fee Income and Other Income  Fee income decreased $1.6 million to $9.4 million in the third quarter of 2008 from $11.0 million in the comparable period of 2007 primarily due to a decrease in administrative fees earned by the Fully Insured Health segment as a result of decreases in gross premiums from the shortterm medical and small group lines of business.  Insurance Benefits, Claims and Reserves  Benefits, claims and reserves decreased $14.7 million. The decrease is due to: (i) a decrease of $15.4 million in the Medical Stop-Loss segment, primarily resulting from a $14.9 million charge, before income taxes, in the third quarter of 2007 for reserve strengthening in addition to decreased production in 2008; (ii) a decrease of $1.1 million in the group disability, life, annuities and DBL segment primarily as a result of lower loss ratios in the DBL and group term life lines of business; (iii) an increase of $1.4 million in the individual life, annuities and other segment, resulting from the recent acquisition of a block  29  of life and annuity policies in the second quarter of 2008; and (iv) an increase of $.4 million in the Fully Insured Health segment primarily resulting from increases in dental ($.9 million) and student accident ($.7 million) lines which correspond to premium growth, partially offset by a decrease in the short-term medical ($1.1 million) line due to improved loss ratios in this line and a decrease in premiums.  Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs  Amortization of deferred acquisition costs decreased slightly in the third quarter of 2008 primarily as a result of decreases from blocks of business in run-off partially offset by an increase from the recent acquisition of a block of life and annuity policies.  Interest Expense on Debt  Interest expense decreased $.2 million, primarily due to a $2.5 million decrease in outstanding debt under a line of credit in both the third quarter of 2007 and the third quarter of 2008. In addition, the interest rate on $12.4 million of floating rate junior subordinated debt averaged 6.8% in the third quarter of 2008 as compared to 9.5% during the third quarter of 2007.   Selling, General and Administrative Expenses   Total selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $1.3 million in the third quarter of 2008 compared to the third quarter of 2007. The decrease is primarily due to (i) a $2.2 million decrease in commissions and other general expenses in the Medical Stop-Loss segment due to a lower level of premiums earned; (ii) a $1.1 million decrease in corporate overhead expenses (primarily employee benefits, bonus and audit expenses); offset by (iii) an increase of $.7 million in commission and administrative expenses in the Fully Insured Health segment largely due to increased profit commissions in the small group line as a result of improved loss ratios; (iv) an increase of $.5 million in the group disability, life, annuities and DBL expenses resulting from a higher level of premiums; and (v) an increase of $.7 million in commission and administrative expenses in the individual life, annuities and other segment due to increased volume from the recent acquisition of a block of life and annuity policies.   Income Taxes  Income tax benefits increased $1.0 million resulting in a tax benefit of $5.8 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 compared to a tax benefit of $4.8 million for the third quarter of 2007 primarily due to an increase in the pre-tax loss.  The effective tax rates were 37.9% for the third quarter of 2008 and 36.6% for the third quarter of 2007. The difference in the effective tax rates is primarily attributable to higher tax benefits derived from dividend-received deductions ("DRDs") and tax exempt interest in the third quarter of 2008 compared to the third quarter of 2007.  30  Results of Operations for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008 Compared to the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2007  Loss from continuing operations was $13.1 million, or $.85 per share, diluted, for the nine months ended September 30, 2008, a decrease of $13.8 million compared to income from continuing operations of $.7 million, or $.04 per share, diluted, for the nine months ended September 30, 2007. The Company's income from continuing operations before taxes decreased $22.4 million to a loss of $21.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 from income of $.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007.  Information by business segment for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 is as follows:  EquityBenefits,AmortizationSelling,NetIncomeFee andClaimsof  DeferredGeneralPremiumsInvestmentFromOtherandAcquisitionAndSeptember  30,  2008EarnedIncomeAMICIncomeReservesCostsAdministrativeTotal(In thousands)Medical Stop-Loss$120,7453,0148471,06988,755-32,746$4,174Fully Insured Health61,72665617530,40139,5449051,5561,768Group disability,life, annuitiesand DBL35,1097,8546526324,40711112,2206,553Individual life,annuities andother22,69023,569-1,00029,1644,6278,5264,942Corporate-(1,405)-3--3,098(4,500)Sub total$240,270$33,688$1,087$32,736$181,870$4,828$108,14612,937Net realized investment gains(32,111)Interest expense(2,795)Loss from continuing operations before income taxes(21,969)Income tax benefits(8,892)Loss from continuing operations(13,077)Income from discontinued operations541Gain on disposition of discontinued operations167Net loss$(12,369)  EquityBenefits,AmortizationSelling,NetIncomeFee andClaimsof  DeferredGeneralPremiumsInvestmentFromOtherandAcquisitionAndSeptember  30, 2007EarnedIncomeAMICIncomeReservesCostsAdministrativeTotal(In thousands)Medical Stop-Loss$124,7773,3702491,34799,075-33,538$(2,870)Fully Insured Health53,45744412430,40138,56518547,029(1,353)Group disability,life, annuitiesand DBL32,7817,9642831125,94910511,0214,009Individual life,annuities andother20,97222,854-2,46328,1524,3047,1316,702Corporate-486----4,798(4,312)Sub total$231,987$35,118$401$34,522$191,741$4,594$103,5172,176Net realized investment gains1,473Interest expense(3,169)Income from continuing before income taxes480Income tax benefits(182)Income from continuing operations662Loss from discontinued operations(554)Net income$108  31  Premiums Earned  Total premiums earned grew $8.3 million to $240.3 million in the first nine months of 2008 from $232.0 million in the comparable period of 2007. The increase is primarily due to: (i) the Fully Insured Health segment which had an $8.2 million increase in premiums in the first nine months of 2008 compared to the first nine months of 2007, comprised primarily of: (a) a $6.9 million increase in student accident premiums as a result of a new program initiated in 2008, (b) a $4.8 million increase in dental premiums and $.8 million increase in limited medical premiums as a result of continuing growth, offset by (c) a decrease of $3.3 million in short-term medical premiums primarily due to lower production caused in part by an increase in rates, and (d) a $1.0 million decrease in the small group line due to lower production; (ii) a $2.3 million increase in group disability, life, annuities and DBL segment primarily due to lower premiums in the prior year resulting from a refund of DBL premiums in 2007 as Standard Security Life experienced loss ratios below mandated minimums in this line of business; (iii) a $1.8 million increase in the individual life, annuities and other segment primarily as a result of the recent acquisition of a block of life and annuity business; offset by (iv) a decrease of $4.0 million in the Medical Stop-Loss segment primarily due to stricter underwriting guidelines and reduced production sources in 2008.  Net Investment Income  Total net investment income decreased $1.4 million primarily due to losses from investment partnerships in the first nine months of 2008 compared to income from partnership investments recorded in the same period of 2007. The overall investment yields were 5.0% and 5.4% in the first nine months 2008 and 2007, respectively. Partnership investment losses were primarily the result of the continued disruption in the equity markets in 2008. The investment yield on bonds, equities and short-term investments was 5.2% and 5.3% in the first nine months of 2008 and 2007, respectively.  Net Realized Investment Gains (Losses)  Net realized investment gains (losses) include gains and losses from sales of fixed maturities and equity securities available-for-sale, as well as trading securities and other investments, and other-than-temporary impairments. Decisions to sell securities are based on management's ongoing evaluation of investment opportunities and economic and market conditions, thus creating fluctuations in gains and losses from period to period. Included in the net realized investment gains (losses) for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 are $33.3 million of other than temporary impairments primarily due to the write down in value of preferred stocks of certain financial institutions, fixed maturities (primarily Alt-A securities) and common stocks due to the severity of the decrease in fair value and length of time that these securities were in a loss position.  Fee Income and Other Income  Fee income decreased $.7 million to $30.8 million in the first nine months of 2008 from $31.5 million in the first nine months of 2007 primarily due to a decrease in administrative fees earned by the Fully Insured Health segment as a result of decreases in gross premiums from the short-term medical and small group lines of business.  Total other income decreased $1.0 million in the first nine months of 2008 to $2.0 million from $3.0 million in the first nine months of 2007, primarily due to $.9 million of adjustments recorded in 2007 in settlement of a reinsurance agreement.   32  Insurance Benefits, Claims and Reserves  Benefits, claims and reserves decreased $9.8 million. The decrease is due to: (i) a decrease of $10.3 million in the Medical Stop-Loss segment, primarily resulting from a $14.9 million charge, before income taxes, in 2007 for reserve strengthening as described previously in Reserve Strengthening; and (ii) a $.9 million increase in the Fully Insured Health Segment, primarily due to increases in dental ($3.3 million) and student accident ($3.9 million) lines which correspond to premium growth, offset by decreases in the small group ($3.2 million) and short-term medical ($3.5 million) lines due to lower volumes of business and improved loss ratios.  Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs  Amortization of deferred acquisition costs increased $.2 million for the first nine months of 2008 compared to the same period in 2007 partially as a result of the recent acquisition of a block of life and annuity policies.  Interest Expense on Debt  Interest expense decreased $.4 million, primarily due to a $2.5 million decrease in outstanding debt under a line of credit in both the third quarter of 2007 and the third quarter of 2008. In addition, the interest rate on $12.4 million of floating rate junior subordinated debt averaged 7.3% in the first nine months of 2008, as compared to 9.4% during the first nine months of 2007.  Selling, General and Administrative Expenses  Total selling, general and administrative expenses increased $4.6 million in the first nine months of 2008 as compared to the first nine months of 2007. The increase is primarily due to (i) a $4.6 million increase in commission and administrative expenses associated with the operation of the Fully Insured Health segment, primarily due to (a) increases in commission and administrative expenses for the dental ($1.8 million) and student accident ($1.8 million) lines due to increased volume; (b) increase of $1.8 million in commission expenses in the small group line primarily due to higher profit commissions on 2007 business; offset by (c) a decrease of $.7 million in short-term medical expenses due to lower production; (ii) a $1.4 million increase in commission and administration expenses in the individual life, annuities and other segment as a result of  increased volume from the recent acquisition of a block of life and annuity policies; (iii) a $.8 million decrease in commissions and other general expenses in the Medical Stop-Loss segment due to a lower level of premiums earned; and (iv) a $1.7 million decrease in corporate overhead expenses (primarily employee benefit and audit expenses).  Income Taxes  Income tax benefits increased $8.7 million resulting in a tax benefit of $8.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to a tax benefit of $.2 million for the first nine months of 2007. The effective tax rates were 40.5% and (40.0%) for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The difference in the effective tax rates is primarily attributable to tax benefits generated by a pre-tax loss in the first nine months of 2008 coupled with other tax benefits derived from DRDs and tax exempt interest compared to tax expense generated by pre-tax income in the first nine months of 2007 that was more than offset by tax benefits derived from DRDs and tax exempt interest.   33  LIQUIDITY  Insurance Group  The Insurance Group normally provides cash flow from: (i) operations; (ii) the receipt of   scheduled principal payments on its portfolio of fixed maturities; and (iii) earnings on investments. Such cash flow is partially used to fund liabilities for insurance policy benefits. These liabilities represent long-term and short-term obligations.  Corporate  Corporate derives its funds principally from: (i) dividends from the Insurance Group; (ii) management fees from its subsidiaries; and (iii) investment income from Corporate liquidity. Regulatory constraints historically have not affected the Company's consolidated liquidity, although state insurance laws have provisions relating to the ability of the parent company to use cash generated by the Insurance Group.  Cash Flows  As of September 30, 2008, the Company had $9.3 million of cash and cash equivalents compared with $72.8 as of December 31, 2007. Total investments, net of amounts due to and from brokers, were $798.0 million and $779.4 million at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively.  Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 was $3.3 million. Net cash used by operating activities of discontinued operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 was $16.4 million primarily due to cash used for the settlement of the Credit Life and Disability segment.  Net cash used by investing activities of continuing operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 was $48.4 million primarily as a result of $108.1 million of net purchases of fixed maturities partially offset by $57.3 million received in connection with the recent acquisition of a block of life insurance and annuity policies.  The Company has $488.4 million of insurance reserves that it expects to ultimately 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. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, cash received from the maturities and other repayments of fixed maturities was $56.4 million.  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 and from brokers, increased $18.6 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2008 largely due to $108.1 million of net purchases of fixed maturities offset by a $50.9 million increase in unrealized losses on available for sale securities and $33.3 million of realized losses for other than temporary impairments.   34  The Company had net receivables from reinsurers of $98.3 million at September 30, 2008. Substantially all of the business ceded to such reinsurers is of short duration. All of such receivables are either due from the Company's affiliate, Independence American, highly rated companies or are adequately secured. No allowance for doubtful accounts was necessary at September 30, 2008.  The Company's health reserves by segment are as follows (in thousands):  Total Health ReservesSeptember 30December 31,20082007Medical Stop-Loss$91,602$95,289Fully Insured Health38,08740,999Group Disability70,11668,994Individual A&H and Other11,3508,319$211,155$213,601  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 $39.5 million decrease in total stockholders' equity in the first nine months of 2008 is primarily due to a net loss of $12.4 million and a $29.2 million increase 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. Of the aggregate carrying value of the Insurance Group's investment assets, approximately 91.3% was invested in investment grade fixed maturities, resale agreements, policy loans and cash and cash equivalents at September 30, 2008. The Company's gross unrealized losses on available-for-sale securities totaled $79.5 million at September 30, 2008. Also on such date, approximately 99.9% of the fixed maturities were investment grade and continues 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 carry less default risk and, therefore, lower interest rates than other types of fixed maturity investments. The Company only has one non-performing fixed maturity investment at September 30, 2008 amounting to $.7 million or .1% of the total carrying value of fixed maturities.  At September 30, 2008, the Company had $33.0 million invested in whole loan CMOs backed by Alt-A mortgages, all of which were rated AAA. Of this amount, 41.4% were in CMOs that originated in 2005 or earlier and 58.6% were in CMOs that originated in 2006. While these mortgages have seen lower quoted market values recently, we believe that the unrealized losses on these securities are not necessarily indicative of their ultimate performance. The Companys mortgage security portfolio has no direct exposure to sub-prime mortgages. The decline in fair value for the equity securities was primarily due to wider spreads from preferred stocks issued by financial institutions following the disruption in credit markets in late 2007. Some of these financial institutions have exposure to sub-prime mortgages. The  35  unrealized loss for CMO and ABS securities is primarily attributable to Alt-A mortgages as described above. The unrealized losses on corporate securities are due to wider spreads. Spreads have widened as investors shifted funds to US Treasuries in response to the current market turmoil.  The Company reviews its investments regularly and monitors its investments continually for impairments. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008 the Company recorded a loss of $33.3 million 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 September 30, 2008 by the length of time the fair values of those securities were below 80% of their amortized cost (in thousands):  Greater thanGreater than3 months,6 months,Less thanless thanless thanGreater than3 months6 months12 months12 monthsTotalFixed maturities$8,859$-$5,226$-$14,085Equity securities14,040---14,040Total$22,899$-$5,226$-$28,125  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 September 30, 2008. In the first nine months of 2008, the Company experienced an increase in net unrealized losses of $52.1 million which, net of deferred tax benefits of $16.3 million and net of deferred policy acquisition costs of $6.6 million, decreased stockholders' equity by $29.2 million (reflecting net unrealized losses of $45.3 million at September 30, 2008 compared to net unrealized losses of $16.1 million at December 31, 2007). From time to time, as warranted, the Company may employ investment strategies to mitigate interest rate and other market exposures.   CAPITAL RESOURCES  Due to its strong capital ratios, broad licensing and excellent asset quality and credit-worthiness, the Insurance Group 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.  IHC enters into a variety of contractual obligations with third-parties in the ordinary course of its operations, including liabilities for insurance reserves, funds on deposit, debt and operating lease obligations.  However, IHC does not believe that its cash flow requirements can be fully assessed based solely upon an analysis of these obligations.  Future cash outflows, whether they are contractual obligations or not, also will vary based upon IHCs future needs.  Although some outflows are fixed, others depend on future events. The maturity distribution of the Companys obligations, as of September 30, 2008, is not materially different from that reported in the schedule of such obligations at December 31, 2007 which was included in Item 7of the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K.    36   OUTLOOK  For the balance of 2008, IHCs business plan is to: (i) continue to improve the profitability of our Fully Insured Health business, while selectively retaining more risk; (ii) selectively pursue new Fully Insured Health opportunities that leverage our vertically integrated strategy of generating fee income at multiple levels of marketing and administration, as well as risk profit and profit commission income, (iii) expand the distribution and continue to improve the profitability of our Medical Stop-Loss business, and (iv) expand distribution of our life, disability and critical illness products. The following summarizes IHC's outlook for the remainder of the year and beyond:  Historic Core Lines of Business  IHC has historically been a life and health insurance holding company for two insurance companies, Standard Security Life Insurance Company of New York ("Standard Security Life") and Madison National Life Insurance Company, Inc. ("Madison National Life"), which relied on independent general agents, managing general underwriters ("MGUs") and administrators to perform the majority of all marketing, underwriting, claims and administrative functions for our two primary product segments (Medical Stop-Loss and Group disability, life, annuities and DBL).  While it is always our intent to emphasize underwriting profits and not top line growth, the medical stop-loss industry as a whole succumbed to pricing pressures caused by an unexpectedly long down cycle (or "soft" market) from 2003 through the third quarter of 2008.  As a consequence of these market conditions, we curtailed our growth in 2008. The Company recently appointed four new MGUs that will help offset, in 2009, some of the shrinkage in Medical Stop-Loss premiums that we have been experiencing in 2008. In addition, the Company will begin writing additional group life and disability as a result of carriers exiting these markets. As a result of reinsuring a significant amount of risk on these new opportunities, the Company anticipates that the net premiums from its historic core lines of business will remain relatively constant in 2009.  Fully Insured Health Segment  The Fully Insured Health market is a much larger market than the excess market estimated at $500 billion compared to a Medical Stop-Loss market of approximately $4 billion. The Company has made a conscious effort to limit the amount of its growth in this segment in 2008 and 2009. In the event we determine to accelerate our growth, we are optimistic that as a result of its multiple product filings, distribution sources, and the sheer size of the market, our Fully Insured Health business could grow while maintaining profitable underwriting results.  Investments  Due to the continued turmoil in the capital markets, Independence Holding Company, like many insurance and other companies in the financial sector, recognized a loss in the quarter and nine months of 2008 for other-than-temporary impairments.  These impairments were realized on certain preferred stocks, fixed maturities (primarily Alt-A securities) and common stocks. The majority of these preferred stocks were investment-grade preferred stocks issued by well-known financial institutions and account for approximately 4% of our total investment portfolio. Our fixed maturity portfolio continues to be rated on average AA, and the Company considers all unrealized losses in this category to be temporary.  We have no direct investments in sub-prime mortgages, although approximately 4% of our total investment portfolio are Alt A mortgages, which are rated AAA.  While these mortgages have seen lower quoted market values recently, we believe that the unrealized losses on these securities are not necessarily indicative of their ultimate performance.  As the Company carries all of its assets available for  37  sale at fair value, this unrealized loss had, to a large extent, been previously recorded in our book value.  Our book value per share decreased to $11.90 at September 30, 2008 from $13.92 at June 30, 2008 as net income was more than offset by changes in the fair value of our fixed maturity portfolio.  To the extent that the capital markets remain unsettled, we may continue to see volatility in the market price of our equity and fixed maturity securities, which could have a negative impact on our net income and book value per share.  ITEM 3.         QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK  The Company manages interest rate risk by seeking to maintain a 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 September 30, 2008:  EstimatedEstimated ChangeChange in Interest RatesFair ValueIn Fair Value(In millions)200 basis point rise$567.3$(99.8)100 basis point rise613.5(53.6)Base scenario667.1-100 basis point decline724.557.4200 basis point decline776.7109.6  The Company monitors its investment portfolio on a continuous basis and believes that the liquidity of the Insurance Group 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.  The expected change in fair value as a percentage of the Company's fixed income portfolio at September 30, 2008 given a 100 to 200 basis point rise or decline in interest rates differs from the expected change at December 31, 2007 included in Item 7A of the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K primarily due to changes in the portfolio resulting in a higher average duration at September 30, 2008. The duration increase was the result of a significant shift of bonds in the portfolio to municipals in order to take advantage of the exceptional opportunity to buy tax exempt bonds at yields in excess of taxable bonds while still maintaining the overall credit quality of the portfolio.  In the Company's analysis of the asset-liability model, a 100 to 200 basis point change in interest rates on the Insurance Group's liabilities would not be expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company. With respect to its liabilities, if interest rates were to increase, the risk to the Company is that policies would be surrendered and assets would need to be sold. This is not a material exposure to the Company since a large portion of the Insurance Group's interest sensitive policies are burial policies that are not subject to the typical surrender patterns of other interest sensitive policies, and many of the Insurance Group's universal life and annuity policies were issued by liquidated companies which tend to exhibit lower surrender rates than such policies of continuing companies. Additionally, there are charges to help offset the benefits being surrendered. If interest rates were to decrease substantially, the risk to the Company is that some of its investment assets would be subject to early redemption. This is not a material exposure because the Company would have additional unrealized gains in its investment portfolio to help offset the future reduction of investment income.  38   ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES  IHCs Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer supervised and participated in IHCs evaluation of its disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Disclosure controls and procedures are controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in IHCs periodic reports filed or submitted under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commissions rules and forms.  Based upon that evaluation, IHCS Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that IHCs disclosure controls and procedures are effective.  There has been no change in IHCs internal control over financial reporting during the nine months ended September 30, 2008 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, IHC's internal control over financial reporting.  During the second quarter of 2008, the Company discovered irregularities relating to account reconciliations of certain other assets and other liabilities of a previously acquired subsidiary. The Audit Committee of the Companys Board of Directors and the Companys independent registered public accounting firm were promptly apprised of these irregularities. The Audit Committee performed a review of this matter, including engaging special, independent legal counsel.  The results of the Audit Committees review, which was conducted in the third quarter, concluded that the irregularities: (i) existed at the time the Company acquired the subsidiary in question; and (ii) related exclusively to activities at the subsidiary that occurred prior to its acquisition by the Company. The former shareholders of the subsidiary indemnified the Company in connection with all deficiencies in accounts and entered into an agreement further to indemnify the Company for: (i) any future undisclosed liability identified as having existed at the time the Company acquired such subsidiary, (ii) all costs incurred in connection with the Audit Committees review of the matter and (iii) all other costs incurred, or to be incurred, by the Company in connection with the matter.  The results of the review were shared with the Companys independent registered public accounting firm.  In addition, the following remedial actions have been taken by management: (i) all deficiencies in certain accounts controlled by the subsidiary identified as resulting from the irregularities were corrected; (ii) existing financial controls relating to the affected accounts were augmented; and (iii) certain appropriate changes in personnel were implemented.  Although the Company believes that such remedial steps have been sufficient to address any financial impact of the matter, there can be no assurance that additional liabilities will not be identified or costs incurred. Sufficient work has been done to enable management to conclude that: (i) no restatement of previously reported financial statements is required; and (ii) the irregularities do not affect managements previous conclusion that, as of December 31, 2007, the Companys internal control over financial reporting was effective.  PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION  ITEM 1. 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 related 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.  39   ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS  There were no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007 in Item 1A to Part 1 of Form 10-K.  ITEM  2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS  Share Repurchase Program  IHC has a program, initiated in 1991, under which it repurchases shares of its common stock. As of September 30, 2008, 131,657 shares were still authorized to be repurchased under the plan. There were no share repurchases during the third quarter of 2008.  The Company is voluntarily disclosing in this Quarterly Report repurchases of its common stock effected during October 2008 pursuant to the Company's publicly announced repurchase program, as follows: 16,300 shares, for an average price paid per share of $5.96, leaving an aggregate 115,357 shares remaining available for repurchase under such program.  ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES  Not applicable  ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS  Not applicable  ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION  Not applicable  ITEM 6. EXHIBITS  31.1 Certification of the Chief Executive Officer and President Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002  31.2 Certification of the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002  32.1 Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002  32.2 Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002  40  SIGNATURES  Pursuant to the requirements 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.   INDEPENDENCE HOLDING COMPANY (REGISTRANT)    By: /s/Roy T. K. Thung Date: November 10, 2008 Roy T.K. Thung Chief Executive Officer and President     By: /s/Teresa A. Herbert Date: November 10, 2008 Teresa A. Herbert Senior Vice President and  Chief Financial Officer    41