We lease the office space described above except for the buildings in Chicago, Illinois, Reading, Pennsylvania and Aurora, Illinois, which are owned. We consider that our properties are generally in good condition, are well maintained and are suitable and adequate to carry on our business.
Net income decreased $76 million in 2011 as compared with 2010. Excluding the loss associated with the Loss Portfolio Transfer in 2010, net income decreased $441 million in 2011 as compared with 2010 due to lower net operating income and decreased net realized investment gains.
$79 million after-tax in 2010. These unfavorable impacts were partially offset by improved non-catastrophe current accident year underwriting results, including lower expenses. Expenses in 2010 were unfavorably impacted by costs associated with our Information Technology (IT) Transformation as discussed below. Net operating results decreased $144 million for our non-core segments, Life & Group Non-Core and Corporate & Other Non-Core. This decrease was primarily due to the 2011 results in our payout annuity business, which were negatively impacted by a $115 million after-tax increase in insurance reserves, due to unlocking actuarial reserve assumptions for anticipated adverse changes in mortality and discount rates, which reflect the current low interest rate environment and our view of expected investment yields. The initial reserving assumptions for these contracts were determined at issuance, including a margin for adverse deviation, and were locked in throughout the life of the contract unless a premium deficiency developed. In 2011, a premium deficiency emerged and the actuarial reserve assumptions were unlocked and revised to management's current best estimates. See the Life & Group Non-Core and Corporate & Other Non-Core sections of this MD&A for further discussion of our non-core results.
As further discussed in Note O to the Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8, we commenced a program during 2010 to significantly transform our IT organization and delivery model. The total costs for this program were $37 million, of which $36 million were incurred in 2010. The savings resulting from this program are being reinvested in IT and other property and casualty underwriting areas necessary to support our business strategies.
Net loss from discontinued operations decreased $20 million in 2011 as compared to 2010 due to the loss associated with the Loss Portfolio Transfer in 2010.
Net realized investment results improved $612 million in 2010 as compared with 2009. See the Investments section of this MD&A for further discussion of net investment income and net realized investment results.
Additionally, an exposure exists with respect to amounts due from policyholders related to insurance contracts, including amounts due from insureds under high deductible policies. An allowance for uncollectible insurance receivables is recorded on the basis of periodic evaluations of balances due from insureds currently or in the future, management's experience and current economic conditions.
If actual experience differs from the estimates made by management in determining the allowances for uncollectible reinsurance and insurance receivables, net receivables as reflected on our Consolidated Balance Sheets may not be collected. Therefore, our results of operations or equity could be materially adversely impacted.
Our investment portfolio is subject to market declines below amortized cost that may be other-than-temporary and therefore result in the recognition of impairment losses in earnings. Factors considered in the determination of whether or not a decline is other-than-temporary include a current intention or need to sell the security or an indication that a credit loss exists. Significant judgment exists regarding the evaluation of the financial condition and expected near-term and long-term prospects of the issuer, the relevant industry conditions and trends, and whether we expect to receive cash flows sufficient to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security. We have an Impairment Committee which reviews the investment portfolio on at least a quarterly basis, with ongoing analysis as new information becomes available. Further information on our process for evaluating impairments is included in Note B to the Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.
We make a significant number of assumptions in estimating the liabilities and costs related to our pension and postretirement benefit obligations to employees under our benefit plans. The assumptions that most impact these costs are the discount rate and the expected long term rate of return on plan assets. These assumptions are evaluated relative to current economic factors such as inflation, interest rates and fiscal and monetary policies. Changes in these assumptions can have a material impact on pension obligations and pension expense.
To determine the discount rate assumption as of the year-end measurement date for our CNA Retirement Plan and CNA Health and Group Benefits Program, we considered the estimated timing of plan benefit payments and available yields on high quality fixed income debt securities. For this purpose, high quality is considered a rating of Aa or better by Moody's or a rating of AA or better from S&P. We reviewed several yield curves constructed using the cash flow characteristics of the plans as well as bond indices as of the measurement date. The year-over-year change of those data points was also considered.
Various methods are used to project ultimate loss for both long-tail and short-tail exposures including, but not limited to, the following:
Stochastic modeling produces a range of possible outcomes based on varying assumptions related to the particular product being modeled. For some products, we use models which rely on historical development patterns at an aggregate level, while other products are modeled using individual claim variability assumptions supplied by the claims department. In either case, multiple simulations are run and the results are analyzed to produce a range of potential outcomes. The results will typically include a mean and percentiles of the possible reserve distribution which aid in the selection of a point estimate.
For many exposures, especially those that can be considered long-tail, a particular accident year may not have a sufficient volume of paid losses to produce a statistically reliable estimate of ultimate losses. In such a case, our actuaries typically assign more weight to the incurred development method than to the paid development method. As claims continue to settle and the volume of paid loss increases, the actuaries may assign additional weight to the paid development method. For most of our products, even the incurred losses for accident years that are early in the claim settlement process will not be of sufficient volume to produce a reliable estimate of ultimate losses.
In these cases, we will not assign any weight to the paid and incurred development methods. We will use the loss ratio, Bornhuetter-Ferguson and frequency times severity methods. For short-tail exposures, the paid and incurred development methods can often be relied on sooner, primarily because our history includes a sufficient number of years to cover the entire period over which paid and incurred losses are expected to change. However, we may also use the loss ratio, Bornhuetter-Ferguson and frequency times severity methods for short-tail exposures.
For other more complex products where the above methods may not produce reliable indications, we use additional methods tailored to the characteristics of the specific situation.
For CNA Commercial workers' compensation, since many years will pass from the time the business is written until all claim payments have been made, claim cost inflation on claim payments is the most significant factor affecting workers' compensation reserve estimates. Workers' compensation claim cost inflation is driven by the cost of medical care, the cost of wage replacement, expected claimant lifetimes, judicial decisions, legislative changes and other factors. If estimated workers' compensation claim cost inflation increases by 100 basis points for the entire period over which claim payments will be made, we estimate that our net reserves would increase by approximately $450 million. If estimated workers' compensation claim cost inflation decreases by 100 basis points for the entire period over which claim payments will be made, we estimate that our net reserves would decrease by approximately $400 million. Our net reserves for CNA Commercial workers' compensation were approximately $5.0 billion at December 31, 2011.
The actuarial assumptions represent management's best estimate at the date the contract was issued plus a margin for adverse deviation. Actuarial assumptions include estimates of morbidity, mortality, policy persistency, discount rates and expenses over the life of the contracts. Under GAAP, these assumptions are locked in throughout the life of the contract unless a premium deficiency develops. The impact of differences between the actuarial assumptions and actual experience is reflected in results of operations each period.
Annually, management assesses the adequacy of its GAAP reserves by product group by performing premium deficiency testing. In this test, reserves computed using best estimate assumptions as of the date of the test without provisions for adverse deviation are compared to the recorded reserves. If reserves determined based on management's current best estimate assumptions are greater than the existing net GAAP reserves (i.e. reserves net of any Deferred acquisition costs asset), the existing net GAAP reserves are adjusted to the greater amount.
Our payout annuity reserves consist primarily of single premium group and structured settlement annuities. The annuity payments are generally fixed and are either for a specified period or contingent on the survival of the payee. These reserves are discounted except for reserves for loss adjustment expenses on structured settlements not funded by annuities in our property and casualty insurance companies. We have recognized a premium deficiency on our payout annuity reserves, therefore the actuarial assumptions established at time of issue have been unlocked and updated to management's current best estimate. The actuarial assumptions that management believes are subject to the most variability are discount rates and mortality.
The table below summarizes the estimated pretax impact on our results of operations from various hypothetical revisions to our assumptions. We have assumed that revisions to such assumptions would occur in each policy type, age and duration within each policy group. Although such hypothetical revisions are not currently required or anticipated, we believe they could occur based on past variances in experience and our expectations of the ranges of future experience that could reasonably occur.
Our long term care reserves consist of an active life reserve, a liability for due and unpaid claims, claims in the course of settlement and incurred but not reported claims. The active life reserve represents the present value of expected future benefit payments and expenses less expected future premium.
Our non-core operations are managed in two segments: Life & Group Non-Core and Corporate & Other Non-Core. Life & Group Non-Core primarily includes the results of the life and group lines of business that are in run-off. Corporate & Other Non-Core primarily includes certain corporate expenses, including interest on corporate debt, and the results of certain property and casualty business in run-off, including CNA Re and A&EP. Intersegment eliminations are also included in this segment.
We utilize the net operating income financial measure to monitor our operations. Net operating income is calculated by excluding from net income (loss) attributable to CNA the after-tax effects of 1) net realized investment gains or losses, 2) income or loss from discontinued operations and 3) any cumulative effects of changes in accounting guidance. See further discussion regarding how we manage our business in Note N to the Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8. In evaluating the results of our CNA Specialty and CNA Commercial segments, we utilize the loss ratio, the expense ratio, the dividend ratio and the combined ratio. These ratios are calculated using GAAP financial results. The loss ratio is the percentage of net incurred claim and claim adjustment expenses to net earned premiums. The expense ratio is the percentage of insurance underwriting and acquisition expenses, including the amortization of deferred acquisition costs, to net earned premiums. The dividend ratio is the ratio of policyholders' dividends incurred to net earned premiums. The combined ratio is the sum of the loss, expense and dividend ratios.
Surety offers small, medium and large contract and commercial surety bonds. Surety provides surety and fidelity bonds in all 50 states through a network of independent agencies.
Warranty and Alternative Risks provides extended service contracts and related products that provide protection from the financial burden associated with mechanical breakdown and other related losses, primarily for vehicles and portable electronic communication devices. These products are distributed through and administered by a wholly owned subsidiary, CNA National Warranty Corporation, or through third party administrators.
CNA Specialty's average rate was flat for 2011, as compared to a decrease of 2% in 2010 for the policies that renewed in each period. Retention of 86% was achieved in each period.
Net operating income decreased $106 million in 2011 as compared with 2010, primarily due to lower favorable net prior year development and decreased net investment income.
Net written premiums for CNA Specialty increased $7 million in 2010 as compared with 2009. Net written premiums increased in our professional management and liability lines of business. This increase was partially offset by continued decreased insured exposures and lower rates in our architects & engineers and CNA HealthPro lines of business due to economic and competitive market conditions. Net earned premiums decreased $18 million as compared with the same period in 2009, due to the impact of decreased net written premiums in prior quarters.
CNA Commercial's average rate increased 2% in 2011, as compared with an increase of 1% in 2010 for the policies that renewed in each period. Retention of 79% and 80% was achieved in each period.
Net income decreased $113 million in 2011 as compared with 2010. This decrease was due to lower net operating income, partially offset by improved net realized investment results.
Net operating income decreased $140 million in 2011 as compared with 2010. This decrease was primarily due to lower net investment income, higher catastrophe losses and lower favorable net prior year development. In addition, income tax expense of $22 million was recorded in the third quarter of 2011 due to an increase in the tax rate applicable to the undistributed earnings of a 50% owned subsidiary which was sold later in 2011. The sale resulted in a modest after-tax loss inclusive of this income tax expense. These unfavorable impacts were partially offset by improved non-catastrophe current accident year underwriting results, including lower expenses. In 2010, expenses were unfavorably impacted by IT transformation costs, as further discussed in Note O to the Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.
The combined ratio increased 2.8 points in 2011 as compared with 2010. The loss ratio increased 4.1 points, primarily due to lower favorable net prior year development and higher catastrophe losses, partially offset by an improved current accident year non-catastrophe loss ratio. Catastrophe losses were $208 million, or 6.4 points of the loss ratio, for 2011, as compared to $113 million, or 3.5 points of the loss ratio, for 2010.
The expense ratio improved 1.2 points in 2011 as compared with 2010, primarily due to the favorable impact of recoveries in 2011 on insurance receivables written off in prior years and the impact of IT Transformation costs incurred in 2010, as discussed above.
Favorable net prior year development of $183 million and $256 million was recorded in 2011 and 2010. Further information on CNA Commercial net prior year development for 2011 and 2010 is included in Note F to the Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.
The following table summarizes the gross and net carried reserves as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 for CNA Commercial.
Net loss increased $159 million in 2011 as compared with 2010 due to decreased results in our payout annuity, pension deposit and long term care businesses. In 2011, our payout annuity business was negatively impacted by a $115 million after-tax increase in insurance reserves, due to unlocking actuarial reserve assumptions for anticipated adverse changes in mortality and discount rates, which reflect the current low interest rate environment and our view of expected investment yields. The initial reserving assumptions for these contracts were determined at issuance, including a margin for adverse deviation, and were locked in throughout the life of the contract unless a premium deficiency developed. In 2011, a premium deficiency emerged and the actuarial reserve assumptions were unlocked and revised to management's current best estimates. In 2010, our payout annuity reserves were increased by $39 million pretax and after-tax, resulting from unlocking assumptions. Additionally, long term care claim reserves were increased by $33 million after-tax in 2011.
A number of our separate account pension deposit contracts guarantee principal and an annual minimum rate of interest. If aggregate contract value in the separate account exceeds the fair value of the related assets, an additional Policyholders' funds liability is established. During 2011, we increased this pretax liability by $18 million. During 2010, we decreased this pretax liability by $24 million.
Additionally, the increase in net loss was driven by decreased net realized investment results. The increase in net loss was further driven by favorable reserve development arising from a commutation of an assumed reinsurance agreement in 2010. These unfavorable impacts were partially offset by decreased expenses. In 2010, expenses were unfavorably impacted by the IT transformation costs, as further discussed in Note O to the Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.
The reserve amounts above are net of $1,375 million of ceded reserves and exclude $95 million of claim and claim adjustment expenses and $627 million of future policy benefits relating to Shadow Adjustments, as further discussed in Note A to the Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.
The reserve amounts above are net of $1,502 million of ceded reserves and exclude $235 million of future policy benefits relating to Shadow Adjustments.
Favorable net prior year development of $3 million was recorded in 2011, compared to unfavorable net prior development of $6 million in 2010.
The following table summarizes the gross and net carried reserves as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 for Corporate & Other Non-Core.
Net investment income decreased $262 million in 2011 as compared with 2010. The decrease was primarily driven by a significant decrease in limited partnership results as well as lower fixed maturity security income. Limited partnership results were adversely impacted by less favorable equity market returns, and overall capital market and credit spread volatility. The decrease in fixed maturity security income was primarily driven by reinvestment at lower market rates which led to a decline in the effective income yield of the portfolio.
Net investment income decreased $4 million in 2010 as compared with 2009. This decrease was primarily driven by less favorable income from our limited partnership investments, substantially offset by an investment shift during 2010 from lower yielding short term and tax-exempt securities to higher yielding taxable fixed maturity securities. The unfavorable year-over-year comparison in income from our limited partnership investments was driven by significant returns from our limited partnership investments in 2009.
The fixed maturity investment portfolio provided a pretax effective income yield of 5.5%, 5.6% and 5.7% for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009. Tax-exempt municipal bonds generated $240 million, $263 million and $381 million of net investment income for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009.
Our fixed maturity portfolio consists primarily of high quality bonds, 92% and 91% of which were rated as investment grade (rated BBB- or higher) at December 31, 2011 and 2010. The classification between investment grade and non-investment grade is based on a ratings methodology that takes into account ratings from two major providers, S&P and Moody's, in that order of preference. If a security is not rated by these providers, we formulate an internal rating. At December 31, 2011 and 2010, approximately 98% of the fixed maturity portfolio was issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, Government agencies or Government-sponsored enterprises or was rated by S&P or Moody's.
The investment portfolio is periodically analyzed for changes in duration and related price risk. Additionally, we periodically review the sensitivity of the portfolio to the level of foreign exchange rates and other factors that contribute to market price changes. A summary of these risks and specific analysis on changes is included in
The Company has historically reported certain run-off insurance operations acquired in its merger with The Continental Corporation in 1995 as discontinued operations. Due to the immateriality of the remaining liabilities, effective in the third quarter of 2011, the Company is no longer reporting these run-off operations as discontinued operations.
The Company's core property and casualty insurance operations are reported in two business segments: CNA Specialty and CNA Commercial. The Company's non-core operations are managed in two segments: Life & Group Non-Core and Corporate & Other Non-Core.
Core insurance products include commercial property and casualty coverages, including surety. Non-core insurance products, which primarily have been placed in run-off, include life and accident and health insurance; retirement products and annuities; and property and casualty reinsurance. CNA services include risk management, information services, warranty and claims administration. The Company's products and services are primarily marketed through independent agents, brokers, and managing general underwriters.
On June 10, 2011, CNA completed the acquisition of the noncontrolling interest of CNA Surety. Previously the Company owned approximately 61% of the outstanding publicly-traded common stock of CNA Surety. CNA Surety is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of CCC, and, effective after the close of the stock market on June 10, 2011, trading in CNA Surety common stock ceased.
The aggregate purchase price was approximately $475 million, based on the offer price of $26.55 per share and inclusive of the retirement of CNA Surety employee stock options. The amount paid to acquire the common stock of CNA Surety not owned by the Company in excess of the closing date noncontrolling interest included in the Company's equity of $434 million was reflected as an adjustment to Additional Paid-in Capital and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on the Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity. During 2011, net income attributable to the noncontrolling interest in CNA Surety through the acquisition date of June 10, 2011 was $12 million and is reflected on the Consolidated Statement of Operations. For the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, net income attributable to the noncontrolling interest in CNA Surety was $52 million and $46 million.
Structured settlements have been negotiated for certain property and casualty insurance claims. Structured settlements are agreements to provide fixed periodic payments to claimants. Certain structured settlements are funded by annuities purchased from CAC for which the related annuity obligations are reported in Future policy benefits reserves. Obligations for structured settlements not funded by annuities are included in claim and claim adjustment expense reserves and carried at present values determined using interest rates ranging from 5.5% to 8.0% at December 31, 2011 and 4.6% to 7.5% at December 31, 2010. At December 31, 2011 and 2010, the discounted reserves for unfunded structured settlements were $632 million and $713 million, net of discount of $1.1 billion in both periods.
Workers' compensation lifetime claim reserves are calculated using mortality assumptions determined through statutory regulation and economic factors. Accident and health claim reserves are calculated using mortality and morbidity assumptions based on Company and industry experience. Workers' compensation lifetime claim reserves and accident and health claim reserves are discounted at interest rates ranging from 3.0% to 6.5% at both December 31, 2011 and 2010. At December 31, 2011 and 2010, such discounted reserves totaled $2.1 billion and $1.9 billion, net of discount of $520 million and $487 million.
Future policy benefits reserves: Reserves for long term care products and payout annuity contracts are computed using the net level premium method, which incorporates actuarial assumptions as to morbidity, mortality, persistency, discount rates, which are impacted by expected investment yields, and expenses. Expense assumptions include the estimated effects of expenses to be incurred beyond the premium paying period. Actuarial assumptions generally vary by plan, age at issue and policy duration. The initial assumptions are determined at issuance, include a margin for adverse deviation, and are locked in throughout the life of the contract unless a premium deficiency develops. If a premium deficiency emerges, the assumptions are unlocked and deferred acquisition costs, if any, and the future policy benefit reserves are adjusted. Interest rates for long-term care products range from 5.0% to 7.5% at December 31, 2011 and from 6.0% to 7.6% at December 31, 2010. Interest rates for payout annuity contracts range from 5.4% to 7.5% at December 31, 2011 and from 2.8% to 10.2% at December 31, 2010. In 2011, the Company unlocked assumptions related to its payout annuity contracts due to anticipated adverse changes in mortality and discount rates, which reflect the current low interest rate environment and our view of expected investment yields, resulting in loss recognition which increased insurance reserves by $166 million.
The Company has established an allowance for uncollectible reinsurance receivables which relates to both amounts already billed on ceded paid losses as well as ceded reserves that will be billed when losses are paid in the future. The allowance for uncollectible reinsurance receivables is estimated on the basis of periodic evaluations of balances due from reinsurers, reinsurer solvency, management's experience and current economic conditions. Reinsurer financial strength ratings are updated and reviewed on an annual basis or sooner if the Company becomes aware of significant changes related to a reinsurer. Because billed receivables are generally less than 5% of total reinsurance receivables, the age of the reinsurance receivables related to paid losses is not a significant input into the allowance analysis. Changes in the allowance for uncollectible reinsurance receivables are presented as a component of Insurance claims and policyholders' benefits on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Deferred acquisition costs: Acquisition costs include commissions, premium taxes and certain underwriting and policy issuance costs which vary with and are related primarily to the acquisition of business. Such costs related to property and casualty business are deferred and amortized ratably over the period the related premiums are earned.
Deferred acquisition costs related to accident and health insurance are amortized over the premium-paying period of the related policies using assumptions consistent with those used for computing future policy benefit reserves for such contracts. Assumptions are made at the date of policy issuance or acquisition and are consistently applied during the lives of the contracts. Deviations from estimated experience are included in results of operations when they occur. For these contracts, the amortization period is typically the estimated life of the policy. At December 31, 2011 and 2010, Deferred acquisition costs were presented net of Shadow Adjustments, as defined later in this note, of $412 million and $0 million.
The Company evaluates deferred acquisition costs for recoverability. Anticipated investment income is considered in the determination of the recoverability of deferred acquisition costs. Adjustments, if necessary, are recorded in current results of operations. Deferred acquisition costs are presented net of ceding commissions and other ceded acquisition costs. Unamortized deferred acquisition costs relating to contracts that have been substantially changed by a modification in benefits, features, rights or coverages that were not anticipated in the original contract are not deferred and are included as a charge to operations in the period during which the contract modification occurred.
The Company accounts for its investments in life settlement contracts using the fair value method. Under the fair value method, each life settlement contract is carried at its fair value at the end of each reporting period. The change in fair value, life insurance proceeds received and periodic maintenance costs, such as premiums, necessary to keep the underlying policy in force, are recorded in Other revenues on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The fair value of the Company's investments in life settlement contracts were $117 million and $129 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, and are included in Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The cash receipts and payments related to life settlement contracts are included in Cash flows from operating activities on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
To the extent that unrealized gains on fixed income securities supporting long term care products and payout annuity contracts would result in a premium deficiency if those gains were realized, a related decrease in Deferred acquisition costs and/or increase in Insurance reserves are recorded, net of tax, as a reduction of net unrealized gains through Other comprehensive income (Shadow Adjustments). For the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, Shadow Adjustments, net of participating policyholders' interest, of $582 million and $150 million, were recorded, net of tax. At December 31, 2011 and 2010, net unrealized gains on investments included in Accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) were correspondingly reduced by $732 million and $150 million.
Mortgage loans are commercial in nature and are carried at unpaid principal balance, net of unamortized fees and any valuation allowance. Mortgage loans are considered to be impaired loans when it is probable that contractual principal and interest payments will not be collected. A valuation allowance is established for impaired loans to the extent that the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's original effective interest rate is less than the carrying value of the loan. Interest income from mortgage loans is recognized on an accrual basis using the effective yield method. Accrual of income is generally suspended for mortgage loans that are impaired and collection of principal and interest payments is unlikely. Mortgage loans are considered past due when full principal or interest payments have not been received according to contractual terms.
Other invested assets include certain derivative securities and securities containing embedded credit derivatives for which the fair value option was elected.
The Company and its eligible subsidiaries (CNA Tax Group) are included in the consolidated federal income tax return of Loews and its eligible subsidiaries. The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method. Under the asset and liability method, deferred income taxes are recognized for temporary differences between the financial statement and tax return bases of assets and liabilities, based on enacted tax rates and other provisions of the tax law. The effect of a change in tax laws or rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is
recognized in income in the period in which such change is enacted. Future tax benefits are recognized to the extent that realization of such benefits is more likely than not, and a valuation allowance is established for any portion of a deferred tax asset that management believes will not be realized.
The Company records compensation expense using the fair value method for all awards it grants, modifies, repurchases or cancels primarily on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period, generally four years.
Foreign currency translation gains and losses are reflected in Stockholders' equity as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive income. The Company's foreign subsidiaries' balance sheet accounts are translated at the exchange rates in effect at each year end and income statement accounts are either translated at the exchange rate on the date of the transaction or at the average exchange rates. Foreign currency transaction gains (losses) of $4 million, $(19) million and $(14) million were included in determining net income (loss) for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009.
For the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, approximately 290 thousand, 380 thousand and 120 thousand potential shares attributable to exercises under stock-based employee compensation plans were included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share. For those same periods, approximately 1.1 million, 1.2 million and 1.7 million potential shares attributable to exercises under stock-based employee compensation plans were not included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share because the effect would have been antidilutive.
In October 2010, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued updated accounting guidance that limits the capitalization of costs incurred to acquire or renew insurance contracts to those that are incremental direct costs of successful contract acquisitions. The updated accounting guidance is effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011, with prospective or retrospective application allowed. Effective January 1, 2012, the Company will adopt this updated accounting guidance retrospectively and estimates the cumulative effect as of December 31, 2011 will reduce Total CNA stockholders' equity by $70 million, after tax.
There were no net unrealized gains (losses) related to changes in fair value of trading securities still held included in net investment income for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010. Net unrealized losses related to changes in fair value on trading securities still held included in net investment income were $5 million for the year ended December 31, 2009.
As of December 31, 2011, the Company held nine non-income producing fixed maturity securities aggregating $3 million of fair value. As of December 31, 2010, the Company held seven non-income producing fixed maturity securities aggregating $3 million of fair value. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, no investments in a single issuer exceeded 10% of stockholders' equity, other than investments in securities issued by the U.S. Treasury and obligations of government-sponsored enterprises.
Includes net unrealized gains (losses) related to changes in the fair value of securities for which the fair value option has been elected. Net unrealized gains (losses) were $2 million and $(1) million for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010.
The following table summarizes the activity for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 and for the period from April 1, 2009 to December 31, 2009 related to the pretax credit loss component reflected in Retained earnings on fixed maturity securities still held at December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 for which a portion of an OTTI loss was recognized in Other comprehensive income.
The classification between investment grade and non-investment grade presented in the discussion below is based on a ratings methodology that takes into account ratings from two major providers, Standard & Poor's and Moody's Investor Services, Inc. in that order of preference. If a security is not rated by these providers, the Company formulates an internal rating.
The following table summarizes corporate and other bonds in a gross unrealized loss position by ratings distribution at December 31, 2011.
The unrealized losses on the Company's investments in this category are primarily due to market conditions for zero coupon bonds, particularly for those with maturity dates that exceed 20 years. Yields for these securities continue to be higher than historical norms relative to after-tax returns on similar fixed income securities. Securities that comprise 83% of the gross unrealized losses in this category are rated AA or higher.
The fair value of total asset-backed holdings at December 31, 2011 was $8,084 million which was comprised of 2,010 different securities. The fair value of these securities tends to be influenced by the characteristics and projected cash flows of the underlying collateral rather than the credit of the issuer. Each security has deal-specific tranche structures, credit support that results from the unique deal structure, particular collateral characteristics and other distinct security terms. As a result, seemingly common factors such as delinquency rates and collateral performance affect each security differently. Of these securities, 112 had underlying collateral that was either considered sub-prime or Alt-A in nature. The exposure to sub-prime residential mortgage (sub-prime) collateral and Alternative A residential mortgages that have lower than normal standards of loan documentation (Alt-A) collateral is measured by the original deal structure.
The gross unrealized losses on residential mortgage-backed securities included $35 million related to securities guaranteed by a U.S. government agency or sponsored enterprise and $148 million related to non-agency structured securities. Non-agency structured securities included 131 securities that had at least one trade lot in a gross unrealized loss position and the aggregate severity of the gross unrealized loss was approximately 11% of amortized cost.
Other asset-backed securities included 51 securities that had at least one trade lot in a gross unrealized loss position. The aggregate severity of the gross unrealized loss was approximately 1% of amortized cost.
The Company believes the unrealized losses are primarily attributable to broader economic conditions, changes in interest rates, wider than historical bid/ask spreads, and uncertainty with regard to the timing and amount of ultimate collateral realization, but are not indicative of the ultimate collectibility of the current carrying values of the securities. The Company has no current intent to sell these securities, nor is it more likely than not that it will be required to sell prior to recovery of amortized cost; accordingly, the Company has determined that there are no additional OTTI losses to be recorded at December 31, 2011.
The carrying value of limited partnerships as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 was $2,245 million and $2,309 million, which includes undistributed earnings of $560 million and $723 million. Limited partnerships comprising 58% of the total carrying value are reported on a current basis through December 31, 2011 with no reporting lag, 25% are reported on a one month lag and the remainder are reported on more than a one month lag. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company had 79 and 75 active limited partnership investments. The number of limited partnerships held and the strategies employed provide diversification to the limited partnership portfolio and the overall invested asset portfolio.
Risks related to the recoverability of loan balances include declines in the estimated cash flows from underlying property leases, fair value of collateral and creditworthiness of tenants of credit tenant loan properties, where lease payments directly service the loan. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, 14% and 40% of the carrying value of mortgage loans related to credit tenant loans. The Company evaluates loans for impairment on a specific loan basis and identifies loans for evaluation of impairment based on the collection experience of each loan and other credit quality indicators such as debt service coverage ratio and the creditworthiness of the borrower or tenants of credit tenant loan properties. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, there were no loans past due or in non-accrual status, and no valuation allowance was recorded.
The Company invests in various privately placed debt securities, including bank loans, as part of its overall investment strategy and has committed to additional future purchases, sales and funding. The purchase and sale of these investments are recorded on the date that the legal agreements are finalized and cash settlements are made. As of December 31, 2011, the Company had commitments to purchase $95 million and sell $69 million of such investments. The Company has an obligation to fund additional amounts under the terms of current loan participations that may not be recorded until a draw is made. As of December 31, 2011, the Company had obligations on unfunded bank loan participations in the amount of $6 million.
As of December 31, 2011, the Company had mortgage loan commitments of $48 million representing signed loan applications received and accepted. The mortgage loans are recorded once funded.
The Company enters into interest rate swaps, futures and commitments to purchase securities to manage interest rate risk. Credit derivatives such as credit default swaps (CDS) are entered into to modify the credit risk inherent in certain investments. The Company uses foreign currency forward contracts, primarily British pounds, Euros and Canadian dollars, to manage foreign currency risk.
Credit exposure associated with non-performance by the counterparties to derivative instruments is generally limited to the uncollateralized fair value of the asset related to the instruments recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Company generally requires that all over-the-counter derivative contracts be governed by an International Swaps and Derivatives Association Master Agreement, and exchanges collateral under the terms of these agreements with its derivative investment counterparties depending on the amount of the exposure and the credit rating of the counterparty. The Company does not offset its net derivative positions against the fair value of the collateral provided. The fair value of cash collateral provided by the Company was $1 million and $2 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010. There was no cash collateral received from counterparties held at December 31, 2011 as compared to $1 million at December 31, 2010.
Derivative securities are recorded at fair value. See Note D for information regarding the fair value of derivative securities. Changes in the fair value of derivatives not associated with the trading portfolio are reported in Net realized investment gains (losses) on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Changes in the fair value of derivatives associated with the trading portfolio are reported in Net investment income on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Prices may fall within Level 1, 2 or 3 depending upon the methodologies and inputs used to estimate fair value for each specific security. In general the Company seeks to price securities using third-party pricing services. Securities not priced by pricing services are submitted to independent brokers for valuation and, if those are not available, internally developed pricing models are used to value assets using methodologies and inputs the Company believes market participants would use to value the assets.
Derivative financial instruments not held in a trading portfolio and fair value option financial instruments
Exchange traded derivatives, primarily futures, are valued using quoted market prices and are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Level 2 derivatives primarily include currency forwards valued using observable market forward rates. Over-the-counter derivatives, principally interest rate swaps, total return swaps, credit default swaps, equity warrants and options, are valued using inputs including broker/dealer quotes and are classified within
The carrying amount and estimated fair value of the Company's financial instrument assets and liabilities which are not measured at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets are listed in the table below.
Premium deposits and annuity contracts were valued based on cash surrender values, estimated fair values or policyholder liabilities, net of amounts ceded related to sold business.
For the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009 the Company received from Loews $10 million, $298 million, and $196 million related to federal income taxes.
For 2009 through 2011, the IRS invited Loews and the Company to participate in the Compliance Assurance Process (CAP), which is a voluntary program for a limited number of large corporations. Under CAP, the IRS conducts a real-time audit and works contemporaneously with the Company to resolve any issues prior to the filing of the tax return. Loews and the Company agreed to participate. The Company believes that this approach should reduce tax-related uncertainties, if any.
At December 31, 2011 and 2010, there were no unrecognized tax benefits.
The Company recognizes interest accrued related to: 1) unrecognized tax benefits in Interest expense and 2) tax refund claims in Other revenues on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The Company recognizes penalties (if any) in Income tax (expense) benefit on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. During 2011 and 2010, the Company did not recognize any interest or penalties. During 2009, the Company recognized $2 million of interest income and no penalties. There were no amounts accrued for interest or penalties at December 31, 2011 and 2010.
The following table provides a reconciliation between the Company's federal income tax (expense) benefit at statutory rates and the recorded income tax (expense) benefit, excluding discontinued operations.
The following table provides the current and deferred components of the Company's income tax (expense) benefit, excluding taxes on discontinued operations.
The deferred tax effects of the significant components of the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities are set forth in the table below.
Catastrophes are an inherent risk of the property and casualty insurance business and have contributed to material period-to-period fluctuations in the Company's results of operations and/or equity. The Company reported catastrophe losses, net of reinsurance, of $222 million, $121 million and $89 million for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009. Catastrophe losses in 2011 related primarily to domestic storms, Hurricane Irene and the Japanese event.
Under the terms of the NICO transaction, effective January 1, 2010 the Company ceded approximately $1.6 billion of net A&EP claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserves to NICO under a retroactive reinsurance agreement with an aggregate limit of $4 billion. Included in the $1.6 billion of net A&EP claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserves was approximately $90 million of net claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserves relating to the Company’s discontinued operations. The $1.6 billion of claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserves ceded to NICO was net of $1.2 billion of ceded claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserves under existing third party reinsurance contracts. The NICO aggregate reinsurance limit also covers credit risk on the existing third party reinsurance related to these liabilities.
The Company paid NICO a reinsurance premium of $2 billion and transferred to NICO billed third party reinsurance receivables related to A&EP claims with a net book value of $215 million (net of an allowance of $100 million for uncollectible reinsurance receivables on billed third party reinsurance receivables, as discussed further below). As of August 31, 2010, NICO deposited approximately $2.2 billion in a collateral trust account as security for its obligations to the Company. This $2.2 billion will be reduced by the amount of net A&EP claim and allocated claim adjustment expense payments. In addition, Berkshire Hathaway Inc. guaranteed the payment obligations of NICO up to the full aggregate reinsurance limit as well as certain of NICO’s performance obligations under the trust agreement. NICO is responsible for claims handling and billing and collection from third party reinsurers related to the Company’s A&EP claims.
Changes in estimates of claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserves and premium accruals, net of reinsurance, for prior years are defined as net prior year development. These changes can be favorable or unfavorable. The following tables and discussion include the net prior year development recorded for CNA Specialty, CNA Commercial and Corporate & Other Non-Core segments for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009. The net prior year development presented below includes premium development due to its direct relationship to claim and claim adjustment expense reserve development. The net prior year development presented below also includes the impact of commutations and write-offs, but excludes the impact of increases or decreases in the allowance for uncollectible reinsurance. See Note H for further discussion of the provision for uncollectible reinsurance.
The following table provides further detail of the net prior year claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserve development (development) recorded for the CNA Specialty segment for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009.
Favorable development in warranty was driven by favorable policy year experience on an aggregate stop loss policy covering the Company's non-insurance warranty subsidiary.
Other includes standard property and casualty coverages provided to CNA Specialty customers. Unfavorable development for other coverages was primarily due to increased frequency of large claims in auto and workers' compensation coverages in accident years 2009 and 2010.
Favorable development for commercial auto coverages was primarily due to lower than expected frequency and severity trends in accident years 2009 and prior.
Unfavorable development was recorded related to environmental pollution. The Company noted adverse development in various pollution accounts due to changes in the liabilities attributed to our policyholders and adverse changes in case law impacting insurers' coverage obligations. These changes in turn increased the Company's account estimates on certain accounts. In addition, the frequency of environmental pollution claims did not decline at the rate previously anticipated.
The Company cedes insurance to reinsurers to limit its maximum loss, provide greater diversification of risk, minimize exposures on larger risks and to exit certain lines of business. The ceding of insurance does not discharge the primary liability of the Company. A credit exposure exists with respect to property and casualty and life reinsurance ceded to the extent that any reinsurer is unable to meet its obligations or to the extent that the reinsurer disputes the liabilities assumed under reinsurance agreements. Property and casualty reinsurance coverages are tailored to the specific risk characteristics of each product line and the Company's retained amount varies by type of coverage. Reinsurance contracts are purchased to protect specific lines of business such as property and workers' compensation. Corporate catastrophe reinsurance is also purchased for property and workers' compensation exposure. Currently, most reinsurance contracts are purchased on an excess of loss basis. The Company also utilizes facultative reinsurance in certain lines. In addition, the Company assumes reinsurance as a member of various reinsurance pools and associations.
The following table summarizes the amounts receivable from reinsurers at December 31, 2011 and 2010.
The Company's largest recoverables from a single reinsurer at December 31, 2011, including prepaid reinsurance premiums, were approximately $2.5 billion from subsidiaries of Berkshire Hathaway Group, $1.0 billion from subsidiaries of Swiss Re Group, and $400 million from subsidiaries of the Hartford Insurance Group. The recoverable from the Berkshire Hathaway Group includes amounts related to third party reinsurance for which a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway has assumed the credit risk under the terms of the Loss Portfolio Transfer as discussed in Note F.
Included in the direct and ceded earned premiums for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 are $1,500 million, $1,383 million and $1,385 million related to business that is 100% reinsured as a result of a significant captive program.
Insurance claims and policyholders' benefits reported on the Consolidated Statements of Operations are net of reinsurance recoveries of $1,285 million, $1,121 million and $1,297 million for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, including $790 million, $735 million and $897 million related to the significant captive program discussed above.
As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company has ceded $1,211 million and $1,301 million of claim and claim adjustment expense reserves, future policy benefits and policyholders' funds as a result of business operations sold in prior years. Subject to certain exceptions, the purchasers assumed the third party reinsurance credit risk of the sold business.
On August 1, 2007, the Company entered into a five-year credit agreement with a syndicate of banks and other lenders. The credit agreement established a $250 million senior unsecured revolving credit facility which is intended to be used for general corporate purposes. Borrowings under the revolving credit facility bear interest at the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus the Company's credit risk spread. Under the credit agreement, the Company is required to pay certain fees, including a facility fee and a utilization fee, both of which would adjust automatically in the event of a change in the Company's financial ratings. The credit agreement includes covenants regarding maintenance of a minimum consolidated net worth and a specified ratio of consolidated indebtedness to consolidated total capitalization. The full limit of $250 million is available as of December 31, 2011.
The combined aggregate maturities for debt at December 31, 2011 are presented in the following table.
In November 2010, CNA announced a change in its postretirement benefits. The plan previously offered a maximum $10,000 non-contributory retiree life insurance benefit to participants who met certain eligibility requirements. The change eliminated this benefit for all active employees effective January 1, 2011, and for all retirees effective January 1, 2012. The change was treated as a negative plan amendment and the effect of this change was a reduction to the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation of $60 million at December 31, 2010.
The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit pension plans was $2,932 million and $2,715 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010.
In determining the expected long term rate of return on plan assets assumption for the CNA Retirement Plan, CNA considered the historical performance of the benefit plan investment portfolio as well as long term market return expectations based on the investment mix of the portfolio.
The health care cost trend rate assumption has a significant effect on the amount of the benefit obligation and periodic cost reported. An increase in the assumed health care cost trend rate of 1% in each year would have no significant impact on the Company's accumulated postretirement benefit obligation as of December 31, 2011 and would have no significant impact on the Company's aggregate net periodic postretirement benefit for 2011. A decrease in the assumed health care cost trend rate of 1% in each year would decrease the Company's accumulated postretirement benefit obligation as of December 31, 2011 by $3 million and would have no significant impact on the Company's aggregate net periodic postretirement benefit for 2011.
CNA employs a total return approach whereby a mix of equity and fixed maturity securities are used to maximize the long term return of plan assets for a prudent level of risk and to manage cash flows according to plan requirements. The intent of this strategy is to minimize plan expenses by outperforming plan liabilities over the long run. Risk tolerance is established after careful consideration of the plan liabilities, plan funded status and corporate financial conditions. The investment portfolio contains a diversified blend of fixed maturity, equity and short term securities. Alternative investments, including limited partnerships, are used to enhance risk adjusted long term returns while improving portfolio diversification. At December 31, 2011 the plan had committed approximately $27 million to future capital calls from various third-party limited partnership investments in exchange for an ownership interest in the related partnerships. Derivatives may be used to gain market exposure in an efficient and timely manner. Investment risk is measured and monitored on an ongoing basis through annual liability measurements, periodic asset/liability studies and quarterly investment portfolio reviews.
The limited partnership investments are recorded at fair value, which represents the plan's share of net asset value of each partnership, as determined by the General Partner. Level 2 includes limited partnership investments which can be redeemed at net asset value in 90 days or less. Level 3 includes limited partnership investments with withdrawal provisions greater than 90 days, or for which withdrawals are not permitted until the termination of the partnership. Within hedge fund strategies, approximately 53% are equity related, 36% pursue a multi-strategy approach, 10% are focused on distressed investments and 1% are fixed income related at December 31, 2011.
For a discussion of the fair value levels and the valuation methodologies used to measure fixed maturity securities, equities, derivatives and short term investments, see Note D.
The tables below present a reconciliation for all pension plan assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010.
The Company recorded stock-based compensation expense related to the Plan of $6 million, $5 million and $3 million for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009. The related income tax benefit recognized was $2 million, $2 million and $1 million. The compensation cost related to nonvested awards not yet recognized was $10 million, and the weighted average period over which it is expected to be recognized is 1.83 years at December 31, 2011.
The following table presents the significant assumptions used to estimate the fair value of granted stock options and SARs for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009.
The table below presents the future minimum lease payments to be made under non-cancelable operating leases along with future minimum sublease receipts to be received on owned and leased properties at December 31, 2011.
In the event that the other parties to the joint venture are unable to meet their commitments in funding the operations of this joint venture, the Company would be required to assume the obligation for the entire office building operating lease. The Company does not believe it is likely that it will be required to do so. However, the maximum potential future lease payments and other related costs at December 31, 2011 that the Company could be required to pay under this guarantee, in excess of amounts already recorded, were approximately $134 million. If the Company were required to assume the entire lease obligation, the Company would have the right to pursue reimbursement from the other shareholders and the right to all sublease revenues.
In the course of selling business entities and assets to third parties, the Company has agreed to indemnify purchasers for losses arising out of breaches of representation and warranties with respect to the business entities or assets being sold, including, in certain cases, losses arising from undisclosed liabilities or certain named litigation. Such indemnification provisions generally survive for periods ranging from nine months following the applicable closing date to the expiration of the relevant statutes of limitation. As of December 31, 2011, the aggregate amount of quantifiable indemnification agreements in effect for sales of business entities, assets and third party loans was $764 million.
In addition, the Company has agreed to provide indemnification to third party purchasers for certain losses associated with sold business entities or assets that are not limited by a contractual monetary amount. As of December 31, 2011, the Company had outstanding unlimited indemnifications in connection with the sales of certain of its business entities or assets that included tax liabilities arising prior to a purchaser's ownership of an entity or asset, defects in title at the time of sale, employee claims arising prior to closing and in some cases losses arising from certain litigation and undisclosed liabilities. These indemnification agreements survive until the applicable statutes of limitation expire, or until the agreed upon contract terms expire.
As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company had recorded liabilities of approximately $15 million and $16 million related to indemnification agreements and management believes that it is not likely that any future indemnity claims will be significantly greater than the amounts recorded.
CNAF used the majority of the proceeds from the 2008 Senior Preferred to increase the statutory surplus of its principal insurance subsidiary, CCC, through the purchase of a $1.0 billion surplus note of CCC. Surplus notes are financial instruments with a stated maturity date and scheduled interest payments, issued by insurance enterprises with the approval of the insurer’s domiciliary state. Surplus notes are treated as capital under statutory accounting. All payments of interest and principal on this note are subject to the prior approval of the Illinois Department of Insurance (the Department). The surplus note of CCC has a term of 30 years and accrues interest at a rate of 10% per year. Interest on the note is payable quarterly. In 2011 and 2010, the Company received regulatory approval from the Department for CCC to repay $250 million and $500 million of the $1.0 billion surplus note to CNAF, leaving an outstanding balance of $250 million as of December 31, 2011.
Dividends of $0.40 per share on CNA's common stock were declared and paid in 2011. No common stock dividends were declared or paid in 2010 or 2009.
CNAF’s insurance subsidiaries are domiciled in various jurisdictions. These subsidiaries prepare statutory financial statements in accordance with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the respective jurisdictions’ insurance regulators. Domestic prescribed statutory accounting practices are set forth in a variety of publications of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) as well as state laws, regulations and general administrative rules.
The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in Note A. The Company manages most of its assets on a legal entity basis, while segment operations are conducted across legal entities. As such, only insurance and reinsurance receivables, insurance reserves and deferred acquisition costs are readily identifiable by individual segment. Distinct investment portfolios are not maintained for each individual segment; accordingly, allocation of assets to each segment is not performed. Therefore, net investment income and realized investment gains or losses are allocated primarily based on each segment's net carried insurance reserves, as adjusted. All significant intrasegment income and expense has been eliminated. Income taxes have been allocated on the basis of the taxable income of the segments.
Net operating income (loss) is calculated by excluding from net income (loss) attributable to CNA the after-tax effects of 1) net realized investment gains or losses, 2) income or loss from discontinued operations and 3) any cumulative effects of changes in accounting guidance. The calculation of net operating income excludes net realized investment gains or losses because net realized investment gains or losses are largely discretionary, except for some losses related to OTTI, and are generally driven by economic factors that are not necessarily consistent with key drivers of underwriting performance, and are therefore not considered an indication of trends in insurance operations.
CNA previously sponsored a stock ownership plan whereby the Company financed the purchase of Company common stock by certain former officers, including executive officers. Interest charged on the principal amount of these outstanding stock purchase loans is generally equivalent to the long term applicable federal rate, compounded semi-annually, in effect on the disbursement date of the loan. Loans made pursuant to the plan are generally full recourse and are secured by the stock purchased. The loans were originally issued with a ten-year maturity date, and the majority of the remaining loans have been extended with terms maturing through October 2014. The carrying value of the loans as of December 31, 2011 approximates the fair value of the related common stock collateral.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2011, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedules, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein. Also, in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2011, based on the
As discussed in Note B to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed its accounting for the recognition and presentation of other-than-temporary impairments in 2009.