(1)As of December 31, 2013, $11.98 billion of investments and $12.84 billion of reserves for life-contingent contract benefits and contractholder funds are classified as held for sale relating to the pending sale of Lincoln Benefit Life Company (see Note 4 of the consolidated financial statements).
The following discussion highlights significant factors influencing the consolidated financial position and results of operations of The Allstate Corporation (referred to in this document as "we," "our," "us," the "Company" or "Allstate"). It should be read in conjunction with the 5-year summary of selected financial data, consolidated financial statements and related notes found under Part II. Item 6. and Item 8. contained herein. Further analysis of our insurance segments is provided in the Property-Liability Operations (which includes the Allstate Protection and the Discontinued Lines and Coverages segments) and in the Allstate Financial Segment sections of Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A"). The segments are consistent with the way in which we use financial information to evaluate business performance and to determine the allocation of resources. Resources are allocated by the chief operating decision maker and performance is assessed for Allstate Protection, Discontinued Lines and Coverages and Allstate Financial. Allstate Protection performance and resources are managed by a committee of senior officers of the segment.
•grow insurance policies in force; •maintain the underlying combined ratio; •proactively manage investments to generate attractive risk adjusted returns; •modernize the operating model; and •build long-term growth platforms.
Despite the increase in interest rates during 2013, our current reinvestment yields are generally lower than the overall portfolio income yield, primarily for our investments in fixed income securities and commercial mortgage loans. At the December 2013 meeting, the Federal Reserve Board announced its decision to reduce the amount of its purchases of both longer-term Treasury and agency mortgage-backed securities in the open market. The Federal Open Market Committee also reaffirmed its view that a highly accommodative stance of monetary policy will remain appropriate for a considerable time after the asset purchase program ends and the economic recovery strengthens and stated that it now anticipates that it likely will be appropriate to maintain the current target range for the federal funds rate well past the time that the unemployment rate declines below 6.5 percent, especially if projected inflation continues to run below the Committee's 2 percent longer-run goal. We anticipate that interest rates will continue to increase but remain below historic averages and the portfolio income yield for some period. We also expect capital markets to remain volatile.
rate guarantees but for which underlying assets may have to be reinvested at interest rates that are lower than portfolio rates, such as structured settlements and term life insurance, may also be adversely impacted.
•Managing our exposure to interest rate risk by maintaining a shorter maturity profile in the Property-Liability portfolio. •Shifting the portfolio mix to have less reliance on investments whose returns come primarily from interest payments to investments in which we have ownership interests and a greater proportion of return is derived from idiosyncratic operating or market performance including equities and real estate. •Investing to the specific needs and characteristics of Allstate's businesses.
We also perform an analysis to determine whether there has been a significant decrease in the volume and level of activity for the asset when compared to normal market activity, and if so, whether transactions may not be orderly. Among the indicators we consider in determining whether a significant decrease in the volume and level of market activity for a specific asset has occurred include the level of new issuances in the primary market, trading volume in the secondary market, level of credit spreads over historical levels, bid-ask spread, and price consensuses among market participants and sources. If evidence indicates that prices are based on transactions that are not orderly, we place little, if any, weight on the transaction price and will estimate fair value using an internal model. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, we did not alter fair values provided by our valuation service providers or brokers or substitute them with an internal model for such securities.
For additional detail on fair value measurements, see Note 7 of the consolidated financial statements.
Impairment of fixed income and equity securities For investments classified as available for sale, the difference between fair value and amortized cost for fixed income securities and cost for equity securities, net of certain other items and deferred income taxes (as disclosed in Note 6), is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position and is not reflected in the operating results of any period until reclassified to net income upon the consummation of a transaction with an unrelated third party or when a write-down is recorded due to an other-than-temporary decline in fair value. We have a comprehensive portfolio monitoring process to identify and evaluate each fixed income and equity security whose carrying value may be other-than-temporarily impaired.
Once assumptions and estimates are made, any number of changes in facts and circumstances could cause us to subsequently determine that a fixed income or equity security is other-than-temporarily impaired, including: 1) general economic conditions that are worse than previously forecasted or that have a greater adverse effect on a particular issuer or industry sector than originally estimated; 2) changes in the facts and circumstances related to a particular issue or issuer's ability to meet all of its contractual obligations; and 3) changes in facts and circumstances that result in changes to management's intent to sell or result in our assessment that it is more likely than not we will be required to sell before recovery of the amortized cost basis of a fixed income security or causes a change in our ability or intent to hold an equity security until it recovers in value. Changes in assumptions, facts and circumstances could result in additional charges to earnings in future periods to the extent that losses are realized. The charge to earnings, while potentially significant to net income, would not have a significant effect on shareholders' equity, since our securities are designated as available for sale and carried at fair value and as a result, any related unrealized loss, net of deferred income taxes and related DAC, deferred sales inducement costs and reserves for life-contingent contract benefits, would already be reflected as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income in shareholders' equity.
The determination of the amount of other-than-temporary impairment is an inherently subjective process based on periodic evaluations of the factors described above. Such evaluations and assessments are revised as conditions change and new information becomes available. We update our evaluations regularly and reflect changes in other-than-temporary impairments in results of operations as such evaluations are revised. The use of different methodologies and assumptions in the determination of the amount of other-than-temporary impairments may have a material effect on the amounts presented within the consolidated financial statements.
Annually, we review and update all assumptions underlying the projections of EGP, including persistency, mortality, expenses, investment returns, comprising investment income and realized capital gains and losses, interest crediting rates and the effect of any hedges. At each reporting period, we assess whether any revisions to assumptions used to determine DAC amortization are required. These reviews and updates may result in amortization acceleration or deceleration, which are commonly referred to as "DAC unlocking". If the update of assumptions causes total EGP to increase, the rate of DAC amortization will generally decrease, resulting in a current period increase to earnings. A decrease to earnings generally occurs when the assumption update causes the total EGP to decrease.
The following table displays the sensitivity of reasonably likely changes in assumptions included in the gross profit components of investment margin or benefit margin to amortization of the DAC balance as of December 31, 2013.
Reserves are reestimated quarterly and periodically throughout the year, by combining historical results with current actual results to calculate new development factors. This process incorporates the historic and latest actual trends, and other underlying changes in the data elements used to calculate reserve estimates. New development factors are likely to differ from previous development factors used in prior reserve estimates because actual results (claims reported or settled, losses paid, or changes to case reserves) occur differently than the implied assumptions contained in the previous development factor calculations. If claims reported, paid losses, or case reserve changes are greater or less than the levels estimated by previous development factors, reserve reestimates increase or decrease. When actual development of these data elements is different than the historical development pattern used in a prior period reserve estimate, a new reserve is determined. The difference between indicated reserves based on new reserve estimates and recorded reserves (the previous estimate) is the amount of reserve reestimate and is recognized as an increase or decrease in property-liability insurance claims and claims expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Total Property-Liability reserve reestimates, after-tax, as a percent of net income available to common shareholders were favorable 3.5%, 18.7% and 27.7% in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The 3-year average of reserve reestimates as a percentage of total reserves was a favorable 2.2% for Property-Liability, a favorable 2.9% for Allstate Protection and an unfavorable 4.2% for Discontinued Lines and Coverages, each of these results being consistent within a reasonable actuarial tolerance for our respective businesses. A more detailed discussion of reserve reestimates is presented in the Property-Liability Claims and Claims Expense Reserves section of this document.
Generally, the initial reserves for a new accident year are established based on severity assumptions for different business segments, lines and coverages based on historical relationships to relevant inflation indicators, and reserves for prior accident years are statistically determined using processes described above. Changes in auto current year claim severity are generally influenced by inflation in the medical and auto repair sectors of the economy. We mitigate these effects through various loss management programs. Injury claims are affected largely by medical cost inflation while physical damage claims are affected largely by auto repair cost inflation and used car prices. For auto physical damage coverages, we monitor our rate of increase in average cost per claim against a weighted average of the Maintenance and Repair price index and the Parts and Equipment price index. We believe our claim settlement initiatives, such as improvements to the claim review and settlement process, the use of special investigative units to detect fraud and handle suspect claims, litigation management and defense strategies, as well as various other loss management initiatives underway, contribute to the mitigation of injury and physical damage severity trends.
The estimation of claims and claims expense reserves for catastrophe losses also comprises estimates of losses from reported claims and IBNR, primarily for damage to property. In general, our estimates for catastrophe reserves are based on claim adjuster inspections and the application of historical loss development factors as described above. However, depending on the nature of the catastrophe, as noted above, the estimation process can be further complicated. For example, for hurricanes, complications could include the inability of insureds to promptly report losses, limitations placed on claims adjusting staff affecting their ability to inspect losses, determining whether losses are covered by our homeowners policy (generally for damage caused by wind or wind driven rain) or specifically excluded coverage caused by flood, estimating additional living expenses, and assessing the impact of demand surge, exposure to mold damage, and the effects of numerous other considerations, including the timing of a catastrophe in relation to other events, such as at or near the end of a financial reporting period, which can affect the availability of information needed to estimate reserves for that reporting period. In these situations, we may need to adapt our practices to accommodate these circumstances in order to determine a best estimate of our losses from a catastrophe. As an example, in 2005 to complete an estimate for certain areas affected by Hurricane Katrina and not yet inspected by our claims adjusting staff, or where we believed our historical loss development factors were not predictive, we relied on analysis of actual claim notices received compared to total PIF, as well as visual, governmental and third party information, including aerial photos, area observations, and data on wind speed and flood depth to the extent available.
To develop a statistical indication of potential reserve variability within reasonably likely possible outcomes, an actuarial technique (stochastic modeling) is applied to the countrywide consolidated data elements for paid losses and paid losses combined with case reserves separately for injury losses, auto physical damage losses, and homeowners losses excluding catastrophe losses. Based on the combined historical variability of the development factors calculated for these data elements, an estimate of the standard error or standard deviation around these reserve estimates is calculated within each accident year for the last twenty years for each type of loss. The variability of these reserve estimates within one standard deviation of the mean (a measure of frequency of dispersion often viewed to be an acceptable level of accuracy) is believed by management to represent a reasonable and statistically probable measure of potential variability. Based on our products and coverages, historical experience, the statistical credibility of our
extensive data and stochastic modeling of actuarial chain ladder methodologies used to develop reserve estimates, we estimate that the potential variability of our Allstate Protection reserves, excluding reserves for catastrophe losses, within a reasonable probability of other possible outcomes, may be approximately plus or minus 4%, or plus or minus $500 million in net income available to common shareholders. A lower level of variability exists for auto injury losses, which comprise approximately 80% of reserves, due to their relatively stable development patterns over a longer duration of time required to settle claims. Other types of losses, such as auto physical damage, homeowners losses and other personal lines losses, which comprise about 20% of reserves, tend to have greater variability but are settled in a much shorter period of time. Although this evaluation reflects most reasonably likely outcomes, it is possible the final outcome may fall below or above these amounts. Historical variability of reserve estimates is reported in the Property-Liability Claims and Claims Expense Reserves section of this document.
We were able to substantiate an increase in MCCA covered losses by reviewing MCCA actuarial reports, other MCCA members' reports and our PIP loss trends which have increased in severity. To address this exposure, we refined our estimation techniques in 2011 through 2013, including relying more on paid loss development methods and increasing our view of future claim development and longevity of claimants, as a result of conducting comprehensive claim file reviews to develop case reserve estimates of specific claims and other estimation refinements.
We provide similar PIP coverage in New Jersey for auto policies issued or renewed in New Jersey prior to 1991 that is administered by the New Jersey Unsatisfied Claim and Judgment Fund ("NJUCJF"). In 2013, we adopted similar actuarial estimating techniques as for the MCCA exposures to estimate loss reserves for unlimited PIP coverage for policies covered by the NJUCJF. The NJUCJF was merged into the New Jersey Property Liability Guaranty Association who collects the assessments.
Reserve estimates by their nature are very complex to determine and subject to significant judgments, and do not represent an exact determination for each outstanding claim. As actual claims, paid losses and/or case reserve results emerge, our estimate of the ultimate cost to settle may be different than previously estimated.
Our exposure to liability for asbestos, environmental and other discontinued lines losses manifests differently depending on whether it arises from assumed reinsurance coverage, direct excess insurance or direct primary commercial insurance. The direct insurance coverage we provided that covered asbestos, environmental and other discontinued lines was substantially "excess" in nature.
Other mass torts describes direct excess and reinsurance general liability coverage provided for cumulative injury losses other than asbestos and environmental. Workers' compensation and commercial and other include run-off from discontinued direct primary, direct excess and reinsurance commercial insurance operations of various coverage
exposures other than asbestos and environmental. Reserves are based on considerations similar to those described above, as they relate to the characteristics of specific individual coverage exposures.
Adequacy of reserve estimates Management believes its net loss reserves for environmental, asbestos and other discontinued lines exposures are appropriately established based on available facts, technology, laws, regulations, and assessments of other pertinent factors and characteristics of exposure (i.e. claim activity, potential liability, jurisdiction, products versus non-products exposure) presented by individual policyholders, assuming no change in the legal, legislative or economic environment. Due to the uncertainties and factors described above, management believes it is not practicable to develop a meaningful range for any such additional net loss reserves that may be required.
Further discussion of reserve estimates For further discussion of these estimates and quantification of the impact of reserve estimates, reserve reestimates and assumptions, see Notes 9 and 15 to the consolidated financial statements and the Property-Liability Claims and Claims Expense Reserves section of this document.
For further detail on the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits, see Note 10 of the consolidated financial statements.
•Property-Liability net income available to common shareholders was $2.75 billion in 2013 compared to $1.97 billion in 2012. •Property-Liability premiums written totaled $28.16 billion in 2013, an increase of 4.2% from $27.03 billion in 2012. •The Property-Liability loss ratio was 64.9 in 2013 compared to 69.1 in 2012. •Catastrophe losses were $1.25 billion in 2013 compared to $2.35 billion in 2012. •Property-Liability prior year reserve reestimates totaled $121 million favorable in 2013 compared to $665 million favorable in 2012. •Property-Liability underwriting income was $2.22 billion in 2013 compared to $1.20 billion in 2012. Underwriting income, a measure not based on GAAP, is defined below. •Property-Liability investments were $39.64 billion as of December 31, 2013, an increase of 3.7% from $38.22 billion as of December 31, 2012. Net investment income was $1.38 billion in 2013, an increase of 3.7% from $1.33 billion in 2012. •Net realized capital gains were $519 million in 2013 compared to $335 million in 2012. PROPERTY-LIABILITY OPERATIONS
The table below includes GAAP operating ratios we use to measure our profitability. We believe that they enhance an investor's understanding of our profitability. They are calculated as follows:
•Claims and claims expense ("loss") ratio - the ratio of claims and claims expense to premiums earned. Loss ratios include the impact of catastrophe losses. •Expense ratio - the ratio of amortization of DAC, operating costs and expenses, and restructuring and related charges to premiums earned. •Combined ratio - the ratio of claims and claims expense, amortization of DAC, operating costs and expenses, and restructuring and related charges to premiums earned. The combined ratio is the sum of the loss ratio and the expense ratio. The difference between 100% and the combined ratio represents underwriting income as a percentage of premiums earned, or underwriting margin. We have also calculated the following impacts of specific items on the GAAP operating ratios because of the volatility of these items between fiscal periods.
•Effect of catastrophe losses on combined ratio - the percentage of catastrophe losses included in claims and claims expense to premiums earned. This ratio includes prior year reserve reestimates of catastrophe losses. •Effect of prior year reserve reestimates on combined ratio - the percentage of prior year reserve reestimates included in claims and claims expense to premiums earned. This ratio includes prior year reserve reestimates of catastrophe losses.
•Effect of business combination expenses and the amortization of purchased intangible assets on combined and expense ratio - the percentage of business combination expenses and the amortization of purchased intangible assets to premiums earned. •Effect of restructuring and related charges on combined ratio - the percentage of restructuring and related charges to premiums earned. •Effect of Discontinued Lines and Coverages on combined ratio - the ratio of claims and claims expense and operating costs and expenses in the Discontinued Lines and Coverages segment to Property-Liability premiums earned. The sum of the effect of Discontinued Lines and Coverages on the combined ratio and the Allstate Protection combined ratio is equal to the Property-Liability combined ratio. Summarized financial data, a reconciliation of underwriting income to net income available to common shareholders, and GAAP operating ratios for our Property-Liability operations are presented in the following table.
We are undergoing a focused effort to enhance our capabilities by implementing uniform processes and standards to elevate the level and consistency of our customer experience. We continue to enhance technology to improve customer service, facilitate the introduction of new products and services and reduce infrastructure costs related to supporting agencies and handling claims. These actions and others are designed to optimize the effectiveness of our distribution and service channels by increasing the productivity of the Allstate brand's exclusive agencies. Beginning February 2013, Allstate brand customers are immediately assigned an Allstate agency relationship at the time of purchase. The majority of Allstate brand customers who purchased their policies directly through contact centers and the internet prior to February 2013 were assigned an Allstate exclusive agency relationship in the second quarter of 2013.
Other personal lines sold under the Allstate brand include renter, condominium, landlord, boat, umbrella and manufactured home insurance policies. Commercial lines include commercial products for small business owners. Other business lines include Allstate Roadside Services that provides roadside assistance products, Allstate Dealer
Services that provides service contracts and other products sold in conjunction with auto lending and vehicle sales transactions, and Ivantage insurance agency.
Our strategy for the Encompass brand centers around a highly differentiated offering which simplifies the insurance experience by packaging a product with broader coverage and higher limits into a single annual household ("Package") policy with one premium, one bill, one policy deductible and one renewal date. It appeals to consumers with broad personal lines coverage needs who prefer an independent agent. As part of its Package policy strategy, Encompass is focused on engaging independent agencies through superior claims service, ease of doing business initiatives, product innovation, greater compensation alignment, and by de-emphasizing mono-line auto and homeowners products.
Our strategy for the Esurance brand focuses on self-directed and web-savvy consumers. To best serve these customers, Esurance develops its technology, website and mobile capabilities to continuously improve its hassle-free purchase and claims experience and offer innovative product options and features. Esurance's DriveSenseTM program enables participating customers to be eligible for discounts based on driving performance as measured by a device installed temporarily in the vehicle. Esurance's DriveSafeTM program is designed to help parents coach teens on safe driving by providing customizable driving statistics and the ability to limit cell phone use while the car is in motion, all controlled by a device installed in the vehicle. Esurance continues to develop additional products to complement its auto line of business and provide a more comprehensive solution to its customers. Esurance expanded its renter product from 5 to 16 states, expanded auto from 35 to 41 states, introduced its motorcycle product in 6 states and introduced its homeowners product in 3 states during 2013. Esurance continues to focus on increasing its preferred driver mix, while raising advertising investment and marketing effectiveness to support growth.
Our pricing and underwriting strategies and decisions for all of our brands are primarily designed to achieve appropriate returns along with enhancing our competitive position. Our sophisticated pricing uses a number of risk evaluation factors including insurance scoring, to the extent permissible by applicable law, based on information that is obtained from credit reports, and other factors. A pricing strategy involves marketplace pricing and underwriting decisions that are based on these risk evaluation models and an evaluation of competitors. Our sophisticated pricing methodology allows us to attract and retain multiple risk segments. A combination of underwriting information, pricing and discounts are used to achieve a more competitive position.
We continue to manage our property catastrophe exposure with the goal of providing shareholders an acceptable return on the risks assumed in our property business and to reduce the variability of our earnings. Our property business includes personal homeowners, commercial property and other property insurance lines. As of December 31, 2013, we have less than a 1% likelihood of exceeding average annual aggregate catastrophe losses by $2 billion, net of reinsurance, from hurricanes and earthquakes, based on modeled assumptions and applications currently available. The use of different assumptions and updates to industry models, and updates to our risk transfer program, could materially change the projected loss. Our growth strategies include areas previously restricted where we believe we can earn an appropriate return for the risk and as a result our exposure may increase, but remain lower than $2 billion as noted above. In addition, we have exposure to severe weather events which impact catastrophe losses.
Property catastrophe exposure management includes purchasing reinsurance to provide coverage for known exposure to hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires, fires following earthquakes and other catastrophes. We are also working for changes in the regulatory environment, including recognizing the need for better catastrophe preparedness, improving appropriate risk-based pricing and promoting the creation of government sponsored, privately funded solutions for mega-catastrophes that will make insurance more available and affordable.
•PIF: Policy counts are based on items rather than customers. A multi-car customer would generate multiple item (policy) counts, even if all cars were insured under one policy. •Average premium-gross written ("average premium"): Gross premiums written divided by issued item count. Gross premiums written include the impacts from discounts, surcharges and ceded reinsurance premiums and exclude the impacts from mid-term premium adjustments and premium refund accruals. Average premiums represent the appropriate policy term for each line. Allstate and Esurance brands are 6 months for auto and 12 months for homeowners. Encompass brand is 12 months for auto and homeowners. •Renewal ratio: Renewal policies issued during the period, based on contract effective dates, divided by the total policies issued 6 months prior for auto (12 months prior for Encompass brand) or 12 months prior for homeowners. •New issued applications: Item counts of automobiles or homeowners insurance applications for insurance policies that were issued during the period, regardless of whether the customer was previously insured by another Allstate Protection brand. Does not include automobiles that are added by existing customers.
Auto premiums written totaled $18.70 billion in 2013, a 3.7% increase from $18.04 billion in 2012, following a 4.5% increase in 2012 from $17.26 billion in 2011.
(1)Policy term is six months for Allstate and Esurance brands and twelve months for Encompass brand. (2)Rate changes that are indicated based on loss trend analysis to achieve a targeted return will continue to be pursued. Rate changes do not include rating plan enhancements, including the introduction of discounts and surcharges that result in no change in the overall rate level in the state. These rate changes do not reflect initial rates filed for insurance subsidiaries initially writing business in a state. Rate changes for Allstate brand exclude Canada and specialty auto. (3)Represents the impact in the states where rate changes were approved during the period as a percentage of total countrywide prior year-end premiums written. (4)Represents the impact in the states where rate changes were approved during the period as a percentage of its respective total prior year-end premiums written in those states. (5)Based on historical premiums written in those states, rate changes approved for auto totaled $379 million, $539 million and $780 million in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. (6)2011 includes the impact of Florida rate increases averaging 18.6% and New York rate increases averaging 11.2% taken across multiple companies.
Allstate brand auto premiums written totaled $16.75 billion in 2013, a 2.2% increase from $16.40 billion in 2012. Factors impacting premiums written were the following:
-1.5% increase in PIF as of December 31, 2013 compared to December 31, 2012. -12.5% increase in new issued applications to 2,749 thousand in 2013 from 2,443 thousand in 2012. -2.2% increase in average premium in 2013 compared to 2012. -0.7 point increase in the renewal ratio in 2013 compared to 2012.
Allstate brand auto premiums written totaled $16.40 billion in 2012, a 0.5% decrease from $16.48 billion in 2011. Factors impacting premiums written were the following:
Esurance brand auto premiums written totaled $1.31 billion in 2013, a 27.7% increase from $1.02 billion in 2012. The increase was primarily due to a 25.0% increase in PIF as of December 31, 2013 compared to December 31, 2012. New issued applications increased 23.5% to 747 thousand in 2013 from 605 thousand in 2012. Growth in new issued applications was driven by increased advertising, which resulted in an increase in quotes. Our conversion rate was comparable to the prior year. The renewal ratio increased 0.2 points in 2013 compared to 2012.
Esurance brand auto premiums written totaled $1.02 billion in 2012. Esurance brand auto premiums written totaled $181 million in 2011 for the period from the October 7, 2011 acquisition date to December 31, 2011. PIF increased 30.9% as of December 31, 2012 compared to December 31, 2011.
-2.2% decrease in PIF as of December 31, 2013 compared to December 31, 2012 due to fewer policies available to renew. -31.6% increase in new issued applications to 625 thousand in 2013 from 475 thousand in 2012. -3.8% increase in average premium in 2013 compared to 2012 primarily due to rate changes. -0.3 point increase in the renewal ratio in 2013 compared to 2012. -$56 million decrease in the cost of our catastrophe reinsurance program to $425 million in 2013 from $481 million in 2012.
In states with severe weather and risk, North Light and non-proprietary products will remain a critical component to our overall homeowners strategy to profitably grow and serve our customers.
Other personal lines Allstate brand other personal lines premiums written totaled $1.54 billion in 2013, a 1.6% increase from $1.52 billion in 2012, following a 2.1% increase in 2012 from $1.48 billion in 2011. The increase in 2013 primarily relates to renter and condominium insurance.
Commercial lines premiums written totaled $466 million in 2013, a 2.6% increase from $454 million in 2012, following a 3.8% decrease in 2012 from $472 million in 2011.
Other business lines premiums written totaled $602 million in 2013, a 30.3% increase from $462 million in 2012, following an 11.1% increase in 2012 from $416 million in 2011. The increase in 2013 is primarily due to increased sales of vehicle service contracts at Allstate Dealer Services and new and expanded partnerships where Allstate Roadside Services provides roadside assistance to the partners' customer base.
Allstate Protection had underwriting income of $2.36 billion in 2013 compared to $1.25 billion in 2012, primarily due to increases in underwriting income in homeowners and auto, and underwriting income in other personal lines in 2013 compared to an underwriting loss in 2012. Homeowners underwriting income was $1.42 billion in 2013 compared to $690 million in 2012, primarily due to decreased catastrophe losses, decreased loss costs excluding catastrophe losses and increased premiums earned, partially offset by lower favorable reserve reestimates and higher expenses. Other personal lines underwriting income was $198 million in 2013 compared to an underwriting loss of $10 million in 2012, primarily due to decreased catastrophe losses, decreased loss costs excluding catastrophe losses, increased premiums earned and lower unfavorable reserve reestimates, partially offset by higher expenses. Auto underwriting income was $668 million in 2013 compared to $469 million in 2012, primarily due to increased premiums earned and decreased catastrophe losses including favorable Sandy reserve reestimates, partially offset by higher incurred losses excluding catastrophe losses, higher expenses and lower favorable reserve reestimates.
Catastrophe losses were $1.25 billion in 2013 compared to $2.35 billion in 2012 and $3.82 billion in 2011.
certain types of terrorism or industrial accidents. The nature and level of catastrophes in any period cannot be reliably predicted.
Catastrophe losses by the size of event are shown in the following table.
(1)Reserve reestimates related to Sandy in 2013 totaled $42 million favorable, including $52 million favorable for auto, $29 million unfavorable for homeowners and $19 million favorable for other personal lines.
Catastrophe losses by the type of event are shown in the following table.
Catastrophe losses, including prior year reserve reestimates, excluding hurricanes named or numbered by the National Weather Service, fires following earthquakes and earthquakes totaled $1.35 billion, $1.32 billion and $3.30 billion in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
Auto loss ratio for the Allstate brand decreased 1.8 points in 2013 compared to 2012, primarily due to lower catastrophe losses, partially offset by lower favorable reserve reestimates. Auto loss ratio for the Allstate brand increased 0.1 points in 2012 compared to 2011 primarily due to higher catastrophe losses and lower favorable reserve reestimates.
Encompass brand auto loss ratio decreased 5.0 points in 2013 compared to 2012, due to lower catastrophe losses, a higher mix of preferred insureds and higher favorable reserve reestimates. Encompass is focused on profitability management actions which include changing its geographic footprint and increasing rates in certain geographies. Encompass brand auto loss ratio decreased 3.5 points in 2012 compared to 2011 primarily due to favorable reserve reestimates, partially offset by higher catastrophe losses.
Esurance brand auto loss ratio increased 1.3 points in 2013 compared to 2012, primarily due to increases in the volume of new business, increased utilization of price discounts and higher unallocated loss adjustment expense,
partially offset by lower catastrophe losses. Esurance is focused on profitability management actions, including raising rates and tightening underwriting practices. These actions have contributed to deceleration in the rate of growth in the second half of 2013 compared to the first half of 2013. They could also lead to lower growth in new issued applications and a decrease in the conversion rate. Esurance brand auto loss ratio decreased 0.9 points in 2012 compared to 2011. In 2012, Esurance implemented a number of profitability management actions, including rate increases in 23 out of 30 states, and underwriting actions in Florida and Michigan.
Homeowners loss ratio for the Allstate brand decreased 10.7 points to 53.4 in 2013 from 64.1 in 2012, primarily due to lower catastrophe losses, decreased loss costs excluding catastrophe losses and increased premiums earned. Claim frequency excluding catastrophe losses decreased 0.3% in 2013 compared to 2012. Paid claim severity excluding catastrophe losses decreased 0.2% in 2013 compared to 2012. Homeowners loss ratio for the Allstate brand decreased 33.9 points to 64.1 in 2012 from 98.0 in 2011 primarily due to lower catastrophe losses and average earned premiums increasing faster than loss costs. Claim frequency excluding catastrophe losses decreased 8.8% in 2012 compared to 2011. Paid claim severity excluding catastrophe losses increased 3.0% in 2012 compared to 2011.
Encompass brand homeowners loss ratio decreased 20.2 points in 2013 compared to 2012, primarily due to lower catastrophe losses. Excluding the impact of catastrophe losses, the Encompass brand homeowners loss ratio decreased 4.0 points in 2013 compared to 2012. Encompass brand homeowners loss ratio decreased 12.0 points in 2012 compared to 2011 primarily due to lower catastrophe losses and favorable reserve reestimates.
The Encompass brand DAC amortization is higher on average than Allstate brand DAC amortization due to higher commission rates paid to independent agencies. Since Esurance uses a direct distribution model, its primary acquisition-related costs are advertising as opposed to commissions for the Allstate and Encompass brands. Advertising costs are not capitalized as DAC while commission costs are capitalized as DAC. As a result, the Esurance expense and combined ratios will be higher during periods of growth since the expenses will be recognized prior to the premium earned. Based on our analysis, Esurance's acquisition costs, primarily advertising, are in line with other distribution channels when considering the cumulative earned premiums of policies sold. The Esurance brand expense ratio is higher than Allstate and Encompass brands due to business combination expenses and amortization of purchased intangible assets. Purchased intangible assets are amortized on an accelerated basis with over 80% of the amortization taking place by 2016.
Other costs and expenses increased in 2013 compared to 2012, primarily due to higher technology related costs and increased expenses at Esurance. Esurance has been developing additional products to complement its auto line of business and provide a more comprehensive solution to its customers. In addition, Esurance is investing in geographic expansion of its products. Esurance expanded its renters product from 5 to 16 states, expanded auto from 35 to 41
states, introduced its motorcycle product in 6 states, and introduced its homeowners product in 3 states during 2013. These expansion initiatives, some of which commenced in the prior year, contributed approximately 2 points to the expense ratio and are expected to continue in 2014. Other costs and expenses for Esurance also includes certain costs relating to the acquisition of new business, such as salaries of telephone sales personnel and other underwriting costs, which increased in 2013 in connection with the growth in new business.
Historical catastrophe experience For the last ten years, the average annual impact of catastrophes on our Property-Liability loss ratio was 9.5 points. The average annual impact of catastrophes on the homeowners loss ratio for the last ten years was 33.6 points.
Over time, we have limited our aggregate insurance exposure to catastrophe losses in certain regions of the country that are subject to high levels of natural catastrophes. Limitations include our participation in various state facilities, such as the California Earthquake Authority ("CEA"), which provides insurance for California earthquake losses; the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund ("FHCF"), which provides reimbursements to participating insurers for certain qualifying Florida hurricane losses; and other state facilities, such as wind pools. However, the impact of these actions may be diminished by the growth in insured values, and the effect of state insurance laws and regulations. In addition, in various states we are required to participate in assigned risk plans, reinsurance facilities and joint underwriting associations that provide insurance coverage to individuals or entities that otherwise are unable to purchase such coverage from private insurers. Because of our participation in these and other state facilities such as wind pools, we may be exposed to losses that surpass the capitalization of these facilities and to assessments from these facilities.
•Continuing to not offer new homeowners business in certain coastal states. •Increased capacity in our brokerage platform for customers not offered a renewal. •North Light expanded to 2 new states in 2013, bringing the total number of active states to 33. •In Texas we have been ceding wind exposure related to insured property located in wind pool eligible areas along the coast including the Galveston Islands. •We ceased writing new homeowners business in California in 2007. We continue to renew current policyholders. •We ceased writing new homeowners business in Florida in 2011 beyond a modest stance for existing customers who replace their currently-insured home with an acceptable property. The Encompass companies operating in Florida withdrew from the property lines in 2009. •Tropical cyclone deductibles are in place for a large portion of coastal insured properties though contract language varies across states and companies, allowing for these higher deductibles to be triggered differently across our customer base.
A description of our current catastrophe reinsurance program appears in Note 11 of the consolidated financial statements.
The average pre-tax investment yields for the years ended December 31 are presented in the following table. Pre-tax yield is calculated as annualized investment income before investment expense (including dividend income in the case of equity securities) divided by the average of the investment balances at the end of each quarter during the year. Investment balances, for purposes of the pre-tax yield calculation, exclude unrealized capital gains and losses.
Property-Liability underwriting results are significantly influenced by estimates of property-liability claims and claims expense reserves. For a description of our reserve process, see Note 9 of the consolidated financial statements and for a further description of our reserving policies and the potential variability in our reserve estimates, see the Application of Critical Accounting Estimates section of the MD&A. These reserves are an estimate of amounts necessary to settle all outstanding claims, including IBNR claims, as of the reporting date.
Reserve reestimates as a % of consolidated net income available to common shareholders
(1)Favorable reserve reestimates are shown in parentheses. (2)Ratios are calculated using Property-Liability premiums earned. (3)Prior year reserve reestimates included in catastrophe losses totaled $88 million favorable in 2013, $410 million favorable in 2012 and $130 million favorable in 2011. The effect of catastrophe losses included in prior year reserve reestimates on the combined ratio totaled 0.3 favorable, 1.5 favorable and 0.5 favorable in 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.
The tables below show Allstate Protection net reserves representing the estimated cost of outstanding claims as they were recorded at the beginning of years 2013, 2012, and 2011, and the effect of reestimates in each year.
Auto reserve reestimates in 2013, 2012, and 2011 were primarily due to claim severity development that was better than expected.
Favorable homeowners reserve reestimates in 2013 were primarily due to favorable non-catastrophe reserve reestimates. Favorable homeowners reserve reestimates in 2012, and 2011 were primarily due to favorable catastrophe reserve reestimates.
Other personal lines reserve reestimates in 2013, 2012 and 2011 were primarily the result of non-catastrophe loss development higher than anticipated in previous estimates.
Commercial lines reserve reestimates in 2013, 2012 and 2011 were primarily due to favorable non-catastrophe reserve reestimates.
$ (33 ) $ (44 ) $ (45 ) $ (32 ) $ (59 ) $ (16 ) $ (70 ) $
These trends are primarily responsible for revisions to loss development factors, as described above, used to predict how losses are likely to develop from the end of a reporting period until all claims have been paid. Because these trends
cause actual losses to differ from those predicted by the estimated development factors used in prior reserve estimates, reserves are revised as actuarial studies validate new trends based on the indications of updated development factor calculations.
The impact of these reestimates on the Encompass brand underwriting income (loss) is shown in the table below.
In 2013, the asbestos net 3-year survival ratio decreased due to continuing claim payments. In 2012, the asbestos net 3-year survival ratio increased due to lower average annual payments. In 2013, the environmental net 3-year survival ratio increased due to reserve additions. In 2012, the environmental net 3-year survival ratio increased due to reserve additions and lower average annual payments.
(1)N/A reflects no rating available. (2)As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, MCCA includes $29 million and $23 million of reinsurance recoverable on paid claims, respectively, and $3.43 billion and $2.57 billion of reinsurance recoverable on unpaid claims, respectively.
Reinsurance recoverables include an estimate of the amount of property-liability insurance claims and claims expense reserves that may be ceded under the terms of the reinsurance agreements, including incurred but not reported unpaid losses. We calculate our ceded reinsurance estimate based on the terms of each applicable reinsurance agreement, including an estimate of how IBNR losses will ultimately be ceded under the agreement. We also consider other limitations and coverage exclusions under our reinsurance agreements. Accordingly, our estimate of reinsurance recoverables is subject to similar risks and uncertainties as our estimate of reserves for property-liability claims and claims expense. We believe the recoverables are appropriately established; however, as our underlying reserves continue to develop, the amount ultimately recoverable may vary from amounts currently recorded. We regularly evaluate the reinsurers and the respective amounts recoverable, and a provision for uncollectible reinsurance is recorded if needed. The establishment of reinsurance recoverables and the related allowance for uncollectible reinsurance is also an inherently uncertain process involving estimates. Changes in estimates could result in additional changes to the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
In 2013, ceded property-liability premiums earned decreased $21 million compared to 2012, primarily due to decreased premium rates, acquiring reinsurance in the capital markets and lower limits placed in our catastrophe reinsurance program, partially offset by higher MCCA reinsurance premiums due to an increase in policies written in Michigan. In 2012, ceded property-liability premiums earned decreased $8 million compared to 2011, primarily due to decreased premiums in our catastrophe reinsurance program.
Ceded property-liability claims and claims expense decreased in 2013 primarily due to lower amounts ceded to the National Flood Insurance Program, partially offset by reserve increases for the NJUCJF program. Ceded property-liability claims and claims expense increased in 2012 primarily due to amounts ceded to the National Flood Insurance Program related to Sandy, increases in reserves ceded in the MCCA program, and amounts ceded under our catastrophe reinsurance program related to Sandy.
We are experiencing similar experience as reported by the MCCA with reported and pending claims increasing in recent years. Moreover, the MCCA has reported severity increasing with more than 60% of reimbursements for attendant and residential claim services. Michigan's unique no-fault auto insurance law provides unlimited lifetime coverage for medical expenses resulting from auto accidents. The reserve increases in the MCCA program are attributable to an increased recognition of longer term paid loss trends. The paid loss trends are rising due to increased costs in medical and attendant care and increased longevity of claimants.
(1)Excludes Esurance brand since not available. (2)Reserves comprise 66% case reserves and 34% IBNR.
Pending, new and closed claims for Michigan personal injury protection exposures for the years ended December 31 are summarized in the following table.
The reserve increases of $351 million in the NJUCJF program in 2013 are attributable to unlimited personal injury protection coverage on policies written prior to 1991. The ceded claims reflects increased longer term paid loss trends due to increased costs of medical care and increased longevity of claimants. New claims for this cohort of policies are unlikely and pending claims are expected to decline.
We anticipate completing the placement of our 2014 catastrophe reinsurance program in second quarter 2014. We expect the program will be similar to our 2013 catastrophe reinsurance program. For further details of the existing 2013 program, see Note 11 of the consolidated financial statements.
•Net income available to common shareholders was $95 million in 2013 compared to $541 million in 2012. •Premiums and contract charges on underwritten products, including traditional life, interest-sensitive life and accident and health insurance, totaled $2.30 billion in 2013, an increase of 5.5% from $2.18 billion in 2012. •Investments totaled $39.11 billion as of December 31, 2013, reflecting a decrease of $17.89 billion from $57.00 billion as of December 31, 2012. Investments classified as held for sale totaled $11.98 billion as of December 31, 2013. Net investment income decreased 4.1% to $2.54 billion in 2013 from $2.65 billion in 2012. •Net realized capital gains totaled $74 million in 2013 compared to net realized capital losses of $13 million in 2012.
in force. We are managing the investment portfolio supporting our immediate annuities to ensure the assets match the characteristics of the liabilities and provide the long-term returns needed to support this business. We are increasing investments in which we have ownership interests and a greater proportion of return is derived from idiosyncratic operating or market performance including equities and real estate to more appropriately match investment duration with these long-term liabilities.
cumulative contract benefits, surrenders, withdrawals, maturities and contract charges for mortality or administrative expenses. The following table shows the changes in contractholder funds for the years ended December 31.
Contractholder funds decreased 38.2%, 7.1% and 12.2% in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The decrease in 2013 reflects the reclassification of contractholder funds held for sale relating to the pending LBL sale. Contractholder funds including those classified as held for sale decreased 10.4% in 2013, reflecting a large institutional product maturity in 2013 and our continuing strategy to reduce our concentration in spread-based products. Average contractholder funds decreased 22.1% in 2013 compared to 2012 and 9.8% in 2012 compared to 2011.
Contractholder deposits increased 7.3% in 2013 compared to 2012, primarily due to increased fixed annuity deposits driven by the new equity-indexed annuity products and higher deposits on immediate annuities, as well as higher deposits on interest-sensitive life insurance. Contractholder deposits decreased 1.9% in 2012 compared to 2011, primarily due to increased fixed annuity deposits driven by new equity-indexed annuity products launched in second quarter 2012 being more than offset by the absence of Allstate Bank deposits in 2012.
Maturities of and interest payments on institutional products in 2013 include a $1.75 billion maturity. There are $85 million of institutional products outstanding as of December 31, 2013. Maturities of and interest payments on institutional products decreased to $138 million in 2012 from $867 million in 2011, reflecting differences in the timing and magnitude of maturities.
Net investment income decreased 4.1% or $109 million to $2.54 billion in 2013 from $2.65 billion in 2012, primarily due to lower average investment balances, partially offset by higher prepayment fee income and litigation proceeds
which together increased income by a total of $50 million in 2013 and higher limited partnership income. Net investment income in 2013 includes $264 million relating to investments classified as held for sale for the period from July 17, 2013 to December 31, 2013. Net investment income decreased 2.5% to $2.65 billion in 2012 from $2.72 billion in 2011, primarily due to lower average investment balances and lower yields on fixed income securities, partially offset by income from limited partnerships.
Analysis of costs and expenses Total costs and expenses decreased 0.4% or $16 million in 2013 compared to 2012, primarily due to lower amortization of DAC and interest credited to contractholder funds, partially offset by higher life and annuity contract benefits. Total costs and expenses decreased 7.7% or $345 million in 2012 compared to 2011, primarily due to lower interest credited to contractholder funds and amortization of DAC, partially offset by higher life and annuity contract benefits.
Life and annuity contract benefits increased 3.2% or $57 million in 2012 compared to 2011, primarily due to worse mortality experience on life insurance and the reduction in accident and health insurance reserves at Allstate Benefits in 2011, partially offset by lower sales of immediate annuities with life contingencies and the reduction in reserves for secondary guarantees on interest-sensitive life insurance. Our 2012 annual review of assumptions resulted in a $13 million decrease in the reserves for secondary guarantees on interest-sensitive life insurance due to favorable projected mortality.
We analyze our mortality and morbidity results using the difference between premiums and contract charges earned for the cost of insurance and life and annuity contract benefits excluding the portion related to the implied interest on immediate annuities with life contingencies ("benefit spread"). This implied interest totaled $527 million, $538 million and $541 million in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
Investment spread before valuation changes on embedded derivatives that are not hedged increased 13.5% or $90 million in 2013 compared to 2012, primarily due to lower crediting rates, higher prepayment fee income and litigation proceeds and higher limited partnership income, partially offset by the continued managed reduction in our spread-based business in force. Investment spread before valuation changes on embedded derivatives that are not hedged increased 21.7% or $119 million in 2012 compared to 2011 due to income from limited partnerships and lower crediting rates, partially offset by lower yields on fixed income securities and the continued managed reduction in our spread-based business in force.
The decrease in DAC amortization in 2012 compared to 2011 was primarily due to decreased amortization relating to realized capital gains and losses and decreased amortization on fixed annuity products due to the DAC balance for contracts issued prior to 2010 being fully amortized, partially offset by increased amortization acceleration for changes in assumptions and increased amortization relating to valuation changes on embedded derivatives that are not hedged.
an increase in projected mortality and expenses, partially offset by increased projected investment margins. Amortization deceleration of $12 million related to fixed annuities and was primarily due to an increase in projected investment margins. Amortization deceleration of $3 million related to variable life insurance.
Amortization of DAC before amortization relating to realized capital gains and losses, valuation changes on embedded derivatives that are not hedged and changes in assumptions (1)
(1)Included as a component of amortization of DAC on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. (2)Represents the change in the DAC adjustment for unrealized capital gains and losses. The DAC adjustment represents the amount by which the amortization of DAC would increase or decrease if the unrealized gains and losses in the respective product portfolios were realized.
Operating costs and expenses decreased 1.9% or $11 million in 2013 compared to 2012 and increased 3.8% or $21 million in 2012 compared to 2011. The following table summarizes operating costs and expenses for the years ended December 31.
General and administrative expenses increased 9.4% or $36 million in 2012 compared to 2011, primarily due to higher employee related expenses, lower reinsurance expense allowances and increased marketing costs, partially offset by a charge in 2011 related to the liquidation plan for Executive Life Insurance Company of New York, the elimination of expenses following our exit from the banking business in 2011 and lower pension costs.
reinsurance of substantially all of our variable annuity business in 2006, and the sale of Surety Life Insurance Company, which was not used for new business, in third quarter 2012. Loss on disposition of $7 million in 2011 included $22 million related to the dissolution of Allstate Bank. In 2011, after receiving regulatory approval to dissolve, Allstate Bank ceased operations.
Reinsurance ceded We enter into reinsurance agreements with unaffiliated reinsurers to limit our risk of mortality and morbidity losses. In addition, Allstate Financial has used reinsurance to effect the acquisition or disposition of certain blocks of business. We retain primary liability as a direct insurer for all risks ceded to reinsurers. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, 36% and 39%, respectively, of our face amount of life insurance in force was reinsured. Additionally, we ceded substantially all of the risk associated with our variable annuity business.
(1)The Company has extensive reinsurance contracts directly with Swiss Re and its affiliates and indirectly through Swiss Re's acquisition of other companies with whom we had reinsurance or retrocession contracts. (2)As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the other category includes $58 million and $75 million, respectively, of recoverables due from reinsurers with an investment grade credit rating from Standard & Poor's ("S&P"). (3)Reinsurance recoverables classified as held for sale were $1.66 billion as of December 31, 2013. (4)N/A reflects no rating available.
•Managing our exposure to interest rate risk by maintaining a shorter maturity profile in the Property-Liability portfolio. •Shifting the portfolio mix to have less reliance on investments whose returns come primarily from interest payments to investments in which we have ownership interests and a greater proportion of return is derived from idiosyncratic operating or market performance including equities and real estate •Investing to the specific needs and characteristics of Allstate's businesses.
(2)Equity securities are carried at fair value. Cost basis for these securities was $3.86 billion, $607 million and $4.47 billion for Property-Liability, Allstate Financial and in Total, respectively. (3)We have commitments to invest in additional limited partnership interests totaling $1.48 billion, $1.37 billion and $2.85 billion for Property-Liability, Allstate Financial and in Total, respectively. (4)Short-term investments are carried at fair value. Amortized cost basis for these investments was $1.00 billion, $668 million, $723 million and $2.39 billion for Property-Liability, Allstate Financial, Corporate and Other, and in Total, respectively. (5)Balances reflect the elimination of related party investments between segments.
Total investments decreased to $81.16 billion as of December 31, 2013, from $97.28 billion as of December 31, 2012, primarily due to the reclassification of investments relating to LBL to assets held for sale. Total investments including those classified as held for sale were $93.14 billion as of December 31, 2013, a decrease of $4.14 billion from December 31, 2012, reflecting net reductions in Allstate Financial's contractholder funds and lower fixed income valuations. The decline in valuation of fixed income securities during 2013 was primarily due to increasing risk-free interest rates.
The Property-Liability investment portfolio increased to $39.64 billion as of December 31, 2013, from $38.22 billion as of December 31, 2012, primarily due to positive operating cash flows, partially offset by dividends paid by Allstate Insurance Company ("AIC") to The Allstate Corporation (the "Corporation") and lower fixed income valuations.
The Corporate and Other investment portfolio increased to $2.41 billion as of December 31, 2013, from $2.06 billion as of December 31, 2012, primarily due to the proceeds from the issuance of debt and preferred stock, and dividends paid by AIC to the Corporation, partially offset by payments for the debt tender offer, common share repurchases and dividends paid to common shareholders.
As of December 31, 2013, 89.4% of the consolidated fixed income securities portfolio was rated investment grade, which is defined as a security having a rating of Aaa, Aa, A or Baa from Moody's, a rating of AAA, AA, A or BBB from S&P, Fitch, Dominion, Kroll or Realpoint, a rating of aaa, aa, a or bbb from A.M. Best, or a comparable internal rating if an externally provided rating is not available. All of our fixed income securities are rated by third party credit rating agencies, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, and/or are internally rated. Our initial investment decisions and ongoing monitoring procedures for fixed income securities are based on a thorough due diligence process which includes, but is not limited to, an assessment of the credit quality, sector, structure, and liquidity risks of each issue.
CDO totaled $1.22 billion as of December 31, 2013, with 87.8% rated investment grade and an unrealized net capital loss of $14 million. CDO consist of obligations collateralized by cash flow CDO, which are structures collateralized primarily by below investment grade senior secured corporate loans.
Consumer and other ABS totaled $3.30 billion as of December 31, 2013, with 99.1% rated investment grade. Consumer and other ABS consists of $1.24 billion of consumer auto and $2.06 billion of other ABS with unrealized net capital gains of $4 million and $37 million, respectively.
CMBS totaled $829 million as of December 31, 2013, with 69.8% rated investment grade and an unrealized net capital gain of $41 million. The CMBS portfolio is subject to credit risk and has a sequential paydown structure. Of the CMBS investments, 93.6% are traditional conduit transactions collateralized by commercial mortgage loans, broadly diversified across property types and geographical area. The remainder consists of non-traditional CMBS such as small balance transactions, large loan pools and single borrower transactions.
Equity securities Equity securities primarily include common stocks, exchange traded and mutual funds, non-redeemable preferred stocks and real estate investment trust equity investments. The equity securities portfolio was $5.10 billion as of December 31, 2013, with an unrealized net capital gain of $624 million.
Short-term investments Our short-term investment portfolio was $2.39 billion as of December 31, 2013.
The unrealized net capital gain for the fixed income portfolio totaled $1.90 billion and comprised $2.48 billion of gross unrealized gains and $573 million of gross unrealized losses as of December 31, 2013. This is compared to an unrealized net capital gain for the fixed income portfolio totaling $5.10 billion, comprised of $5.63 billion of gross unrealized gains and $530 million of gross unrealized losses as of December 31, 2012.
The consumer goods, utilities, capital goods and banking sectors had the highest concentration of gross unrealized losses in our corporate fixed income securities portfolio as of December 31, 2013. In general, the gross unrealized losses are principally related to increasing risk-free interest rates or widening credit spreads since the time of initial purchase.
Within the equity portfolio, the losses were primarily concentrated in emerging market equity funds, the utilities sector and emerging market fixed income funds. The unrealized losses were company and sector specific. As of December 31, 2013, we have the intent and ability to hold our equity securities with unrealized losses until recovery.
Impairment write-downs, which includes changes in the mortgage loan valuation allowance, for the years ended December 31 are presented in the following table.
Impairment write-downs on fixed income securities in 2012 were primarily driven by RMBS and CMBS that experienced deterioration in expected cash flows and municipal and corporate fixed income securities impacted by issuer specific circumstances. Equity securities were written down primarily due to the length of time and extent to which fair value was below cost, considering our assessment of the financial condition and near-term and long-term prospects of the issuer, including relevant industry conditions and trends.
Impairment write-downs in 2011 were primarily driven by RMBS, which experienced deterioration in expected cash flows; investments with commercial real estate exposure, including CMBS, mortgage loans and municipal bonds, which were impacted by lower real estate valuations or experienced deterioration in expected cash flows; and corporate fixed income securities impacted by issuer specific circumstances.
Change in intent write-downs were $143 million, $48 million and $100 million in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The change in intent write-downs in 2013 were primarily related to the repositioning and ongoing portfolio management of our equity securities. The change in intent write-downs in 2012 were primarily a result of ongoing comprehensive reviews of our portfolios resulting in write-downs of individually identified investments, primarily RMBS and equity securities. The change in intent write-downs in 2011 were primarily a result of ongoing comprehensive reviews of our portfolios resulting in write-downs of individually identified investments, primarily lower yielding, floating rate RMBS and municipal bonds, and equity securities.
Valuation and settlements of derivative instruments generated net realized capital losses of $10 million in 2013, net realized capital gains of $24 million in 2012 and net realized capital losses of $396 million in 2011. The net realized capital losses on derivative instruments in 2013 primarily composed of losses on equity futures used for risk management due to increases in equity indices and losses on credit default swaps due to the tightening of credit spreads on the underlying credit names. The net realized capital gains on derivative instruments in 2012 primarily included gains on credit default swaps due to the tightening of credit spreads on the underlying credit names. The net realized capital losses on derivative instruments in 2011 primarily included losses on interest rate risk management due to decreases in interest rates.
We use quantitative and qualitative market-based approaches to measure, monitor and manage market risk. We evaluate our exposure to market risk through the use of multiple measures including but not limited to duration, value-at-risk, scenario analysis and sensitivity analysis. Duration measures the price sensitivity of assets and liabilities to changes in interest rates. For example, if interest rates increase 100 basis points, the fair value of an asset with a duration of 5 is expected to decrease in value by 5%. Value-at-risk is a statistical estimate of the probability that the change in fair value of a portfolio will exceed a certain amount over a given time horizon. Scenario analysis estimates the potential changes in the fair value of a portfolio that could occur under different hypothetical market conditions defined by changes to multiple market risk factors: interest rates, credit spreads, equity prices or currency exchange rates. Sensitivity analysis estimates the potential changes in the fair value of a portfolio that could occur under different hypothetical shocks to a market risk factor. In general, we establish investment portfolio asset allocation and market risk limits for the Property-Liability and Allstate Financial businesses based upon a combination of duration, value-at-risk, scenario analysis and sensitivity analysis. The asset allocation limits place restrictions on the total funds that may be invested within an asset class. Comprehensive day-to-day management of market risk within defined tolerance ranges occurs as portfolio managers buy and sell within their respective markets based upon the acceptable boundaries established by investment policies. For Allstate Financial, this day-to-day management is integrated with and informed by the activities of the ALM organization. This integration is intended to result in a prudent, methodical and effective adjudication of market risk and return, conditioned by the unique demands and dynamics of Allstate Financial's product liabilities and supported by the continuous application of advanced risk technology and analytics.
We manage the interest rate risk in our assets relative to the interest rate risk in our liabilities. One of the measures used to quantify this exposure is duration. The difference in the duration of our assets relative to our liabilities is our
duration gap. To calculate the duration gap between assets and liabilities, we project asset and liability cash flows and calculate their net present value using a risk-free market interest rate adjusted for credit quality, sector attributes, liquidity and other specific risks. Duration is calculated by revaluing these cash flows at alternative interest rates and determining the percentage change in aggregate fair value. The cash flows used in this calculation include the expected maturity and repricing characteristics of our derivative financial instruments, all other financial instruments, and certain other items including unearned premiums, property-liability insurance claims and claims expense reserves, annuity liabilities and other interest-sensitive liabilities. The projections include assumptions (based upon historical market experience and our experience) that reflect the effect of changing interest rates on the prepayment, lapse, leverage and/or option features of instruments, where applicable. The preceding assumptions relate primarily to mortgage-backed securities, municipal housing bonds, callable municipal and corporate obligations, and fixed rate single and flexible premium deferred annuities. Additionally, the calculations include assumptions regarding the renewal of property-liability policies.
As of December 31, 2013, the difference between our asset and liability duration was a (0.95) gap compared to a (0.23) gap as of December 31, 2012. A negative duration gap indicates that the fair value of our liabilities is more sensitive to interest rate movements than the fair value of our assets, while a positive duration gap indicates that the fair value of our assets is more sensitive to interest rate movements than the fair value of our liabilities. The Property-Liability segment generally maintains a positive duration gap between its assets and liabilities due to the relatively short duration of auto and homeowners claims, which are its primary liabilities. The Allstate Financial segment may have a positive or negative duration gap, as the duration of its assets and liabilities vary with its product mix and investing activity. As of December 31, 2013, Property-Liability had a positive duration gap while Allstate Financial had a negative duration gap.
Based upon the information and assumptions used as of December 31, 2013, we estimate that a 10% immediate unfavorable change in each of the foreign currency exchange rates to which we are exposed would decrease the value of our foreign currency denominated instruments by $254 million, compared with an estimated $264 million decrease as of December 31, 2012. The selection of a 10% immediate decrease in all currency exchange rates should not be construed as our prediction of future market events, but only as an illustration of the potential effect of such an event.
We have defined benefit pension plans, which cover most full-time, certain part-time employees and employee-agents. See Note 18 of the consolidated financial statements for a complete discussion of these plans and their effect on the consolidated financial statements. The pension and other postretirement plans may be amended or terminated at any time. Any revisions could result in significant changes to our obligations and our obligation to fund the plans.
When the actual return on plan assets exceeds the expected return on plan assets it reduces the net actuarial loss; when the expected return exceeds the actual return it increases the net actuarial loss. It is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income as unrecognized pension benefit cost and may be amortized. The market-related value adjustment represents the current difference between actual returns and expected returns on equity securities and hedge fund limited partnerships recognized over a five year period. The market-related value adjustment is a deferred net gain of $19 million as of December 31, 2013. The expected return on plan assets fluctuates when the market-related value of plan assets changes and when the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets assumption changes.
Settlement charges are non-cash charges that accelerate the recognition of unrecognized pension benefit cost, that would have been incurred in subsequent periods, when plan payments primarily lump sums from qualified pension plans, exceed a threshold of service and interest cost for the period. The value of lump sums paid to employees electing retirement in 2013 was elevated due to historically low interest rates. Voluntary retirement activity during the fourth quarter was almost five times the typical level. Of the $180 million settlement charges, after-tax, $150 million were reported in the Corporate and Other Segment, since the Corporation is the plan sponsor for the employee pension plans.
Net periodic pension cost in 2014 is estimated to be $55 million including expected settlement charges of $44 million primarily for agent lump sum payments. Expected returns on plan assets and amortization of prior service credits offset the other components of pension cost. Over half of the $440 million decrease from pension cost of $495 million in 2013 is due to a decline of $233 million in expected settlement charges. The remainder is due to lower amortization of net actuarial loss, lower service cost and interest cost, and a higher amortization of prior service credit as a result of the change in plan benefit formulas. Pension expense is reported consistent with other types of employee compensation and as a result is included in claims expense, operating costs and expenses and investment expense. Employee plan settlement charges are reported in the Corporate and other segment because the Corporation is the plan sponsor. Net periodic pension cost increased in 2013 compared to $266 million in 2012 due to an increase in the amortization expense for prior year's net actuarial losses (gain) which increased due to a lower discount rate used to value the pension plans. Net periodic pension cost decreased in 2012 compared to $304 million in 2011 primarily due to an increase in the expected return on plan assets, a lower discount rate used to value the pension plans and a decrease in settlement charges partially offset by increased amortization of net actuarial loss (gain). In 2013, 2012 and 2011, net pension cost included non-cash settlement charges primarily resulting from lump sum distributions. Settlement charges are likely to continue for some period in the future as we settle our remaining agent pension obligations by making lump sum distributions to agents.
We anticipate that the net actuarial loss for our pension plans will exceed 10% of the greater of the PBO or the market-related value of assets in 2014 and into the foreseeable future, resulting in additional amortization and net periodic pension cost. The net actuarial loss will be amortized over the remaining service life of active employees (approximately 9 years) or will reverse with increases in the discount rate or better than expected returns on plan assets.
Holding other assumptions constant, a hypothetical decrease of 100 basis points in the discount rate would result in an increase of $39 million in net periodic pension cost and a $379 million increase in the unrecognized pension cost liability recorded as accumulated other comprehensive income as of December 31, 2013, compared to an increase of $51 million in net periodic pension cost and a $503 million increase in the unrecognized pension cost liability as of December 31, 2012. A hypothetical increase of 100 basis points in the discount rate would decrease net periodic pension cost by $35 million and would decrease the unrecognized pension cost liability recorded as accumulated other comprehensive income by $322 million as of December 31, 2013, compared to a decrease in net periodic pension cost of $45 million and a $421 million decrease in the unrecognized pension cost liability recorded as accumulated other comprehensive income as of December 31, 2012. This non-symmetrical range results from the non-linear relationship between discount rates and pension obligations, and changes in the amortization of unrealized net actuarial gains and losses.
•Shareholders' equity as of December 31, 2013 was $21.48 billion, an increase of 4.4% from $20.58 billion as of December 31, 2012. •On April 1, 2013, July 1, 2013, and October 1, 2013, we paid common shareholder dividends of $0.25 each. On November 19, 2013, we declared a common shareholder dividend of $0.25 to be payable on January 2, 2014. On February 19, 2014, we declared a common shareholder dividend of $0.28 to be payable on April 1, 2014. •On October 15, 2013, we paid a dividend on our 5.625% preferred stock for the dividend period from June 12, 2013 through October 14, 2013. On November 19, 2013, we declared dividends on our 5.625% preferred stock for the dividend period from October 15, 2013 through January 14, 2014 to be payable on January 15, 2014 and our 6.75% preferred stock for the dividend period from September 30, 2013 through January 14, 2014 to be payable on January 15, 2014. On February 19, 2014, we declared dividends on our 5.625% and 6.75% preferred stock for the dividend period from January 15, 2014 through April 14, 2014 to be payable on April 15, 2014 and our 6.625% preferred stock for the dividend period from December 16, 2013 through April 14, 2014 to be payable on April 15, 2014. •During 2013, we repurchased 37.4 million common shares for $1.84 billion. As of December 31, 2013, there was $139 million remaining on our common share repurchase programs which was completed in February 2014. In
February 2014, a new $2.5 billion common share repurchase program was authorized and is expected to be completed by August 2015.
Capital resources consist of shareholders' equity and debt, representing funds deployed or available to be deployed to support business operations or for general corporate purposes. The following table summarizes our capital resources as of December 31.
Shareholders' equity increased in 2013, primarily due to net income, decreased unrecognized pension and other postretirement benefit cost from increasing the discount rate, changes in plan benefits and settlements charges reducing the plan's benefit obligations, and the issuance of preferred stock, partially offset by common share repurchases, decreased unrealized net capital gains on investments and dividends paid to shareholders. Shareholders' equity increased in 2012, primarily due to net income and increased unrealized net capital gains on investments, partially offset by common share repurchases and dividends paid to shareholders.
Preferred stock On June 12, 2013, we issued 11,500 shares of 5.625% Noncumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock for gross proceeds of $287.5 million. The proceeds of this issuance were used to fund the repurchase of debt and for general corporate purposes. On September 30, 2013, we issued 15,400 shares of 6.75% Noncumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock for gross proceeds of $385 million. The proceeds of this issuance were used for general corporate purposes, including to prefund the repayment of debt maturing in 2014. In December 2013, we issued 5,400 shares of 6.625% Noncumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock for gross proceeds of $135 million. The proceeds of this issuance were used for general corporate purposes.
During 2014, we may execute additional issuances of perpetual preferred stock for general corporate purposes.
Since 1995, we have acquired 561 million shares of our common stock at a cost of $23.01 billion, primarily as part of various stock repurchase programs. We have reissued 112 million common shares since 1995, primarily associated with our equity incentive plans, the 1999 acquisition of American Heritage Life Investment Corporation and the 2001 redemption of certain mandatorily redeemable preferred securities. Since 1995, total common shares outstanding has decreased by 451 million shares or 50.1%, primarily due to our repurchase programs.
Financial ratings and strength The following table summarizes our senior long-term debt, commercial paper and insurance financial strength ratings as of December 31, 2013.
In January 2014, A.M. Best affirmed The Allstate Corporation's debt and commercial paper ratings of a- and AMB-1, respectively, and our insurance entities financial strength ratings of A+ for AIC and Allstate Life Insurance Company ("ALIC"). The outlook for AIC and ALIC remained stable. In April 2013, Moody's affirmed The Allstate Corporation's debt and commercial paper ratings of A3 and P-2, respectively, AIC's financial strength ratings of Aa3 and ALIC's financial strength rating of A1. The outlook for all Moody's ratings was revised to stable from negative. In May 2013, S&P affirmed The Allstate Corporation's debt and commercial paper ratings of A- and A-2, respectively, AIC's financial strength ratings of AA- and ALIC's financial strength rating of A+. The outlook for all S&P ratings was revised to stable from negative. The affirmation was based in part on the expectation that capital will be maintained within S&P's guideline. In the future, if our financial position is less than rating agency expectations including those related to capitalization at the parent company, AIC or ALIC, we could be exposed to a downgrade in our ratings which we do not view as being material to our business model or strategies.
We have distinct and separately capitalized groups of subsidiaries licensed to sell property and casualty insurance in New Jersey and Florida that maintain separate group ratings. The ratings of these groups are influenced by the risks that relate specifically to each group. Many mortgage companies require property owners to have insurance from an insurance carrier with a secure financial strength rating from an accredited rating agency. On February 12, 2014, A.M. Best affirmed the Allstate New Jersey Insurance Company, which writes auto and homeowners insurance, rating of A-. The outlook for this rating is stable. Allstate New Jersey Insurance Company also has a Financial Stability Rating® of A" from Demotech, which was affirmed on November 22, 2013. On August 29, 2013, A.M. Best affirmed the Castle Key Insurance Company, which underwrites personal lines property insurance in Florida, rating of B-. The outlook for the rating is negative. Castle Key Insurance Company also has a Financial Stability Rating® of A' from Demotech, which was affirmed on November 22, 2013.
ALIC, AIC and The Allstate Corporation are party to the Amended and Restated Intercompany Liquidity Agreement ("Liquidity Agreement") which allows for short-term advances of funds to be made between parties for liquidity and
Allstate's domestic property-liability and life insurance subsidiaries prepare their statutory-basis financial statements in conformity with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the insurance department of the applicable state of domicile. Statutory surplus is a measure that is often used as a basis for determining dividend paying capacity, operating leverage and premium growth capacity, and it is also reviewed by rating agencies in determining their ratings. As of December 31, 2013, total statutory surplus is $18.28 billion compared to $17.28 billion as of December 31, 2012. Property-Liability surplus was $15.26 billion as of December 31, 2013, compared to $13.74 billion as of December 31, 2012. Allstate Financial surplus was $3.02 billion as of December 31, 2013, compared to $3.54 billion as of December 31, 2012.
The ratio of net premiums written to statutory surplus is a common measure of operating leverage used in the property-casualty insurance industry and serves as an indicator of a company's premium growth capacity. Ratios in excess of 3 to 1 are typically considered outside the usual range by insurance regulators and rating agencies, and for homeowners and related coverages that have significant net exposure to natural catastrophes a ratio of 1 to 1 is considered appropriate. AIC's combined premium to surplus ratio was 1.5x as of December 31, 2013 compared to 1.6x as of December 31, 2012.
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners ("NAIC") has also developed a set of financial relationships or tests known as the Insurance Regulatory Information System to assist state regulators in monitoring the financial condition of insurance companies and identifying companies that require special attention or actions by insurance regulatory authorities. The NAIC analyzes financial data provided by insurance companies using prescribed ratios, each with defined "usual ranges". Generally, regulators will begin to monitor an insurance company if its ratios fall outside the usual ranges for four or more of the ratios. If an insurance company has insufficient capital, regulators may act to reduce the amount of insurance it can issue. Our domestic insurance companies have no significant departure from these ranges.
In 2013, AIC paid dividends totaling $1.95 billion to its parent, Allstate Insurance Holdings, LLC ("AIH") who then paid the same amount of dividends to the Corporation. In 2012, AIC paid dividends totaling $1.51 billion. These dividends comprised $1.06 billion in cash paid to AIH, of which $1.04 billion were paid by AIH to the Corporation, and the transfer of ownership (valued at $450 million) to AIH of three insurance companies that were formerly subsidiaries of AIC (Allstate Indemnity Company, Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company and Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company). In 2011, dividends totaling $838 million were paid by AIC to the Corporation. There were no capital contributions paid by the Corporation to AIC in 2013, 2012 or 2011. There were no capital contributions by AIC to ALIC in 2013, 2012 or 2011. In 2013 and 2012, Allstate Financial paid $774 million and $357 million, respectively, of return of capital, repayment of surplus notes and dividends to the Corporation and other affiliates.
The sale of LBL is expected to generate deployable capital of approximately $1 billion. As allowed by regulatory authorities and subject to dividend limitations and approvals the capital may be returned to AIC. The $1 billion includes the estimated gain on the sale on a statutory-basis of accounting in the range of approximately $350 million to $400 million and the release of risk-based capital. During 2014, ALIC will not be able to pay dividends to AIC without prior Illinois Department of Insurance approval.
(1)Includes $3.34 billion of liabilities with a contractual surrender charge of less than 5% of the account balance. (2)$2.45 billion of the contracts with market value adjusted surrenders have a 30-45 day period at the end of their initial and subsequent interest rate guarantee periods (which are typically 5, 6, 7 or 10 years) during which there is no surrender charge or market value adjustment. (3)79% of these contracts have a minimum interest crediting rate guarantee of 3% or higher. (4)Includes $911 million of contractholder funds on variable annuities reinsured to The Prudential Insurance Company of America, a subsidiary of Prudential Financial Inc., in 2006.
Certain remote events and circumstances could constrain our liquidity. Those events and circumstances include, for example, a catastrophe resulting in extraordinary losses, a downgrade in our senior long-term debt rating of A3, A- and a- (from Moody's, S&P and A.M. Best, respectively) to non-investment grade status of below Baa3/BBB-/bb, a downgrade in AIC's financial strength rating from Aa3, AA- and A+ (from Moody's, S&P and A.M. Best, respectively) to below Baa2/BBB/A-, or a downgrade in ALIC's financial strength ratings from A1, A+ and A+ (from Moody's, S&P and A.M. Best, respectively) to below A3/A-/A-. The rating agencies also consider the interdependence of our individually rated entities; therefore, a rating change in one entity could potentially affect the ratings of other related entities.
Property-Liability Higher cash provided by operating activities in 2013 compared to 2012 was primarily due to lower claim payments, increased premiums and the surrender of company owned life insurance, partially offset by higher expenses and tax payments. Higher cash provided by operating activities in 2012 compared to 2011 was primarily due to lower claim payments.
Higher cash used in investing activities in 2013 compared to 2012 was primarily related to 2013 operating cash flows being invested. Cash used in investing activities in 2012 compared to cash provided by investing activities in 2011 was primarily due to 2012 operating cash flows being invested. There were lower sales of fixed income and equity securities and lower purchases of fixed income and equity securities.
basis. In addition, other liabilities of $395 million were not included in the table above because they did not represent a contractual obligation or the amount and timing of their eventual payment was sufficiently uncertain.
Contractual commitments represent investment commitments such as private placements, limited partnership interests and other loans. Limited partnership interests are typically funded over the commitment period which is shorter than the contractual expiration date of the partnership and as a result, the actual timing of the funding may vary.
We are subject to extensive regulation and we are involved in various legal and regulatory actions, all of which have an effect on specific aspects of our business. For a detailed discussion of the legal and regulatory actions in which we are involved, see Note 15 of the consolidated financial statements.
Life and annuity premiums and contract charges (net of reinsurance ceded of $639, $674 and $750)
Net income available to common shareholders per common share - Diluted
Preferred stock and additional capital paid-in, $1 par value, 25 million shares authorized, 32.3 thousand shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2013 and none issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2012, $807.5 aggregate liquidation preference
Allstate is engaged, principally in the United States, in the property-liability insurance and life insurance business. Allstate's primary business is the sale of private passenger auto and homeowners insurance. The Company also sells several other personal property and casualty insurance products, select commercial property and casualty coverages, life insurance and voluntary accident and health insurance. Allstate primarily distributes its products through exclusive agencies, financial specialists, independent agencies, contact centers and the internet.
The Allstate Financial segment sells life insurance and voluntary accident and health insurance products. The principal products are interest-sensitive, traditional and variable life insurance; and voluntary accident and health insurance. Effective January 1, 2014, the Company no longer offers fixed annuities such as deferred and immediate annuities. Institutional products consisting of funding agreements sold to unaffiliated trusts that use them to back medium-term notes were offered prior to 2009. Banking products and services were previously offered to customers through the Allstate Bank, which ceased operations in 2011.
Allstate Financial, through several companies, is authorized to sell life insurance and retirement products in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Guam. For 2013, the top geographic locations for statutory premiums and annuity considerations for the Allstate Financial segment were California, Texas, Florida and New York. No other jurisdiction accounted for more than 5% of statutory premiums and annuity considerations for Allstate Financial. Allstate Financial distributes its products through Allstate exclusive agencies and exclusive financial specialists, and workplace enrolling independent agents.
Fair value hedges The change in fair value of hedging instruments used in fair value hedges of investment assets or a portion thereof is reported in net investment income, together with the change in fair value of the hedged items. The change in fair value of hedging instruments used in fair value hedges of contractholder funds liabilities or a portion
thereof is reported in interest credited to contractholder funds, together with the change in fair value of the hedged items. Accrued periodic settlements on swaps are reported together with the changes in fair value of the swaps in net investment income or interest credited to contractholder funds. The amortized cost for fixed income securities, the carrying value for mortgage loans or the carrying value of the hedged liability is adjusted for the change in fair value of the hedged risk.
relatively short-term nature. The Company monitors the market value of securities loaned on a daily basis and obtains additional collateral as necessary under the terms of the agreements to mitigate counterparty credit risk. The Company maintains the right and ability to repossess the securities loaned on short notice.
Property-liability premiums are deferred and earned on a pro-rata basis over the terms of the policies, typically periods of six or twelve months. The portion of premiums written applicable to the unexpired terms of the policies is recorded as unearned premiums. Premium installment receivables, net, represent premiums written and not yet collected, net of an allowance for uncollectible premiums. The Company regularly evaluates premium installment receivables and adjusts its valuation allowance as appropriate. The valuation allowance for uncollectible premium installment receivables was $77 million and $70 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
To estimate the fair value of its reporting units, the Company may utilize a combination of widely accepted valuation techniques including a stock price and market capitalization analysis, discounted cash flow calculations and peer company price to earnings multiples analysis. The stock price and market capitalization analysis takes into consideration the quoted market price of the Company's outstanding common stock and includes a control premium, derived from historical insurance industry acquisition activity, in determining the estimated fair value of the consolidated entity before allocating that fair value to individual reporting units. The discounted cash flow analysis utilizes long term assumptions for revenue growth, capital growth, earnings projections including those used in the Company's strategic plan, and an appropriate discount rate. The peer company price to earnings multiples analysis takes into consideration the price to earnings multiples of peer companies for each reporting unit and estimated income from the Company's strategic plan.
Goodwill impairment evaluations indicated no impairment as of December 31, 2013 or 2012.
Separate accounts assets are carried at fair value. The assets of the separate accounts are legally segregated and available only to settle separate account contract obligations. Separate accounts liabilities represent the contractholders' claims to the related assets and are carried at an amount equal to the separate accounts assets. Investment income and realized capital gains and losses of the separate accounts accrue directly to the contractholders and therefore are not included in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Operations. Deposits to and surrenders and withdrawals from the separate accounts are reflected in separate accounts liabilities and are not included in consolidated cash flows.
Commitments to invest, commitments to purchase private placement securities, commitments to extend loans, financial guarantees and credit guarantees have off-balance sheet risk because their contractual amounts are not recorded in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Financial Position (see Note 8 and Note 15).
The Company consolidates VIEs when it is the primary beneficiary. A primary beneficiary is the entity with both the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE and the obligation to absorb losses, or the right to receive benefits, that could potentially be significant to the VIE (see Note 13).
In January 2014, the FASB issued guidance which allows entities that invest in certain qualified affordable housing projects through limited liability entities the option to account for these investments using the proportional amortization method if certain conditions are met. Under the proportional amortization method, the entity amortizes the initial cost of the investment in proportion to the tax credits and other tax benefits received and recognizes the net investment performance in the income statement as a component of income tax expense or benefit. The guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2014 and is to be applied retrospectively. The Company is in the process
Non-cash modifications of certain mortgage loans, fixed income securities, limited partnership interests and other investments, as well as mergers completed with equity securities, totaled $322 million, $323 million and $601 million in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Non-cash financing activities include $94 million, $39 million and $18 million related to the issuance of Allstate shares for vested restricted stock units in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
Liabilities for collateral received in conjunction with the Company's securities lending program were $609 million, $784 million and $419 million as of December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, and are reported in other liabilities and accrued expenses. Obligations to return cash collateral for over-the-counter ("OTC") and cleared derivatives were $15 million, $24 million and $43 million as of December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, and are reported in other liabilities and accrued expenses or other investments. The accompanying cash flows are included in cash flows from operating activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows along with the activities resulting from management of the proceeds, which for the years ended December 31 are as follows:
The scheduled maturities for fixed income securities are as follows as of December 31, 2013:
$ (207 ) $ (8 ) $ (215 ) $ (239 ) $
$ (233 ) $ (563 ) $ (33 ) $ (596 )
The total amount of other-than-temporary impairment losses included in accumulated other comprehensive income at the time of impairment for fixed income securities, which were not included in earnings, are presented in the following table. The amount excludes $260 million and $219 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, of net unrealized gains related to changes in valuation of the fixed income securities subsequent to the impairment measurement date.
The Company uses its best estimate of future cash flows expected to be collected from the fixed income security, discounted at the security's original or current effective rate, as appropriate, to calculate a recovery value and determine whether a credit loss exists. The determination of cash flow estimates is inherently subjective and methodologies may vary depending on facts and circumstances specific to the security. All reasonably available information relevant to the collectability of the security, including past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable assumptions and forecasts, are considered when developing the estimate of cash flows expected to be collected. That information
generally includes, but is not limited to, the remaining payment terms of the security, prepayment speeds, foreign exchange rates, the financial condition and future earnings potential of the issue or issuer, expected defaults, expected recoveries, the value of underlying collateral, vintage, geographic concentration, available reserves or escrows, current subordination levels, third party guarantees and other credit enhancements. Other information, such as industry analyst reports and forecasts, sector credit ratings, financial condition of the bond insurer for insured fixed income securities, and other market data relevant to the realizability of contractual cash flows, may also be considered. The estimated fair value of collateral will be used to estimate recovery value if the Company determines that the security is dependent on the liquidation of collateral for ultimate settlement. If the estimated recovery value is less than the amortized cost of the security, a credit loss exists and an other-than-temporary impairment for the difference between the estimated recovery value and amortized cost is recorded in earnings. The portion of the unrealized loss related to factors other than credit remains classified in accumulated other comprehensive income. If the Company determines that the fixed income security does not have sufficient cash flow or other information to estimate a recovery value for the security, the Company may conclude that the entire decline in fair value is deemed to be credit related and the loss is recorded in earnings.
(1)Included in the fair value of derivative instruments are $1 million classified as assets and $14 million classified as liabilities. (2)Unrealized net capital gains and losses for limited partnership interests represent the Company's share of EMA limited partnerships' other comprehensive income. Fair value and gross gains and losses are not applicable. (3)The insurance reserves adjustment represents the amount by which the reserve balance would increase if the net unrealized gains in the applicable product portfolios were realized and reinvested at current lower interest rates, resulting in a premium deficiency. Although the Company evaluates premium deficiencies on the combined performance of life insurance and immediate annuities with life contingencies, the adjustment primarily relates to structured settlement annuities with life contingencies, in addition to annuity buy-outs and certain payout annuities with life contingencies. (4)The DAC and DSI adjustment balance represents the amount by which the amortization of DAC and DSI would increase or decrease if the unrealized gains or losses in the respective product portfolios were realized.
As of December 31, 2013, $504 million of unrealized losses are related to securities with an unrealized loss position less than 20% of amortized cost or cost, the degree of which suggests that these securities do not pose a high risk of being other-than-temporarily impaired. Of the $504 million, $383 million are related to unrealized losses on investment grade fixed income securities. Investment grade is defined as a security having a rating of Aaa, Aa, A or Baa from Moody's, a rating of AAA, AA, A or BBB from S&P, Fitch, Dominion, Kroll or Realpoint, a rating of aaa, aa, a or bbb from A.M. Best, or a comparable internal rating if an externally provided rating is not available. Unrealized losses on investment grade securities are principally related to increasing risk-free interest rates or widening credit spreads since the time of initial purchase.
investment grade fixed income securities that had been in an unrealized loss position greater than or equal to 20% of amortized cost for a period of twelve or more consecutive months as of December 31, 2013.
As of both December 31, 2013 and 2012, the carrying value of equity method limited partnerships totaled $3.52 billion. The Company recognizes an impairment loss for equity method limited partnerships when evidence demonstrates that the loss is other than temporary. Evidence of a loss in value that is other than temporary may include the absence of an ability to recover the carrying amount of the investment or the inability of the investee to sustain a level of earnings that would justify the carrying amount of the investment. The Company had write-downs related to equity method limited partnerships of $1 million and $2 million in 2013 and 2011, respectively. The Company had no write-downs related to equity method limited partnerships in 2012.
The average balance of impaired loans was $88 million, $202 million and $210 million during 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
The Company maintains a diversified portfolio of municipal bonds. The following table shows the principal geographic distribution of municipal bond issuers represented in the Company's portfolio as of December 31. No other state represents more than 5% of the portfolio.
As of December 31, 2013, the Company is not exposed to any credit concentration risk of a single issuer and its affiliates greater than 10% of the Company's shareholders' equity.
As of December 31, 2013, fixed income securities and short-term investments with a carrying value of $258 million were on deposit with regulatory authorities as required by law.
•Assets held for sale: Comprise U.S. Treasury fixed income securities, short-term investments and separate account assets. The valuation is based on the respective asset type as described above.
well as published credit spreads for similar assets that incorporate the credit quality and industry sector of the issuer.
•Other investments: Certain OTC derivatives, such as interest rate caps, certain credit default swaps and certain options (including swaptions), are valued using models that are widely accepted in the financial services industry. These are categorized as Level 3 as a result of the significance of non-market observable inputs such as volatility. Other primary inputs include interest rate yield curves and credit spreads.
•Assets held for sale: Comprise municipal, corporate, ABS and CMBS fixed income securities. The valuation is based on the respective asset type as described above.
•Liabilities held for sale: Comprise derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts. The valuation is the same as described above for contractholder funds.
Mortgage loans written-down to fair value in connection with recognizing impairments are valued based on the fair value of the underlying collateral less costs to sell. Limited partnership interests written-down to fair value in connection with recognizing other-than-temporary impairments are valued using net asset values. The carrying value of the LBL business was written-down to fair value in connection with being classified as held for sale.
(1)Includes $4 million of mortgage loans, $4 million of limited partnership interests and $1 million of other investments written-down to fair value in connection with recognizing other-than-temporary impairments.
As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, Level 3 fair value measurements include $1.27 billion and $1.87 billion, respectively, of fixed income securities valued based on non-binding broker quotes where the inputs have not been corroborated to be market observable and $208 million and $395 million, respectively, of municipal fixed income securities that are not rated by third party credit rating agencies. As of December 31, 2013, Level 3 fair value measurements for assets held for sale include $319 million of fixed income securities valued based on non-binding broker quotes where the inputs have not been corroborated to be market observable. The Company does not develop the unobservable inputs used in measuring fair value; therefore, these are not included in the table above. However, an increase (decrease) in credit spreads for fixed income securities valued based on non-binding broker quotes would result in a lower (higher) fair value, and an increase (decrease) in the credit rating of municipal bonds that are not rated by third party credit rating agencies would result in a higher (lower) fair value.
(1)The effect to net income totals $129 million and is reported in the Consolidated Statements of Operations as follows: $3 million in realized capital gains and losses, $18 million in net investment income, $40 million in interest credited to contractholder funds, $74 million in life and annuity contract benefits and $(6) million in loss on disposition of operations. (2)Represents purchases for assets and issues for liabilities. (3)Comprises $9 million of assets and $14 million of liabilities.
The amounts in the table above represent the change in unrealized gains and losses included in net income for the period of time that the asset or liability was determined to be in Level 3. These gains and losses total $106 million in 2013 and are reported as follows: $(9) million in realized capital gains and losses, $12 million in net investment income, $35 million in interest credited to contractholder funds, $74 million in life and annuity contract benefits and $(6) million in loss on disposition of operations. These gains and losses total $151 million in 2012 and are reported as follows: $(37) million in realized capital gains and losses, $21 million in net investment income, $131 million in interest credited to contractholder funds and $36 million in life and annuity contract benefits. These gains and losses total $(237) million in 2011 and are reported as follows: $(147) million in realized capital gains and losses, $44 million in net investment income, $(102) million in interest credited to contractholder funds and $(32) million in life and annuity contract benefits.
Property-Liability uses interest rate swaps, swaptions, futures and options to manage the interest rate risks of existing investments. Portfolio duration management is a risk management strategy that is principally employed by Property-Liability wherein financial futures and interest rate swaps are utilized to change the duration of the portfolio in order to offset the economic effect that interest rates would otherwise have on the fair value of its fixed income securities. Equity index futures and options are used by Property-Liability to offset valuation losses in the equity portfolio during periods of declining equity market values. Credit default swaps are typically used to mitigate the credit risk within the Property-Liability fixed income portfolio. Property-Liability uses equity futures to hedge the market risk related to deferred compensation liability contracts and forward contracts to hedge foreign currency risk associated with holding foreign currency denominated investments and foreign operations.
Asset-liability management is a risk management strategy that is principally employed by Allstate Financial to balance the respective interest-rate sensitivities of its assets and liabilities. Depending upon the attributes of the assets acquired and liabilities issued, derivative instruments such as interest rate swaps, caps, swaptions and futures are utilized to change the interest rate characteristics of existing assets and liabilities to ensure the relationship is maintained within specified ranges and to reduce exposure to rising or falling interest rates. Allstate Financial uses financial futures and interest rate swaps to hedge anticipated asset purchases and liability issuances and futures and options for hedging the equity exposure contained in its equity indexed life and annuity product contracts that offer equity returns to contractholders. In addition, Allstate Financial uses interest rate swaps to hedge interest rate risk inherent in funding agreements. Allstate Financial uses foreign currency swaps and forwards primarily to reduce the foreign currency risk associated with issuing foreign currency denominated funding agreements and holding foreign currency denominated investments. Credit default swaps are typically used to mitigate the credit risk within the Allstate Financial fixed income portfolio.
Fair value, which is equal to the carrying value, is the estimated amount that the Company would receive or pay to terminate the derivative contracts at the reporting date. The carrying value amounts for OTC derivatives are further adjusted for the effects, if any, of enforceable master netting agreements and are presented on a net basis, by counterparty agreement, in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. For certain exchange traded and cleared derivatives, margin deposits are required as well as daily cash settlements of margin accounts. As of December 31, 2013, the Company pledged $12 million of cash and securities in the form of margin deposits.
Non-hedge accounting is generally used for "portfolio" level hedging strategies where the terms of the individual hedged items do not meet the strict homogeneity requirements to permit the application of hedge accounting. For non-hedge derivatives, net income includes changes in fair value and accrued periodic settlements, when applicable. With the exception of non-hedge derivatives used for asset replication and non-hedge embedded derivatives, all of the Company's derivatives are evaluated for their ongoing effectiveness as either accounting hedge or non-hedge derivative financial instruments on at least a quarterly basis.
(1)Volume for OTC derivative contracts is represented by their notional amounts. Volume for exchange traded derivatives is represented by the number of contracts, which is the basis on which they are traded. (n/a = not applicable) (2)In addition to the number of contracts presented in the table, the Company held 6,160 stock rights and 1,232,420 stock warrants. Stock rights and warrants can be converted to cash upon sale of those instruments or exercised for shares of common stock.
(1)Volume for OTC derivative contracts is represented by their notional amounts. Volume for exchange traded derivatives is represented by the number of contracts, which is the basis on which they are traded. (n/a = not applicable) (2)In addition to the number of contracts presented in the table, the Company held 34,634 stock rights and 879,158 stock warrants. Stock rights and warrants can be converted to cash upon sale of those instruments or exercised for shares of common stock.
The following table provides gross and net amounts for the Company's OTC derivatives, all of which are subject to enforceable master netting agreements.
The following table provides a summary of the impacts of the Company's foreign currency contracts in cash flow hedging relationships for the years ended December 31.
Amortization of net losses from accumulated other comprehensive income related to cash flow hedges is expected to be $2 million during the next twelve months. There was no hedge ineffectiveness reported in realized gains and losses in 2013, 2012 or 2011.
The Company manages its exposure to credit risk by utilizing highly rated counterparties, establishing risk control limits, executing legally enforceable master netting agreements ("MNAs") and obtaining collateral where appropriate. The Company uses MNAs for OTC derivative transactions that permit either party to net payments due for transactions and collateral is either pledged or obtained when certain predetermined exposure limits are exceeded. As of December 31, 2013, counterparties pledged $17 million in cash and securities to the Company, and the Company pledged $23 million in securities to counterparties which includes $14 million of collateral posted under MNAs for contracts containing credit-risk-contingent provisions that are in a liability position and $9 million of collateral posted under MNAs for contracts without credit-risk-contingent liabilities. The Company has not incurred any losses on derivative financial instruments due to counterparty nonperformance. Other derivatives, including futures and certain option contracts, are traded on organized exchanges which require margin deposits and guarantee the execution of trades, thereby mitigating any potential credit risk.
(1)Rating is the lower of S&P or Moody's ratings. (2)Only OTC derivatives with a net positive fair value are included for each counterparty.
Private placement commitments represent conditional commitments to purchase private placement debt and equity securities at a specified future date. The Company enters into these agreements in the normal course of business. The fair value of these commitments generally cannot be estimated on the date the commitment is made as the terms and conditions of the underlying private placement securities are not yet final.
Other loan commitments are agreements to lend to a borrower provided there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. The Company enters into these agreements to commit to future loan fundings at predetermined interest rates. Commitments generally have varying expiration dates or other termination clauses. The fair value of these commitments is insignificant.
During 2013, incurred claims and claims expense related to prior years was primarily composed of net decreases in auto reserves of $237 million primarily due to claim severity development that was better than expected, net decreases in homeowners reserves of $5 million due to favorable non-catastrophe reserve reestimates, net decreases in other reserves of $21 million, and net increases in Discontinued Lines and Coverages reserves of $142 million. Incurred claims and claims expense includes favorable catastrophe loss reestimates of $88 million, net of reinsurance and other recoveries.
During 2011, incurred claims and claims expense related to prior years was primarily composed of net decreases in auto reserves of $381 million primarily due to claim severity development that was better than expected, net decreases in homeowners reserves of $69 million due to favorable catastrophe reserve reestimates, net increases in other reserves of $94 million, and net increases in Discontinued Lines and Coverages reserves of $21 million. Incurred claims and claims expense includes favorable catastrophe loss reestimates of $130 million, net of reinsurance and other recoveries.
unreported claims arising from losses which had occurred by the date of the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position based on available facts, technology, laws and regulations.
(1)Included in the total liability balance as of December 31, 2012 are reserves for variable annuity death benefits of $112 million, variable annuity income benefits of $221 million, variable annuity accumulation benefits of $86 million, variable annuity withdrawal benefits of $39 million and other guarantees of $215 million. (2)Included in the total liability balance as of December 31, 2013 are reserves for variable annuity death benefits of $98 million, variable annuity income benefits of $99 million, variable annuity accumulation benefits of $43 million, variable annuity withdrawal benefits of $13 million and other guarantees of $302 million. (3)Included in the total liability balance as of December 31, 2011 are reserves for variable annuity death benefits of $116 million, variable annuity income benefits of $175 million, variable annuity accumulation benefits of $105 million, variable annuity withdrawal benefits of $57 million and other guarantees of $191 million.
With the exception of the recoverable balances from the Michigan Catastrophic Claim Association ("MCCA"), Lloyd's of London and other industry pools and facilities, the largest reinsurance recoverable balance the Company had outstanding was $85 million and $95 million from Westport Insurance Corporation (formerly Employers' Reinsurance Company) as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. No other amount due or estimated to be due from any single property-liability reinsurer was in excess of $34 million and $42 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
The allowance for uncollectible reinsurance was $92 million and $87 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and is primarily related to the Company's Discontinued Lines and Coverages segment.
Ceded premiums earned under the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund ("FHCF") agreement were $16 million, $18 million and $27 million in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. There were no ceded losses incurred in 2013 or 2012. Ceded losses incurred were $8 million in 2011. The Company has access to reimbursement provided by the FHCF for 90% of qualifying personal property losses that exceed its current retention of $72 million for the 2 largest hurricanes and $24 million for other hurricanes, up to a maximum total of $198 million effective from June 1, 2013 to May 31, 2014. There were no amounts recoverable from the FHCF as of December 31, 2013 or 2012.
The Company has the following catastrophe reinsurance treaties in effect as of December 31, 2013:
•The Kentucky Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance agreement provides coverage for Allstate Protection personal lines property excess catastrophe losses in the state for earthquakes and fires following earthquakes effective June 1, 2011 to May 31, 2014. The agreement provides three limits of $25 million excess of a $5 million retention subject to two limits being available in any one contract year and is 95% placed.
•Four separate contracts for Castle Key Insurance Company and its subsidiary ("Castle Key") provide coverage for personal lines property excess catastrophe losses in Florida and coordinate coverage with Castle Key's participation in the FHCF, effective June 1, 2013 to May 31, 2014. All the contracts comprising the Florida agreement including the contract that provides coverage through the FHCF, provides an estimated provisional limit of $535 million excess of a provisional retention of $25 million.
The Company ceded premiums earned of $471 million, $531 million and $531 million under catastrophe reinsurance agreements in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
Reinsurance recoverables include $191 million and $190 million from Lloyd's of London as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Lloyd's of London, through the creation of Equitas Limited, implemented a restructuring plan in 1996 to solidify its capital base and to segregate claims for years prior to 1993.
The Company's Allstate Financial segment reinsures certain of its risks to other insurers primarily under yearly renewable term, coinsurance, modified coinsurance and coinsurance with funds withheld agreements. These agreements result in a passing of the agreed-upon percentage of risk to the reinsurer in exchange for negotiated reinsurance premium payments. Modified coinsurance and coinsurance with funds withheld are similar to coinsurance, except that the cash and investments that support the liability for contract benefits are not transferred to the assuming company and settlements are made on a net basis between the companies.
For certain term life insurance policies issued prior to October 2009, Allstate Financial ceded up to 90% of the mortality risk depending on the year of policy issuance under coinsurance agreements to a pool of fourteen unaffiliated reinsurers. Effective October 2009, mortality risk on term business is ceded under yearly renewable term agreements under which Allstate Financial cedes mortality in excess of its retention, which is consistent with how Allstate Financial
In addition, Allstate Financial has used reinsurance to effect the acquisition or disposition of certain blocks of business. Allstate Financial had reinsurance recoverables of $1.51 billion and $1.69 billion as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, due from Prudential related to the disposal of substantially all of its variable annuity business that was effected through reinsurance agreements. In 2013, life and annuity premiums and contract charges of $120 million, contract benefits of $139 million, interest credited to contractholder funds of $22 million, and operating costs and expenses of $23 million were ceded to Prudential. In 2012, life and annuity premiums and contract charges of $128 million, contract benefits of $91 million, interest credited to contractholder funds of $23 million, and operating costs and expenses of $25 million were ceded to Prudential. In 2011, life and annuity premiums and contract charges of $152 million, contract benefits of $121 million, interest credited to contractholder funds of $20 million, and operating costs and expenses of $27 million were ceded to Prudential. In addition, as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 Allstate Financial had reinsurance recoverables of $156 million and $160 million, respectively, due from subsidiaries of Citigroup (Triton Insurance and American Health and Life Insurance) and Scottish Re (U.S.) Inc. in connection with the disposition of substantially all of the direct response distribution business in 2003.
On August 8, 2013, the Company issued $800 million of 5.75% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Debentures due 2053. The proceeds of this issuance were used for the repayment of certain commercial paper borrowings, to fund the repurchase of debt, for the repurchase of our common stock in open market purchases and for general corporate purposes.
During third and fourth quarter 2013, the Company repurchased principal amounts of $73 million of debt. The Company recognized a loss on extinguishment of $11 million, pre-tax, representing the excess of the repurchase price over the principal repaid and the write-off of the unamortized debt issuance costs.
The Company has outstanding $500 million of Series A 6.50% and $252 million of Series B 6.125% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Junior Subordinated Debentures (together the "Debentures"). The scheduled maturity dates for the Debentures are May 15, 2057 and May 15, 2037 for Series A and Series B, respectively, with a final maturity date of May 15, 2067. The Debentures may be redeemed (i) in whole or in part, at any time on or after May 15, 2037 or May 15, 2017 for Series A and Series B, respectively, at their principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of redemption, or (ii) in certain circumstances, in whole or in part, prior to May 15, 2037 and May 15, 2017 for Series A and Series B, respectively, at their principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of redemption or, if greater, a make-whole price.
other qualifying securities. The promises and covenants contained in the new RCC will not apply if (i) S&P upgrades the Company's issuer credit rating to A or above, (ii) the Company redeems the Debentures due to a tax event, (iii) after notice of redemption has been given by the Company and a market disruption event occurs preventing the Company from raising proceeds in accordance with the new RCCs, or (iv) if the Company repurchases or redeems up to 10% of the outstanding principal of the Debentures in any one-year period, provided that no more than 25% will be so repurchased, redeemed or purchased in any ten-year period.
To manage short-term liquidity, the Company maintains a commercial paper program and a credit facility as a potential source of funds. These include a $1.00 billion unsecured revolving credit facility and a commercial paper program with a borrowing limit of $1.00 billion. The Company has the option to extend the expiration of its initial five year term by one year at the first and second anniversary of the facility, upon approval of existing or replacement lenders. In April 2013, the Company utilized the option on the first anniversary of the facility and extended the facility by one year making its current expiration April 2018. This facility contains an increase provision that would allow up to an additional $500 million of borrowing. This facility has a financial covenant requiring the Company not to exceed a 37.5% debt to capitalization ratio as defined in the agreement. Although the right to borrow under the facility is not subject to a minimum rating requirement, the costs of maintaining the facility and borrowing under it are based on the ratings of the Company's senior unsecured, unguaranteed long-term debt. The total amount outstanding at any point in time under the combination of the commercial paper program and the credit facility cannot exceed the amount that can be borrowed under the credit facility. No amounts were outstanding under the credit facility as of December 31, 2013 or 2012. The Company had no commercial paper outstanding as of December 31, 2013 or 2012.
The Company paid $361 million, $366 million and $363 million of interest on debt in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
During 2012, the Company filed a universal shelf registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") that expires in 2015. The registration statement covers an unspecified amount of securities and can be used to issue debt securities, common stock, preferred stock, depositary shares, warrants, stock purchase contracts, stock purchase units and securities of trust subsidiaries.
The Company had 900 million shares of issued common stock of which 449 million shares were outstanding and 451 million shares were held in treasury as of December 31, 2013. In 2013, the Company reacquired 38 million shares at an average cost of $49.29 and reissued 8 million shares under equity incentive plans.
On June 12, 2013, the Company issued 11,500 shares of 5.625% Noncumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A, with a $1.00 par value per share and a liquidation preference of $25,000 per share, for gross proceeds of $287.5 million. The proceeds of this issuance were used to fund the repurchase of debt and for general corporate purposes.
On September 30, 2013, the Company issued 15,400 shares of 6.75% Noncumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series C, with a $1.00 par value per share and a liquidation preference of $25,000 per share, for gross proceeds of $385 million. The proceeds of this issuance were used for general corporate purposes, including to prefund the repayment of debt maturing in 2014.
In December 2013, the Company issued 5,400 shares of 6.625% Noncumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series D, with a $1.00 par value per share and a liquidation preference of $25,000 per share, for gross proceeds of $135 million. The proceeds of this issuance were used for general corporate purposes.
The Company is prohibited from declaring or paying dividends on preferred stock in excess of the amount of net proceeds from an issuance of common stock taking place within 90 days before a dividend declaration date if, on that dividend declaration date, either: (1) the risk-based capital ratios of largest U.S. property-casualty insurance subsidiaries that collectively account for 80% or more of the net written premiums of U.S. property-casualty insurance business on a weighted average basis were less than 175% of their company action level risk-based capital as of the end of the most recent year; or (2) consolidated net income for the four-quarter period ending on the preliminary quarter end test date (the quarter that is two quarters prior to the most recently completed quarter) is zero or negative and consolidated shareholders' equity (excluding accumulated other comprehensive income, and subject to certain other adjustments relating to changes in U.S. GAAP) as of each of the preliminary quarter test date and the most recently completed quarter has declined by 20% or more from its level as measured at the end of the benchmark quarter (the date that is ten quarters prior to the most recently completed quarter). If the Company fails to satisfy either of these tests on any dividend declaration date, the restrictions on dividends will continue until the Company is able again to satisfy the test on a dividend declaration date. In addition, in the case of a restriction arising under (2) above, the restrictions on dividends will continue until consolidated shareholders' equity (excluding accumulated other comprehensive income, and subject to certain other adjustments relating to changes in U.S. GAAP) has increased, or has declined by less than 20%, in either case as compared to its level at the end of the benchmark quarter for each dividend payment date as to which dividend restrictions were imposed.
The preferred stock is perpetual and has no maturity date. The preferred stock is redeemable at the Company's option in whole or in part, on or after June 15, 2018 for Series A, October 15, 2018 for Series C and April 15, 2019 for Series D, at a redemption price of $25,000 per share of preferred stock, plus declared and unpaid dividends. Prior to June 15, 2018 for Series A, October 15, 2018 for Series C and April 15, 2019 for Series D, the preferred stock is redeemable at the Company's option, in whole but not in part, within 90 days of the occurrence of certain rating agency events at a redemption price equal to $25,000 per share or, if greater, a make-whole redemption price, plus declared and unpaid dividends.
The following table presents changes in the restructuring liability in 2013.
Castle Key is subject to assessments from Citizens Property Insurance Corporation in the state of Florida ("FL Citizens"), which was initially created by the state of Florida to provide insurance to property owners unable to obtain coverage in the private insurance market. FL Citizens, at the discretion and direction of its Board of Governors ("FL Citizens Board"), can levy a regular assessment on assessable insurers and assessable insureds for a deficit in any calendar year up to a maximum of the greater of: 2% of the projected deficit or 2% of the aggregate statewide direct written premium for the prior calendar year. The base of assessable insurers includes all property and casualty premiums in the state, except workers' compensation, medical malpractice, accident and health insurance and policies written under the NFIP. An insurer may recoup a regular assessment through a surcharge to policyholders. In order to recoup this assessment, an insurer must file for a policy surcharge with the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation ("FL OIR") at least fifteen days prior to imposing the surcharge on policies. If a deficit remains after the regular assessment, FL Citizens can also levy emergency assessments in the current and subsequent years. Companies are
All future assessments on participating CEA insurers are based on their CEA insurance market share as of December 31 of the preceding year. As of December 31, 2012, the Company's share of the CEA was 14.8%. The Company does not expect its CEA market share to materially change. At this level, the Company's maximum possible CEA assessment would be $303 million during 2014. Accordingly, assessments from the CEA for a particular quarter or
The New Jersey Unsatisfied Claim and Judgment Fund ("NJUCJF") provides compensation to qualified claimants for bodily injury or death caused by private passenger automobiles operated by uninsured or "hit and run" drivers. The fund also provides reimbursement to insurers for the medical benefits portion of personal injury protection coverage paid in excess of $75,000 with no limits for policies issued or renewed prior to January 1, 1991 and in excess of $75,000 and capped at $250,000 for policies issued or renewed from January 1, 1991 to December 31, 2004. NJUCJF expenses are assessed on companies writing motor vehicle liability insurance in New Jersey annually based on their private passenger and commercial automobile written premiums. The NJUCJF was merged into the New Jersey Property Liability Guaranty Association who collects the assessments. Assessments to the Company totaled $9 million in 2013.
The North Carolina Joint Underwriters Association ("NCJUA") was created to provide property insurance to those unable to buy coverage in the standard insurance market. All licensed property insurers in the state assume plan results based on a market share participation ratio. Assessments are made when plan deficits occur. As of December 31, 2013, the Company has a $2 million receivable from the NCJUA reflecting a plan surplus from all open years.
The Company has certain limited rights and obligations under a capital support agreement ("Runoff Support Agreement") with PMI Mortgage Insurance Company ("PMI"), the primary operating subsidiary of PMI Group, related to the Company's disposition of PMI in prior years. Under the Runoff Support Agreement, the Company would be required to pay claims on PMI policies written prior to October 28, 1994 if PMI fails certain financial covenants and fails to pay such claims. The agreement only covers these policies and not any policies issued on or after that date. In the event any amounts are so paid, the Company would receive a commensurate amount of preferred stock or subordinated debt of PMI Group or PMI. The Runoff Support Agreement also restricts PMI's ability to write new business and pay dividends under certain circumstances. On October 20, 2011, the Director of the Arizona Department of Insurance took control of the PMI insurance companies; effective October 24, 2011, the Director instituted a partial claim payment plan: claim payments will be made at 50%, with the remaining amount deferred as a policyholder claim. The effect of these developments to the Company is uncertain. The Company has not received any notices or requests for payments under this agreement. Management does not believe these developments will have a material effect on results of operations, cash flows or financial position of the Company.
The Company provides residual value guarantees on Company leased automobiles. If all outstanding leases were terminated effective December 31, 2013, the Company's maximum obligation pursuant to these guarantees, assuming the automobiles have no residual value, would be $40 million as of December 31, 2013. The remaining term of each residual value guarantee is equal to the term of the underlying lease that ranges from less than one year to three years. Historically, the Company has not made any material payments pursuant to these guarantees.
The Company owns certain fixed income securities that obligate the Company to exchange credit risk or to forfeit principal due, depending on the nature or occurrence of specified credit events for the reference entities. In the event all such specified credit events were to occur, the Company's maximum amount at risk on these fixed income securities, as measured by the amount of the aggregate initial investment, was $5 million as of December 31, 2013. The obligations associated with these fixed income securities expire at various dates on or before March 11, 2018.
three claims asserted in Romero II is barred. The Third Circuit directed the district court to consider on remand whether the other two claims asserted in Romero II are barred by the release and waiver. In January 2010, following the remand, the case was assigned to a new judge (the same judge for the Romero I and EEOC I cases) for further proceedings in the trial court. On April 23, 2010, plaintiffs filed their First Amended Complaint. Plaintiffs seek broad but unspecified "make whole" or other equitable relief, including losses of income and benefits as a result of their decision to retire from the Company between November 1, 1999 and December 31, 2000. They also seek repeal of the challenged amendments to the Agents Pension Plan with all attendant benefits revised and recalculated for thousands of former employee agents, and attorney's fees and costs. Despite the length of time that this matter has been pending, to date only limited discovery has occurred related to the damages claimed by individual plaintiffs, and no damages discovery has occurred related to the claims of the putative class. Nor have plaintiffs provided any calculations of the putative class's alleged losses, instead asserting that such calculations will be provided at a later stage during expert discovery. Damage claims are subject to reduction by amounts and benefits received by plaintiffs and putative class members subsequent to their employment termination. Little to no discovery has occurred with respect to amounts earned or received by plaintiffs and putative class members in mitigation of their alleged losses. Alleged damage amounts and lost benefits of the putative class members also are subject to individual variation and determination dependent upon retirement dates, participation in employee benefit programs, and years of service. As in Romero I and EEOC I, discovery limited to issues relating to the validity of the waiver and release is closed. The parties filed cross motions for summary judgment with respect to the validity of the waiver and release on April 8, 2013, and are awaiting the Court's determination. At present, class certification has not been decided.
Allstate's reserves for asbestos claims were $1.02 billion and $1.03 billion, net of reinsurance recoverables of $478 million and $496 million, as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Reserves for environmental claims were $208 million and $193 million, net of reinsurance recoverables of $60 million and $48 million, as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Approximately 55% and 58% of the total net asbestos and environmental reserves as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, were for incurred but not reported estimated losses.
Management believes its net loss reserves for asbestos, environmental and other discontinued lines exposures are appropriately established based on available facts, technology, laws and regulations. However, establishing net loss reserves for asbestos, environmental and other discontinued lines claims is subject to uncertainties that are much greater than those presented by other types of claims. The ultimate cost of losses may vary materially from recorded amounts, which are based on management's best estimate. Among the complications are lack of historical data, long reporting delays, uncertainty as to the number and identity of insureds with potential exposure and unresolved legal issues regarding policy coverage; unresolved legal issues regarding the determination, availability and timing of exhaustion of policy limits; plaintiffs' evolving and expanding theories of liability; availability and collectability of recoveries from reinsurance; retrospectively determined premiums and other contractual agreements; estimates of the extent and timing of any contractual liability; the impact of bankruptcy protection sought by various asbestos producers and other asbestos defendants; and other uncertainties. There are also complex legal issues concerning the interpretation of various insurance policy provisions and whether those losses are covered, or were ever intended to be covered, and could be recoverable through retrospectively determined premium, reinsurance or other contractual agreements. Courts have reached different and sometimes inconsistent conclusions as to when losses are deemed to have occurred and which policies provide coverage; what types of losses are covered; whether there is an insurer obligation to defend; how policy limits are determined; how policy exclusions and conditions are applied and interpreted; and whether clean-up costs represent insured property damage. Management believes these issues are not likely to be resolved in the near future, and the ultimate costs may vary materially from the amounts currently recorded resulting in material changes in loss reserves. In addition, while the Company believes that improved actuarial techniques and databases have assisted in its ability to estimate asbestos, environmental, and other discontinued lines net loss reserves, these refinements may subsequently prove to be inadequate indicators of the extent of probable losses. Due to the uncertainties and factors described above, management believes it is not practicable to develop a meaningful range for any such additional net loss reserves that may be required.
The Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") is currently examining the Company's 2011 and 2012 federal income tax returns. The IRS has completed its examination of the Company's 2009 and 2010 federal income tax returns and issued a Revenue Agent's Report on April 15, 2013. The Company protested certain of the adjustments contained in the report and the case was forwarded to Appeals on June 13, 2013. The IRS has also completed its examinations of the Company's federal income tax returns for the years 2005-2008 and a final settlement for those years has been approved by the Joint Committee on Taxation. The Company's tax years prior to 2005 have been examined by the IRS and the statute of limitations has expired on those years. Any adjustments that may result from IRS examinations of tax returns are not expected to have a material effect on the results of operations, cash flows or financial position of the Company.
The Company recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. The Company did not record interest income or expense relating to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense in 2013, 2012 or 2011. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, there was no interest accrued with respect to unrecognized tax benefits. No amounts have been accrued for penalties.
Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will be realized based on the Company's assessment that the deductions ultimately recognized for tax purposes will be fully utilized.
The payment of shareholder dividends by AIC without the prior approval of the Illinois Department of Insurance ("IL DOI") is limited to formula amounts based on net income and capital and surplus, determined in conformity with statutory accounting practices, as well as the timing and amount of dividends paid in the preceding twelve months. AIC paid dividends of $1.95 billion in 2013. The maximum amount of dividends AIC will be able to pay without prior IL DOI approval at a given point in time during 2014 is $2.47 billion, less dividends paid during the preceding twelve months measured at that point in time. The payment of a dividend in excess of this amount requires 30 days advance written notice to the IL DOI. The dividend is deemed approved, unless the IL DOI disapproves it within the 30 days notice period. Additionally, any dividend must be paid out of unassigned surplus excluding unrealized appreciation from investments, which for AIC totaled $11.99 billion as of December 31, 2013, and cannot result in capital and surplus being less than the minimum amount required by law.
The amount of restricted net assets, as represented by the Corporation's investment in its insurance subsidiaries, was $25 billion as of December 31, 2013.
Defined benefit pension plans cover most full-time employees, certain part-time employees and employee-agents. Benefits under the pension plans are based upon the employee's length of service, eligible annual compensation and, prior to January 1, 2014, either a cash balance or final average pay formula. A cash balance formula applies to all eligible employees hired after August 1, 2002. Eligible employees hired before August 1, 2002 chose between the cash balance formula and the final average pay formula. In July 2013, the Company amended its primary plans effective January 1, 2014 to introduce a new cash balance formula to replace the previous formulas (including the final average pay formula and the previous cash balance formula) under which eligible employees accrue benefits.
The Company also provides certain health care subsidies for eligible employees hired before January 1, 2003 when they retire and their eligible dependents and certain life insurance benefits for eligible employees hired before January 1, 2003 when they retire ("postretirement benefits"). Qualified employees may become eligible for these health care subsidies if they retire in accordance with the terms of the applicable plans and are continuously insured under the Company's group plans or other approved plans in accordance with the plan's participation requirements. The Company shares the cost of retiree medical benefits with non Medicare-eligible retirees based on years of service, with the Company's share being subject to a 5% limit on annual medical cost inflation after retirement. For Medicare-eligible retirees, the Company provides a fixed Company contribution based on years of service and other factors, which is not subject to adjustments for inflation. In July 2013, the Company amended the plan to eliminate the life insurance benefits effective January 1, 2014 for current eligible employees and effective January 1, 2016 for eligible retirees who retired after 1989.
The PBO, ABO and fair value of plan assets for the Company's pension plans with an ABO in excess of plan assets were $146 million, $145 million and zero, respectively, as of December 31, 2013 and $6.35 billion, $5.75 billion and $5.02 billion, respectively, as of December 31, 2012. Included in the accrued benefit cost of the pension benefits are certain unfunded non-qualified plans with accrued benefit costs of $146 million and $146 million for 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the postretirement health care plans. A one percentage-point increase in assumed health care cost trend rates would increase the total of
the service and interest cost components of net periodic benefit cost of other postretirement benefits and the APBO by $2 million and $21 million, respectively. A one percentage-point decrease in assumed health care cost trend rates would decrease the total of the service and interest cost components of net periodic benefit cost of other postretirement benefits and the APBO by $2 million and $19 million, respectively.
The pension plans' weighted average target asset allocation and the actual percentage of plan assets, by asset category as of December 31, 2013 are as follows:
The following table presents the fair values of pension plan assets as of December 31, 2013.
The following table presents the rollforward of Level 3 plan assets for the year ended December 31, 2013.
The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets reflects the average rate of earnings expected on plan assets. The Company's assumption for the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets is reviewed annually giving consideration to appropriate financial data including, but not limited to, the plan asset allocation, forward-looking expected returns for the period over which benefits will be paid, historical returns on plan assets and other relevant market data. Given the long-term forward looking nature of this assumption, the actual returns in any one year do not immediately result in a change. In giving consideration to the targeted plan asset allocation, the Company evaluated returns using the same sources it has used historically which include: historical average asset class returns from an independent nationally recognized vendor of this type of data blended together using the asset allocation policy weights for the Company's pension plans; asset class return forecasts from a large global independent asset management firm that specializes in providing multi-asset class investment fund products which were blended together using the asset allocation policy weights; and expected portfolio returns from a proprietary simulation methodology of a widely recognized external investment consulting firm that performs asset allocation and actuarial services for corporate pension plan sponsors. This same methodology has been applied on a consistent basis each year. All of these were consistent with the Company's weighted average long-term rate of return on plan assets assumption of 7.75% used for 2013 and 7.36% that will be used for 2014. The decrease in the weighted average long-term rate of return on plan assets assumption for 2014 is primarily due to a decrease in the assumption for the pension plan covering employee-agents that comprises 14% of total plan assets. The decrease for this plan related to a decrease in the investment allocation to equities and increase in the allocation to fixed income securities. The long-term rate of return on plan assets assumption for the primary employee plan comprising 79% of total plan assets remained unchanged. As of the 2013 measurement date, the arithmetic average of the annual actual return on plan assets for the most recent 10 and 5 years was 8.0% and 11.3%, respectively.
The Company's contribution to the Allstate Plan was $54 million, $52 million and $48 million in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. These amounts were reduced by the ESOP benefit computed for the years ended December 31 as follows:
The Company currently has equity incentive plans under which the Company grants nonqualified stock options, restricted stock units and performance stock awards to certain employees and directors of the Company. The total compensation expense related to equity awards was $93 million, $86 million and $64 million and the total income tax benefits were $32 million, $30 million and $21 million for 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Total cash received from the exercise of options was $212 million, $99 million and $19 million for 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Total tax benefit realized on options exercised and stock unrestricted was $65 million, $28 million and $10 million for 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
Performance stock awards vest and are converted into shares of stock on the third anniversary of the grant date. Upon normal retirement occurring 12 months or more from the grant date, the number of performance stock awards earned based on the attainment of performance goals for each of the performance periods continue to vest as scheduled. Upon normal retirement occurring within 12 months of the grant date, a pro-rata portion of the performance stock awards earned based on the attainment of the performance goals for each of the performance periods continue to vest as scheduled. Upon termination of employment as a result of death or disability, the number of performance stock awards that have been earned based on attainment of the performance goals for completed performance periods plus the target number of performance stock awards granted for any incomplete performance periods vest immediately. Unvested performance stock awards are forfeited following any other type of termination of employment except termination after a change in control.
represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. The expected volatility of the price of the underlying shares is implied based on traded options and historical volatility of the Company's common stock. The expected dividends were based on the current dividend yield of the Company's stock as of the date of the grant. The risk-free rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. The assumptions used are shown in the following table.
The changes in restricted stock units are shown in the following table for the year ended December 31, 2013.
The changes in performance stock awards are shown in the following table for the year ended December 31, 2013.
Allstate Protection principally sells private passenger auto and homeowners insurance in the United States and Canada. Revenues from external customers generated outside the United States were $1.06 billion, $992 million and $892 million in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The Company evaluates the results of this segment based upon underwriting results.
The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in Note 2. The effects of certain inter-segment transactions are excluded from segment performance evaluation and therefore are eliminated in the segment results.
Underwriting income is calculated as premiums earned, less claims and claims expenses ("losses"), amortization of DAC, operating costs and expenses, and restructuring and related charges as determined using GAAP.
Less: reclassification adjustment of net periodic cost recognized in operating costs and expenses
Net income earnings available to common shareholders per common share - Basic
Net income earnings available to common shareholders per common share - Diluted
We have audited the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Financial Position of The Allstate Corporation and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the related Consolidated Statements of Operations, Comprehensive Income, Shareholders' Equity, and Cash Flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2013. We also have audited the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company's management is responsible for these financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Item 9A. Controls and Procedures. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audits.