The following table sets forth certain selected historical consolidated financial information. We derived the consolidated financial information (except for amounts referred to as "Other Supplemental Data") for each of the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 and as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 from our audited consolidated financial statements and notes to the financial statements included in this Form 10-K. We derived the consolidated financial information (except for amounts referred to as "Other Supplemental Data") for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 and as of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 from our audited consolidated financial statements not included in this Form 10-K. The following summary of consolidated financial information (except for amounts referred to as "Other Supplemental Data") has been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
Actual results may differ materially from those included in the forward-looking statements as a result of risks and uncertainties. Those risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk factors listed in Item 1A. "Risk Factors."
In our Principal International segment, we continued to grow our business organically in 2018 through our existing subsidiaries and joint ventures and through strategic acquisitions and start-up operations. Local currency AUM, a key indicator of earnings growth for the segment, increased in 2018 as a result of positive net customer cash flow, operations acquired and market performance. The financial results for the Principal International segment are also impacted by fluctuations of the foreign currency to U.S. dollar exchange rates for the locations in which we have business. AUM was negatively impacted by foreign currency fluctuations in 2018.
The fair values of our public fixed maturities are primarily based on market prices from third party pricing vendors. We have regular interactions with these vendors to ensure we understand their pricing methodologies and to confirm they are utilizing observable market information. In addition, 6% of our invested asset portfolio as of December 31, 2018, was invested in privately placed fixed maturities with no readily available market quotes to determine the fair market value. The majority of these assets are valued using a matrix pricing valuation approach that utilizes observable market inputs. In the matrix approach, securities are grouped into pricing categories that vary by sector, rating and average life. Each pricing category is assigned a risk spread based on studies of observable public market data from the investment professionals assigned to specific security classes. The expected cash flows of the security are then discounted back at the current Treasury curve plus the appropriate risk spread. Although the matrix valuation approach provides a fair valuation of each pricing category, the valuation of an individual security within each pricing category may be impacted by company specific factors. This excludes privately placed securities subject to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933 that are primarily based on market prices from third party pricing vendors, similar to public fixed maturities.
The $2,441.2 million decrease in net unrealized gains from U.S. investment operations for the year ended December 31, 2018, can be attributed to widening of credit spreads and an approximate 31 basis point increase in interest rates. For additional information about interest rate risk see
The Company's management is responsible 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 Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial position of Principal Financial Group, Inc. (the Company) as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2018, and the related notes and financial statement schedules listed in the Index at Item 15(a) (collectively referred to as the "consolidated financial statements"). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at December 31, 2018 and 2017, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2018, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework), and our report dated February 13, 2019 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
If an entity is not a VIE, it is considered a VOE. VOEs are generally consolidated if we own a greater than 50% voting interest. If we determine our involvement in an entity no longer meets the requirements for consolidation under either the VIE or VOE models, the entity is deconsolidated. Entities in which we have management influence over the operating and financing decisions but are not required to consolidate, other than investments accounted for at fair value under the fair value option, are reported using the equity method.
The assumptions used to calculate the liability for future policy benefits on traditional and limited-payment contracts will be reviewed and updated periodically. Cash flow assumptions will be reviewed at least annually and updated when necessary with the impact recognized in net income. Discount rate assumptions are prescribed as the current upper-medium grade (low credit risk) fixed income instrument yield and will be updated quarterly with the impact recognized in other comprehensive income ("OCI").
Deferred acquisition costs ("DAC") for all insurance and annuity contracts will be amortized on a constant basis over the expected term of the related contracts.
This authoritative guidance requires entities to use a current expected credit loss ("CECL") model to measure impairment for most financial assets that are not recorded at fair value through net income. Under the CECL model, an entity will estimate lifetime expected credit losses considering available relevant information about historical events, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The CECL model does not apply to available-for-sale debt securities. This guidance also expands the required credit loss disclosures and will be applied using a modified retrospective approach by recording a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption. Early adoption is permitted.
Our evaluation process includes, but is not limited to, identifying leases that are within the scope of the guidance, reviewing and documenting our accounting for these contracts, implementing system and process changes and determining disclosure impacts. The guidance requires us to establish a lease asset and liability for our operating leases. The guidance will be applied at the beginning of the period of adoption and comparative periods will not be restated. Assets and liabilities will increase approximately $165.0 million and $161.0 million, respectively, due to the adoption of this guidance. The impact to total stockholders' equity will not be material.
The effective date of the guidance is January 1, 2020; however, we have elected to early-adopt this guidance on a prospective basis, effective January 1, 2019. This guidance will not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
This authoritative guidance applies to entities that hold certain non-contingently callable debt securities, where the amortized cost basis is at a premium to the price repayable by the issuer at the earliest call date. Under the guidance the premium will be amortized to the first call date. This guidance requires adoption through a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption.
This authoritative guidance simplifies the accounting for share-based payments to nonemployees by generally aligning it with the accounting for share-based payments to employees. Under the guidance, the measurement of equity-classified nonemployee awards will be fixed at the grant date, where today the measurement is fixed at performance completion date. The guidance will be applied to equity-classified nonemployee awards for which a measurement date has not been established as of the date of adoption.
This authoritative guidance permits a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") to retained earnings for the stranded tax effects resulting from U.S. tax legislation enacted on December 22, 2017, which is referred to as the "Tax Cuts and Jobs Act" ("U.S. tax reform"). The amount of that reclassification includes the change in corporate income tax rate, as well as an election to include other income tax effects related to the application of U.S. tax reform. The guidance also requires disclosures about stranded tax effects.
This authoritative guidance requires entities to recognize current and deferred income tax resulting from an intra-entity asset transfer when the transfer occurs. Prior to issuance of this guidance, U.S. GAAP did not allow recognition of income tax consequences until the asset had been sold to a third party. This guidance requires adoption through a cumulative effect adjustment to the balance sheet as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption.
We adopted the guidance using the modified retrospective approach. A cumulative effect adjustment of $8.7 million was recorded as an increase to retained earnings. In addition, other assets and deferred income taxes decreased $21.1 million and $29.8 million, respectively, due to the adoption of this guidance.
This authoritative guidance addresses certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments. The guidance eliminated the classification of equity securities into different categories (trading or available-for-sale) and requires equity investments to be measured at fair value with changes in the fair value recognized through net income. The guidance also updated certain financial instrument disclosures and eliminated the requirement to disclose the methods and significant assumptions used to estimate the fair value of financial instruments that are measured at amortized cost on the balance sheet.
This authoritative guidance requires that an employer disaggregate the service cost component from the other components of net benefit cost. The guidance also provides explicit guidance on the presentation of the service cost component and the other components of net benefit cost in the consolidated statement of operations and allows only the service cost component of net benefit cost to be eligible for capitalization.
This authoritative guidance changes certain aspects of accounting for and reporting share-based payments to employees including changes related to the income tax effects of share-based payments, tax withholding requirements and accounting for forfeitures. Various transition methods will apply depending on the situation being addressed.
The guidance was adopted prospectively as indicated by the guidance for each area of change and did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
This authoritative guidance makes changes to both the variable interest and voting interest consolidation models and eliminates the investment company deferral for portions of the variable interest model. The amendments in the standard impact the consolidation analysis for interests in investment companies and limited partnerships and similar entities.
On January 1, 2018, we adopted the guidance using the modified retrospective approach. A cumulative effect adjustment of $39.7 million was recorded as a decrease to total stockholders' equity. The impact of the guidance to our consolidated financial statements primarily relates to a change to the amortization pattern, or a write-off, of existing capitalized costs transferred from DAC to a contract cost asset, where authoritative guidance was superseded. This was offset in part by deferring certain sales compensation related to obtaining customer contracts that was not previously capitalized.
Results of reporting periods beginning January 1, 2018, are presented under the new guidance, while prior period amounts are not adjusted and continue to be reported in accordance with our legacy accounting. The guidance did not have a material impact on our consolidated statements of operations and did not impact earnings per common share. The impacts to the consolidated statements of financial position were as follows:
(2)Certain costs to obtain a contract previously recorded as DAC are now recorded as a contract cost asset or are no longer deferrable under revenue recognition guidance.
• the DAC and other actuarial balances where the amortization is based on estimated gross profits;
Fixed maturities include bonds, asset-backed securities ("ABS"), redeemable preferred stock and certain non-redeemable preferred securities. Equity securities include mutual funds, common stock, non-redeemable preferred stock and required regulatory investments. We classify fixed maturities as either available-for-sale or trading at the time of the purchase and, accordingly, carry them at fair value. Equity securities are also carried at fair value. See Note 14, Fair Value Measurements, for methodologies related to the determination of fair value. Unrealized gains and losses related to fixed maturities, available-for-sale, excluding those in fair value hedging relationships, are reflected in stockholders' equity, net of adjustments associated with DAC and related actuarial balances, derivatives in cash flow hedge relationships and applicable income taxes. Mark-to-market adjustments on equity securities, unrealized gains and losses related to hedged portions of fixed maturities, available-for-sale in fair value hedging relationships and mark-to-market adjustments on certain fixed maturities, trading are reflected in net realized capital gains (losses). Mark-to-market adjustments related to certain securities carried at fair value with an investment objective to realize economic value through mark-to-market changes are reflected in net investment income.
The cost of fixed maturities is adjusted for amortization of premiums and accrual of discounts, both computed using the interest method. The cost of fixed maturities classified as available-for-sale is adjusted for declines in value that are other than temporary. Impairments in value deemed to be other than temporary are primarily reported in net income as a component of net realized capital gains (losses), with noncredit impairment losses for certain fixed maturities, available-for-sale reported in OCI. Interest income, as well as prepayment fees and the amortization of the related premium or discount, is reported in net investment income. For loan-backed and structured securities, we recognize income using a constant effective yield based on currently anticipated cash flows.
Policy loans and certain other investments are reported at cost. Interests in unconsolidated entities, joint ventures and partnerships are generally accounted for using the equity method. We have other investments reported at fair value or for which the fair value option has been elected in prior periods. See Note 14, Fair Value Measurements, for detail on these investments.
Contractholder and policyholder liabilities (contractholder funds, future policy benefits and claims and other policyholder funds) include reserves for investment contracts, individual and group annuities that provide periodic income payments, universal life insurance, variable universal life insurance, indexed universal life insurance, term life insurance, participating traditional individual life insurance, group dental and vision insurance, group short-term and long-term disability insurance, group life insurance, individual disability insurance and long-term care insurance. It also includes a provision for dividends on participating policies.
Participating business represented approximately 7%, 7% and 8% of our life insurance in force and 26%, 29% and 33% of the number of life insurance policies in force as of December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Participating business represented approximately 24%, 30% and 31% of life insurance premiums for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The amount of dividends to policyholders is declared annually by Principal Life's Board of Directors. The amount of dividends to be paid to policyholders is determined after consideration of several factors including interest, mortality, morbidity and other expense experience for the year and judgment as to the appropriate level of statutory surplus to be retained by Principal Life. At the end of the reporting period, Principal Life
establishes a dividend liability for the pro rata portion of the dividends expected to be paid on or before the next policy anniversary date.
We include the following group products in our short-duration insurance contracts disclosures: long-term disability ("LTD"), group life waiver, dental, vision, short-term disability ("STD"), critical illness, accident and group life.
• STD, Critical Illness and Accident: Claim frequency is based on submitted claims.
See Note 8, Insurance Liabilities, under the caption "Liability for Unpaid Claims" for further details.
Immediate annuities with life contingencies include products with fixed and guaranteed annuity considerations and benefits and consist principally of group and individual single premium annuities with life contingencies. Annuity considerations from these products are recognized as premium revenue. However, the collection of these annuity considerations does not represent the completion of the earnings process, as we establish annuity reserves using estimates
Group life, dental, vision and disability premiums are generally recorded as premium revenue over the term of the coverage. Certain group contracts contain experience premium refund provisions based on a pre-defined formula that reflects their claim experience. Experience premium refunds reduce revenue over the term of the coverage and are adjusted to reflect current experience. Related policy benefits and expenses are associated with earned premiums and result in the recognition of profits over the term of the policies and contracts. Fees for contracts providing claim processing or other administrative services are recorded as revenue over the period the service is provided.
Long-term debt includes notes payable, nonrecourse mortgages and other debt with a maturity date greater than one year at the date of issuance. Current maturities of long-term debt are classified as long-term debt in our consolidated statements of financial position. Long-term debt is primarily recorded at the unpaid principal balance, net of unamortized discount, premium and issuance costs.
We enter into reinsurance agreements with other companies in the normal course of business in order to limit losses and minimize exposure to significant risks. We may assume reinsurance from or cede reinsurance to other companies. Assets and liabilities related to reinsurance ceded are reported on a gross basis. Premiums and expenses are reported net of reinsurance ceded. The cost of reinsurance related to long-duration contracts is accounted for over the life of the underlying reinsured policies using assumptions consistent with those used to account for the underlying policies. We are contingently liable with respect to reinsurance ceded to other companies in the event the reinsurer is unable to meet the obligations it has assumed. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, we had $450.6 million and $427.7 million of net ceded reinsurance recoverables related to claims that have been received, respectively. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, $435.6 million, or 97%, and $417.4 million, or 98%, were with our five largest ceded reinsurers, respectively. Our total amount recoverable from reinsurers includes net ceded reinsurance recoverables related to claims that have been received and reserves ceded to reinsurers; however, it does not reflect potentially offsetting impacts of collateral. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the total amount recoverable from reinsurers was $920.8 million and $864.3 million, respectively, and is recognized in premiums due and other receivables.
As of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the separate accounts included a separate account valued at $94.9 million and $170.5 million, respectively, which primarily included shares of our stock that were allocated and issued to eligible participants of qualified employee benefit plans administered by us as part of the policy credits issued under our 2001 demutualization. These shares are included in both basic and diluted earnings per share calculations. In the consolidated statements of financial position, the separate account shares are recorded at fair value and are reported as separate account assets with a corresponding separate account liability to eligible participants of the qualified plan. Changes in fair value of the separate account shares are reflected in both the separate account assets and separate account liabilities and do not impact our results of operations.
Amortized intangible assets primarily relate to customer relationship intangibles associated with previous acquisitions in Chile, Mexico and Hong Kong. The finite lived intangible assets that continue to be subject to amortization over a weighted average remaining expected life of 14 years were as follows:
The amortization expense for intangible assets with finite useful lives was $53.9 million, $45.4 million and $44.5 million for 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. As of December 31, 2018, the estimated amortization expense for the next five years is as follows (in millions):
The net carrying amount of unamortized indefinite lived intangible assets was $793.3 million and $809.5 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. As of both December 31, 2018 and 2017, $608.0 million relates to investment management contracts associated with our acquisition of WM Advisors, Inc. in 2006. The remaining balance primarily relates to the trade name intangible associated with our acquisition of Administradora de Fondos de Pensiones Cuprum S.A. ("Cuprum") in 2013.
We have relationships with various types of entities which may be VIEs. Certain VIEs are consolidated in our financial results. See Note 1, Nature of Operations and Significant Accounting Policies, under the caption "Consolidation" for further details of our consolidation accounting policies. We did not provide financial or other support to investees designated as VIEs for the periods ended December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.
• The adoption resulted in the deconsolidation of $8.6 billion of both assets and liabilities of certain mandatory privatized social security funds in which we provide asset management services. Prior to January 1, 2016, the funds were consolidated as VOEs and the funds were presented in separate account assets and liabilities in the
consolidated statements of financial position. The deconsolidation did not have a material impact to our consolidated statements of operations and did not result in a cumulative effect of the change on retained earnings.
(3)The assets of the real estate VIEs primarily include real estate and cash. Liabilities primarily include long-term debt and other liabilities.
Unconsolidated VIEs include certain CMBS, residential mortgage-backed pass-through securities ("RMBS") and other asset-backed securities ("ABS"). All of these entities were deemed VIEs because the equity within these entities is insufficient to sustain them. We determined we are not the primary beneficiary in the entities within these categories of investments. This determination was based primarily on the fact we do not own the class of security that controls the unilateral right to replace the special servicer or equivalent function.
We invest in cash collateralized debt obligations, collateralized bond obligations, collateralized loan obligations and other collateralized structures, which are VIEs due to insufficient equity to sustain the entities. We have determined we are not the primary beneficiary of these entities primarily because we do not control the economic performance of the entities and were not involved with the design of the entities or because we do not have a potentially significant variable interest in the entities for which we are the asset manager.
As previously discussed, we sponsor, invest in and have other interests in certain investment funds that are VIEs. We determined we are not the primary beneficiary of the VIEs for which we are the asset manager but do not have a potentially significant variable interest in the funds.
The carrying value and maximum loss exposure for our unconsolidated VIEs were as follows:
(1)Our risk of loss is limited to our initial investment measured at amortized cost for fixed maturities, available-for-sale. Our risk of loss is limited to our investment measured at fair value for our fixed maturities, trading and equity securities. Our risk of loss is limited to our carrying value plus any unfunded commitments and/or guarantees and similar provisions for our other investments. Unfunded commitments are not liabilities on our consolidated statements of financial position because we are only required to fund additional equity when called upon to do so by the general partner or investment manager.
The amortized cost and fair value of fixed maturities, available-for-sale as of December 31, 2018, by expected maturity, were as follows:
(2)Unrealized gains (losses) on equity securities, trading still held at the reporting date were $45.3 million and $(0.8) million for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. This excludes $34.9 million and $18.8 million of unrealized gains (losses) on equity securities, trading still held at the reporting date for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, that were reported in net investment income.
Proceeds from sales of investments (excluding call and maturity proceeds) in fixed maturities, available-for-sale were $3,067.2 million, $1,345.8 million and $1,916.9 million in 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
We have a process in place to identify fixed maturity securities that could potentially have an impairment that is other than temporary. Prior to 2018, we also used this process to assess equity securities for impairment. This process involves monitoring market events that could impact issuers' credit ratings, business climate, management changes, litigation and government actions and other similar factors. This process also involves monitoring late payments, pricing levels, downgrades by rating agencies, key financial ratios, financial statements, revenue forecasts and cash flow projections as indicators of credit issues.
The way in which impairment losses on fixed maturities are recognized in the financial statements is dependent on the facts and circumstances related to the specific security. If we intend to sell a security or it is more likely than not that we would be required to sell a security before the recovery of its amortized cost, we recognize an other-than-temporary impairment in net income for the difference between amortized cost and fair value. If we do not expect to recover the amortized cost basis, we do not plan to sell the security and if it is not more likely than not that we would be required to sell a security before the recovery of its amortized cost, the recognition of the other-than-temporary impairment is bifurcated. We recognize the credit loss portion in net income and the noncredit loss portion in OCI ("bifurcated OTTI"). Prior to 2018, impairment losses on equity securities were recognized in net income and were measured as the difference between amortized cost and fair value.
corporate security cash flow estimates are derived from scenario-based outcomes of expected corporate restructurings or liquidations using bond specific facts and circumstances including timing, security interests and loss severity.
Of the total amounts, Principal Life's consolidated portfolio represented $35,051.9 million in available-for-sale fixed maturities with gross unrealized losses of $1,202.9 million. Of the available-for-sale fixed maturities within Principal Life's consolidated portfolio in a gross unrealized loss position, 95% were investment grade (rated AAA through BBB-) with an average price of 97 (carrying value/amortized cost) as of December 31, 2018. Gross unrealized losses in our fixed maturities portfolio increased during the year ended December 31, 2018, primarily due to widening of credit spreads and an increase in interest rates.
For those securities that had been in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than twelve months, Principal Life's consolidated portfolio held 2,076 securities with a carrying value of $18,764.0 million and unrealized losses of
$541.3 million reflecting an average price of 97 as of December 31, 2018. Of this portfolio, 92% was investment grade (rated AAA through BBB-) as of December 31, 2018, with associated unrealized losses of $473.7 million. The unrealized losses on these securities can primarily be attributed to changes in market interest rates and changes in credit spreads since the securities were acquired.
For those securities that had been in a continuous unrealized loss position greater than or equal to twelve months, Principal Life's consolidated portfolio held 2,335 securities with a carrying value of $16,287.9 million and unrealized losses of $661.6 million. The average credit rating of this portfolio was AA- with an average price of 96 as of December 31, 2018. Of the $661.6 million in unrealized losses, the corporate sector accounts for $360.4 million in unrealized losses with an average price of 95 and an average credit rating of A-. The remaining unrealized losses also include $82.2 million within the commercial mortgage-backed securities sector with an average price of 96 and an average credit rating of AA+. The unrealized losses on these securities can primarily be attributed to changes in market interest rates and changes in credit spreads since the securities were acquired.
Of the total amounts, Principal Life's consolidated portfolio represented $14,059.5 million in available-for-sale fixed maturities with gross unrealized losses of $239.7 million. Of the available-for-sale fixed maturities within Principal Life's consolidated portfolio in a gross unrealized loss position, 97% were investment grade (rated AAA through BBB-) with an average price of 98 (carrying value/amortized cost) as of December 31, 2017. Gross unrealized losses in our fixed maturities portfolio decreased during the year ended December 31, 2017, primarily due to tightening of credit spreads.
Mortgage loans consist of commercial and residential mortgage loans. We evaluate risks inherent in our commercial mortgage loans in two classes: (1) brick and mortar property loans, including mezzanine loans, where we analyze the property's rent payments as support for the loan, and (2) credit tenant loans ("CTL"), where we rely on the credit analysis of the tenant for the repayment of the loan. We evaluate risks inherent in our residential mortgage loan portfolio in two classes: (1) first lien mortgages and (2) home equity mortgages. The carrying amount of our mortgage loan portfolio was as follows:
We periodically purchase mortgage loans as well as sell mortgage loans we have originated. Mortgage loans purchased and sold were as follows:
We actively monitor and manage our commercial mortgage loan portfolio. All commercial mortgage loans are analyzed regularly and substantially all are internally rated, based on a proprietary risk rating cash flow model, in order to monitor the financial quality of these assets. The model stresses expected cash flows at various levels and at different points in time depending on the durability of the income stream, which includes our assessment of factors such as location (macro and micro markets), tenant quality and lease expirations. Our internal rating analysis presents expected
Our residential mortgage loan portfolio is monitored based on performance of the loans. Monitoring on a residential mortgage loan increases when the loan is delinquent or earlier if there is an indication of potential impairment. We define non-performing residential mortgage loans as loans 90 days or greater delinquent or on non-accrual status.
The amortized cost of our performing and non-performing residential mortgage loans was as follows:
We establish a valuation allowance to provide for the risk of credit losses inherent in our portfolio. The valuation allowance includes loan specific reserves for loans that are deemed to be impaired as well as reserves for pools of loans with similar risk characteristics where a property risk or market specific risk has not been identified but for which we anticipate a loss may occur. Mortgage loans on real estate are considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to contractual terms of the loan agreement. When we determine a loan is impaired, a valuation allowance is established equal to the difference between the carrying amount of the mortgage loan and the estimated value reduced by the cost to sell. Estimated value is based on
either the present value of the expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate, the loan's observable market price or fair value of the collateral. Subsequent changes in the estimated value are reflected in the valuation allowance. Amounts on loans deemed to be uncollectible are charged off and removed from the valuation allowance. The change in the valuation allowance provision is included in net realized capital gains (losses) on our consolidated statements of operations.
Impaired mortgage loans are loans with a related specific valuation allowance, loans whose carrying amount has been reduced to the expected collectible amount because the impairment has been considered other than temporary or a loan modification has been classified as a troubled debt restructuring ("TDR"). Based on an assessment as to the collectability of the principal, a determination is made to apply any payments received either against the principal, against the valuation allowance or according to the contractual terms of the loan. Our recorded investment in and unpaid
principal balance of impaired loans along with the related loan specific allowance for losses, if any, and the average recorded investment and interest income recognized during the time the loans were impaired were as follows:
Our commercial and residential mortgage loan portfolios can include loans that have been modified. We assess loan modifications on a case-by-case basis to evaluate whether a TDR has occurred. When we have commercial mortgage loan TDRs, they are modified to delay or reduce principal payments and to reduce or delay interest payments. The commercial mortgage loan modifications result in delayed cash receipts, a decrease in interest income and loan rates that are considered below market. When we have residential mortgage loan TDRs, they include modifications of interest-only payment periods, delays in principal balloon payments and interest rate reductions. Residential mortgage loan modifications result in delayed or decreased cash receipts and a decrease in interest income.
We did not have any significant loans that were modified and met the criteria of a TDR in 2018, 2017 and 2016.
Furthermore, other investments include $502.6 million and $0.0 million of cash surrender value of company owned life insurance as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, we posted $3,761.3 million and $2,807.4 million, respectively, in commercial mortgage loans and residential first lien mortgages to satisfy collateral requirements associated with our obligation under funding agreements with Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines ("FHLB Des Moines"). In addition, as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, we posted $2,402.5 million and $2,486.2 million, respectively, in fixed maturities, available-for-sale and trading securities to satisfy collateral requirements primarily associated with a reinsurance arrangement, our derivative credit support annex (collateral) agreements, Futures Commission Merchant ("FCM") agreements, a lending arrangement and our obligation under funding agreements with FHLB Des Moines. Since we did not relinquish ownership rights on these instruments, they are reported as mortgage loans, fixed maturities, available-for-sale and fixed maturities, trading, respectively, on our consolidated statements of financial position. Of the securities posted as collateral, as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, $124.2 million and $173.3 million, respectively, could be sold or repledged by the secured party.
institutional investors in the international market, foreign currency-denominated fixed maturity and equity securities, and our international operations, including expected cash flows and potential acquisition and divestiture activity. We use various derivatives to manage our exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates.
Currency forwards are contracts in which we agree with other parties to deliver or receive a specified amount of an identified currency at a specified future date. Typically, the price is agreed upon at the time of the contract and payment for such a contract is made at the specified future date. We use currency forwards to reduce market risks from changes in currency exchange rates with respect to investments or liabilities denominated in foreign currencies that we either hold or intend to acquire or sell. We sometimes use currency forwards to hedge the currency risk associated with a business combination or to hedge certain net equity investments in or expected cash flows from our foreign operations.
Currency options are contracts that give the holder the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell a specified amount of the identified currency within a limited period of time at a contracted price. The contracts are net settled in cash, based on the differential in the current foreign exchange rate and the strike price. Purchased and sold options can be combined to form a foreign currency collar where we receive a payment if the foreign exchange rate is below the purchased option strike price and make a payment if the foreign exchange rate is above the sold option strike price. We use currency options to hedge expected cash flows from our foreign operations.
Derivatives may be exchange-traded or they may be privately negotiated contracts, which are usually referred to as over-the-counter ("OTC") derivatives. Certain of our OTC derivatives are cleared and settled through central clearing counterparties ("OTC cleared"), while others are bilateral contracts between two counterparties ("bilateral OTC"). Our derivative transactions are generally documented under International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. ("ISDA") Master Agreements. Management believes that such agreements provide for legally enforceable set-off and close-out netting of exposures to specific counterparties. Under such agreements, in connection with an early termination of a transaction, we are permitted to set off our receivable from a counterparty against our payables to the same counterparty arising out of all included transactions. For reporting purposes, we do not offset fair value amounts of bilateral OTC derivatives for the right to reclaim cash collateral or the obligation to return cash collateral against fair value amounts recognized for derivative instruments executed with the same counterparties under master netting agreements. OTC cleared derivatives have variation margin that is legally characterized as settlement of the derivative exposure, which reduces their fair value in the consolidated statements of financial position.
We posted $106.6 million and $195.0 million in cash and securities under collateral arrangements as of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively, to satisfy collateral and initial margin requirements associated with our derivative credit support agreements and FCM agreements.
Certain of our derivative instruments contain provisions that require us to maintain an investment grade rating from each of the major credit rating agencies on our debt. If the ratings on our debt were to fall below investment grade, it would be in violation of these provisions and the counterparties to the derivative instruments could request immediate payment or demand immediate and ongoing full overnight collateralization on derivative instruments in net liability positions. The aggregate fair value, inclusive of accrued interest, of all derivative instruments with credit-risk-related contingent features that were in a liability position without regard to netting under derivative credit support annex agreements as of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, was $109.7 million and $280.4 million, respectively. Cleared derivatives have contingent features that require us to post excess margin as required by the FCM. The terms surrounding excess margin vary by FCM agreement. With respect to derivatives containing collateral triggers, we posted
As of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, we had received $79.5 million and $124.7 million, respectively, of cash collateral associated with our derivative credit support annex agreements and FCM agreements, for which we recorded a corresponding liability reflecting our obligation to return the collateral.
Hedge effectiveness testing for fair value relationships is performed utilizing a regression analysis approach for both prospective and retrospective evaluations. This regression analysis will consider multiple data points for the assessment that the hedge continues to be highly effective in achieving offsetting changes in fair value. In certain periods, the comparison of the change in value of the derivative and the change in the value of the hedged item may not be offsetting at a specific period in time due to small movements in value. However, any amounts recorded as fair value hedges have shown to be highly effective in achieving offsetting changes in fair value both for present and future periods.
The following table shows the effect of derivatives in fair value hedging relationships and the related hedged items on the consolidated statements of operations. All gains or losses on derivatives were included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness.
We utilized floating-to-fixed rate interest rate swaps to eliminate the variability in cash flows of recognized financial assets and liabilities and forecasted transactions.
The maximum length of time we are hedging our exposure to the variability in future cash flows for forecasted transactions, excluding those related to the payments of variable interest on existing financial assets and liabilities, is 1.5 years. As of December 31, 2018, we had $0.0 million of net gains reported in AOCI on the consolidated statements of financial position related to active hedges of forecasted transactions. If a hedged forecasted transaction is no longer probable of occurring, cash flow hedge accounting is discontinued. If it is probable that the hedged forecasted transaction will not occur, the deferred gain or loss is immediately reclassified from AOCI into net income. We reclassified $0.3 million and $0.2 million from AOCI into net realized capital gains (losses) as a result of the determination that hedged cash flows were probable of not occurring during 2018 and 2017, respectively.
We expect to reclassify net gains of $20.8 million from AOCI into net income in the next 12 months, which includes both net deferred gains on discontinued hedges and net losses on periodic settlements of active hedges. Actual amounts may vary from this amount as a result of market conditions.
If actual cumulative earnings of the Closed Block are greater than the expected cumulative earnings of the Closed Block, only the expected cumulative earnings will be recognized in income with the excess recorded as a PDO. This PDO represents undistributed accumulated earnings that will be paid to Closed Block policyholders as dividends unless offset by future performance of the Closed Block that is less favorable than originally expected. If actual cumulative performance is less favorable than expected, only actual earnings will be recognized in income. As of both December 31, 2018 and 2017, cumulative actual earnings were less than cumulative expected earnings. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, cumulative net unrealized gains were greater than expected, resulting in the recognition of a PDO of $36.6 million and $161.7 million, respectively.
(2)Reflects the impact of capitalized costs written off or transferred from DAC to a contract cost asset as a result of adopting revenue recognition guidance. See Note 1, Nature of Operations and Significant Accounting Policies, under the caption "Adoption of Revenue Recognition Guidance" for further details.
In addition, Principal Life was authorized to issue up to $7.0 billion of funding agreements under a program established in 2001 to support the prospective issuance of medium term notes by an unaffiliated entity in both domestic and international markets. The unaffiliated entity is an unconsolidated special purpose entity. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, $201.6 million and $201.6 million, respectively, of liabilities were being held with respect to issuances outstanding under this program. Principal Life does not anticipate any new issuance activity under this program, given our December 2005 termination of the dealership agreement for this program and the availability of the program established in 2011 described below.
Principal Life was authorized to issue up to $5.0 billion of funding agreements under a program that was originally established in 2011 to support the prospective issuance of medium term notes by an unaffiliated entity in both domestic and international markets. The unaffiliated entity is an unconsolidated special purpose entity. In June 2015, this program was amended to authorize issuance of up to an additional $4.0 billion in recognition of the use of nearly all $5.0 billion of existing issuance authorization. In November 2017, this program was amended to authorize issuance of up to an additional $4.0 billion. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, $3,765.3 million and $4,291.9 million, respectively, of liabilities were being held with respect to issuances outstanding under this program. Similar to the SEC-registered program, Principal Life's payment obligations on each funding agreement issued under this program are guaranteed by PFG. The program established in 2011 is not registered with the SEC.
The following tables present undiscounted information about claims development by incurral year, including separate information about incurred claims and paid claims net of reinsurance for the periods indicated. The tables also include information on incurred but not reported claims and the cumulative number of reported claims.
On May 7, 2015, we issued $400.0 million of senior notes. The notes bear interest at 3.4% and will mature in 2025. Interest on the notes is payable semi-annually on May 15 and November 15 each year, beginning on November 15, 2015. In addition, on May 7, 2015, we issued $400.0 million of junior subordinated notes, which are subordinated to all our senior debt. The notes are callable in 2020 and have a maturity date in 2055. The notes initially bear a fixed rate of
On May 18, 2009, we issued $750.0 million of senior notes. We issued a $400.0 million series of notes that bore interest at 7.875% and were to mature on May 15, 2014. These notes were repaid following our November 2012 debt issuance. We issued a $350.0 million series of notes that bore interest at 8.875% and were to mature on May 15, 2019. These notes were repaid following our November 2016 debt issuance. Interest on the notes was payable semi-annually on May 15 and November 15 each year, beginning on November 15, 2009. The proceeds were primarily used to refinance $440.9 million of notes that matured on August 15, 2009, with the remaining proceeds being used for general corporate purposes.
On October 16 and December 5, 2006, we issued $500.0 million and $100.0 million, respectively, of senior notes. The notes bear interest at a rate of 6.05% per year. Interest on the notes is payable semi-annually on April 15 and October 15 each year and began on April 15, 2007. The notes will mature on October 15, 2036. A portion of the proceeds were used to fund the 2006 acquisition of WM Advisors, Inc., with the remaining proceeds being used for general corporate purposes. A tender offer in the fourth quarter of 2016 resulted in redemption of $94.4 million of the senior notes. We incurred a one-time cost to extinguish this debt before the scheduled maturity date.
On March 8, 2018, we entered into two contingent funding agreements: (1) a 10-year contingent funding agreement with a Delaware trust ("2028 Trust") formed by us in connection with the sale by the trust of $400.0 million pre-capitalized trust securities redeemable February 15, 2028 ("2028 P-Caps") in a Rule 144A private placement and (2) a 30-year contingent funding agreement with a Delaware trust ("2048 Trust") formed by us in connection with the sale by the trust of $350.0 million pre-capitalized trust securities redeemable February 15, 2048 ("2048 P-Caps") in a Rule 144A private placement. The trusts invested the proceeds from the sale of the 2028 P-Caps and 2048 P-Caps in a
portfolio of principal and interest strips of U.S. Treasury securities. The contingent funding agreements provide us a put option that gives us the right to sell at any time: (1) to the 2028 Trust up to $400.0 million of its 4.111% Senior Notes due 2028 ("4.111% Senior Notes") and (2) to the 2048 Trust up to $350.0 million of its 4.682% Senior Notes due 2048 ("4.682% Senior Notes") and receive in exchange a corresponding amount of the principal and interest strips of U.S. Treasury securities held by the trusts. The 4.111% Senior Notes and 4.682% Senior Notes will not be issued unless and until a put option is exercised. We agreed to pay a semi-annual put premium of 1.275% and 1.580% per annum on the unexercised portion of the put option to the 2028 Trust and 2048 Trust, respectively, and to reimburse the trusts for expenses. The put option premiums are recorded in operating expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. The 4.111% Senior Notes and 4.682% Senior Notes will be fully, irrevocably and unconditionally guaranteed by PFS. In addition, our obligations under the put option agreement and the expense reimbursement agreement with the trusts are also guaranteed by PFS. The contingent funding agreements with the trusts provide us with a source of liquid assets, which could be used to meet future financial obligations or to provide additional capital.
The put options described above will be exercised automatically in full if we fail to make certain payments to the trusts, including any failure to pay the put option premium or expense reimbursements when due, if such failure is not cured within 30 days, and upon certain bankruptcy events involving us or PFS. We are also required to exercise the put option in full: (i) if we reasonably believe that our consolidated shareholders' equity, calculated in accordance with U.S. GAAP but excluding AOCI and noncontrolling interest, has fallen below $4.0 billion, subject to adjustment in certain cases; (ii) upon the occurrence of an event of default under the 4.111% Senior Notes and 4.682% Senior Notes; and (iii) if certain events occur relating to each trust's status as an "investment company" under the Investment Company Act of 1940. In addition, we are required to purchase from the trusts any principal and interest strips of U.S. Treasury securities that are due and not paid.
Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. The deferred tax balances as of December 31, 2017, were remeasured as a result of the U.S. tax reform reducing the U.S. statutory tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018. This was because the new rate was applicable to the reversal of cumulative temporary differences thereafter. Our significant components of net deferred income taxes were as follows:
The effects of tax legislation on deferred taxes are recognized in the period of enactment. The primary impact of U.S. tax reform on our 2017 financial results was associated with the effect of reducing the U.S. statutory tax rate from 35% to 21% on our deferred tax balances as of December 31, 2017, and a one-time deemed repatriation tax on certain unremitted earnings of foreign subsidiaries. The effects of the U.S. tax reform were reflected in the 2017 financial statements as determined or as reasonably estimated provisional amounts based on available information subject to interpretation in accordance with the SEC's Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 ("SAB 118"). The provisional amounts were primarily associated with estimation of the one-time deemed repatriation tax considering complexity as well as limited and changing technical tax guidance. Further, the provisional amounts also apply in regard to other potential technical interpretations of accounting and taxing authorities related to elements of the U.S. tax reform subject to change. Proposed regulations issued August 1, 2018, clarifying the calculation of the one-time deemed repatriation tax, allowed for final determination of the 2017 provisional amount. The impact of final §965 regulations issued on January 15, 2019, is expected to be immaterial; however, analysis is still being completed. The one-time deemed repatriation tax in 2017 was based on the greater of unremitted earnings and profits from foreign operations of our subsidiaries determined as of November 2, 2017 or December 31, 2017, which amounted to $43.0 million. The provisional amount of $43.0 million reported in 2017 was adjusted by $5.9 million in 2018 to $48.9 million to reflect the SAB 118 final determination within the required one-year measurement period.
years 2004 through 2018, as a result of the settlement of earlier years with the Department of Justice, are pending. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, we had $193.0 million and $231.8 million, respectively, of current income tax receivables associated with outstanding audit issues reported as other assets in our consolidated statements of financial position.
The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit pension plans was $3,029.0 million and $3,139.3 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
For the year ended December 31, 2018, the pension plans had an actuarial gain primarily due to an increase in the discount rate. For the year ended December 31, 2017, the pension plans had an actuarial loss primarily due to a decrease in the discount rate and white collar mortality for the nonqualified plans.
For the year ended December 31, 2018, the other postretirement benefit plans had an actuarial gain primarily due to an increase in the discount rate and a gain from actual and projected medical claims cost being lower than expected. For the year ended December 31, 2017, the other postretirement benefit plans had an actuarial loss primarily due to a decrease in the discount rate offset by actual and projected medical claims costs being lower than previously expected.
For 2018 and 2017, both the qualified and nonqualified plans had accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets. As noted previously, the nonqualified plans have assets that are deposited in trusts that fail to meet the U.S. GAAP requirements to be included in plan assets; however, these assets are included in our consolidated statements of financial position.
The pension plans' actuarial gains and losses are amortized using a straight-line amortization method over the average remaining service period of plan participants. For the qualified pension plan, gains and losses are amortized
without use of the 10% allowable corridor. For the nonqualified pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans, the corridors allowed are used.
(1)The funded statuses of the other postretirement employee benefit ("OPEB") plans for which subsidies were eliminated in 2016 were remeasured as of October 31, 2016, and a portion of the impact was reflected in the 2016 net periodic postretirement benefit cost. A discount rate of 4.15% was used until the remeasurement date at which time a discount rate of 3.35% was used.
For the pension benefits, the discount rate is determined by projecting future benefit payments inherent in the projected benefit obligation and discounting those cash flows using a spot yield curve for high quality corporate bonds. The plans' expected benefit payments are discounted to determine a present value using the yield curve and the discount rate is the level rate that produces the same present value. The expected return on plan assets is the long-term rate we expect to be earned based on the long-term investment policy of the plans and the various classes of invested funds. A weighted average rate was developed based on those overall rates and the target asset allocation of the plans.
• Level 2 - Fair values are based on inputs other than quoted prices within Level 1 that are observable for the asset, either directly or indirectly. Our Level 2 assets primarily include fixed income securities, fixed income and equity investment funds and real estate investments.
• Level 3 - Fair values are based on significant unobservable inputs for the asset.
The fair value of the qualified pension plan's assets by asset category as of the most recent measurement date was as follows:
(6)The hedge funds have varying investment strategies that also have a variety of redemption terms and conditions. We do not have unfunded commitments associated with these hedge funds.
The fair value of the other postretirement benefit plans' assets by asset category as of the most recent measurement date was as follows:
(1)The portfolios invest in various fixed income securities, primarily of U.S. origin. These include, but are not limited to, corporate bonds, residential mortgage-backed securities, commercial mortgage-backed securities, U.S. Treasury securities, agency securities, asset-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations.
The reconciliation for a Principal Life general account investment that was previously included in plan assets and measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) is as follows:
The assumptions used in calculating the estimated future benefit payments are the same as those used to measure the benefit obligation for the year ended December 31, 2018.
In addition, we have defined contribution plans that are generally available to all U.S. employees and agents. Eligible participants could not contribute more than $18,500 of their compensation to the plans in 2018. Effective January 1, 2006, we made several changes to the retirement programs. In general, the pension and supplemental executive retirement plan benefit formulas were reduced and the 401(k) matching contribution was increased. Employees who were ages 47 or older with at least ten years of service on December 31, 2005, could elect to retain the prior benefit provisions and forgo receipt of the additional matching contributions. The employees who elected to retain the prior benefit provisions are referred to as "Grandfathered Choice Participants." We match the Grandfathered Choice Participant's contribution at a 50% contribution rate up to a maximum matching contribution of 3% of the participant's compensation. For all other participants, we match the participant's contributions at a 75% contribution rate up to a maximum matching contribution of 6% of the participant's compensation. The defined contribution plans allow employees to choose among various investment options, including our common stock, which is available through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan ("ESOP"). We contributed $53.4 million, $48.9 million and $46.6 million in 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively, to our qualified defined contribution plans.
shares of our common stock held within the ESOP is treated as outstanding in both our basic and diluted earnings per share calculations.
We also have nonqualified deferred compensation plans available to select employees and agents that allow them to defer compensation amounts in excess of limits imposed by U.S. federal tax law with respect to the qualified plans. For certain nonqualified deferred compensation plans that include an employer matching contribution, in 2018 we matched the Grandfathered Choice Participant's deferral at a 50% match deferral rate up to a maximum matching deferral of 3% of the participant's compensation. For all other participants in nonqualified deferred compensation plans that include an employer matching contribution, we matched the participant's deferral at a 75% match deferral rate up to a maximum matching deferral of 6% of the participant's compensation. We contributed $3.4 million, $3.8 million and $3.3 million in 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively, to our nonqualified deferred compensation plans.
Under state insurance guaranty fund laws, insurers doing business in a state can be assessed, up to prescribed limits, for certain obligations of insolvent insurance companies to policyholders and claimants. A state's fund assesses its members based on their pro rata market share of written premiums in the state for the classes of insurance for which the insolvent insurer was engaged. Some states permit member insurers to recover assessments paid through full or partial premium tax offsets. We accrue liabilities for guaranty fund assessments when an assessment is probable, can be reasonably estimated and when the event obligating us to pay has occurred. While we cannot predict the amount and timing of any future assessments, we have established reserves we believe are adequate for assessments relating to insurance companies that are currently subject to insolvency proceedings. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the liability balance for guaranty fund assessments, which is not discounted, was $22.2 million and $23.3 million, respectively, and was reported within other liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial position. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, $10.4 million and $11.3 million, respectively, related to premium tax offsets were included in premiums due and other receivables in the consolidated statements of financial position.
We lease buildings and hardware storage equipment under capital leases. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, these leases had a gross asset balance of $67.9 million and $60.8 million and accumulated depreciation of $35.3 million and $32.8 million, respectively. Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 was $12.9 million, $13.4 million and $14.8 million, respectively.
In October 2015, our Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program of up to $150.0 million of our outstanding common stock, which was completed in March 2016. In February 2016, our Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program of up to $400.0 million of our outstanding common stock, which was completed in February 2018. In May 2017, our Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program of up to $250.0 million of our outstanding common stock, which was completed in April 2018. In May 2018, our Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program of up to $300.0 million of our outstanding common stock, which was completed in December 2018. In November 2018, our Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program of up to $500.0 million of our outstanding common stock, which has no expiration. Shares repurchased under these programs are accounted for as treasury stock, carried at cost and reflected as a reduction to stockholders' equity.
(4)Pre-tax reclassification adjustments relating to deconsolidated sponsored investment funds are reported in net realized capital gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of operations. $2.0 million of this reclassification relates to noncontrolling interest and is reported in net income attributable to noncontrolling interest on the consolidated statements of operations.
The noncontrolling interest holders in certain of our consolidated entities maintain an equity interest that is redeemable at the option of the holder, which may be exercised on varying dates. Since redemption of the noncontrolling interest is outside of our control, this interest is excluded from stockholders' equity and reported separately as redeemable noncontrolling interest on the consolidated statements of financial position. Our redeemable noncontrolling interest primarily relates to consolidated sponsored investment funds for which interests are redeemed at fair value from the net assets of the funds.
Following is a reconciliation of the changes in the redeemable noncontrolling interest (in millions):
inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three levels. The level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety considering factors specific to the asset or liability.
The following discussion describes the valuation methodologies and inputs used for assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis or disclosed at fair value. The techniques utilized in estimating the fair value of financial instruments are reliant on the assumptions used. Care should be exercised in deriving conclusions about our business, its value or financial position based on the fair value information of financial instruments presented below.
Fair value estimates are made based on available market information and judgments about the financial instrument at a specific point in time. Such estimates do not consider the tax impact of the realization of unrealized gains or losses. In addition, the disclosed fair value may not be realized in the immediate settlement of the financial instrument. We validate prices through an investment analyst review process, which includes validation through direct interaction with external sources, review of recent trade activity or use of internal models. In circumstances where broker quotes are used to value an instrument, we generally receive one non-binding quote. Broker quotes are validated through an investment analyst review process, which includes validation through direct interaction with external sources and use of internal models or other relevant information. We did not make any significant changes to our valuation processes during 2018.
If we are unable to price a fixed maturity security using prices from third party pricing vendors or other sources specific to the asset class, we may obtain a broker quote or utilize an internal pricing model specific to the asset utilizing relevant market information, to the extent available and where at least one significant unobservable input is utilized. These are reflected in Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy and can include fixed maturities across all asset classes. As of December 31, 2018, less than 1% of our total fixed maturities were Level 3 securities valued using internal pricing models.
The fair values of exchange-traded derivatives are determined through quoted market prices, which are reflected in Level 1. Exchange-traded derivatives include futures that are settled daily, which reduces their fair value in the consolidated statements of financial position. The fair values of OTC cleared derivatives are determined through market prices published by the clearinghouses, which are reflected in Level 2. The clearinghouses may utilize the overnight indexed swap ("OIS") curve in their valuation. Variation margin associated with OTC cleared derivatives is settled daily, which reduces their fair value in the consolidated statements of financial position. The fair values of bilateral OTC derivative instruments are determined using either pricing valuation models that utilize market observable inputs or broker quotes. The majority of our bilateral OTC derivatives are valued with models that use market observable inputs, which are reflected in Level 2. Significant inputs include contractual terms, interest rates, currency exchange rates, credit spread curves, equity prices and volatilities. These valuation models consider projected discounted cash flows, relevant swap curves and appropriate implied volatilities. Certain bilateral OTC derivatives utilize unobservable market data, primarily independent broker quotes that are nonbinding quotes based on models that do not reflect the result of market transactions, which are reflected in Level 3.
The fair value of certain redeemable preferred stock is based on an internal model using observable inputs and is included in Level 2.
The assumption for our own non-performance risk for investment contracts and any embedded derivatives bifurcated from certain annuity and investment contracts is based on the current market credit spreads for debt-like instruments we have issued and are available in the market.
(3)Includes bifurcated embedded derivatives that are reported at net asset (liability) fair value within the same line item in the consolidated statements of financial position in which the host contract is reported.
Assets transferred into Level 3 during 2018, 2017 and 2016, primarily included those assets for which we are now unable to obtain pricing from a recognized third party pricing vendor as well as assets that were previously priced using a matrix valuation approach that may no longer be relevant when applied to asset-specific situations.
The following table provides quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs used for recurring fair value measurements categorized within Level 3, excluding assets and liabilities for which significant quantitative unobservable inputs are not developed internally, which primarily consists of those valued using broker quotes or the
(1)Represents market comparable interest rate or an index adjusted rate used as the base rate in the discounted cash flow analysis prior to any illiquidity or other adjustments, where applicable.
(2)Represents the range of rate curves used in the valuation analysis that we have determined market participants would use when pricing the instrument. Derived from interpolation between various observable swap rates.
Embedded derivatives within our investment contracts liability can be in either an asset or liability position, depending on certain inputs at the reporting date. Increases to an asset or decreases to a liability are described as increases to fair value. Increases or decreases in market volatilities could cause significant decreases or increases, respectively, in the fair value of embedded derivatives in investment contracts. Long duration interest rates are used as the mean return when projecting the growth in the value of associated account value and impact the discount rate used in the discounted future cash flows valuation. The amount of claims will increase if account value is not sufficient to cover guaranteed withdrawals. Increases or decreases in risk-free rates could cause the fair value of the embedded derivative to significantly increase or decrease, respectively. Increases or decreases in our own credit risks, which impact the rates used to discount future cash flows, could significantly increase or decrease, respectively, the fair value of the embedded derivative. All of these changes in fair value would impact net income.
No significant assets and liabilities were measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016.
• Certain commercial mortgage loans of consolidated VIEs for which it was not practicable for us to determine the carrying value. In addition, we had certain obligations of consolidated VIEs held by a synthetic entity for which it was not practicable for us to determine the carrying value. The synthetic entity matured in the first quarter of 2017.
• In 2017, we had certain investment funds for which we did not have enough influence to account for under the equity method in order to reflect the economics of the investment in the financial statements. We did not elect the fair value option for other similar investments as these investments are generally accounted for under the equity method of accounting.
Life and health insurance companies are subject to certain risk-based capital ("RBC") requirements as specified by the NAIC. Under those requirements, the amount of capital and surplus maintained by a life and health insurance company is to be determined based on the various risk factors related to it. As of December 31, 2018, Principal Life met the minimum RBC requirements.
The Retirement and Income Solutions segment provides retirement and related financial products and services primarily to businesses, their employees and other individuals. The segment is organized into Retirement and Income Solutions - Fee, which includes full service accumulation, trust services and individual variable annuities; and Retirement and Income Solutions - Spread, which includes individual fixed annuities, investment only, pension risk transfer (formerly known as full service payout) and banking services.
Our Corporate segment manages the assets representing capital that has not been allocated to any other segment. Financial results of the Corporate segment primarily reflect our financing activities (including financing costs), income on capital not allocated to other segments, inter-segment eliminations, income tax risks and certain income, expenses and other adjustments not allocated to the segments based on the nature of such items. Results of Principal Securities, Inc. ("PSI"), our retail broker-dealer and registered investment advisor ("RIA"); RobustWealth, Inc. ("RobustWealth"), our financial technology company; and our exited group medical and long-term care insurance businesses are reported in this segment.
• Periodic settlements and accruals on derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments and
• Amortization of hedge accounting book value adjustments for certain discontinued hedges,
• Recognition of deferred front-end fee revenues for sales charges on retirement and life insurance products and services,
• Related changes in the amortization pattern of DAC and related actuarial balances and
• Pre-tax net realized capital gains (losses) adjustments related to sponsored investment funds and
• Pre-tax other adjustments and income taxes of equity method investments and
(1)Reflects inter-segment revenues of $393.6 million, $402.8 million and $373.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
(3)Pre-tax net realized capital gains (losses), as adjusted, is derived as follows:
(4)For the year ended December 31, 2017, pre-tax other adjustments included the negative effect of a contribution to The Principal Financial Group Foundation, Inc.
For the year ended December 31, 2016, pre-tax other adjustments included the negative effect of one-time costs incurred to extinguish long-term debt.
(1)Fees and other revenues not within the scope of the revenue recognition guidance primarily represent revenue on contracts accounted for under the financial instruments or insurance contracts standards.
Fees and other revenues are earned for administrative activities performed for the defined contribution plans including recordkeeping and reporting as well as trust, asset management and investment services. The majority of these activities are performed daily over time. Fee-for-service transactions are also provided upon client request. These services
Fees and other revenues can be based on a fixed contractual rate for these services or can be variable based upon contractual rates applied to the market value of the client's investment portfolio each day. If the consideration for this series of performance obligations is based on daily market value, it is considered variable each day as the services are performed over time. The consideration becomes unconstrained and thus recognized as revenue for each day's series of distinct services once the market value of the clients' investment portfolios is determined at market close or carried over at the end of the day for days when the market is closed. Additionally, fixed fees and other revenues are recognized point-in-time as fee-for-service transactions upon completion.
obligation in that the services are substantially the same and have the same pattern of transfer to the customer. Fees and other revenues received for performance obligations such as asset management and other services are typically recognized over time utilizing the output method as the service is performed. Performance fees and transaction fees on certain accounts are recognized in income when the probability of significant reversal will not occur upon resolution of the uncertainty, which could be based on a variety of factors such as market performance or other internal metrics. Asset management fees are accrued each month based on the fee terms within the applicable agreement and are generally billed quarterly when values used for the calculation are available. Management fees and performance fees are variable consideration as they are subject to fluctuation based on assets under management ("AUM") and other constraints. These fees are not recognized until unconstrained at the end of each reporting period.
Fees for managing customers' mandatory retirement savings accounts in Chile are collected with each monthly deposit made by our customers. If a customer stops contributing before retirement age, we collect no fees but services are still provided. We recognize revenue from these contracts as services are performed over the life of the contract and review annually.
PSI also enters into agreements with individual customers to provide trade execution, clearing services, custody services and investment research services through our proprietary offered fee-based products. These services are bundled as one single distinct service referred to as advisory services. In addition, for outside RIA business PSI performs sales and distribution services only. The revenues are earned over time as the service is performed utilizing the output method.
A majority of our revenue is based upon contractual rates applied to the market value of the clients' portfolios and considered variable consideration.
The Corporate segment also includes inter-segment eliminations of fees and other revenues. The types of revenues from contracts with customers were as follows:
As of December 31, 2018, we had the 2014 Stock Incentive Plan, the Employee Stock Purchase Plan, the 2014 Directors Stock Plan, the Amended and Restated 2010 Stock Incentive Plan, the 2005 Directors Stock Plan, the Stock Incentive Plan and the Directors Stock Plan ("Stock-Based Compensation Plans"). As of May 20, 2014, no new grants will be made under the Amended and Restated 2010 Stock Incentive Plan or the 2005 Directors Stock Plan. No grants have been made under the Stock Incentive Plan or the Directors Stock Plan since at least 2005. Under the terms of the 2014 Stock Incentive Plan, grants may be nonqualified stock options, incentive stock options qualifying under Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code, restricted stock, restricted stock units, stock appreciation rights, performance shares, performance units or other stock-based awards. The 2014 Directors Stock Plan provides for the grant of nonqualified stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units or other stock-based awards to our nonemployee directors. To date, we have not granted any incentive stock options, restricted stock or performance units under any plans.
As of December 31, 2018, the maximum number of new shares of common stock available for grant under the 2014 Stock Incentive Plan and the 2014 Directors Stock Plan was 8.7 million.
Nonqualified stock options were granted to certain employees under the 2014 Stock Incentive Plan, the Amended and Restated 2010 Stock Incentive Plan and the Stock Incentive Plan. Options outstanding were granted at an exercise price equal to the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant and expire ten years after the grant date. These options have graded vesting over a three-year period, except in the case of specific types of terminations. Total options granted were 0.8 million, 0.7 million and 1.1 million during 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
The following is a summary of weighted-average remaining contractual lives for stock options outstanding and the range of exercise prices on the stock options as of December 31, 2018:
We granted performance share awards to certain employees under the 2014 Stock Incentive Plan and the Amended and Restated 2010 Stock Incentive Plan. The performance share awards are treated as an equity award and are paid in shares. Whether the performance shares are earned depends upon the participant's continued employment through the performance period (except in the case of specific types of terminations) and our performance against three-year goals set at the beginning of the performance period. Performance goals based on various factors must be achieved for any of the performance shares to be earned. If the performance requirements are not met, the performance shares will be forfeited, no compensation cost will be recognized and any previously recognized compensation cost will be reversed. These awards have no maximum contractual term. Dividend equivalents are credited on performance shares outstanding as of the record date. These dividend equivalents are only paid on the shares released. Total performance share awards granted were 0.2 million, 0.2 million and 0.3 million in 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
The total intrinsic value of performance share awards vested was $21.5 million, $15.9 million and $18.1 million during 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
As of December 31, 2018, we had $2.0 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested performance share awards granted. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average service period of approximately 1.6 years.
Actual tax benefits realized for the tax deductions for performance share awards paid out under these share-based payment arrangements for 2018, 2017 and 2016 was $3.3 million, $5.4 million and $4.8 million, respectively.
The total intrinsic value of restricted stock units vested was $51.1 million, $59.9 million and $46.2 during 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
The fair value of restricted stock units is determined based on the closing stock price of our common shares on the grant date. The weighted-average grant-date fair value of restricted stock units granted during 2018, 2017 and 2016 was $63.68, $62.85 and $37.59, respectively.
The actual tax benefits realized for the tax deductions for restricted stock unit payouts under these share-based payment arrangements for 2018, 2017 and 2016 was $10.8 million, $20.8 million and $16.1 million, respectively.
The calculation of diluted earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, excludes the incremental effect related to certain outstanding stock-based compensation grants due to their anti-dilutive effect.
The following tables set forth condensed consolidating financial information of (i) PFG, (ii) Principal Life, (iii) PFS and all other direct and indirect subsidiaries of PFG on a combined basis and (iv) the eliminations necessary to arrive at the information for PFG on a consolidated basis as of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, and for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016.
In presenting the condensed consolidating financial statements, the equity method of accounting has been applied to (i) PFG's interest in all direct subsidiaries of PFG, (ii) Principal Life's interest in all direct subsidiaries of Principal Life and (iii) PFS's interest in Principal Life even though all such subsidiaries meet the requirements to be consolidated under U.S. GAAP. Earnings of subsidiaries are, therefore, reflected in the parent's investment and earnings. All intercompany balances and transactions, including elimination of the parent's investment in subsidiaries, between PFG, Principal Life and PFS and all other subsidiaries have been eliminated, as shown in the column "Eliminations." These condensed consolidating financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements. The financial information may not necessarily be indicative of results of operations, cash flows or financial position had the subsidiaries operated as independent entities.