The Company’s home office is located at One Orange Way, Windsor, Connecticut, 06095-4774. All Company office space other than the home office is leased or subleased by the Company or its other affiliates. The Company pays substantially all expenses associated with its owned or leased and subleased office properties. Affiliates within ING’s U.S. operations provide the Company with various management, finance, investment management, and other administrative services, primarily from facilities located at 5780 Powers Ferry Road, N.W., Atlanta, Georgia 30327-4390. The affiliated companies are reimbursed for the Company’s use of these services and facilities under a variety of intercompany agreements.
The following selected financial data has been derived from the consolidated financial statements. The following selected financial data should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Narrative Analysis of Results of Operations and Financial Condition” and the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto, which can be found under Part II,
1. While the global economy continues to recover from the financial crisis and subsequent recession, risks remain for the United States and other world economies. The uncertainty concerning current global market conditions, and the impact it has on the U.S. economy, has affected and may continue to affect the Company’s results of operations.
4. Circumstances associated with implementation of ING Groep’s recently announced global business strategy and the final restructuring plan submitted to the European Commission in connection with its review of ING Groep’s receipt of state aid from the Dutch State could adversely affect the Company’s results of operations and financial condition.
6. The Company has experienced ratings downgrades and may experience additional future downgrades in the Company’s ratings, which may negatively affect profitability, financial condition, and access to liquidity.
12. The Company may be required to establish an additional valuation allowance against the deferred income tax assets if the Company’s business does not generate sufficient taxable income or if the Company’s tax planning strategies are modified. Increases in the deferred tax valuation allowance could have a material adverse effect on results of operations and financial condition.
18. Competition could negatively affect the ability to maintain or increase profitability.
23. The Company’s businesses are heavily regulated, and changes in regulation in the United States and regulatory investigations may reduce profitability.
24. The Company’s products are subject to extensive regulation and failure to meet any of the complex product requirements may reduce profitability.
25. Changes in accounting requirements could negatively impact the Company’s reported results of operations and the Company’s reported financial position.
26. Failure of a Company operating or information system or a compromise of security with respect to an operating or information system or portable electronic device or a failure to implement system modifications or a new accounting, actuarial or other operating system effectively could adversely affect the Company’s results of operations and financial condition or the effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting.
28. Defaults or delinquencies in the commercial mortgage loan portfolio may adversely affect the Company’s profitability.
30. The occurrence of natural or man-made disasters may adversely affect the Company’s results of operations and financial condition.
ILIAC is a direct, wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion, which is an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of ING. ING is a global financial services holding company based
As part of a restructuring plan approved by the European Commission (“EC”), ING has agreed to separate its banking and insurance businesses by 2013. ING intends to achieve this separation by divestment of its insurance and investment management operations, including the Company. ING has announced that it will explore all options for implementing the separation including one or more initial public offerings, sales, or a combination thereof. On November 10, 2010, ING announced that ING and its U.S. insurance affiliates, including the Company, are preparing for a base case of an initial public offering (“IPO”) of the Company and its U.S.-based insurance and investment management affiliates. See the “Recent Initiatives” section included in Liquidity and Capital Resources for a description of the key components of the ING restructuring plan.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Critical estimates and assumptions are evaluated on an on-going basis based on historical developments, market conditions, industry trends, and other information that is reasonable under the circumstances. There can be no assurance that actual results will conform to estimates and assumptions, and that reported results of operations will not be materially adversely affected by the need to make future accounting adjustments to reflect changes in these estimates and assumptions from time to time.
In developing these accounting estimates and policies, the Company’s management makes subjective and complex judgments that are inherently uncertain and subject to material changes as facts and circumstances develop. Although variability is inherent in these estimates, management believes the amounts provided are appropriate based upon the facts available upon compilation of the Consolidated Financial Statements. For a more detailed discussion of other significant accounting policies, refer to the Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies note to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8. contained herein.
Reserves for individual immediate annuities with life contingent payout benefits are equal to the present value of expected future payments. Assumptions as to interest rates, mortality, and expenses are based upon the Company’s experience at the period the policy is sold, including a margin for adverse deviations. Such assumptions generally vary by annuity plan type, year of issue, and policy duration. Interest rates used to calculate the present value of future benefits ranged from 4.5% to 6.0%. Although assumptions are “locked-in” upon the issuance of immediate annuities with life contingent payout benefits, significant changes in experience or assumptions may require the Company to provide for expected future losses on a product by establishing premium deficiency reserves. Premium deficiency reserves are determined based on best estimate assumptions that exist at the time the premium deficiency reserve is established and do not include a margin for adverse deviations.
Assumptions used, such as near-term and long-term equity market return, lapse rate, and mortality, are consistent with assumptions used in estimating gross profits for purposes of amortizing DAC, and, thus, are subject to the same variability and risk. The assumptions of investment performance and volatility are consistent with the historical experience of the appropriate underlying equity index, such as the Standard & Poor’s (“S&P”) 500 Index. The Company periodically evaluates estimates used and adjusts the additional liability balance, with a related charge or credit to benefit expense, if actual experience or other evidence suggests that earlier assumptions should be revised. To offset the Company’s exposure on these guarantees to adverse changes in the equity markets, the Company enters into various derivative positions.
Products with guaranteed credited rates treat the guarantee as an embedded derivative for Stabilizer products and a stand-alone derivative for Managed custody guarantee (“MCG”) products. These derivatives are measured at estimated fair value with changes in estimated fair value reported in Interest credited and other benefits to contract owners in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
§ One significant assumption is the assumed return associated with the variable account performance. To reflect the volatility in the equity markets, this assumption involves a combination of near-term expectations and long-term assumptions regarding market performance. The overall return on the variable account is dependent on multiple factors, including the relative mix of the underlying sub-accounts among bond funds and equity funds, as well as equity sector weightings. The Company’s practice assumes that intermediate-term appreciation in equity markets reverts to the long-term appreciation in equity markets. The Company monitors market events and only changes the assumption when sustained deviations are expected. This methodology incorporates a 9% long-term equity return assumption, and a 14% cap. The Company implemented this reversion to the mean methodology prospectively on January 1, 2011.
§ Assumptions related to interest rate spreads and credit losses also impact estimated gross profits. These assumptions are based on the current investment
§ Level 2 - Quoted prices in markets that are not active or valuation techniques that require inputs that are observable either directly or indirectly for substantially the full term of the asset or liability. Level 2 inputs include the following:
(c) Inputs other than quoted market prices that are observable; and
When available, the estimated fair value of securities is based on quoted prices in active markets that are readily and regularly obtainable. When quoted prices in active markets are not available, the determination of estimated fair value is based on market standard valuation methodologies, including discounted cash flow methodologies, matrix pricing, or other similar techniques. For more information regarding the Company’s process of assigning fair values to investments, refer to the Financial Instruments note to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
The Company also has investments in certain fixed maturities, and has issued certain annuity products, that contain embedded derivatives whose fair value is at least partially determined by, among other things, levels of or changes in domestic and/or foreign interest rates (short-term or long-term), exchange rates, prepayment rates, equity markets, or credit ratings/spreads.
The fair values of these embedded derivatives are determined using prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement. These valuations, whether derived internally or
obtained from a third-party, use critical assumptions that are not widely available to estimate market participant expectations in valuing the asset or liability. For additional information regarding the valuation of and significant assumptions associated with embedded derivatives associated with annuity contracts, refer to the “Reserves for Future Policy Benefits” section in Management’s Narrative Analysis of Operations and Financial Condition included in Part II, Item 7. contained herein.
impairment”). The credit impairment is recorded in Net realized capital gains (losses) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The noncredit impairment is recorded in Other comprehensive income (loss) on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Prior to April 1, 2009, the Company recognized in earnings an OTTI for a fixed maturity in an unrealized loss position, unless the Company could assert that it had both the intent and ability to hold the fixed maturity for a period of time sufficient to allow for a recovery of estimated fair value to the security’s amortized cost. The entire difference between the fixed maturity’s amortized cost basis and its estimated fair value was recognized in earnings if the security was determined to have an OTTI.
recovery value the same considerations utilized in its overall impairment evaluation process, which incorporates available information and the Company’s best estimate of scenarios-based outcomes regarding the specific security and issuer; possible corporate restructurings or asset sales by the issuer; the quality and amount of any credit enhancements; the security’s position within the capital structure of the issuer; fundamentals of the industry and geographic area in which the security issuer operates, and the overall macroeconomic conditions.
The cost or amortized cost of fixed maturities and equity securities is adjusted for OTTI in the period in which the determination is made. The Company does not change the revised cost basis for subsequent recoveries in value.
Mortgage loans on real estate are all commercial mortgage loans, which are reported at amortized cost, less impairment write-downs and allowance for losses. If the value of any mortgage loan is determined to be impaired (i.e., when it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement), the carrying value of the mortgage loan is reduced to the lower of either the present value of expected cash flows from the loan, discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, or fair value of the collateral. For those mortgages that are determined to require foreclosure, the carrying value is reduced to the fair value of the underlying collateral, net of estimated costs to obtain and sell at the point of foreclosure. The carrying value of the impaired loans is reduced by establishing a permanent write-down recorded in Net realized capital gains (losses) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. In response to challenges that the economy presented to the commercial mortgage market, the Company began recording an allowance for probable incurred, but not specifically identified, losses related to factors inherent in the lending process beginning in the third quarter of 2009.
The Company uses certain assumptions and estimates in determining the income taxes payable or refundable to/from the Parent for the current year, the deferred income tax liabilities and assets for items recognized differently in its financial statements from amounts shown on the Company’s income tax returns, and the federal income tax expense. Determining these amounts requires analysis and interpretation of current tax laws and regulations, including the loss limitation rules associated with change in control. The Company exercises considerable judgment in evaluating the amount and timing of recognition of the resulting income tax liabilities
The results of the Company’s operations are included in the consolidated tax return of ING AIH. Generally, the Company’s consolidated financial statements recognize the current and deferred income tax consequences that result from the Company’s activities during the current and preceding periods pursuant to the provisions of Accounting Standards Codification Topic 740, Income Taxes (ASC 740) as if the Company were a separate taxpayer rather than a member of ING AIH’s consolidated income tax return group with the exception of any net operating loss carryforwards and capital loss carryforwards, which are recorded pursuant to the tax sharing agreement. The Company’s tax sharing agreement with ING AIH states that for each taxable year during which the Company is included in a consolidated federal income tax return with ING AIH, ING AIH will pay to the Company an amount equal to the tax benefit of the Company’s net operating loss carryforwards and capital loss carryforwards generated in such year, without regard to whether such net operating loss carryforwards and capital loss carryforwards are actually utilized in the reduction of the consolidated federal income tax liability for any consolidated taxable year.
The nature and character of the deferred tax assets and liabilities;
Any prudent and feasible tax planning strategies the Company would employ to avoid a tax benefit from expiring unused.
As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company recorded the following valuation allowances:
A loss contingency is an existing condition, situation, or set of circumstances involving uncertainty as to possible loss that will ultimately be resolved when one or more future events occur or fail to occur. Examples of loss contingencies include pending or threatened adverse litigation, threat of expropriation of assets, and actual or possible claims and assessments. Amounts related to loss contingencies are accrued if it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated.
Products currently offered by the Company include qualified and nonqualified annuity contracts that include a variety of funding and payout options for individuals and employer-sponsored retirement plans qualified under Internal Revenue Code Sections 401, 403, 408, and 457, as well as nonqualified deferred compensation plans.
The Company derives its revenue mainly from (a) fee income generated from separate account assets supporting variable options under variable annuity contract investments, as designated by contract owners, (b) investment income earned on assets supporting fixed assets under management (“AUM”), mainly generated from annuity products with fixed investment options, and (c) certain other fees. The Company’s expenses primarily consist of (a) interest credited and other benefits to contract owners, (b) amortization of DAC and value of business acquired (“VOBA”), (c) expenses related to the selling and servicing of the various products offered by the Company, and (d) other general business expenses. In addition, the Company
Overall inflation was contained during 2011 with the exception of higher energy and commodity prices which received significant press coverage. The public’s perception of inflation will depend on whether the effects of higher energy and other commodities price increases dissipate and stabilize in the coming year. The pace of economic growth is still constrained by high unemployment, modest income growth, lower housing wealth, and tepid expansion of credit. The sustainability of the ongoing recovery still depends on supportive fiscal and monetary policies.
Total revenues increased for the year ended December 31, 2011 primarily due to an increase in Net investment income, a Net realized capital gain incurred in the current year versus a Net realized capital loss incurred in the prior year, and higher Fee income, partially offset by lower Premiums.
Interest credited and other benefits to contract owners increased for the year ended December 31, 2011 due to the increase in reserves for product guarantees driven by the decline in interest rates.
Operating expenses decreased for the year ended December 31, 2011 due to actions taken to reduce staffing and related expenses, including the elimination of the wholesale distribution channel in 2011.
The increase in Net investment income for the year ended December 31, 2010 is mainly due to favorable returns on equity investments in limited partnerships and higher income on fixed maturities driven by higher AUM in 2010.
Broker-dealer commission revenue decreased for the year ended December 31, 2010 due to lower sales of variable annuity products. The decrease in commission revenue is offset by the corresponding decrease in Broker-dealer commission expense.
Total benefits and expenses increased for the year ended December 31, 2010 primarily due to an increase in Interest credited and other benefits to contract owners and higher Operating expenses partially offset by lower Net amortization of DAC and VOBA and lower broker-dealer commission expense.
The Company’s investment strategy seeks to achieve sustainable risk-adjusted returns by focusing on principal preservation, disciplined matching of asset characteristics with liability requirements, and the diversification of risks. Investment activities are undertaken according to investment policy statements that contain internally established guidelines and risk tolerances and in all cases are required to comply with applicable laws and insurance regulations. Risk tolerances are established for credit risk, credit spread risk, market risk, liquidity risk, and concentration risk across issuers, sectors and asset types that seek to mitigate the impact of cash flow variability arising from these risks.
Investments are managed by ING Investment Management LLC, an affiliate of the Company, pursuant to an investment advisory agreement. Segmented portfolios are established for groups of products with similar liability characteristics within the Company. The Company’s investment portfolio consists largely of high quality fixed maturity securities and short-term investments, investments in commercial mortgage loans, limited partnerships, and other instruments, including a small amount of equity holdings. Fixed maturity securities include publicly issued corporate bonds, government bonds, privately placed notes and bonds, mortgage-backed securities, and asset-backed securities. The Company uses derivatives for hedging purposes and to replicate exposure to other assets as a more efficient means of assuming credit exposure similar to bonds of the underlying issuer(s).
It is management’s objective that the portfolio of fixed maturities be of high quality and be well diversified by market sector. The fixed maturities in the Company’s portfolio are generally rated by external rating agencies and, if not externally rated, are rated by the Company on a basis believed to be similar to that used by the rating agencies. At December 31, 2011 and 2010, the average quality rating of the Company’s fixed maturities portfolio was A.
The NAIC designations are generally similar to the credit quality designations of a Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Organization (“NRSRO”) for marketable fixed maturity securities, called “rating agency designations,” except for certain structured securities as described below. NAIC designations of “1,” highest quality, and “2,” high quality, include fixed maturity securities generally considered investment grade (“IG”) by such rating organizations. NAIC designations 3 through 6 include fixed maturity securities generally considered below investment grade (“BIG”) by such rating organizations.
It is management’s objective that the portfolio of fixed maturities be of high quality and be well diversified by market sector. The fixed maturities in the Company’s portfolio are generally rated by external rating agencies and, if not externally rated, are rated by the Company on a basis believed to be similar to that used by the rating agencies. Ratings are derived from three NRSRO ratings and are applied as follows based on the number of agency rating received:
· when three ratings are received then the middle rating is applied;
· when a single rating is received, the NRSRO rating is applied;
· and, when ratings are unavailable then an internal rating is applied.
Fixed maturities rated BB and below may have speculative characteristics, and changes in economic conditions or other circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the issuer to make principal and interest payments than is the case with higher rated fixed maturities.
The Company did not have any investments in a single issuer, other than obligations of the U.S. government and government agencies, and the Dutch State loan obligation, with a carrying value in excess of 10.0% of the Company’s Shareholder’s equity at December 31, 2011 and 2010.
unrealized losses related to the Company’s exposure to subprime mortgages were $215.3 and $38.3, respectively, representing 1.2% of total fixed maturities, including securities pledged.
The Company’s exposure to Alt-A mortgages is included in residential mortgage-backed securities in the fixed maturities by market sector table above. As of December 31, 2011, the fair value and gross unrealized losses aggregated to $98.8 and $19.6, respectively, representing 0.5% of total fixed maturities. As of December 31, 2010, the fair value and gross unrealized losses aggregated to $123.2 and $21.7, respectively, representing 0.7% of total fixed maturities.
The following tables summarize the Company’s exposure to Alt-A mortgage-backed holdings by credit quality using NAIC designations, NRSRO ratings and vintage year as of December 31, 2011 and 2010:
Delinquency rates on commercial mortgages have remained elevated in recent months. However, the steep pace of increases observed in the months following the credit crisis has slowed, and some recent months have posted month over month declines in delinquent mortgages. In addition, other performance metrics like vacancies, property values and rent levels have exhibited improvements, providing early signals of a recovery in commercial real estate. In addition, the primary market for CMBS continued its recovery from the credit crisis, with total new issuance in 2011 higher for the third straight year. This had the impact of increasing credit availability within the commercial real estate universe. For consumer asset-backed securities, delinquency and loss rates have continued to decline. While there are concerns with consumer loans as a result of the current macro-economic environment, improvements in various credit metrics across multiple types of asset-backed loans have been observed on a sustained basis.
As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the fair value of the Company’s CMBS totaled $911.3 and $1.0 billion, respectively, and other ABS, excluding subprime exposure, totaled $381.0 and $389.8, respectively. As of December 31, 2011, the gross unrealized losses related to CMBS totaled $5.8 and gross unrealized losses related to Other ABS, excluding subprime exposure, totaled $0.7. CMBS investments represent pools of commercial mortgages that are broadly diversified across property types and geographical areas.
The following tables summarize the Company’s exposure to CMBS holdings by credit quality using NAIC designations, NRSRO ratings and vintage year as of December 31, 2011 and 2010:
As of December 31, 2011, the other ABS was also broadly diversified both by type and issuer with credit card receivables, collateralized loan obligations and automobile receivables, comprising 49.3%, 5.5%, and 17.2%, respectively, of total other ABS, excluding subprime exposure. As of December 31, 2010, the other ABS was also broadly diversified both by type and issuer with credit card receivables, collateralized loan obligations and automobile receivables, comprising 57.5%, 10.6%, and 4.6%, respectively, of total other ABS, excluding subprime exposure.
Loan-to-value (“LTV”) and debt service coverage (“DSC”) ratios are measures commonly used to assess the risk and quality of commercial mortgage loans. The LTV ratio, calculated at time of origination, is expressed as a percentage of the amount of the loan relative to the value of the underlying property. The DSC ratio, based upon the most recently received financial statements, is expressed as a percentage of the amount of a property’s net income to its debt service payments. These ratios are utilized as part of the review process described above. LTV and DSC ratios as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, are as follows:
The following tables set forth the breakdown of commercial mortgages by year of origination as of December 31, 2011 and 2010.
Unrealized capital losses (including noncredit impairments), along with the fair value of fixed maturities, including securities pledged to creditors, by market sector and duration were as follows at December 31, 2011 and 2010.
For the year ended December 31, 2011, unrealized capital losses on fixed maturities decreased by $81.3. The decrease in gross unrealized losses is primarily due to recognition of OTTI on Other ABS and CMBS, market improvement of the CMBS portfolio in the second half of 2011 and the overall declining yields and tightening spreads, leading to higher fair values of fixed maturities.
At December 31, 2011, the Company held no fixed maturity with an unrealized capital loss in excess of $10.0. At December 31, 2010, the Company held 1 fixed maturity with an unrealized capital loss in excess of $10.0. The unrealized capital loss on this fixed maturity equaled $10.0, or 4.3% of the total unrealized capital losses, as of December 31, 2010.
All investments with fair values less than amortized cost are included in the Company’s other-than-temporary impairment analysis, and impairments were recognized as disclosed in “Other-Than-Temporary Impairments,” which follows this section. After detailed impairment analysis was completed, the Company determined that the remaining investments in an unrealized loss position were not other-than-temporarily impaired, and therefore no further other-than-temporary impairment was necessary.
The above tables include $17.6, $48.4, and $112.2, for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, and respectively, in other-than-temporary write-downs related to credit impairments, which are recognized in earnings. The remaining write-downs are related to intent impairments.
The fair value of the fixed maturities with other-than-temporary impairments at December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, was $1.9 billion, $2.0 billion, and $3.0 billion, respectively.
The following tables identify the amount of credit impairments on fixed maturities for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, for which a portion of the OTTI was recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), and the corresponding changes in such amounts.
Net realized capital gains (losses) are comprised of the difference between the amortized cost of investments and proceeds from sale and redemption, as well as losses incurred due to credit-related and intent-related other-than-temporary impairment of investments and changes in fair value of fixed maturities accounted for using the fair value option and derivatives. The cost of the investments on disposal is generally determined based on first-in-first-out methodology. Net realized capital gains (losses) on investments were as follows for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009.
(1) Level 3 net assets and liabilities accounted for 0.1% of total net assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring
integrated and interdependent banking system remains elevated. Furthermore, it is the Company’s view that the risk among European sovereigns and financial institutions specific scrutiny in addition to its customary surveillance and risk monitoring given how highly correlated these sectors of the region have become.
When quantifying its exposure to the region, the Company attempts to identify the economic country of risk by considering all aspects of the risk to which it is exposed. Among these factors are the country of the issuer, the country of the issuer’s ultimate parent, the corporate and economic relationship between the issuer and its parent, as well as the political, legal, and economic environment in which each functions. By undertaking this assessment, the Company believes that it develops a more accurate assessment of the actual geographic risk, with a more integrated understanding of all contributing factors to the full risk profile of the issuer.
In addition to notable aggregate concentration to the State of the Netherlands of $754.4 (which includes the $417.0 Dutch State payment obligation) and the United Kingdom of $692.1, the Company has significant non-peripheral European total country exposures to Switzerland of $279.0, Germany of $210.0, France of $166.1 and Belgium of $188.7. The Company’s financial exposure to the United Kingdom is also notable and receives additional scrutiny given the Company’s focus on the potential for European contagion to be spread via the banking system. In each case, the Company believes the primary risk is to market value fluctuations resulting from spread volatility followed by modest default risk should the European crisis fail to be resolved as the Company currently expects.
The following table represents the Company’s European exposures at fair value and amortized cost as of December 31, 2011.
(1) Represents: (i) total Fixed maturity and equity securities at fair value; (ii) Loan and receivables sovereign at amortized cost; and (iii) Derivative assets at fair value.
(2) Other non-peripheral countries include: Austria, Croatia, Denmark, Finland, Hungary, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Norway, Russian Federation, Sweden, and Turkey.
The Company’s liquidity position is managed by maintaining adequate levels of liquid assets, such as cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments. As part of the liquidity management process, different scenarios are modeled to determine whether existing assets are adequate to meet projected cash flows. Key variables in the modeling process include interest rates, equity market movements, quantity and type of interest and equity market hedges, anticipated contract owner behavior, market value of general account assets, variable separate account performance, and implications of rating agency actions.
The fixed account liabilities are supported by a general account portfolio, principally composed of fixed rate investments with matching duration characteristics that can generate predictable, steady rates of return. The portfolio management strategy for the fixed account considers the assets available-for-sale. This strategy enables the Company to respond to changes in market interest rates, prepayment risk, relative values of asset sectors and individual securities and loans, credit quality outlook, and other relevant factors. The objective of portfolio management is to maximize returns, taking into account interest rate and credit risk, as well as other risks. The Company’s asset/liability management discipline includes strategies to minimize exposure to loss as interest rates and economic and market conditions change. In executing this strategy, the Company uses derivative instruments to manage these risks. The Company’s derivative counterparties are of high credit quality.
Additional sources of liquidity include borrowing facilities to meet short-term cash requirements that arise in the ordinary course of business. ILIAC maintains the following agreements:
A reciprocal loan agreement with ING AIH, an affiliate, whereby either party can borrow from the other up to 3.0% of ILIAC’s statutory admitted assets as of the preceding December 31. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company had a $648.0 and $304.1 receivable, including interest, from ING AIH, respectively.
The Company holds approximately 44.7% of its assets in marketable securities. These assets include cash, U.S. Treasuries, Agencies and Public, Corporate Bonds, ABS, CMBS and CMO, and Equity securities. In the event of a temporary liquidity need, cash may be raised by entering into reverse repurchase, dollar rolls, and/or security lending agreements by temporarily lending securities and receiving cash collateral. Under the Company’s Liquidity Plan, up to 12% of the Company’s general account statutory admitted assets may be allocated to reverse repurchase, securities lending and dollar roll programs. At the time a temporary cash need arises, the actual percentage of admitted assets available for reverse repurchase transactions will depend upon outstanding allocations to the three programs. As of December 31, 2011, the Company had securities lending obligations of $248.3, which represents 0.3% of the Company’s general account statutory admitted assets.
The Company believes that its sources of liquidity are adequate to meet the its short-term cash obligations.
The DECD Loan provided for loan forgiveness during the first five years of the term at varying amounts up to $5.0 if ILIAC and its affiliates met certain employment thresholds during that period. On December 1, 2008, the DECD determined that the Company had met the employment thresholds for loan forgiveness and, accordingly, forgave $5.0 of the DECD Loan to ILIAC in accordance with the terms of the DECD Loan. The DECD Loan provides additional loan forgiveness at varying amounts up to
$4.9 if ILIAC and its ING affiliates meet certain employment thresholds at the Windsor Property during years five through ten of the loan. ILIAC’s obligations under the DECD Loan are secured by an unlimited recourse guaranty from its affiliate, ING North America Insurance Corporation.
At both December 31, 2011 and 2010, the amount of the loan outstanding was $4.9 which was reflected in Long-term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
During the year ended December 31, 2011, ILIAC did not pay any dividends on its common stock to its Parent. During the year ended December 31, 2010, ILIAC paid a $203.0 dividend on its common stock to its Parent. On December 22, 2011 and October 30, 2010, IFA paid a $65.0 and $60.0, respectively, dividend to ILIAC, its parent, which was eliminated in consolidation.
In order to implement that portion of the ING-Dutch State Transaction related to the Company’s Designated Securities Portfolio, the Company entered into a participation agreement with its affiliates, ING Support Holding and ING pursuant to which the Company conveyed to ING Support Holding an 80% participation interest in its Designated Securities Portfolio and will pay a periodic transaction fee, and received, as consideration for the participation, an assignment by ING Support Holding of its right to receive payments from the Dutch State under the Illiquid Assets Back-Up Facility related to the Company’s Designated Securities Portfolio among, ING, ING
Support Holding and the Dutch State (the “Company Back-Up Facility”). Under the Company Back-Up Facility, the Dutch State is obligated to pay certain periodic fees and make certain periodic payments with respect to the Company’s Designated Securities Portfolio, and ING Support Holding is obligated to pay a periodic guarantee fee and make periodic payments to the Dutch State equal to the distributions made with respect to the 80% participation interest in the Company’s Designated Securities Portfolio. The Dutch State payment obligation to the Company under the Company Back-Up Facility is accounted for as a loan receivable for U.S. GAAP and is reported in Loan - Dutch State obligation on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
As part of the final Restructuring Plan submitted to the EC in connection with its review of the Dutch state aid to ING, ING has agreed to make additional payments to the Dutch State corresponding to an adjustment of fees for the Back-Up Facility. Under this new agreement, the terms of the ING-Dutch State Transaction which closed on March 31, 2009, including the transfer price of the Alt-A RMBS securities, remain unaltered and the additional payments are not borne by the Company or any other ING U.S. subsidiaries. For a description of the key components of the Restructuring Plan, see the “Recent Initiatives” section included in Liquidity and Capital Resources in Part II, Item 7. contained herein.
Under the terms of the Company’s Over-The-Counter Derivative International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. Agreements (“ISDA Agreements”), the Company may receive from, or deliver to, counterparties, collateral to assure that all terms of the ISDA Agreements will be met with regard to the Credit Support Annex (“CSA”). The terms of the CSA call for the Company to pay interest on any cash received equal to the Federal Funds rate. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company held $110.0 and $4.7, respectively, of cash collateral, which was included in Payables under securities loan agreement, including collateral held, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. In addition, as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company delivered collateral of $77.9 and $93.8, respectively, in fixed maturities pledged
under derivatives contracts, which was included in Securities pledged on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Separate account assets and liabilities generally represent funds maintained to meet specific investment objectives of contract owners who bear the investment risk, subject, in limited cases, to certain minimum guarantees. Investment income and investment gains and losses generally accrue directly to such contract owners. The assets of each account are legally segregated and are not subject to claims that arise out of any other business of the Company or its affiliates. The assets and liabilities related to these accounts are presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets in Assets held in separate accounts and Liabilities related to separate accounts, respectively, excluding amounts consolidated and reported with general account assets, as discussed below.
Separate account assets supporting variable options under variable annuity contracts are invested, as designated by the contract owner or participant (who bears the investment risk subject, in limited cases, to certain minimum guaranteed rates) under a contract, in shares of mutual funds that are managed by affiliates of the Company, or in other selected mutual funds not managed by affiliates of the Company.
Variable annuity deposits are allocated to various subaccounts established within the separate account. Each subaccount represents a different investment option into which the contract owner may allocate deposits. The account value of a variable annuity contract is equal to the aggregate value of the subaccounts selected by the contract owner (including the value allocated to any fixed account), less fees and expenses. The Company offers investment options for its variable annuity contracts covering a wide range of investment styles, including large, mid, and small cap equity funds, as well as fixed income alternatives. Therefore, unlike fixed annuities and market value annuities, under variable annuity contracts, contract owners bear the risk of investment gains and losses associated with the selected investment allocation. The Company, however, offers certain guaranteed benefits (described below) under which it bears specific risks associated with these benefits. Many of the variable annuities issued by the Company are combination contracts offering both variable and fixed deferred annuity options under which some or all of the deposits may be allocated by the contract owner to a fixed account available under the contract. Amounts allocated to fixed accounts and market value annuities do not qualify for separate account accounting treatment and are therefore consolidated and reported with the general account assets and liabilities of the Company.
The Company’s variable annuities offer one or more of the following guaranteed minimum benefits:
Five Year Ratchet - Guarantees that, upon death, the death benefit will be no less than the greater of (1) Standard or (2) the maximum contract quinquennial anniversary value of the variable annuity.
Five-Year Reset - Guarantees that, upon death, the death benefit will be no less than the account value on the most recent 5th contract anniversary plus premiums made after that anniversary less withdrawals.
Seven Year Reset - Guarantees that, upon death, the death benefit will be no less than the account value on the most recent 7th contract anniversary plus premiums made after that anniversary after the first contract year. During the first contract year, it is a standard death benefit.
Combination Annual Ratchet and 5% RollUp - Guarantees that, upon death, the death benefit will be no less than the greater of (1) Annual Ratchet or (2) aggregate premiums paid by the contract owner accruing interest at 5% per annum.
Combination Seven-Year Ratchet and 4% RollUp - Guarantees that, upon death, the death benefit will be no less than the greater of (1) a seven-year ratchet or (2) aggregate premiums paid by the contract owner accruing interest at 4% per annum.
On December 7, 2011, Moody’s downgraded the insurance financial strength rating of the Company to “A3” from “A2” and revised the outlook to Stable from Negative.
On August 19, 2011, Fitch Ratings Ltd. (“Fitch”) revised the Company’s Rating Watch status to Evolving from Negative.
While the Company has a significant concentration of reinsurance with Lincoln National Corporation (“Lincoln”) associated with the disposition of its individual life insurance business to a subsidiary of Lincoln, a trust was established by the Lincoln subsidiary effective March 1, 2007, to secure the Lincoln subsidiary’s obligations to the Company under the reinsurance agreement.
The Company’s use of derivatives is limited mainly to hedging purposes to reduce the Company’s exposure to cash flow variability of assets and liabilities, interest rate risk, credit risk, exchange rate risks, and market risk. It is the Company’s policy not to offset fair value amounts recognized for derivative instruments and fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash collateral or the obligation to return cash collateral arising from derivative instruments recognized at fair value executed with the same counterparty under a master netting arrangement.
Embedded derivatives within retail annuity products are included in Future policy benefits and claims reserves on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, and changes in the fair value are recorded in Interest credited and benefits to contract owners in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
The Company has entered into various credit default swaps. When credit default swaps are sold, the Company assumes credit exposure to certain assets that it does not own. Credit default swaps may also be purchased to reduce credit exposure in the Company’s portfolio. Credit default swaps involve a transfer of credit risk from one party to another in exchange for periodic payments. These instruments are typically written for a maturity period of five years and do not contain recourse provisions, which would enable the seller to recover from third parties. The Company has ISDA agreements with each counterparty with which it conducts business and tracks the collateral position for each counterparty. To the extent cash collateral is received, it is included in Payables under securities loan agreement, including collateral held, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and is reinvested in short-term investments. The source of non-cash collateral posted was investment grade bonds of the entity. Collateral held is used in accordance with the Credit Support Annex (“CSA”) to satisfy any obligations. Investment grade bonds owned by the Company are the source of noncash collateral posted, which is reported in Securities pledged on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. In the event of a default on the underlying credit exposure, the Company will either receive an additional payment (purchased credit protection) or will be required to make an additional payment (sold credit protection) equal to par minus recovery value of the swap contract. At December 31, 2011, the fair value of credit default swaps of $2.6 and $21.2 was included in Derivatives and Other liabilities, respectively, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. At December 31, 2010, the fair value of credit default swaps of $6.7 and $14.7 was included in Derivatives and Other liabilities, respectively, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the maximum potential future exposure to the Company on the sale of credit protection under credit default swaps was $518.3 and $625.6, respectively.
As of December 31, 2011, the Company had certain contractual obligations due over a period of time as summarized in the following table.
(1) Purchase obligations consist primarily of outstanding commitments under limited partnerships that may occur any time within the terms of the partnership. The exact timing, however, of funding these commitments cannot be estimated.
Therefore, the total amount of the commitments is included in the category “Less than 1 Year.”
The Company engages in dollar repurchase agreements with mortgage-backed securities (“dollar rolls”) and repurchase agreements with other collateral types to increase its return on investments and improve liquidity. Such arrangements typically meet the requirements to be accounted for as financing arrangements. The Company enters into dollar roll transactions by selling existing mortgage-backed securities and concurrently entering into an agreement to repurchase similar securities within a short time frame in the future at a lower price. Under repurchase agreements, the Company borrows cash from a counterparty at an agreed upon interest rate for an agreed upon time frame and pledges collateral in the form of securities. At the end of the agreement, the counterparty returns the collateral to the Company and the Company, in turn, repays the loan amount along with the additional agreed upon interest. Company policy requires that at all times during the term of the dollar roll and repurchase agreements that cash or other collateral types obtained is sufficient to allow the Company to fund substantially all of the cost of purchasing replacement assets. Cash collateral received is invested in short-term investments, with the offsetting collateral liability included as a liability on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. At December 31, 2011, the Company did not have any securities pledged in dollar rolls and repurchase agreement transactions. At December 31, 2010, the
carrying value of the securities pledged in dollar rolls and repurchase agreement transactions was $216.7. The repurchase obligation related to dollar rolls and repurchase agreements totaled $214.5 at December 31, 2010, and is included in Short-term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. In addition to the purchase obligation at December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company did not have any collateral posted by the counterparty in connection with the increase in the value of pledged securities that will be released upon settlement.
The Company engages in securities lending whereby certain securities from its portfolio are loaned to other institutions for short periods of time. Initial collateral, primarily cash, is required at a rate of 102% of the market value of the loaned domestic securities. The collateral is deposited by the borrower with a lending agent, and retained and invested by the lending agent according to the Company’s guidelines to generate additional income. The market value of the loaned securities is monitored on a daily basis with additional collateral obtained or refunded as the market value of the loaned securities fluctuates. At December 31, 2011 and 2010, the fair value of loaned securities was $515.8 and $651.7, respectively, and is included in Securities pledged on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Collateral associated with securities lending is included in Short-term investments under securities loan agreement, including collateral delivered, and the corresponding liabilities are included in Payables under securities loan agreement, including collateral held, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The Connecticut Insurance Department (the “Department”) recognizes only statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the State of Connecticut for determining and reporting the financial condition and results of operations of an insurance company, and for determining its solvency under the Connecticut Insurance Law. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ (“NAIC”) Accounting
Effective for December 31, 2009, the Company adopted Actuarial Guideline 43, Variable Annuity Commissioners Annuity Reserve Valuation Method (“AG43”). The NAIC replaced the existing formula-based reserve standard methodology (AG34, Death Benefits and AG39, Living Benefits) with a stochastic principles-based methodology (AG43) for determining reserves for all individual variable annuity contracts with and without guaranteed benefits and all group annuity contracts with guarantees issued on or after January 1, 1981. Variable payout annuity contracts are also subject to AG43. There is no cumulative effect of adopting AG43. Reserves calculated using AG43 were higher than reserves calculated under AG34 and AG39 by $69.1 at December 31, 2010. Where the application of AG43 produces higher reserves than the Company had otherwise established under AG43 and AG39, the Company may request a grade-in period, not to exceed three years, from the domiciliary commissioner. The grading shall be done only on reserves on the contracts in-force as of the current year. The reserves under the old basis and the new basis shall be compared each year with two-thirds of the difference subtracted from the reserve under the new basis at December 31, 2009 and one-third of the difference subtracted from the new basis at December 31, 2010 and the remaining third recorded in 2011. The Company did elect the grade-in provision. The reserves at December 31, 2011 reflect the full impact of adoption of AG43.
On April 9, 2009, the Company’s ultimate parent, ING, announced a global business strategy which identified certain core and non-core businesses and geographies, stated ING’s intention to explore divestiture of non-core businesses over time, withdraw from certain non-core geographies, limit future acquisitions and implement enterprise-wide expense reductions. In particular, with respect to ING’s U.S. insurance operations, ING is seeking to further reduce its risk by focusing on individual life products, retirement services and lower risk annuity products which the Company commenced selling during the first quarter of 2010.
On November 10, 2010, ING announced that, in connection with the Restructuring Plan, while the option of implementing the separation through one global IPO remains open, it will prepare for a base case of an IPO of the Company and its U.S.-based insurance and investment management affiliates. Preparation for this potential IPO will also require its management to prepare consolidated U.S. GAAP financial statements which would likely include the Company and other affiliates. As part of this initiative, management has been assessing and will continue to assess its U.S. GAAP accounting policies.
The Company expects to adopt a retrospective change in accounting principle for actuarial gains/losses related to its pension and post-retirement benefit plans effective January 1, 2012, to fully recognize such amounts through the Consolidated Statements of Operations in the year in which they occur, on the basis that the new accounting principle is preferable to the corridor method and represents an improvement in financial reporting. As such, the Company expects to record a cumulative effect of this accounting change, as of January 1, 2012, which reduces Retained earnings by approximately $28.0, net of tax, with a corresponding increase to Other comprehensive income.
Beginning in the first quarter of 2011, the Company implemented a reversion to the mean technique of estimating its short-term equity market return assumptions. This change in estimate was applied prospectively in first quarter 2011. The reversion to the mean technique is a common industry practice in which DAC and VOBA
asset sales; and limitations and restrictions on capital distributions, acquisitions, affiliate transactions and/or product offerings. The FSOC is still in the process of determining the criteria it will use to identify non-bank financial companies that will be designated as subject to regulation by the Federal Reserve Board, and it is not possible to predict whether ING or the Company or any of their assets or businesses will be subject to this designation.
The legislation creates a new framework for regulating over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivatives, which may increase the costs of hedging and other permitted derivatives trading activity undertaken by the Company. Under the new regulatory regime and subject to certain exceptions, OTC derivatives will be cleared through a centralized clearinghouse and executed on a centralized exchange. It establishes new regulatory authority for the SEC and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (“CFTC”) over derivatives, and “swap dealers” and “major swap participants”, as to be defined by SEC and CFTC regulation, each of whom will be subject to as yet unspecified capital and margin requirements. Based on proposed rules jointly developed by the CFTC and the SEC and published on December 1, 2010, which further define the terms “swap dealer,” “security-based swap dealer,” “major swap participant,” and “major security-based swap participant,” the Company does not believe it should be considered a “swap dealer,” “security-based swap dealer,” “major swap participant,” or “major security-based swap participant.” However, the final regulations could provide otherwise, which could substantially increase the amount of regulatory requirements for the Company and the cost of hedging and other permitted derivatives trading activity undertaken by the Company. The legislation also requires the SEC and CFTC to conduct a study to determine whether stable value contracts fall within the definition of swap contracts, and if so, to determine whether an exemption to their regulation is appropriate. Stable value contracts are exempt from the legislation’s swap provisions, pending the effective date of any such regulatory action.
assessments already imposed under state insurance guaranty funds will be taken into account in calculating such assessments).
The Small Business Job Act of 2010, signed into law on September 27, 2010, contained provisions that could provide additional opportunities to the Company’s retirement business by allowing individuals greater flexibility to manage their retirement savings, through products and services offered by the Company. The new legislation permits both the partial annuitization of non-qualified annuity account balances as well as in-plan Roth conversions of distribution-eligible amounts by 401(k), 403(b) and 457 defined contribution plan participants.
In connection with the March 31, 2009 transfer by ING of an economic interest in 80% of its Alt-A RMBS portfolio to the Dutch State, the EC had a nine month period to review and assess the competitive impact of the transaction. On October 26, 2009, ING announced the key components of the final Restructuring Plan ING submitted to the EC as part of the process to receive EC approval for the state aid granted to ING by the Dutch State in the form of EUR 10 billion Core Tier 1 securities issued on November 12, 2008 and the ING-Dutch State Transaction. As part of the Restructuring Plan, ING has agreed to separate its banking and insurance businesses by 2013. ING intends to achieve this separation by the divestment of all insurance and investment management operations, including the Company. In November 2009, the Restructuring Plan received formal EC approval and the separation of insurance and banking operations and other components of the Restructuring Plan were approved by ING shareholders. In January 2010, ING lodged an appeal with the General Court of the European Union against specific elements of the EC’s decision regarding ING’s restructuring plan. In its appeal, ING contests the way the EC has calculated the amount of state aid ING received and the disproportionality of the price leadership restrictions specifically and the disporportionality of restructuring requirements in general. In July 2011, the appeal case was heard orally by the General Court of the European Union. By judgment of March 2, 2012, the Court partially annulled the EC’s decision of November 18, 2009, as a result of which a new decision has to be taken by the EC. Interested parties can file an appeal against the General Court’s judgment before the Court of Justice of the European Union within two months and ten days after the date of the General Court’s judgment.
For a discussion regarding contingencies related to the Company’s legal proceedings, see Item 3, “Legal Proceedings.”
As part of a restructuring plan approved by the European Commission (“EC”), ING has agreed to separate its banking and insurance businesses by 2013. ING intends to achieve this separation by divestment of its insurance and investment management operations, including the Company. ING has announced that it will explore all options for implementing the separation including one or more initial public offerings, sales, or a combination thereof. On November 10, 2010, ING announced that, in connection with the restructuring plan, it will prepare for a base case of an initial public offering of the Company and its U.S.-based insurance and investment management affiliates.
Products offered by the Company include deferred and immediate (i.e., payout) annuity contracts. Company products also include programs offered to qualified plans and nonqualified deferred compensation plans that package administrative and record-keeping services along with a variety of investment options, including affiliated and nonaffiliated mutual funds and variable and fixed investment options. In addition, the Company offers wrapper agreements entered into with retirement plans, which contain certain benefit responsive guarantees (i.e., guarantees of principal and previously accrued interest for benefits paid under the terms of the plan) with respect to portfolios of plan-owned assets not invested with the Company. The Company also offers pension and retirement savings plan administrative services.
When available, the estimated fair value of securities is based on quoted prices in active markets that are readily and regularly obtainable. When quoted prices in active markets are not available, the determination of estimated fair value is based on market standard valuation methodologies, including discounted cash flow methodologies, matrix pricing, or other similar techniques. See the Fair Value Measurements note to these Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the fair value of specific financial assets and liabilities.
Assets Held in Separate Accounts: Assets held in separate accounts are reported at the fair values of the underlying investments in the separate accounts. The underlying investments include mutual funds, short-term investments, and cash, and fixed maturities.
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate: The Company’s mortgage loans on real estate are all commercial mortgage loans, which are reported at amortized cost, less impairment write-downs and allowance for losses. If the value of any mortgage loan is determined to be impaired (i.e., when it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement), the carrying value of the mortgage loan is reduced to the lower of either the present value of expected cash flows from the loan, discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, or fair value of the collateral. For those mortgages that are determined to require foreclosure, the carrying value is reduced to the fair value of the underlying collateral, net of estimated costs to obtain and sell at the point of foreclosure. The carrying value of the impaired loans is reduced by establishing a permanent write-down recorded in Net realized capital gains (losses) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
All mortgages are evaluated for the purpose of quantifying the level of risk. Those loans with higher risk are placed on a watch list and are closely monitored for collateral deficiency or other credit events that may lead to a potential loss of principal or interest. The Company defines delinquent mortgage loans consistent with industry practice as 60 days past due.
Loan - Dutch State Obligation: The reported value of The State of the Netherlands (the “Dutch State”) loan obligation is based on the outstanding loan balance plus any unamortized premium.
As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the fair value of loaned securities was $515.8 and $651.7, respectively, and is included in Securities pledged on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Collateral received is included in Short-term investments under securities loan agreement, including collateral delivered. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, liabilities to return collateral of $524.8 and $675.5, respectively, are included in Payables under securities loan agreement, including collateral held, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The Company periodically evaluates its available-for-sale general account investments to determine whether there has been an other-than-temporary decline in fair value below the amortized cost basis. Factors considered in this analysis include, but are not limited to, the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than amortized cost, the issuer’s financial condition and near-term prospects, future economic conditions and market forecasts, interest rate changes, and changes in ratings of the security. An extended and severe unrealized loss position on a fixed maturity may not have any impact on: (a) the ability of the issuer to service all scheduled interest and principal payments, and (b) the evaluation of recoverability of all contractual cash flows or the ability to recover an amount at least equal to its amortized cost based on the present value of the expected future cash flows to be collected. In contrast, for certain equity securities, the
Additional considerations are made when assessing the unique features that apply to certain structured securities such as RMBS, CMBS, and ABS. These additional factors for structured securities include, but are not limited to: the quality of underlying collateral; expected prepayment speeds; current and forecasted loss severity; and the payment priority within the tranche structure of the security.
In periods subsequent to the recognition of the credit related impairment components of OTTI on a fixed maturity through Net realized capital gains (losses) on the Consolidated Statements of Operations, the Company accounts for the impaired security as if it had been purchased on the measurement date of the impairment. Accordingly, the discount (or reduced premium) based on the new cost basis is accreted into net investment income over the remaining term of the fixed maturity in a prospective manner based on the amount and timing of estimated future cash flows.
To qualify for hedge accounting, at the inception of the hedging relationship, the Company formally documents its risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedging transaction, as well as its designation of the hedge as either (i) a hedge of the exposure to changes in the estimated fair value of a recognized asset or liability (“fair value hedge”); or (ii) a hedge of a forecasted transaction or of the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized asset or liability (“cash flow hedge”). In this documentation, the Company sets forth how the hedging instrument is expected to hedge the designated risks related to the hedged item and sets forth the method that will be used to retrospectively and prospectively assess the hedging instrument’s effectiveness and the method which will be used to measure ineffectiveness. A derivative designated as a hedging instrument must be assessed as being highly effective in offsetting the designated risk of the hedged item. Hedge effectiveness is formally assessed at inception and periodically throughout the life of the designated hedging relationship.
Cash Flow Hedge Relationship: For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a cash flow hedge (e.g., hedging the exposure to the variability in expected future cash flows that is attributable to interest rate risk), the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is reported as a component of AOCI and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction impacts earnings in the same line item associated with the forecasted transaction. The ineffective portion of the derivative’s change in value,
When hedge accounting is discontinued because it is determined that the derivative is no longer expected to be highly effective in offsetting changes in the estimated fair value or cash flows of a hedged item, the derivative continues to be carried in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at its estimated fair value, with subsequent changes in estimated fair value recognized immediately in Other net realized capital gains (losses). The carrying value of the hedged recognized asset or liability under a fair value hedge is no longer adjusted for changes in its estimated fair value due to the hedged risk, and the cumulative adjustment to its carrying value is amortized into income over the remaining life of the hedged item. Provided the hedged forecasted transaction is still probable of occurrence, the changes in estimated fair value of derivatives recorded in Other comprehensive income (loss) related to discontinued cash flow hedges are released into the Consolidated Statements of Operations when the Company’s earnings are affected by the variability in cash flows of the hedged item.
When hedge accounting is discontinued because it is no longer probable that the forecasted transactions will occur on the anticipated date or within two months of that date, the derivative continues to be carried in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at its estimated fair value, with changes in estimated fair value recognized currently in Other net realized capital gains (losses). Derivative gains and losses recorded in Other comprehensive income (loss) pursuant to the discontinued cash flow hedge of a forecasted transaction that is no longer probable are recognized immediately in Other net realized capital gains (losses).
If the Company’s current debt and claims paying ratings were downgraded in the future, the terms in the Company’s derivative agreements may be triggered, which could negatively impact overall liquidity. For the majority of the Company’s counterparties, there is a termination event should the Company’s long-term debt ratings drop below BBB+/Baa1.
The Company also has investments in certain fixed maturities, and has issued certain annuity products, that contain embedded derivatives whose fair value is at least partially determined by levels of or changes in domestic and/or foreign interest rates (short-term or long-term), exchange rates, prepayment rates, equity markets, or credit ratings/spreads. Embedded derivatives within fixed maturities are included in Derivatives as assets or liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, and changes in fair value are recorded in Net realized capital gains (losses) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Embedded derivatives within annuity products are included in Future policy benefits on
DAC represents policy acquisition costs that have been capitalized and are subject to amortization and interest. Such costs consist principally of certain commissions, underwriting, contract issuance, and certain agency expenses, related to the production of new and renewal business. VOBA represents the outstanding value of in force business acquired and is subject to amortization and interest. The value is based on the present value of estimated net cash flows embedded in the insurance contracts at the time of the acquisition and increased for subsequent deferrable expenses on purchased policies.
actual historical gross profits are reflected and estimated gross profits, and related assumptions, are evaluated for continued reasonableness. Adjustments to estimated gross profits require that amortization rates be revised retroactively to the date of the contract issuance (“unlocking”).
Contract owners may periodically exchange one contract for another, or make modifications to an existing contract. These transactions are identified as internal replacements. Internal replacements that are determined to result in substantially unchanged contracts are accounted for as continuations of the replaced contracts. Any costs associated with the issuance of the new contracts are considered maintenance costs and expensed as incurred. Unamortized DAC and VOBA related to the replaced contracts continue to be deferred and amortized in connection with the new contracts. Internal
replacements that are determined to result in contracts that are substantially changed are accounted for as extinguishments of the replaced contracts, and any unamortized DAC and VOBA related to the replaced contracts are written off to Net amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
The Company establishes and carries actuarially-determined reserves that are calculated to meet its future obligations under its variable annuity and fixed annuity products. The principal assumptions used to establish liabilities for future policy benefits are based on Company experience and periodically reviewed against industry standards. These assumptions include mortality, morbidity, policy lapse, renewal, retirement, investment returns, inflation, and expenses. Changes in, or deviations from, the assumptions used can significantly affect the Company’s reserve levels and related future operations.
Although assumptions are “locked-in” upon the issuance of immediate annuities with life contingent payout benefits, significant changes in experience or assumptions may require the Company to provide for expected future losses on a product by establishing premium deficiency reserves. Premium deficiency reserves are determined based on best estimate assumptions that exist at the time the premium deficiency reserve is established and do not include a margin for adverse deviations. Reserves are recorded in Future policy benefits on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Reserves for guaranteed minimum death benefits (“GMDB”) on certain variable annuities are determined by estimating the value of expected benefits in excess of the projected account balance and recognizing the excess ratably over the accumulation period based on total expected assessments. Expected experience is based on a range of scenarios. Assumptions used, such as near-term and long-term equity market return, lapse rate, and mortality, are consistent with assumptions used in estimating gross profits for purposes of amortizing DAC, and, thus, are subject to the same variability and risk. The assumptions of investment performance and volatility are consistent with the historical experience of the appropriate underlying equity index, such as the Standard & Poor’s (“S&P”) 500 Index. The Company periodically evaluates estimates used and adjusts the additional liability balance, with a related charge or credit to benefit expense, if actual experience or other evidence suggests that earlier assumptions should be revised.
See the Additional Insurance Benefits and Minimum Guarantees note to these Consolidated Financial Statements for more information.
§ All investment performance, net of contract fees and assessments, is passed through to the contract holder.
The Company engages in dollar repurchase agreements with mortgage-backed securities (“dollar rolls”) and repurchase agreements with other collateral types to increase its return on investments and improve liquidity. Such arrangements meet the requirements to be accounted for as financing arrangements. The Company enters into dollar roll transactions by selling existing mortgage-backed securities and concurrently entering into an agreement to repurchase similar securities within a short time frame at a lower price. Under repurchase agreements, the Company borrows cash from a counterparty at an agreed upon interest rate for an agreed upon time frame and pledges collateral in the form of securities. At the end of the agreement, the counterparty returns the collateral to the Company, and the Company, in turn, repays the loan amount along with the additional
agreed upon interest. Company policy requires that at all times during the term of the dollar roll and repurchase agreements that cash or other collateral types obtained is sufficient to allow the Company to fund substantially all of the cost of purchasing replacement assets. Cash received is invested in short-term investments, with the offsetting obligation to repay the loan included as a liability on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The Company also enters into reverse repurchase agreements. These transactions involve a purchase of securities and an agreement to sell substantially the same securities as those purchased. Company policy requires that, at all times during the term of the reverse repurchase agreements, cash or other collateral types provided is sufficient to allow the counterparty to fund substantially all of the cost of purchasing replacement assets. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company did not have any securities pledged under reverse repurchase agreements.
For most annuity contracts, charges assessed against contract owner funds for the cost of insurance, surrenders, expenses, and other fees are recorded as revenue as charges are assessed. Other amounts received for these contracts are reflected as deposits and are not recorded as premiums or revenue. When annuity payments with life contingencies begin under contracts that were initially investment contracts, the accumulated balance in the account is treated as a single premium for the purchase of an annuity and reflected in both
Premiums and Interest credited and other benefits to contract owners in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
The results of the Company’s operations are included in the consolidated tax return of ING AIH. Generally, the Company’s consolidated financial statements recognize the current and deferred income tax consequences that result from the Company’s activities during the current and preceding periods pursuant to the provisions of Accounting Standards Codification topic 740, Income Taxes (ASC 740) as if the Company were a separate taxpayer rather than a member of ING AIH’s consolidated income tax return group with the exception of any net operating loss carryforwards and capital loss carryforwards, which are recorded pursuant to the tax sharing agreement. The Company’s tax sharing agreement with ING AIH states that for each taxable year during which the Company is included in a consolidated federal income tax return with ING AIH, ING AIH will pay to the Company an amount equal to the tax benefit of the Company’s net operating loss carryforwards and capital loss carryforwards generated in such year, without regard to whether such net operating loss carryforwards and capital loss carryforwards are actually utilized in the reduction of the consolidated federal income tax liability for any consolidated taxable year.
The Company evaluates and tests the recoverability of its deferred tax assets. Deferred tax assets represent the tax benefit of future deductible temporary differences and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance if, based on the weight of evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion, or all, of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Considerable judgment and the use of estimates are required in determining whether a valuation allowance is necessary, and if so, the amount of such valuation allowance. In evaluating the need for a valuation allowance, the Company considers many factors, including:
The Company determines whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained under examination by the appropriate taxing authority before any part of the benefit can be recognized in the financial statements. Tax positions that do not meet the more likely than not standard are not recognized. Tax positions that meet this standard are recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements. The Company measures the tax position as the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate resolution with the tax authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information.
The Company utilizes reinsurance agreements to reduce its exposure to losses from GMDBs in its annuity insurance business. Such reinsurance permits recovery of a portion of losses from reinsurers, although it does not discharge the primary liability of the Company as the direct insurer of the risks reinsured.
Accounting for reinsurance requires extensive use of assumptions and estimates, particularly related to the future performance of the underlying business and the potential impact of counterparty credit risks. The Company periodically reviews actual and
anticipated experience compared to the assumptions used to establish assets and liabilities relating to ceded and assumed reinsurance. The Company also evaluates the financial strength of potential reinsurers and continually monitors the financial condition of reinsurers. Only those reinsurance recoverable balances deemed probable of recovery are recognized as assets on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets.
In July 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-20, “Receivables (ASC Topic 310): Disclosures about the Credit Quality of Financing Receivables and the Allowance for Credit Losses” (“ASU 2010-20”), which requires certain existing disclosures to be disaggregated by class of financing receivable, including the rollforward of the allowance for credit losses, with the ending balance further disaggregated on the basis of impairment method. For each disaggregated ending balance, an entity also is required to disclose the related recorded investment in financing receivables, the nonaccrual status of financing receivables, and impaired financing receivables.
The provisions of ASU 2010-20 were adopted by the Company on December 31, 2010, and are included in the Financial Instruments note to these Consolidated Financial Statements, except for the disclosures about troubled debt restructurings included in ASU 2011-02, which was adopted by the Company on July 1, 2011 (see above). The disclosures that include information for activity that occurs during a reporting period were adopted by the Company on January 1, 2011 and are included in the Financial Instruments note to these Consolidated Financial Statements. As this pronouncement only pertains to additional disclosure, the adoption had no effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.
The provisions of ASU 2010-11 were adopted by the Company on July 1, 2010. The Company determined, however, that there was no effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows upon adoption, as the guidance is consistent with that previously applied.
Removes the quantitative-based assessment for consolidation of VIEs and, instead, requires a qualitative assessment of whether an entity has the power to direct the VIE’s activities, and whether the entity has the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could be significant to the VIE;
The provisions of ASU 2009-17 and ASU 2010-10 were adopted on January 1, 2010. The Company determined, however, that there was no effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows upon adoption, as the consolidation conclusions were consistent with those under previous U.S. GAAP. The disclosure provisions required by ASU 2009-17 are presented in the Financial Instruments note to these Consolidated Financial Statements.
Total OTTIs to be presented in the Consolidated Statements of Operations with an offset recognized in AOCI for the noncredit related impairments;
These provisions, as included in ASC Topic 320, were adopted by the Company on April 1, 2009. As a result of implementation, the Company recognized a cumulative effect of change in accounting principle of $151.7 after considering the effects of DAC and income taxes of $(134.0) and $46.9, respectively, as an increase to April 1, 2009 Retained earnings (deficit) with a corresponding decrease to AOCI, with no overall change to shareholder’s equity. See the Investments note to these Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on the Company’s OTTIs, including additional required disclosures.
These provisions, as included in ASC Topic 815, were adopted by the Company on January 1, 2009, and are included in the “Derivative Financial Instruments” section above and the Fair Value Measurements note to these Consolidated Financial Statements. As the pronouncement only pertains to additional disclosure, the adoption had no effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.
The provisions of ASU 2009-16 were adopted on January 1, 2010. The Company determined, however, that there was no effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows upon adoption, as the Company did not have any QSPEs under previous U.S. GAAP, and the requirements for sale accounting treatment are consistent with those previously applied by the Company.
Purchases, sales, issuances, and settlement, in the Level 3 fair value measurements reconciliation on a gross basis;
The provisions of ASU 2010-06 were adopted by the Company on January 1, 2010, except for the disclosures related to the Level 3 reconciliation, which were adopted by the Company on January 1, 2011. The disclosures required by ASU 2010-06 are included in the Financial Instruments note to these Consolidated Financial Statements. As the pronouncement only pertains to additional disclosure, the adoption had no effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.
Value per Share (or Its Equivalent)” (“ASU 2009-12”), which allows the use of net asset value to estimate the fair value of certain alternative investments, such as interests in hedge funds, private equity funds, real estate funds, venture capital funds, offshore fund vehicles, and funds of funds. In addition, ASU 2009-12 requires disclosures about the attributes of such investments.
The provisions of ASU 2009-12 were adopted by the Company on December 31, 2009. The Company determined, however, that there was no effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows upon adoption, as its guidance is consistent with that previously applied by the Company. The disclosure provisions required by ASU 2009-12 are presented in the Investments note to these Consolidated Financial Statements.
These provisions, as included in ASC Topic 825, were adopted by the Company on April 1, 2009, and are presented in the Fair Value Measurements note to these Consolidated Financial Statements. The adoption had no effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows, as the pronouncement only pertains to additional disclosure.
In June 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-05, “Comprehensive Income (ASC Topic 220): Presentation of Comprehensive Income” (“ASU 2011-05”), which states that an entity has the option to present total comprehensive income and the components of net income and other comprehensive income either in a single, continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate, consecutive statements.
Statement of Comprehensive Income, with corresponding revisions to the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholder’s Equity, is included in the Consolidated Financial Statements. In addition, the required disclosures are included in the AOCI note to these Consolidated Financial Statements.
In April 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-15, “Financial Services - Insurance ASC Topic 944): How Investments Held through Separate Accounts Affect an Insurer’s Consolidation Analysis of Those Investments” (“ASU 2010-15”), which clarifies that an insurance entity generally should not consider any separate account interests in an investment held for the benefit of policyholders to be the insurer’s interests, and should not combine those separate account interests with its general account interest in the same investment when assessing the investment for consolidation.
The circumstances under which an entity should recognize such events or transactions in its financial statements; and
Disclosures regarding such events or transactions and the date through which an entity has evaluated subsequent events.
The provisions of ASU 2011-11 are effective, retrospectively, for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013, and interim periods within those annual reporting periods. The Company is currently in the process of determining the disclosure impact of adoption of the provisions of ASU 2011-11.
The concepts of highest and best use and valuation premise are relevant only when measuring the fair value of nonfinancial assets;
(2) Represents other-than-temporary impairments reported as a component of Other comprehensive income (“noncredit impairments”).
The amortized cost and fair value of total fixed maturities, including securities pledged, as of December 31, 2011, are shown below by contractual maturity. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities as securities may be restructured, called, or prepaid. MBS and other ABS are shown separately because they are not due at a single maturity date.
The Company did not have any investments in a single issuer, other than obligations of the U.S. government and government agencies and the State of the Netherlands (the “Dutch State”) loan obligation, with a carrying value in excess of 10% of the Company’s Shareholder’s equity at December 31, 2011 and 2010.
The Company invests in various categories of CMOs, including CMOs that are not agency-backed, that are subject to different degrees of risk from changes in interest rates and defaults. The principal risks inherent in holding CMOs are prepayment and extension risks related to dramatic decreases and increases in interest rates resulting in the prepayment of principal from the underlying mortgages, either earlier or later than originally anticipated. At December 31, 2011 and 2010, approximately 42.5% and 36.5%, respectively, of the Company’s CMO holdings were invested in those types of CMOs, such as interest-only or principal only strips, which are subject to more prepayment and extension risk than traditional CMOs.
On January 26, 2009, ING announced it reached an agreement, for itself and on behalf of certain ING affiliates including the Company, with the Dutch State on an Illiquid Assets Back-Up Facility covering 80% of ING’s Alt-A RMBS. Refer to the Related Party
Each of the RMBS, CMBS, and ABS entities described above are thinly capitalized by design, and considered VIEs under ASC 810-10-25 as amended by ASU 2009-17. As discussed above, the Company’s involvement with these entities is limited to that of a passive investor. The Company has no unilateral right to appoint or remove the servicer, special servicer, or investment manager, which are generally viewed to have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the securitization entities’ economic performance, in any of these entities, nor does the Company function in any of these roles. The Company through its investments or other arrangements does not have the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the entity. Therefore, the Company is not the primary beneficiary and will not consolidate any of the RMBS, CMBS, and ABS entities in which it holds investments. These investments are accounted for as investments as described in
the Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies note to these Consolidated Financial Statements.
Unrealized capital losses (including noncredit impairments) in fixed maturities, including securities pledged to creditors, for IG and BIG securities by duration, based on NAIC designations, were as follows as of December 31, 2011 and 2010.
The above tables include $17.6, $48.4, and $112.2 for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively, in other-than-temporary write-downs related to credit impairments, which are recognized in earnings. The remaining $89.7, $98.7, and $282.3, in write-downs for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively, are related to intent impairments.
basis. Excluding separate accounts assets for which the policyholder bears the risk, the Level 3 net assets and liabilities in
As described below, certain assets and liabilities are measured at estimated fair value on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. In addition, further disclosure of estimated fair values is included in this Financial Instruments note. The Company defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The exit price and the transaction (or entry) price will be the same at initial recognition in many circumstances. However, in certain cases, the transaction price may not represent fair value. The fair value of a liability is based on the amount that would be paid to transfer a liability to a third-party with an equal credit standing. Fair value is required to be a market-based measurement which is determined based on a hypothetical transaction at the measurement date, from a market participant’s perspective. The Company considers three broad valuation techniques when a quoted price is unavailable: (i) the market approach, (ii) the income approach and (iii) the cost approach. The Company determines the most appropriate valuation technique to use, given the instrument being measured and the availability of sufficient inputs. The Company prioritizes the inputs to fair valuation techniques and allows for the use of unobservable inputs to the extent that observable inputs are not available.
All valuation methods and assumptions are validated at least quarterly to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the fair values. There were no material changes to the valuation methods or assumptions used to determine fair values during 2011 and 2010, except for the Company’s use of commercial pricing services to value certain CMOs
which commenced in the first quarter of 2010. Certain CMOs were previously valued using an average of broker quotes when more than one broker quote is provided.
Broker quotes and prices obtained from pricing services are reviewed and validated monthly through an internal valuation committee price variance review, comparisons to internal pricing models, back testing to recent trades, or monitoring of trading volumes. At December 31, 2011, $194.9 and $14.7 billion of a total of $19.2 billion in fixed maturities were valued using unadjusted broker quotes and unadjusted prices obtained from pricing services, respectively, and verified through the review process. The remaining balance in fixed maturities consisted primarily of privately placed bonds valued using a matrix-based pricing model.
Cash and cash equivalents, Short-term investments, and Short-term investments under securities loan agreement: The fair values for cash equivalents and certain short-term investments are determined based on quoted market prices. These assets are classified as Level 1. Other short-term investments are valued and classified in the fair value hierarchy consistent with the policies described herein, depending on investment type.
Derivatives: The carrying amounts for these financial instruments, which can be assets or liabilities, reflect the fair value of the assets and liabilities. Derivatives are carried at fair value (on the Consolidated Balance Sheets), which is determined using the Company’s derivative accounting system in conjunction with observable key financial data from third party sources, such as yield curves, exchange rates, Standard & Poor’s 500 Index prices, and London Interbank Offered Rates, or through values established by third party brokers. Counterparty credit risk is considered and incorporated in the Company’s valuation process through counterparty credit rating requirements and monitoring of overall exposure. It is the Company’s policy to transact only with investment grade counterparties with a credit rating of A- or better. The Company’s own credit risk is also considered and incorporated in the Company’s valuation process. Valuations for the Company’s futures and interest rate forward contracts are based on unadjusted quoted prices from an active exchange and, therefore, are classified as Level 1. The Company also has certain credit default swaps that are priced using models that primarily use market observable inputs, but contain inputs that are not observable to market
participants, which have been classified as Level 3. All other derivative instruments are valued based on market observable inputs and are classified as Level 2.
Product guarantees: The Company records product guarantees for annuity contracts containing guaranteed credited rates in accordance with ASC 815. The guarantee is treated as an embedded derivative or a stand-alone derivative (depending on the underlying product) and is required to be reported at fair value. The fair value of the obligation is calculated based on the income approach as described in ASC 820. The income associated with the contracts is projected using actuarial and capital market assumptions, including benefits and related contract charges, over the anticipated life of the related contracts. The cash flow estimates are produced by using stochastic techniques under a variety of risk neutral scenarios and other best estimate assumptions. These derivatives are classified as Level 3 liabilities. Explicit risk margins in the actuarial assumptions underlying valuations are included, as well as an explicit recognition of all nonperformance risks as required by U.S. GAAP. Nonperformance risk for product guarantees contains adjustments to the fair values of these contract liabilities related to the current credit standing of ING and the Company based on credit default swaps with similar term to maturity and priority of payment. The ING credit default spread is applied to the discount factors for product guarantees in the Company’s valuation model in order to incorporate credit risk into the fair values of these product guarantees.
(2) The Company’s policy is to recognize transfers in and transfers out as of the beginning of the reporting period.
(3) For financial instruments still held as of December 31. Amounts are included in Net investment income and Net realized capital losses on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
The remaining transfers in and out of Level 3 for fixed maturities, equity securities and separate accounts during the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 are due to the variation in inputs relied upon for valuation each quarter. Securities that are primarily valued using independent broker quotes when prices are not available from one of the commercial pricing services are reflected as transfers into Level 3, as these securities are generally less liquid with very limited trading activity or where less transparency exists corroborating the inputs to the valuation methodologies. When securities are valued using more widely available information, the securities are transferred out of Level 3 and into Level 1 or 2, as appropriate.
The carrying values and estimated fair values of certain of the Company’s financial instruments were as follows at December 31, 2011 and 2010.
The following disclosures are made in accordance with the requirements of ASC Topic 825 which requires disclosure of fair value information about financial instruments, whether or not recognized in the balance sheet, for which it is practicable to estimate that value. In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based on estimates using present value or other valuation techniques. Those techniques are significantly affected by the assumptions used, including the discount rate and estimates of future cash flows. In that regard, the derived fair value estimates, in many cases, could not be realized in immediate settlement of the instrument.
The Company’s mortgage loans on real estate are summarized as follows at December 31, 2011 and 2010.
The changes in the collective valuation allowance were as follows for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010.
The Company believes it has a high quality mortgage loan portfolio with substantially all of commercial mortgages classified as performing. The Company defines delinquent commercial mortgage loans consistent with industry practice as 60 days past due. There were no impairments taken on the mortgage loan portfolio for the year ended December 31, 2011. As of December 31, 2010 and 2009, there was a $1.0 and $10.3 impairment taken on the mortgage loan portfolio, respectively. As of December 31, 2011, all mortgage loans in the Company’s portfolio were current with respect to principal and interest. The Company’s policy is to recognize interest income until a loan becomes 90 days delinquent or foreclosure proceedings are commenced, at which point interest accrual is discontinued. Interest accrual is not resumed until past due payments are brought current.
All commercial mortgages are evaluated for the purpose of quantifying the level of risk. Those loans with higher risk are placed on a watch list and are closely monitored for collateral deficiency or other credit events that may lead to a potential loss of principal or interest. If the value of any mortgage loan is determined to be impaired (i.e., when it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect on all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement), the carrying value of the mortgage loan is reduced to either the present value of expected cash flows from the loan, discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, or fair value of the collateral.
The carrying values and unpaid principal balances (prior to any charge-off) of impaired commercial mortgage loans were as follows for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010.
For the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, there were no Restructured loans, Interest income recognized on restructured loans, Loans 90 days or more past due, interest no longer accruing, at amortized cost, Loans in foreclosure, at amortized cost, and Unpaid principal balance of loans 90 days or more past due, interest no longer accruing.
During the twelve months ended December 31, 2011, the Company had no loans modified in a troubled debt restructuring with a subsequent payment default.
See the Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies note to these Consolidated Financial Statements for disclosure regarding the Company’s purpose for entering into derivatives and the policies on valuation and classification of derivatives. The Company enters into the following derivatives:
Embedded derivatives: The Company also has issued certain retail annuity products, that contain embedded derivatives whose market value is at least partially determined by, among other things, levels of or changes in domestic and/or foreign interest rates (short-term or long-term), exchange rates, prepayment rates, equity rates, or credit ratings/spreads.
Actual amortization incurred during these years may vary as assumptions are modified to incorporate actual results.
During the year ended December 31, 2011, ILIAC did not pay any dividends on its common stock to its Parent. During the year ended December 31, 2010, ILIAC paid a $203.0 dividend on its common stock to its Parent. During the year ended December 31, 2009, ILIAC did not pay any dividends on its common stock to its Parent. On December 22, 2011 and October 30, 2010, IFA paid a $65.0 and $60.0, respectively, dividend to ILIAC, its parent, which was eliminated in consolidation.
During the year ended December 31, 2011, ILIAC received capital contributions of $201.0 in the aggregate from its Parent. During the year ended December 31, 2010, ILIAC did not receive any capital contributions from is Parent. On November 12, 2008, ING issued to the Dutch State non-voting Tier 1 securities for a total consideration of EUR 10 billion. On February 24, 2009, $2.2 billion was contributed to direct and indirect insurance company subsidiaries of ING AIH, of which $365.0 was contributed to the Company. The contribution was comprised of the proceeds from the investment by the Dutch State and the redistribution of currently existing capital within ING.
The State of Connecticut Insurance Department (the “Department”) recognizes as net income and capital and surplus those amounts determined in conformity with statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Department, which differ in certain respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. Statutory net income (loss) was $194.4, $66.0, and $271.6, for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively. Statutory capital and surplus was $1.9 billion and $1.7 billion as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. As specifically prescribed by statutory accounting practices, statutory surplus as of December 31, 2010 included the impact of the $150.0 capital contribution received by ILIAC from its Parent on February 18, 2011.
Effective for December 31, 2009, the Company adopted Actuarial Guideline 43, Variable Annuity Commissioners Annuity Reserve Valuation Method (“AG43”). The NAIC replaced the existing formula-based reserve standard methodology (AG34, Death Benefits and AG39, Living Benefits) with a stochastic principles-based methodology
The aggregate fair value of equity securities, including mutual funds, supporting separate accounts with additional insurance benefits and minimum investment return guarantees as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, was $7.9 billion and $6.1 billion, respectively.
Income tax expense (benefit) consisted of the following for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009.
Income taxes were different from the amount computed by applying the federal income tax rate to income before income taxes for the following reasons for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009.
The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to Deferred tax assets and Deferred tax liabilities at December 31, 2011 and 2010, are presented below.
Valuation allowances are provided when it is considered more likely than not that deferred tax assets will not be realized. At December 31, 2011, the Company did not have a tax valuation allowance related to realized and unrealized capital losses. At December 31, 2010, the Company had a tax valuation allowance of $109.0 related to realized and unrealized capital losses. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company had full tax valuation allowances of $11.1 related to foreign tax credits, the benefit of which is uncertain. The change in net unrealized capital gains (losses) includes an
The Company had a payable to ING AIH of $1.3 and $49.3 for federal income taxes as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, for federal income taxes under the intercompany tax sharing agreement.
ING North America Insurance Corporation (“ING North America”) sponsors the ING Americas Retirement Plan (the “Retirement Plan”), effective as of December 31, 2001. Substantially all employees of ING North America and its affiliates (excluding certain employees) are eligible to participate, including the Company’s employees other than Company agents. The Retirement Plan was amended and restated effective January 1, 2008. The Retirement Plan was also amended on July 1, 2008, related to the admission of the employees from the acquisition of CitiStreet LLC (“CitiStreet”) by Lion, and ING North America filed a request for a determination letter on the qualified status of the Retirement Plan, but has not yet received a favorable determination letter. Additionally, effective January 1, 2009, the Retirement Plan was amended to provide that anyone hired or rehired by the Company on or after January 1, 2009, would not be eligible to participate in the Retirement Plan.
The Retirement Plan is a tax-qualified defined benefit plan, the benefits of which are guaranteed (within certain specified legal limits) by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (“PBGC”). As of January 1, 2002, each participant in the Retirement Plan earns a benefit under a FAP formula. Subsequent to December 31, 2001, ING North America is responsible for all Retirement Plan liabilities. The costs allocated to the Company for its employees’ participation in the Retirement Plan were $24.6, $27.2, and $22.3 for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively, and are included in Operating expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
ING North America sponsors the ING Americas Savings Plan and ESOP (the “Savings Plan”). Substantially all employees of ING North America and its affiliates (excluding certain employees, including but not limited to Career Agents) are eligible to participate, including the Company’s employees other than Company agents. Career Agents are certain, full-time insurance salespeople who have entered into a career agent agreement with the Company and certain other individuals who meet specified eligibility criteria. The Savings Plan is a tax-qualified defined contribution retirement plan, which includes an employee stock ownership plan (“ESOP”) component. The Savings Plan was amended and restated effective January 1, 2008 and subsequently amended on July 1, 2008, with respect to the admission of employees from the acquisition of CitiStreet by Lion. The Savings Plan was most recently amended effective January 1, 2011 to permit Roth 401(k) contributions to be made to the Plan. ING North America filed a request for a determination letter on the qualified status of the Plan and received a favorable determination letter dated May 19, 2009. Savings Plan benefits are not guaranteed by the PBGC. The Savings Plan allows eligible participants to defer into the Savings Plan a specified percentage of eligible compensation on a pre-tax basis. ING North America matches such pre-tax contributions, up to a maximum of 6.0% of eligible compensation. Matching contributions are subject to a 4-year graded vesting schedule (although certain specified participants are subject to a 5-year graded vesting schedule). All contributions made to the Savings Plan are subject to certain limits imposed by applicable law. The cost allocated to the Company for the Savings Plan were $9.8, $10.7, and $8.9, for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively, and are included in Operating expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Effective December 31, 2011, the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan was amended to coordinate with the amendment of the Retirement Plan from its current final average pay formula to a cash balance formula.
The Company, in conjunction with ING North America, sponsors the Pension Plan for Certain Producers of ING Life Insurance and Annuity Company (formerly the Pension Plan for Certain Producers of Aetna Life Insurance and Annuity Company) (the “Agents Non-Qualified Plan”). This plan covers certain full-time insurance salespeople who have entered into a career agent agreement with the Company and certain other individuals who meet the eligibility criteria specified in the plan (“Career Agents”). The Agents Non-Qualified Plan was terminated effective January 1, 2002. In connection with the termination, all benefit accruals ceased and all accrued benefits were frozen.
The following table summarizes the benefit obligations, fair value of plan assets, and funded status, for the SERPs and Agents Non-Qualified Plan, for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010.
The weighted-average assumptions used in the measurement of the December 31, 2011 and 2010 benefit obligation for the SERPs and Agents Non-Qualified Plan, were as follows:
In 2012, the employer is expected to contribute $8.8 to the SERPs and Agents Non-Qualified Plan. Future expected benefit payments related to the SERPs, and Agents Non-Qualified Plan, for the years ended December 31, 2012 through 2016, and thereafter through 2021, are estimated to be $8.8, $7.9, $6.9, $5.7, $5.3, and $26.5, respectively.
Through 2010, ING sponsored the ING Group Long-Term Equity Ownership Plan (“leo”), which provides employees of the Company who are selected by the ING Executive Board with options and/or performance shares. The terms applicable to an award under leo are set out in an award agreement, which is signed by the participant when he or she accepts the award.
death or disability, or termination due to redundancy or business divestiture will occur, similar to the vesting treatment in the leo plan.
The Company was allocated from ING compensation expense for the leo options, leo performance shares and LSPP of $5.1, $3.4, and $3.7 for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively, primarily related to leo.
The Company recognized tax benefits of $0.8, $0.7, and $0.1 in 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively, and $0.3 , $0.1, and $0.1, respectively, are related to leo.
§ The Producers’ Deferred Compensation Plan, which allows participants to defer up to a specified portion of their eligible compensation on a pre-tax basis.
§ The ING Americas Deferred Compensation Savings Plan, which is a deferred compensation plan that includes a 401(k) excess component.
§ Service agreement with ING Institutional Plan Services, LLC (“IIPS”) effective November 30, 2008 pursuant to which IIPS provides recordkeeper services to certain benefit plan clients of ILIAC. For the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, ILIAC’s net earnings related to the agreement were in the amount of $8.4, $2.2, and $7.8, respectively.
§ Intercompany agreements with each of ING USA, IIPS, ReliaStar Life Insurance Company and Security Life of Denver Insurance Company (individually, the “Contracting Party”) pursuant to which DSL agreed, effective January 1, 2010, to pay the Contracting Party, on a monthly basis, a portion of the revenues DSL earns as investment adviser to certain U.S. registered investment companies that are either investment option under certain variable insurance products of the Contracting Party or are purchased for certain customers of the Contacting Party. For the year ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, expenses were incurred under these intercompany agreements in the aggregate amount of $207.9 and $204.5, respectively.
§ Prior to January 1, 2010, DSL was a party to a service agreement with ING USA pursuant to which ING USA provided DSL with managerial and supervisory services in exchange for a fee. This service agreement was terminated as of January 1, 2010. For the year ended December 31, 2009, expenses were incurred under this service agreement in the amount of $123.2.
Effective January 1, 2007, ILIAC’s investment advisory agreement to serve as investment advisor to certain variable funds offered in Company products (collectively, the “Company Funds”), was assigned to DSL. ILIAC is also compensated by the separate accounts for bearing mortality and expense risks pertaining to variable life and annuity contracts. Under the insurance and annuity contracts, the separate accounts pay ILIAC daily fees that, on an annual basis are, depending on the product, up to 3.4% of their
average daily net assets. The total amount of compensation and fees received by the Company from the Company Funds and separate accounts totaled $103.2, $246.1, and $212.3, (excludes fees paid to ING Investment Management Co.) in 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively.
In the first quarter of 2009, ING reached an agreement, for itself and on behalf of certain ING affiliates including the Company, with the Dutch State on the Illiquid Assets Back-Up Facility (the “Back-Up Facility”) covering 80% of ING’s Alt-A RMBS. Under the terms of the Back-Up Facility, a full credit risk transfer to the Dutch State was realized on 80% of ING’s Alt-A RMBS owned by ING Bank, FSB and ING affiliates within ING U.S. insurance with a book value of $36.0 billion, including book value of $802.5 of the Alt-A RMBS portfolio owned by the Company (with respect to the Company’s portfolio, the “Designated Securities Portfolio”) (the “ING-Dutch State Transaction”). As a result of the risk transfer, the Dutch State participates in 80% of any results of the ING Alt-A RMBS portfolio. The risk transfer to the Dutch State took place at a discount of approximately 10% of par value. In addition, under the Back-Up Facility, other fees were paid both by the Company and the Dutch State. Each ING company participating in the ING-Dutch State Transaction, including the Company remains the legal owner of 100% of its Alt-A RMBS portfolio and will remain exposed to 20% of any results on the portfolio. The ING-Dutch State Transaction closed on March 31, 2009, with the affiliate participation conveyance and risk transfer to the Dutch State described in the succeeding paragraph taking effect as of January 26, 2009.
made with respect to the 80% participation interest in the Company’s Designated Securities Portfolio. The Dutch State payment obligation to the Company under the Company Back-Up Facility is accounted for as a loan receivable for U.S. GAAP and is reported in Loan - Dutch State obligation on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
In a second transaction, known as the Step 1 Cash Transfer, a portion of the Company’s Alt-A RMBS which had a book value of $4.2 was sold for cash to an affiliate, Lion II Custom Investments LLC (“Lion II”). Immediately thereafter, Lion II sold to ING Direct Bancorp the purchased securities (the “Step 2 Cash Transfer”). Contemporaneous with the Step 2 Cash Transfer, ING Direct Bancorp included such purchased securities as part of its Alt-A RMBS portfolio sale to the Dutch State. The Step 1 Cash Transfer closed on March 31, 2009, and the Company recognized a gain of $0.3 contemporaneous with the closing of the ING-Dutch State Transaction, which was reported in Net realized capital losses on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
During the second quarter of 2009, ING’s U.S. life insurance companies, including the Company, sold a portion of its property and equipment in a sale/leaseback transaction to an affiliate, ING North America. The fixed assets involved in the sale were capitalized assets generally depreciated over the expected useful lives and software in development. Since the assets were being depreciated using expected useful lives, the current net book value reasonably approximated the current fair value of the assets being transferred. The fixed assets sold to ING North America by the Company totaled $17.4.
At both December 31, 2011 and 2010, the amount of the loan outstanding was $4.9, which was reflected in Long-term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Also see Financing Agreements in the Related Party Transactions note to these Consolidated Financial Statements.
At December 31, 2011, the Company had reinsurance treaties with 6 unaffiliated reinsurers covering a significant portion of the mortality risks and guaranteed death benefits under its variable contracts. At December 31, 2011, the Company did not have any outstanding cessions under any reinsurance treaties with affiliated reinsurers. The Company remains liable to the extent its reinsurers do not meet their obligations under the reinsurance agreements.
All of the Company’s expenses for leased and subleased office properties are paid for by an affiliate and allocated back to the Company, as all remaining operating leases were executed by ING North America Insurance Corporation as of December 31, 2008, which resulted in the Company no longer being party to any operating leases. For the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, rent expense for leases was $5.0, $4.0, and $5.1, respectively.
plan participants. Some of these investigations, examinations, audits and inquiries could result in regulatory action against the Company. The potential outcome of the investigations, examinations, audits, inquiries and any such regulatory action is difficult to predict but could subject the Company to adverse consequences, including, but not limited to, additional payments to plans or participants, disgorgement, settlement payments, penalties, fines, and other financial liability and changes to the Company’s policies and procedures, the financial impact of which cannot be estimated at this time, but management does not believe will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations. It is the practice of the Company and its affiliates to cooperate fully in these matters.
Shareholder’s equity included the following components of AOCI as of December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009.
Changes in AOCI, net of DAC, VOBA, and tax, related to changes in unrealized capital gains (losses) on securities, including securities pledged, were as follows for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009.
Changes in unrealized capital gains on securities, including securities pledged and noncredit impairments, as recognized in AOCI, reported net of DAC, VOBA, and income taxes, were as follows for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009.
(2) Pretax reclassification adjustments for gains (losses) and other items included in Net income (loss) were $120.0, $42.8, and $23.7, for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively.
The reclassification adjustments for gains (losses) and other items included in Net income (loss) in the above table are generally determined by FIFO methodology.