Table of Contents


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q
 
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended June 30, 20182019
 
OR
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from___to___
Commission file number 0-24000
 ERIE INDEMNITY COMPANY 
 (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) 
 PENNSYLVANIAPennsylvania 25-0466020 
 (State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S.IRS Employer 
 incorporation or organization) Identification No.) 
 100 Erie Insurance Place,Erie,Pennsylvania 16530 
 (Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code) 
 (814) 814870-2000 
 (Registrant’s telephone number, including area code) 
 Not applicable 
 (Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report) 
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Class A common stock,stated value $0.0292 per shareERIENASDAQ Stock Market, LLC
(Title of each class)(Trading Symbol)(Name of each exchange on which registered)
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes [X] No [  ]
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
Yes [X] No [  ]
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company.  See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company," and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer [X]            Accelerated filer [  ]        Non-accelerated filer [  ]
                                    (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company [  ]        Emerging growth company [  ]    
Large accelerated filerAccelerated filerNon-accelerated filer
Smaller reporting companyEmerging growth company
 
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Act. [  ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes [  ] No [X]
 
The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s Class A Common Stock as of the latest practicable date with no par value and a stated value of $0.0292 per share, was 46,189,068 at July 13, 2018.12, 2019.
 
The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s Class B Common Stock as of the latest practicable date with no par value and a stated value of $70 per share, was 2,542 at July 13, 2018.12, 2019.

  
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION


ITEM 1.FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


ERIE INDEMNITY COMPANY
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


Three months ended Six months endedThree months ended Six months ended
June 30, June 30,June 30, June 30,
2018 2017 2018 20172019 2018 2019 2018
Operating revenue     
  
     
  
Management fee revenue - policy issuance and renewal services, net
$454,572
 $441,319
 $860,550
 $833,377
$480,513
 $454,572
 $911,496
 $860,550
Management fee revenue - administrative services, net13,299
 
 26,373
 
14,195
 13,299
 28,146
 26,373
Administrative services reimbursement revenue146,507
 
 292,470
 
146,095
 146,507
 288,575
 292,470
Service agreement revenue7,080
 7,245
 14,225
 14,503
6,907
 7,080
 13,599
 14,225
Total operating revenue621,458
 448,564
 1,193,618
 847,880
647,710
 621,458
 1,241,816
 1,193,618
              
Operating expenses              
Cost of operations - policy issuance and renewal services379,628
 365,116
 728,258
 697,492
405,005
 379,628
 770,509
 728,258
Cost of operations - administrative services146,507
 
 292,470
 
146,095
 146,507
 288,575
 292,470
Total operating expenses526,135
 365,116
 1,020,728
 697,492
551,100
 526,135
 1,059,084
 1,020,728
Operating income95,323
 83,448
 172,890
 150,388
96,610
 95,323
 182,732
 172,890
              
Investment income              
Net investment income7,104
 6,239
 13,924
 12,220
8,030
 7,104
 16,547
 13,924
Net realized investment (losses) gains(32) 124
 (497) 640
Net realized investment gains (losses)1,302
 (32) 3,805
 (497)
Net impairment losses recognized in earnings(646) (61) (646) (182)(84) (646) (162) (646)
Equity in (losses) earnings of limited partnerships(219) 149
 (411) 362
Equity in earnings (losses) of limited partnerships404
 (219) (743) (411)
Total investment income6,207
 6,451
 12,370
 13,040
9,652
 6,207
 19,447
 12,370
              
Interest expense, net602
 257
 1,155
 423
272
 602
 721
 1,155
Other income (expense)58
 (407) 102
 (816)
Other income48
 58
 95
 102
Income before income taxes100,986
 89,235
 184,207
 162,189
106,038
 100,986
 201,553
 184,207
Income tax expense21,280
 30,708
 38,743
 55,786
18,284
 21,280
 38,488
 38,743
Net income$79,706
 $58,527
 $145,464
 $106,403
$87,754
 $79,706
 $163,065
 $145,464
              
              
Net income per share     
  
     
  
Class A common stock – basic$1.71
 $1.26
 $3.12
 $2.28
$1.88
 $1.71
 $3.50
 $3.12
Class A common stock – diluted$1.52
 $1.12
 $2.78
 $2.03
$1.68
 $1.52
 $3.12
 $2.78
Class B common stock – basic$257
 $189
 $469
 $343
$283
 $257
 $525
 $469
Class B common stock – diluted$257
 $188
 $468
 $343
$283
 $257
 $525
 $468
              
Weighted average shares outstanding – Basic     
  
     
  
Class A common stock46,188,705
 46,180,852
 46,188,309
 46,184,666
46,188,994
 46,188,705
 46,188,668
 46,188,309
Class B common stock2,542
 2,542
 2,542
 2,542
2,542
 2,542
 2,542
 2,542
              
Weighted average shares outstanding – Diluted     
  
     
  
Class A common stock52,312,849
 52,299,395
 52,311,741
 52,355,214
52,314,700
 52,312,849
 52,313,371
 52,311,741
Class B common stock2,542
 2,542
 2,542
 2,542
2,542
 2,542
 2,542
 2,542
              
Dividends declared per share     
  
     
  
Class A common stock$0.8400
 $0.7825
 $1.6800
 $1.5650
$0.90
 $0.84
 $1.80
 $1.68
Class B common stock$126.000
 $117.375
 $252.000
 $234.750
$135.00
 $126.00
 $270.00
 $252.00
 
 
See accompanying notes to Financial Statements. See Note 11,12, "Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)", for amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into the Statements of Operations. 

ERIE INDEMNITY COMPANY
STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (UNAUDITED)
(in thousands)


 Three months ended Six months endedThree months ended Six months ended
 June 30, June 30,June 30, June 30,
 2018 2017 2018 20172019 2018 2019 2018
Net income $79,706
 $58,527
 $145,464
 $106,403
$87,754
 $79,706
 $163,065
 $145,464
               
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax      
  
Change in unrealized holding (losses) gains on available-for-sale securities (551) 1,092
 (5,978) 2,613
        
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax     
  
Change in unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities2,579
 (551) 8,057
 (5,978)
Amortization of prior service costs and net actuarial loss on pension and other postretirement plans1,231
 0
 2,463
 0
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax3,810
 (551) 10,520
 (5,978)
Comprehensive income $79,155
 $59,619
 $139,486
 $109,016
$91,564
 $79,155
 $173,585
 $139,486
 
See accompanying notes to Financial Statements. See Note 11,12, "Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)", for amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into the Statements of Operations.

ERIE INDEMNITY COMPANY
STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


 June 30, December 31, June 30, December 31,
 2018 2017 2019 2018
Assets (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)  
Current assets:        
Cash and cash equivalents $198,412
 $215,721
 $338,262
 $266,417
Available-for-sale securities 107,369
 71,190
 61,210
 402,339
Receivables from Erie Insurance Exchange and affiliates 445,211
 418,328
 483,319
 449,873
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 45,426
 34,890
 42,300
 36,892
Federal income taxes recoverable 0
 29,900
 7,791
 8,162
Note receivable from Erie Family Life Insurance Company 25,000
 25,000
Accrued investment income 6,647
 6,853
 4,365
 5,263
Total current assets 828,065
 801,882
 937,247
 1,168,946
        
Available-for-sale securities 598,059
 687,523
 627,898
 346,184
Equity securities 12,488
 
 12,445
 11,853
Limited partnership investments 39,651
 45,122
 30,344
 34,821
Fixed assets, net 94,651
 83,149
 173,055
 130,832
Deferred income taxes, net 31,527
 19,390
 19,090
 24,101
Other assets 47,834
 28,793
 89,568
 61,590
Total assets $1,652,275
 $1,665,859
 $1,889,647
 $1,778,327
        
Liabilities and shareholders' equity        
Current liabilities:        
Commissions payable $253,328
 $228,124
 $267,403
 $241,573
Agent bonuses 56,482
 122,528
 51,357
 103,462
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 97,139
 104,533
 124,794
 111,291
Dividends payable 39,119
 39,116
 41,913
 41,910
Contract liability 33,137
 
 35,374
 33,854
Deferred executive compensation 8,801
 15,605
 12,605
 13,107
Federal income taxes payable 8,933
 0
Current portion of long-term borrowings 925
 0
 1,914
 1,870
Total current liabilities 497,864
 509,906
 535,360
 547,067
        
Defined benefit pension plans 145,667
 207,530
 129,674
 116,866
Employee benefit obligations 194
 423
Long-term borrowings 96,860
 97,860
Contract liability 17,452
 
 18,339
 17,873
Deferred executive compensation 11,688
 14,452
 13,199
 13,075
Long-term borrowings 98,800
 74,728
Other long-term liabilities 422
 1,476
 32,761
 11,914
Total liabilities 772,087
 808,515
 826,193
 804,655
        
Shareholders’ equity        
Class A common stock, stated value $0.0292 per share; 74,996,930 shares authorized; 68,299,200 shares issued; 46,189,068 shares outstanding 1,992
 1,992
 1,992
 1,992
Class B common stock, convertible at a rate of 2,400 Class A shares for one Class B share, stated value $70 per share; 3,070 shares authorized; 2,542 shares issued and outstanding 178
 178
 178
 178
Additional paid-in-capital 16,459
 16,470
 16,483
 16,459
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (162,037) (156,059) (119,764) (130,284)
Retained earnings 2,169,686
 2,140,853
 2,310,655
 2,231,417
Total contributed capital and retained earnings 2,026,278
 2,003,434
 2,209,544
 2,119,762
Treasury stock, at cost; 22,110,132 shares held (1,156,999) (1,155,668) (1,158,300) (1,157,625)
Deferred compensation 10,909
 9,578
 12,210
 11,535
Total shareholders’ equity 880,188
 857,344
 1,063,454
 973,672
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $1,652,275
 $1,665,859
 $1,889,647
 $1,778,327

See accompanying notes to Financial Statements. 

ERIE INDEMNITY COMPANY
STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (UNAUDITED)
Three and six months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
 Class A common stockClass B common stockAdditional paid-in-capitalAccumulated other comprehensive income (loss)Retained earningsTreasury stockDeferred compensationTotal shareholders' equity
Balance, December 31, 2018$1,992
$178
$16,459
$(130,284)$2,231,417
$(1,157,625)$11,535
$973,672
Net income    75,311
  75,311
Other comprehensive income   6,710
   6,710
Dividends declared:        
Class A $0.90 per share    (41,570)  (41,570)
Class B $135.00 per share    (343)  (343)
Net purchase of treasury stock (1)
  24
  0
 24
Deferred compensation     (1,154)1,154
0
Balance, March 31, 2019$1,992
$178
$16,483
$(123,574)$2,264,815
$(1,158,779)$12,689
$1,013,804
Net income    87,754
  87,754
Other comprehensive income   3,810
   3,810
Dividends declared:        
Class A $0.90 per share    (41,570)  (41,570)
Class B $135.00 per share    (344)  (344)
Net purchase of treasury stock (1)
  0
  0
 0
Deferred compensation     (443)443
0
Rabbi trust distribution (2)
     922
(922)0
Balance, June 30, 2019$1,992
$178
$16,483
$(119,764)$2,310,655
$(1,158,300)$12,210
$1,063,454



 Class A common stockClass B common stockAdditional paid-in-capitalAccumulated other comprehensive income (loss)Retained earningsTreasury stockDeferred compensationTotal shareholders' equity
Balance, December 31, 2017$1,992
$178
$16,470
$(156,059)$2,140,853
$(1,155,668)$9,578
$857,344
Cumulative effect adjustments (3)
    (38,392)  (38,392)
Net income    65,758
  65,758
Other comprehensive loss   (5,427)   (5,427)
Dividends declared:        
Class A $0.84 per share    (38,799)  (38,799)
Class B $126.00 per share    (320)  (320)
Net purchase of treasury stock (1)
  (9)  0
 (9)
Deferred compensation     (1,663)1,663
0
Balance, March 31, 2018$1,992
$178
$16,461
$(161,486)$2,129,100
$(1,157,331)$11,241
$840,155
Net income    79,706
  79,706
Other comprehensive loss   (551)   (551)
Dividends declared:        
Class A $0.84 per share    (38,799)  (38,799)
Class B $126.00 per share    (321)  (321)
Net purchase of treasury stock (1)
  (2)  0
 (2)
Deferred compensation     (276)276
0
Rabbi trust distribution (2)
     608
(608)0
Balance, June 30, 2018$1,992
$178
$16,459
$(162,037)$2,169,686
$(1,156,999)$10,909
$880,188

(1) Net purchases of treasury stock in 2019 and 2018 include the repurchase of our Class A common stock in the open market that were subsequently distributed to satisfy stock based compensation awards. See Note 11, "Capital Stock", for additional information on treasury stock transactions.
(2) Distributions of our Class A shares were made from the rabbi trust to retired directors in 2019 and 2018.
(3) Cumulative effect adjustments are primarily related to the implementation of new revenue recognition guidance effective January 1, 2018.

See accompanying notes to Financial Statements.


ERIE INDEMNITY COMPANY
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
(in thousands)


 Six months ended Six months ended
 June 30, June 30,
 2018 2017 2019 2018
Cash flows from operating activities        
Management fee received $859,694
 $806,129
 $902,958
 $859,694
Administrative services reimbursements received 298,056
 
 296,390
 298,056
Service agreement fee received 14,225
 14,503
 13,599
 14,225
Net investment income received 17,279
 15,022
 16,799
 17,279
Limited partnership distributions 3,037
 1,339
 1,292
 3,037
Decrease in reimbursements collected from affiliates 
 (5,633)
Commissions paid to agents (413,880) (386,400) (434,599) (413,880)
Agents bonuses paid (126,594) (115,056) (108,540) (126,594)
Salaries and wages paid (102,601) (95,462) (101,765) (102,601)
Pension contribution and employee benefits paid (99,334) (33,737)
Pension contributions and employee benefits paid (22,085) (99,334)
General operating expenses paid (111,381) (113,122) (117,915) (111,381)
Administrative services expenses paid (295,635) 
 (291,136) (295,635)
Income taxes paid (208) (47,767) (39,863) (208)
Interest paid (1,065) (325) (719) (1,065)
Net cash provided by operating activities 41,593
 39,491
 114,416
 41,593
        
Cash flows from investing activities        
Purchase of investments:        
Available-for-sale securities (114,848) (184,803) (615,384) (114,848)
Equity securities (1,035) 
 0
 (1,035)
Limited partnerships (215) (325) (9) (215)
Other investments (124) 0
Proceeds from investments:        
Available-for-sale securities sales 76,387
 57,851
 430,596
 76,387
Available-for-sale securities maturities/calls 69,674
 100,042
 261,902
 69,674
Equity securities 1,157
 
 0
 1,157
Limited partnerships 2,682
 4,344
 2,450
 2,682
Net purchase of fixed assets (18,121) (9,972)
Net distributions on agent loans (21,334) (3,083)
Net cash used in investing activities (5,653) (35,946)
Purchase of fixed assets (34,260) (18,121)
Distributions on agent loans (6,947) (24,440)
Collections on agent loans 3,991
 3,106
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 42,215
 (5,653)
        
Cash flows from financing activities        
Dividends paid to shareholders (78,235) (72,883) (83,824) (78,235)
Net proceeds from long-term borrowings 24,986
 24,975
Net (payments) proceeds from long-term borrowings (962) 24,986
Net cash used in financing activities (53,249) (47,908) (84,786) (53,249)
        
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (17,309) (44,363)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 71,845
 (17,309)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 215,721
 189,072
 266,417
 215,721
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $198,412
 $144,709
 $338,262
 $198,412
    
Supplemental disclosure of noncash transactions    
Operating lease assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities $33,136
 $
Liability incurred to purchase fixed assets $14,980
 $
  
See accompanying notes to Financial Statements.

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
 
Note 1.  Nature of Operations
 
Erie Indemnity Company ("Indemnity", "we", "us", "our") is a publicly held Pennsylvania business corporation that has since its incorporation in 1925 served as the attorney-in-fact for the subscribers (policyholders) at the Erie Insurance Exchange ("Exchange").  The Exchange, which also commenced business in 1925, is a Pennsylvania-domiciled reciprocal insurer that writes property and casualty insurance. We function solely as the management company and all insurance operations are performed by the Exchange.
 
Our primary function as attorney-in-fact is to perform policy issuance and renewal services on behalf of the subscribers at the Exchange. We also act as attorney-in-fact on behalf of the Exchange with respect to all claims handling and investment management services, as well as the service provider for all claims handling, life insurance, and investment management services for its insurance subsidiaries, collectively referred to as "administrative services". Acting as attorney-in-fact in these two capacities is done in accordance with a subscriber's agreement (a limited power of attorney) executed individually by each subscriber (policyholder), which appoints us as their common attorney-in-fact to transact certain business on their behalf.  Pursuant to the subscriber's agreement for acting as attorney-in-fact in these two capacities, we earn a management fee calculated as a percentage of the direct and affiliated assumed premiums written by the Exchange.


The policy issuance and renewal services we provide to the Exchange are related to the sales, underwriting and issuance of policies. The sales related services we provide include agent compensation and certain sales and advertising support services. Agent compensation includes scheduled commissions to agents based upon premiums written as well as additional commissions and bonuses to agents, which are earned by achieving targeted measures. The underwriting services we provide include underwriting and policy processing. The remaining services we provide include customer service and administrative support. We also provide information technology services that support all the functions listed above. Included in these expenses are allocations of costs for departments that support these policy issuance and renewal functions.


By virtue of its legal structure as a reciprocal insurer, the Exchange does not have any employees or officers. Therefore, it enters into contractual relationships by and through an attorney-in-fact. Indemnity serves as the attorney-in-fact on behalf of the Exchange with respect to its administrative services. The Exchange's insurance subsidiaries also utilize Indemnity for these services in accordance with the service agreements between each of the subsidiaries and Indemnity. Claims handling services include costs incurred in the claims process, including the adjustment, investigation, defense, recording and payment functions. Life insurance management services include costs incurred in the management and processing of life insurance business. Investment management services are related to investment trading activity, accounting and all other functions attributable to the investment of funds. Included in these expenses are allocations of costs for departments that support these administrative functions. The amounts incurred for these services are reimbursed to Indemnity at cost in accordance with the subscriber's agreement and the service agreements. State insurance regulations require that intercompany service agreements and any material amendments be approved in advance by the state insurance department.


Our results of operations are tied to the growth and financial condition of the Exchange. If any events occurred that impaired the Exchange’s ability to grow or sustain its financial condition, including but not limited to reduced financial strength ratings, disruption in the independent agency relationships, significant catastrophe losses, or products not meeting customer demands, the Exchange could find it more difficult to retain its existing business and attract new business. A decline in the business of the Exchange almost certainly would have as a consequence a decline in the total premiums paid and a correspondingly adverse effect on the amount of the management fees we receive. We also have an exposure to a concentration of credit risk related to the unsecured receivables due from the Exchange for its management fee.fee and cost reimbursements. See Note 12,13, "Concentrations of Credit Risk".





Note 2.  Significant Accounting Policies


Basis of presentation
The accompanying unaudited financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") for interim financial information and the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. Operating results for the six months ended June 30, 20182019 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2018.2019. For further information, refer to the financial statements and footnotes included in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 20172018 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 22, 2018.21, 2019.

Use of estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make 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.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.


Recently adopted accounting standards
We adopted Accounting Standards Codification 606, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers" ("ASC 606") on January 1, 2018, using the modified retrospective method applied to all contracts. We recognized the cumulative effect of initially adopting ASC 606 as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings at January 1, 2018. The comparative information for periods preceding January 1, 2018 has not been restated and continues to be reported under the accounting standards in effect for those periods.
Under ASC 606, we determined that we have two performance obligations under the subscriber’s agreement. The first performance obligation is providing policy issuance and renewal services. The second performance obligation is acting as the attorney-in-fact on behalf of the Exchange, as well as the service provider for its insurance subsidiaries, with respect to all administrative services. Therefore, upon adoption of ASC 606 beginning January 1, 2018, the management fee earned per the subscriber’s agreement, currently 25% of all direct and assumed premiums written by the Exchange, will be allocated between the two performance obligations. Prior to the adoption of ASC 606, the entire management fee was allocated to the policy issuance and renewal services. Additionally, the expenses we incur and related reimbursements we receive related to the administrative services will be presented gross in our Statement of Operations effective January 1, 2018. There was no significant impact to service agreement revenue upon adoption of ASC 606.
Revenue allocated to the policy issuance and renewal services continues to be recognized at the time of policy issuance or renewal because it is at the time of policy issuance or renewal when the economic benefits of the service Indemnity provides (i.e. the substantially completed policy issuance or renewal service) and the control of the promised asset (i.e. the executed insurance policy) transfers to the customer. A significant portion of the management fee is currently allocated to this performance obligation and therefore, the related revenue recognition pattern for the vast majority of our revenues will remain unchanged.
The revenue allocated to the second performance obligation will be recognized over several years in correlation with the costs incurred because the economic benefit of the services provided (i.e. management of the administrative services) transfers to the customer over a period of time. The amounts incurred for these services are reimbursed to Indemnity at cost in accordance with the subscriber's agreement and the service agreements. On January 1, 2018, we established a contract liability of $48.5 million representing the portion of revenue not yet earned related to the administrative services to be provided in subsequent years. We recorded a related deferred tax asset of $10.2 million and a cumulative effect adjustment that reduced retained earnings by $38.3 million. The adoption of ASC 606 changed the presentation of our Statement of Cash Flows, but had no net impact to our cash flows.

The cumulative effect of the changes made to our Statement of Financial Position at January 1, 2018 were as follows:
(in thousands) Balance at December 31, 2017Adjustments due to ASC 606Balance at January 1, 2018
Statement of Financial Position:    
Assets    
Deferred tax asset $19,390
$10,188
$29,578
Liabilities    
Contract liability 
48,514
48,514
Equity    
Retained earnings 2,140,853
(38,326)2,102,527


The impact of adoption on our Statement of Financial Position at June 30, 2018 was as follows:
  June 30, 2018
(in thousands) As ReportedBalances without ASC 606Impact of Change
Higher/(Lower)
  (Unaudited)
Statement of Financial Position:    
Assets    
Deferred tax asset $31,527
$20,903
$10,624
Liabilities    
Contract liability 50,589

50,589
Equity    
Retained earnings 2,169,686
2,209,651
(39,965)


The impact of adoption on our Statement of Operations at June 30, 2018 was as follows:
  Three months ended Six months ended
(in thousands) As ReportedBalances without ASC 606Impact of Change
Higher/(Lower)
 As ReportedBalances without ASC 606Impact of Change
Higher/(Lower)
  (Unaudited) (Unaudited)
Statement of Operations:        
Management fee revenue allocated to policy issuance and renewal services, gross $456,896
$471,999
$(15,103) $864,132
$892,698
$(28,566)
Less: change in allowance for management fee returned on cancelled policies (2,324)(2,400)76
 (3,582)(3,700)118
Management fee revenue allocated to policy issuance and renewal services, net $454,572
$469,599
$(15,027) $860,550
$888,998
$(28,448)
         
         
Management fee revenue allocated to administrative services, gross $13,313
$
$13,313
 $26,401
$
$26,401
Less: change in allowance for management fee returned on cancelled policies (14)
(14) (28)
(28)
Management fee revenue allocated to administrative services, net 13,299

13,299
 26,373

26,373
Administrative services reimbursement revenue 146,507

146,507
 292,470

292,470
Total revenue allocated to administrative services $159,806
$
$159,806
 $318,843
$
$318,843
         
         
Administrative services expenses $146,507
$
$146,507
 $292,470
$
$292,470



In March 2017,February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards UpdateCodification ("ASU"ASC") 2017-07, "Compensation-Retirement Benefits"842, "Leases", which requires the service cost component of net benefit costslessees to be reported with other compensation costsrecognize assets and liabilities arising from services rendered by the pertinent employees during the period. The other components of net benefit costs are required to be presented separately from the service cost component and outside of income from operationsoperating leases on a retrospective basis. This amendment also allows only the service cost component to be eligible for capitalization, when applicable, prospectively after the effective date. ASU 2017-07 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017. We adopted this guidance effective January 1, 2018 and have included the other components of net benefit costs in "Other income (expense)" in the Statements of OperationsFinancial Position and conformedto disclose certain information about leasing arrangements. We adopted ASC 842 on January 1, 2019 using the prior-period presentation.optional transition method, which permits entities to apply the new guidance prospectively with certain practical expedients available. We elected the package of practical expedients which among other things allowed us to carry forward the historical lease classifications. We did not elect the hindsight practical expedient in determining the lease term for existing leases.

The adoption of the new standard resulted in the recognition of operating lease assets of $32.7 million and operating lease liabilities of $32.1 million on the Statement of Financial Position at January 1, 2019. The adoption of this guidancestandard did not have a material impact on the presentationour Statement of Operations and had no impact on our financial statements or related disclosures.net cash flows.


Recently issued accounting standards
In January 2016,August 2018, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2018-15, "Intangibles-Goodwill and Other Internal-Use Software", which aligns the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software. ASU 2016-01, "Financial Instruments-Overall". ASU 2016-01 revises the accounting related to the classification and measurement of investments in equity securities and the presentation of certain fair value changes for financial liabilities measured at fair value. ASU 2016-012018-15 is effective for interim and annual reporting periodsfiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017.2019 and interim periods within those fiscal years. The amendments under ASU 2018-15 may be applied either retrospectively or prospectively to all implementation costs incurred after the date of adoption and early adoption is permitted. We adoptedplan to adopt this guidance on a prospective basis effective January 1, 2018. The adoption of this guidance resulted in reclassifying unrealized losses, net of tax,and do not expect a material impact on equity securities from accumulated other comprehensive loss to retained earnings, which reduced retained earnings by $0.1 million at January 1, 2018. As of January 1, 2018, equity securities are presented separately in our Statement of Financial Position. Our disclosures were prepared in accordance with this guidance.financial statements or disclosures.


Recently issued accounting standards
In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, "Financial Instruments-Credit Losses", which requires financial assets measured at amortized cost to be presented at the net amount expected to be collected through the use of a new forward-looking expected loss model and credit losses relating to available-for-sale debt securities to be recognized through an allowance for credit losses. ASU 2016-13 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018 is permitted. We have evaluated the impact of this guidance on our investedfinancial assets. Our investments are not measured at amortized cost, and therefore do not require the use of a new expected loss model. Our available-for-sale debt securities will continue to be monitored for credit losses which would be limited to the amount by which the fair value is below amortized cost and reflected as an allowance for credit losses rather than a reduction of the carrying value of the asset. The other material financial assets subject to this guidance include ourOur receivables from Erie Insurance Exchange and its subsidiaries. Givenaffiliates are unlikely to have a significant credit loss exposure given the financial strength of the Exchange as demonstrated by its strong surplus position, and industry ratings, and historical experience of no credit losses. We currently do not record an allowance for credit losses related to our agent loans as historical default amounts have been insignificant and the majority of the loans are senior secured. Accordingly, when we establish an allowance related to agent loans upon adoption of this guidance, we do not expect it is unlikely these receivables would have significant,to be material. Our cash equivalents include money market mutual funds comprised of U.S. government securities, therefore a corresponding allowance, if any, credit loss exposure. Accordingly,would be expected to be immaterial. As a result of our evaluation, we do not expect a material impact on our financial statements orstatements.

Other assets
Other assets include agent loans, operating lease assets and other long-term prepaid assets. Agent loans are carried at unpaid principal balance with interest recorded in investment income as earned. It is our policy to charge the loans that are in default directly to expense. We do not record an allowance for credit losses on these loans, as the majority of the loans are senior secured and historically have had insignificant default amounts.

The determination of whether an arrangement is a lease, and the related disclosureslease classification, is made at inception of a contract. Our leases are classified as a result of this guidance.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, "Leases", which requires lessees to recognizeoperating leases. Operating lease assets and liabilities arising from operating leasesare recorded at inception based on the statement of financial position and to disclose key information about leasing arrangements. ASU 2016-02 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Currently ASU 2016-02 requires leases to be recognized and measured at the beginningpresent value of the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach. In January 2018,future minimum lease payments over the FASB issued a proposed ASUlease term at commencement date. When an implicit rate for the lease is not available, we use our incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at commencement date to determine the present value of future payments. Lease terms include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that would allow entities to recognize the cumulative effect adjustment in the yearwe will exercise that option. Most of adoption rather than the earliest period presented. Under existing guidance, we recognize lease expense as a component of operating expenses in the Statements of Operations. We are evaluating our lease contracts to determine those that qualify for treatmentcontain lease and non-lease components. Non-lease components are expensed as leases under the new guidanceincurred. Operating lease assets are included in other assets, and the impact to our financial statementscurrent and disclosures.

Recognition of management fee revenue
We earn management fees from the Exchange under the subscriber’s agreement for services provided. Pursuant to the subscriber’s agreement, we may retain up to 25% of all direct and assumed premiums written by the Exchange. The management fee rate is set at least annually by our Board of Directors. The management fee revenue is calculated by multiplying the management fee rate by the direct and assumed premiums written by the Exchange. Upon adoption of ASC 606 beginning January 1, 2018, we determined we have two performance obligations under the subscriber’s agreement. The first performance obligation is to provide policy issuance and renewal services. The second performance obligation is acting as the attorney-in-fact with respect to the administrative services. Beginning January 1, 2018, our management fee revenue is allocated to these two performance obligations. Prior to the adoption of ASC 606, the entire management fee was allocated to the policy issuance and renewal services.

Management fee revenue allocated to the policy issuance and renewal services is recognized at the time of policy issuance or renewal, because it is at the time of policy issuance or renewal when the economic benefitnoncurrent portions of the service we provide (the substantially completed policy issuance or renewal service)operating lease liabilities are included in accounts payable and the control of the promised asset (the executed insurance policy) transfers to the customer.


Management fee revenue allocated to the second performance obligation relates to us acting as the attorney-in-fact on behalf of the Exchange, as well as the service provider for its insurance subsidiaries, with respect to the administrative servicesaccrued expenses and is recognized over a four-year period representing the time over which the economic benefit of the services provided (i.e. management of the administrative services) transfers to the customer.

Administrative services
By virtue of its legal structure as a reciprocal insurer, the Exchange does not have any employees or officers. Therefore, it enters into contractual relationships by and through an attorney-in-fact. Indemnity serves as the attorney-in-fact on behalf of the Exchange with respect to its administrative services in accordance with the subscriber's agreement. The Exchange's insurance subsidiaries also utilize Indemnity for these services in accordance with the service agreements between each of the subsidiaries and Indemnity. Claims handling services include costs incurredother long-term liabilities, respectively, in the claims process, including the adjustment, investigation, defense, recording and payment functions. Life insurance management services include costs incurred in the management and processing of life insurance business. Investment management services are related to investment trading activity, accounting and all other functions attributable to the investment of funds. Included in these expenses are allocations of costs for departments that support these administrative functions. Common overhead expenses and certain service department costs incurred by us on behalf of the Exchange and its insurance subsidiaries are reimbursed by the proper entity based upon appropriate utilization statistics (employee count, square footage, vehicle count, project hours, etc.) specifically measured to accomplish proportional allocations, which we believe are reasonable. Prior to the adoption of ASC 606, we recorded the reimbursements we receive for the administrative services expenses as receivables from the Exchange and its subsidiaries with a corresponding reduction to our expenses. Upon adoption of ASC 606 on January 1, 2018, the expenses we incur and related reimbursements we receive for administrative services are presented gross in our Statement of Operations. Reimbursements are settled on a monthly basis. The amounts incurred for these services are reimbursed to Indemnity at cost in accordance with the subscriber's agreement and the service agreements. State insurance regulations require that intercompany service agreements and any material amendments be approved in advance by the state insurance department.

Reclassifications
Certain amounts previously reported in the 2017 financial statements have been reclassified for comparative purposes to conform to the current period’s presentation.  Such reclassifications resulted from new accounting guidance and only affected the Statements of Operations.  Most notably, "Commissions", "Salaries and employee benefits", and "All other operating expenses" have been combined within "Cost of operations - policy issuance and renewal services" in the Statements of Operations (See Note 3, "Revenue").  These reclassifications had no effect on previously reported net income.


Financial Position.

Note 3.  Revenue


Themajority of our revenue is derived from the subscriber’s agreement between us and the subscribers (policyholders) at the Exchange. Pursuant to the subscriber’s agreement, we earn a management fee calculated as a percentage, not to exceed 25%, of all direct and affiliated assumed written premiums of the Exchange. We account for management fee revenue earned under the subscriber’s agreement in accordance with ASC 606, which we adopted on January 1, 2018, using the modified retrospective method. See Note 2, "Significant Accounting Policies" for further discussion of the adoption, including the impact on our financial statements.
We allocate a portion of our management fee revenue, currently 25% of the direct and affiliated assumed written premiums of the Exchange, between the two performance obligations we have under the subscriber’s agreement. The first performance obligation is to provide policy issuance and renewal services to the subscribers (policyholders) at the Exchange, and the second is to act as attorney-in-fact on behalf of the Exchange, as well as the service provider for its insurance subsidiaries, with respect to all administrative services. The transaction price, including management fee revenue and administrative service reimbursement revenue, is allocated based on the estimated standalone selling prices developed using industry information and other available information for similar services. We update the transaction price allocation annually based upon the most recent information available. There was no material change to the allocation in 2019.


The first performance obligation is to provide policy issuance and renewal services that result in executed insurance policies between the Exchange or one of its insurance subsidiaries and the subscriber (policyholder). Our customer, the subscriber (policyholder), receives economic benefits when substantially all the policy issuance or renewal services are complete and an insurance policy is issued or renewed by the Exchange or one of its insurance subsidiaries. It is at the time of policy issuance or renewal that the allocated portion of revenue is recognized.


The Exchange, by virtue of its legal structure as a reciprocal insurer, does not have any employees or officers. Therefore, it enters into contractual relationships by and through an attorney-in-fact. Indemnity serves as the attorney-in-fact on behalf of the Exchange with respect to its administrative services in accordance with the subscriber's agreement. The Exchange's insurance subsidiaries also utilize Indemnity for these services in accordance with the service agreements between each of the subsidiaries and Indemnity. Collectively, these services represent a second performance obligation under the subscriber’s agreement and the service agreements. The revenue allocated to this performance obligation is recognized over time as these services are provided. The portion of revenue not yet earned is recorded as a contract liability in the StatementStatements of Financial Position. We recorded a contract liability of $48.5 million at January 1, 2018, upon adoption of ASC 606. The management fee revenue recognized as earned for these services for the six months ended June 30, 2018 was $26.4 million. Beginning with the adoption of ASC 606 on January 1, 2018, the administrative services expenses we incur and the related reimbursements we receive are recorded gross in the StatementStatements of Operations.


Indemnity records a receivable from the Exchange for management fee revenue when the premium is written or assumed by the Exchange. Indemnity collects the management fee from the Exchange when the Exchange collects the premiums from the subscribers (policyholders). As the Exchange issues policies with annual terms only, cash collections generally occur within one year.


A constraining estimate exists around the management fee received as consideration related to the potential for management fee to be returned if a policy were to be cancelled mid-term. Management fees are returned to the Exchange when policyholders cancel their insurance coverage mid-term and unearned premiums are refunded to them. We maintain an estimated allowance to reduce the management fee to its estimated net realizable value to account for the potential of mid-term policy cancellations based on historical cancellation rates. This estimated allowance has been allocated between the two performance obligations consistent with the revenue allocation proportions.


The following table disaggregates revenue by our two performance obligations:
 Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(in thousands)20192018 20192018
Management fee revenue - policy issuance and renewal services, net$480,513
$454,572
 $911,496
$860,550
      
Management fee revenue - administrative services, net14,195
13,299
 28,146
26,373
Administrative services reimbursement revenue146,095
146,507
 288,575
292,470
Total administrative services$160,290
$159,806
 $316,721
$318,843

 Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(in thousands)20182017 20182017
Management fee revenue - policy issuance and renewal services$454,572
$441,319
 $860,550
$833,377
      
Management fee revenue - administrative services13,299

 26,373

Administrative services reimbursement revenue146,507

 292,470

Total administrative services$159,806
$
 $318,843
$





Note 4.  Earnings Per Share
 
Class A and Class B basic earnings per share and Class B diluted earnings per share are calculated under the two-class method. The two-class method allocates earnings to each class of stock based upon its dividend rights.  Class B shares are convertible into Class A shares at a conversion ratio of 2,400 to 1. See Note 10,11, "Capital Stock".


Class A diluted earnings per share are calculated under the if-converted method, which reflects the conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares. Diluted earnings per share calculations include the dilutive effect of assumed issuance of stock-based awards under compensation plans that have the option to be paid in stock using the treasury stock method.


A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators used in the basic and diluted per-share computations is presented as follows for each class of common stock: 
  Three months ended June 30,
  2019 2018
(dollars in thousands, except per share data) Allocated net income (numerator) Weighted shares (denominator) Per-share amount Allocated net income (numerator) Weighted shares (denominator) Per-share amount
Class A – Basic EPS:            
Income available to Class A stockholders $87,036
 46,188,994
 $1.88
 $79,053
 46,188,705
 $1.71
Dilutive effect of stock-based awards 0
 24,906
 
 0
 23,344
 
Assumed conversion of Class B shares 718
 6,100,800
 
 653
 6,100,800
 
Class A – Diluted EPS:            
Income available to Class A stockholders on Class A equivalent shares $87,754
 52,314,700
 $1.68
 $79,706
 52,312,849
 $1.52
Class B – Basic EPS:            
Income available to Class B stockholders $718
 2,542
 $283
 $653
 2,542
 $257
Class B – Diluted EPS:            
Income available to Class B stockholders $718
 2,542
 $283
 $653
 2,542
 $257

  Three months ended June 30,
  2018 2017
(dollars in thousands, except per share data) Allocated net income (numerator) Weighted shares (denominator) Per-share amount Allocated net income (numerator) Weighted shares (denominator) Per-share amount
Class A – Basic EPS:            
Income available to Class A stockholders $79,053
 46,188,705
 $1.71
 $58,048
 46,180,852
 $1.26
Dilutive effect of stock-based awards 0
 23,344
 
 0
 17,743
 
Assumed conversion of Class B shares 653
 6,100,800
 
 479
 6,100,800
 
Class A – Diluted EPS:            
Income available to Class A stockholders on Class A equivalent shares $79,706
 52,312,849
 $1.52
 $58,527
 52,299,395
 $1.12
Class B – Basic EPS:            
Income available to Class B stockholders $653
 2,542
 $257
 $479
 2,542
 $189
Class B – Diluted EPS:            
Income available to Class B stockholders $653
 2,542
 $257
 $479
 2,542
 $188


  Six months ended June 30,
  2019 2018
(dollars in thousands, except per share data) Allocated net income (numerator) Weighted shares (denominator) Per-share amount Allocated net income (numerator) Weighted shares (denominator) Per-share amount
Class A – Basic EPS:  
  
  
  
  
  
Income available to Class A stockholders $161,730
 46,188,668
 $3.50
 $144,273
 46,188,309
 $3.12
Dilutive effect of stock-based awards 0
 23,903
 
 0
 22,632
 
Assumed conversion of Class B shares 1,335
 6,100,800
 
 1,191
 6,100,800
 
Class A – Diluted EPS:  
  
  
  
  
  
Income available to Class A stockholders on Class A equivalent shares $163,065
 52,313,371
 $3.12
 $145,464
 52,311,741
 $2.78
Class B – Basic EPS:  
  
  
  
  
  
Income available to Class B stockholders $1,335
 2,542
 $525
 $1,191
 2,542
 $469
Class B – Diluted EPS:            
Income available to Class B stockholders $1,335
 2,542
 $525
 $1,191
 2,542
 $468
  Six months ended June 30,
  2018 2017
(dollars in thousands, except per share data) Allocated net income (numerator) Weighted shares (denominator) Per-share amount Allocated net income (numerator) Weighted shares (denominator) Per-share amount
Class A – Basic EPS:  
  
  
  
  
  
Income available to Class A stockholders $144,273
 46,188,309
 $3.12
 $105,532
 46,184,666
 $2.28
Dilutive effect of stock-based awards 0
 22,632
 
 0
 69,748
 
Assumed conversion of Class B shares 1,191
 6,100,800
 
 871
 6,100,800
 
Class A – Diluted EPS:  
  
  
  
  
  
Income available to Class A stockholders on Class A equivalent shares $145,464
 52,311,741
 $2.78
 $106,403
 52,355,214
 $2.03
Class B – Basic EPS:  
  
  
  
  
  
Income available to Class B stockholders $1,191
 2,542
 $469
 $871
 2,542
 $343
Class B – Diluted EPS:            
Income available to Class B stockholders $1,191
 2,542
 $468
 $871
 2,542
 $343


Note 5. Fair Value
 
Financial instruments carried at fair value
Our available-for-sale debt securities and equity securities are recorded at fair value, which is the price that would be received to sell the asset in an orderly transaction between willing market participants as of the measurement date.
 
Valuation techniques used to derive the fair value of our available-for-sale debt securities and equity securities are based upon observable and unobservable inputs.  Observable inputs reflect market data obtained from independent sources.  Unobservable inputs reflect our own assumptions regarding fair market value for these securities.  Although virtually all of our prices are obtained from third party sources, we also perform an internal pricing review on outliers, which includeoutliers. The outlier review includes securities with price changes inconsistent withthat vary from current market conditions.conditions or independent third party price sources. Financial instruments are categorized based upon the following characteristics or inputs to the valuation techniques:
 
Level 1 – Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the reporting entity can access at the measurement date.


Level 2 – Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.


Level 3 – Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.
 
Estimates of fair values for our investment portfolio are obtained primarily from a nationally recognized pricing service.  Our Level 1 category includes those securities valued using an exchange traded price provided by the pricing service.  The methodologies used by the pricing service that support a Level 2 classification of a financial instrument include multiple verifiable, observable inputs including benchmark yields, reported trades, broker/dealer quotes, issuer spreads, two-sided markets, benchmark securities, bids, offers, and reference data.  Pricing service valuations for Level 3 securities are based upon proprietary models and are used when observable inputs are not available or in illiquid markets.
 
In limited circumstances we adjust the price received from the pricing service when, in our judgment, a better reflection of fair value is available based upon corroborating information and our knowledge and monitoring of market conditions such as a disparity in price of comparable securities and/or non-binding broker quotes.  In other circumstances, certain securities are internally priced because prices are not provided by the pricing service.
 
We perform continuous reviews of the prices obtained from the pricing service.  This includes evaluating the methodology and inputs used by the pricing service to ensure that we determine the proper classification level of the financial instrument.  Price variances, including large periodic changes, are investigated and corroborated by market data.  We have reviewed the pricing methodologies of our pricing service as well as other observable inputs, such as market data, and transaction volumes and believe that the prices adequately consider market activity in determining fair value. 
 
When a price from the pricing service is not available, values are determined by obtaining broker/dealer quotes and/or market comparables.  When available, we obtain multiple quotes for the same security.  The ultimate value for these securities is determined based upon our best estimate of fair value using corroborating market information.  Our evaluation includes the consideration of benchmark yields, reported trades, issuer spreads, two-sided markets, benchmark securities, bids, offers, and reference data.





The following tables present our fair value measurements on a recurring basis by asset class and level of input:
  At June 30, 2019
(in thousands) Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
Available-for-sale securities:        
U.S. Treasury (1)
 $151,094
 $0
 $151,094
 $0
States & political subdivisions (1)
 3,360
 0
 3,360
 0
Corporate debt securities (1)
 356,656
 0
 350,283
 6,373
Residential mortgage-backed securities 66,186
 0
 66,186
 0
Commercial mortgage-backed securities 46,142
 0
 43,591
 2,551
Collateralized debt obligations 57,345
 0
 57,345
 0
Other debt securities 8,325
 0
 8,325
 0
Total available-for-sale securities 689,108
 0
 680,184
 8,924
Equity securities:        
Nonredeemable preferred stock - financial services sector 12,445
 2,003
 10,442
 0
Total equity securities 12,445
 2,003
 10,442
 0
Total $701,553
 $2,003
 $690,626
 $8,924


 At June 30, 2018
 Fair value measurements using: At December 31, 2018
(in thousands) Total 
Quoted prices in
active markets for identical assets
Level 1
 
Observable inputs
Level 2
 
Unobservable inputs
Level 3
 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
Available-for-sale securities:                
U.S. treasury $36,442
 $0
 $36,442
 $0
States & political subdivisions 258,491
 0
 258,491
 0
Foreign government securities 499
 0
 499
 0
U.S. Treasury (1)
 $208,412
 $0
 $208,412
 $0
States & political subdivisions (1)
 159,023
 0
 159,023
 0
Corporate debt securities 282,006
 0
 270,886
 11,120
 249,947
 0
 237,370
 12,577
Residential mortgage-backed securities 21,869
 0
 21,869
 0
 4,609
 0
 4,609
 0
Commercial mortgage-backed securities 32,276
 0
 32,276
 0
 46,515
 0
 46,515
 0
Collateralized debt obligations 70,976
 0
 70,976
 0
 64,239
 0
 64,239
 0
Other debt securities 2,869
 0
 2,869
 0
 15,778
 0
 15,778
 0
Total available-for-sale securities 705,428
 0
 694,308
 11,120
 748,523
 0
 735,946
 12,577
Equity securities:                
Nonredeemable preferred stock - financial services sector 12,488
 1,973
 10,515
 0
 11,853
 1,809
 10,044
 0
Total equity securities 12,488
 1,973
 10,515
 0
 11,853
 1,809
 10,044
 0
Other investments (1)
 3,752
 
 
 
Other limited partnership investments (2)
 3,206
 
 
 
Total $721,668
 $1,973
 $704,823
 $11,120
 $763,582
 $1,809
 $745,990
 $12,577


  At December 31, 2017
  Fair value measurements using:
(in thousands) Total Quoted prices in
active markets for identical assets
Level 1
 Observable inputs
Level 2
 Unobservable inputs
Level 3
Available-for-sale securities:        
U.S. treasury $11,734
 $0
 $11,734
 $0
States & political subdivisions 259,264
 0
 259,264
 0
Foreign government securities 503
 0
 503
 0
Corporate debt securities 346,523
 0
 338,644
 7,879
Residential mortgage-backed securities 25,571
 0
 25,571
 0
Commercial mortgage-backed securities 32,804
 0
 32,804
 0
Collateralized debt obligations 58,034
 0
 55,834
 2,200
Other debt securities 11,528
 0
 11,528
 0
Total fixed maturities 745,961
 0
 735,882
 10,079
Nonredeemable preferred stock - financial services sector 11,659
 2,015
 9,644
 0
Nonredeemable preferred stock - utilities sector 1,093
 0
 1,093
 0
Total available-for-sale securities 758,713
 2,015
 746,619
 10,079
Other investments (1)
 4,816
 
 
 
Total $763,529
 $2,015
 $746,619
 $10,079

(1)Other investments measured at fair value represent real estate funds included on the balance sheet as limited partnership investments that are reported under the fair value option using the net asset value practical expedient. These amounts are
(1)In the fourth quarter of 2018, we began selling off our municipal bonds as part of a portfolio rebalancing. We have currently invested proceeds from these sales primarily in U.S. Treasuries and corporate debt securities.
(2)The limited partnership investment measured at fair value represents one real estate fund included on the balance sheet as a limited partnership investment reported under the fair value option using the net asset value (NAV) practical expedient, which is not required to be categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of this investment is based on our proportionate share of the NAV from the most recent partners' capital statements received from the general partner, which is generally one quarter prior to our balance sheet date. We consider observable market data and perform a review validating the appropriateness of the NAV at each balance sheet date. Liquidation of this fund was completed in January 2019 and a final distribution totaling $3.2 million was received. There were no unfunded commitments related to the investment at December 31, 2018. During the year ended December 31, 2018, no contributions were made and distributions totaling $1.2 million were received from this investment.

The following table presents our fair value measurements on a recurring basis by pricing source:
  At June 30, 2019
(in thousands) Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
Available-for-sale securities:        
Priced via pricing services $688,958
 $0
 $680,184
 $8,774
Priced via internal modeling 150
 0
 0
 150
Total available-for-sale securities 689,108
 0
 680,184
 8,924
Equity securities priced via pricing services 12,445
 2,003
 10,442
 0
Total $701,553
 $2,003
 $690,626
 $8,924



Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Unobservable Inputs

The following table presents quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs utilized in the fair value hierarchy.measurements of Level 3 assets. Level 3 securities where cost is the best estimate of fair value totaled $0.2 million at June 30, 2019 and are excluded from the table below. When a non-binding broker quote was the only input available, the security was classified within Level 3. The investments can never be redeemed with the funds. Instead, distributions are received when liquidationquantitative detail of the underlying assets ofunobservable inputs is neither provided nor reasonably available to us and therefore has not been included in the funds occur. Ittable below. These investments totaled $0.8 million at June 30, 2019 and $12.6 million at December 31, 2018. The weighted average is estimated that the underlying assets will generally be liquidated between 5 and 10 years from the inception of the funds. The fair value of these investments iscalculated based on the net asset value (NAV) information provided by the general partner. Fair value is based on our proportionate share of the NAV based on the most recent partners' capital statements received from the general partners, which is generally one quarter prior to our balance sheet date. These values are then analyzed to determine if the NAV representsestimated fair value at our balance sheet date, with adjustment being made where appropriate. We consider observable market data and perform a review validating the appropriateness of the NAV at each balance sheet date. It is likely that all of the investments will be redeemed at a future date for an amount different than the NAV of our ownership interest in partners' capital as of June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017. During the six months ended June 30, 2018, no contributions were made and distributions totaling $0.7 million were received from these investments. During the year ended December 31, 2017, no contributions were made and distributions totaling $0.5 million were received from these investments. There were no unfunded commitments related to the investments as of June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017.value.


  At June 30, 2019
(dollars in thousands) 
Fair
value
Valuation techniquesUnobservable inputRange
(basis points)
Weighted
average
(basis points)
Impact of increase in input on estimated fair value
     


Corporate debt securities - bank loans $6,093
Syndicated loan model
Market residual yield (1)
-130 - +730+54Decrease
Commercial mortgage-backed securities 1,866
Relative value pricing model
Credit spread (2)
+44 - +52+48Decrease
(1)Values for bank loans classified as Level 3 are determined by our pricing vendor based on model yield curves adjusted for observable inputs. The market residual yield represents a net adjustment to the model yield curve for unobservable input factors.
(2)Values for commercial mortgage-backed securities classified as Level 3 include adjustments to the base spread over the appropriate U.S. Treasury yield assuming no prepayments until penalty provisions have expired.



We review the fair value hierarchy classifications each reporting period.  Transfers between hierarchy levels may occur due to changes in available market observable inputs. Transfers into and out of level classifications in 2017 are reported as having occurred at the beginning of the quarter in which the transfers occurred. Effective January 1, 2018, we changed our policy to recognize transfers as occurring at the end of the quarter in which the transfers occurred. This change is applied prospectively due to the immaterial impact on prior year disclosures.

Level 3 Assets – 2019 Quarterly Change:

(in thousands) 
 Beginning balance at March 31, 2019 
Included in earnings(1)
 Included
in other
comprehensive
income
 Purchases Sales 
Transfers into Level 3(2)
 
Transfers out of Level 3(2)
 Ending balance at June 30, 2019
Available-for-sale securities:                
Corporate debt securities $11,523
 $(20) $23
 $0
 $(5,841) $2,581
 $(1,893) $6,373
Residential mortgage-backed securities 915
 4
 15
 0
 (26) 0
 (908) 0
Commercial mortgage-backed securities 1,182
 15
 (8) 0
 (1,065) 2,551
 (124) 2,551
Total Level 3 available-for-sale securities $13,620
 $(1) $30
 $0
 $(6,932) $5,132
 $(2,925) $8,924








There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017.3 Assets – 2019 Year-to-Date Change:

(in thousands) Beginning balance at December 31, 2018 
Included in earnings(1)
 
Included
in other
comprehensive
income
 Purchases Sales 
Transfers into Level 3(2)
 
Transfers out of Level 3(2)
 Ending balance at June 30, 2019
Available-for-sale securities:                
Corporate debt securities $12,577
 $(9) $291
 $734
 $(6,272) $7,394
 $(8,342) $6,373
Residential mortgage-backed securities 0
 4
 15
 921
 (32) 0
 (908) 0
Commercial mortgage-backed securities 0
 13
 (8) 478
 (1,065) 3,257
 (124) 2,551
Total Level 3 available-for-sale securities $12,577
 $8
 $298
 $2,133
 $(7,369) $10,651
 $(9,374) $8,924


Level 3 Assets – 2018 Quarterly Change:


(in thousands) 
 Beginning balance at March 31, 2018 
Included in earnings(1)
 Included
in other
comprehensive
income
 Purchases Sales 
Transfers into Level 3(2)
 
Transfers out of Level 3(2)
 Ending balance at June 30, 2018
Available-for-sale securities:                
Corporate debt securities $6,309
 $10
 $(53) $3,047
 $(472) $5,370
 $(3,091) $11,120
Total Level 3 available-for-sale securities $6,309
 $10
 $(53) $3,047
 $(472) $5,370
 $(3,091) $11,120




Level 3 Assets – 2018 Year-to-Date Change:

(in thousands) Beginning balance at December 31, 2017 
Included in earnings(1)
 
Included
in other comprehensive
income
 Purchases Sales 
Transfers into Level 3(2)
 
Transfers out of Level 3(2)
 Ending balance at June 30, 2018
Available-for-sale securities:                
Corporate debt securities $7,879
 $1
 $(48) $3,047
 $(965) $7,782
 $(6,576) $11,120
Collateralized debt obligations 2,200
 0
 7
 0
 0
 0
 (2,207) 0
Total Level 3 available-for-sale securities $10,079
 $1
 $(41) $3,047
 $(965) $7,782
 $(8,783) $11,120


Level 3 Assets – 2017 Quarterly Change:


(in thousands) 
 Beginning balance at March 31, 2017 
Included in earnings(1)
 Included
in other
comprehensive
income
 Purchases Sales 
Transfers into Level 3(2)
 
Transfers out of Level 3(2)
 Ending balance at June 30, 2017
Available-for-sale securities:                
Corporate debt securities $9,803
 $29
 $(23) $2,110
 $(1,283) $3,626
 $(4,967) $9,295
Total Level 3 available-for-sale securities $9,803
 $29
 $(23) $2,110
 $(1,283) $3,626
 $(4,967) $9,295


Level 3 Assets – 2017 Year-to-Date Change:

(in thousands) Beginning balance at December 31, 2016 
Included in earnings(1)
 
Included
in other
comprehensive
income
 Purchases Sales 
Transfers into Level 3(2)
 
Transfers out of Level 3(2)
 Ending balance at June 30, 2017 Beginning balance at December 31, 2017 
Included in earnings(1)
 
Included
in other
comprehensive
income
 Purchases Sales 
Transfers into Level 3(2)
 
Transfers out of Level 3(2)
 Ending balance at June 30, 2018
Available-for-sale securities:                                
Corporate debt securities $9,352
 $(21) $(48) $3,981
 $(3,132) $5,811
 $(6,648) $9,295
 $7,879
 $1
 $(48) $3,047
 $(965) $7,782
 $(6,576) $11,120
Collateralized debt obligations 2,200
 0
 7
 0
 0
 0
 (2,207) 0
Total Level 3 available-for-sale securities $9,352
 $(21) $(48) $3,981
 $(3,132) $5,811
 $(6,648) $9,295
 $10,079
 $1
 $(41) $3,047
 $(965) $7,782
 $(8,783) $11,120
 
(1)These amounts are reported in the Statements of Operations as net investment income and net realized investment gains (losses) for the each of the periods presented above.
(2)Transfers into and/or (out) of Level 3 are primarily attributable to the availability of market observable information and the re-evaluation of the observability of pricing inputs.


The change in unrealized gains or losses included in other comprehensive income related to Level 3 securities held at the reporting date is as follows:
 Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(in thousands)2019 2018 2019 2018
Available-for-sale securities:       
Corporate debt securities$(18) $(53) $158
 $(28)
Commercial mortgage-backed securities29
 
 26
 
Net unrealized gains (losses) on Level 3 securities held at reporting date$11
 $(53) $184
 $(28)










Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Unobservable Inputs

When a non-binding broker quote was the only input available, the security was classified within Level 3. Use of non-binding broker quotes totaled $11.1 millionFinancial instruments disclosed, but not carried at June 30, 2018. The unobservable inputs are not reasonably available to us.

fair value
The following table presents ourthe carrying values and fair value measurements, on a recurring basis by pricing source:

  At June 30, 2018
(in thousands) Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
Available-for-sale securities priced via pricing services $705,428
 $0
 $694,308
 $11,120
Equity securities priced via pricing services 12,488
 1,973
 10,515
 0
Other investments priced via unobservable inputs (1)
 3,752
 
 
 
Total $721,668
 $1,973
 $704,823
 $11,120
(1)Other investments measured at fair value represent real estate funds included on the balance sheet as limited partnership investments that are reported under the fair value option using the NAV practical expedient. These amounts are not required to be categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of these investments is based on the NAV information provided by the general partner.


There were no assets measuredwhich are categorized as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy, of financial instruments disclosed, but not carried at fair value on a nonrecurring basis during the six months ended June 30, 2018.value:

  At June 30, 2019 At December 31, 2018
(in thousands) Carrying value Fair value Carrying value Fair value
Agent loans $60,962
 $61,321
 $58,006
 $54,110
Long-term borrowings 99,038
 100,129
 99,730
 94,057



Note 6.  Investments
 
Available-for-sale securities
The following tables summarize the cost and fair value of our available-for-sale securities. See also Note 5, "Fair Value" for additional fair value disclosures.
  At June 30, 2019
 (in thousands) 
Amortized
cost
 Gross unrealized gains Gross unrealized losses Estimated fair value
Available-for-sale securities:        
U.S. Treasury (1)
 $150,171
 $923
 $0
 $151,094
States & political subdivisions (1)
 3,354
 6
 0
 3,360
Corporate debt securities (1)
 356,899
 1,706
 1,949
 356,656
Residential mortgage-backed securities 65,910
 297
 21
 66,186
Commercial mortgage-backed securities 45,527
 625
 10
 46,142
Collateralized debt obligations 57,710
 16
 381
 57,345
Other debt securities 8,209
 116
 0
 8,325
Total available-for-sale securities $687,780
 $3,689
 $2,361
 $689,108
 
  At December 31, 2018
(in thousands) 
Amortized
cost
 Gross unrealized gains Gross unrealized losses Estimated fair value
Available-for-sale securities:        
U.S. Treasury (1)
 $208,610
 $18
 $216
 $208,412
States & political subdivisions (1)
 157,003
 2,020
 0
 159,023
Corporate debt securities 259,362
 139
 9,554
 249,947
Residential mortgage-backed securities 4,603
 38
 32
 4,609
Commercial mortgage-backed securities 47,022
 80
 587
 46,515
Collateralized debt obligations 65,039
 30
 830
 64,239
Other debt securities 15,756
 33
 11
 15,778
Total available-for-sale securities $757,395
 $2,358
 $11,230
 $748,523

(1)In the fourth quarter of 2018, we began selling off our municipal bonds as part of a portfolio rebalancing. We have currently invested proceeds from these sales primarily in U.S. Treasuries and corporate debt securities.

  At June 30, 2018
 (in thousands) 
Amortized
cost
 Gross unrealized gains Gross unrealized losses Estimated fair value
Available-for-sale securities:        
U.S. treasury $36,769
 $0
 $327
 $36,442
States & political subdivisions 257,498
 3,443
 2,450
 258,491
Foreign government securities 500
 0
 1
 499
Corporate debt securities 285,639
 663
 4,296
 282,006
Residential mortgage-backed securities 21,739
 374
 244
 21,869
Commercial mortgage-backed securities 32,878
 5
 607
 32,276
Collateralized debt obligations 71,009
 103
 136
 70,976
Other debt securities 2,863
 6
 0
 2,869
Total available-for-sale securities $708,895
 $4,594
 $8,061
 $705,428


  At December 31, 2017
(in thousands) 
Amortized
cost
 Gross unrealized gains Gross unrealized losses Estimated fair value
Available-for-sale securities:        
U.S. treasury $11,873
 $0
 $139
 $11,734
States & political subdivisions 254,533
 5,351
 620
 259,264
Foreign government securities 501
 2
 0
 503
Corporate debt securities 346,759
 1,688
 1,924
 346,523
Residential mortgage-backed securities 25,324
 371
 124
 25,571
Commercial mortgage-backed securities 33,475
 26
 697
 32,804
Collateralized debt obligations 57,838
 237
 41
 58,034
Other debt securities 11,496
 32
 0
 11,528
Total fixed maturities 741,799
 7,707
 3,545
 745,961
Nonredeemable preferred stock - financial services sector 11,719
 15
 75
 11,659
Nonredeemable preferred stock - utilities sector 1,118
 0
 25
 1,093
Total available-for-sale securities $754,636
 $7,722
 $3,645
 $758,713
The amortized cost and estimated fair value of available-for-sale securities at June 30, 2018,2019 are shown below by remaining contractual term to maturity.  Mortgage-backed securities are allocated based upon stated maturity dates.  Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.
 
  At June 30, 2019
  Amortized Estimated
(in thousands) cost fair value
Due in one year or less $62,962
 $63,031
Due after one year through five years 358,056
 358,508
Due after five years through ten years 127,215
 127,364
Due after ten years 139,547
 140,205
Total available-for-sale securities $687,780
 $689,108
  At June 30, 2018
  Amortized Estimated
(in thousands) cost fair value
Due in one year or less $94,467
 $94,408
Due after one year through five years 241,546
 242,016
Due after five years through ten years 249,068
 246,058
Due after ten years 123,814
 122,946
Total available-for-sale securities $708,895
 $705,428




Available-for-sale securities in a gross unrealized loss position are as follows.  Data is provided by length of time for securities in a gross unrealized loss position.
  At June 30, 2019
  Less than 12 months 12 months or longer Total
(dollars in thousands) 
Fair
value
 Unrealized losses 
Fair
value
 Unrealized losses 
Fair
 value
 Unrealized losses No. of holdings
Available-for-sale securities:              
Corporate debt securities 104,809
 844
 58,666
 1,105
 163,475
 1,949
 334
Residential mortgage-backed securities 15,710
 21
 0
 0
 15,710
 21
 2
Commercial mortgage-backed securities 6,965
 6
 547
 4
 7,512
 10
 7
Collateralized debt obligations 40,402
 165
 14,842
 216
 55,244
 381
 41
Total available-for-sale securities $167,886
 $1,036
 $74,055
 $1,325
 $241,941
 $2,361
 384
Quality breakdown of available-for-sale securities:              
Investment grade $136,432
 $296
 $59,023
 $354
 $195,455
 $650
 111
Non-investment grade 31,454
 740
 15,032
 971
 46,486
 1,711
 273
Total available-for-sale securities $167,886
 $1,036
 $74,055
 $1,325
 $241,941
 $2,361
 384

  At June 30, 2018
  Less than 12 months 12 months or longer Total
(dollars in thousands) 
Fair
value
 Unrealized losses 
Fair
value
 Unrealized losses 
Fair
 value
 Unrealized losses No. of holdings
Available-for-sale securities:              
U.S. treasury $34,969
 $278
 $1,474
 $49
 $36,443
 $327
 5
States & political subdivisions 99,153
 1,763
 13,871
 687
 113,024
 2,450
 57
Foreign government securities 499
 1
 0
 0
 499
 1
 1
Corporate debt securities 194,322
 3,740
 28,430
 556
 222,752
 4,296
 516
Residential mortgage-backed securities 4,526
 98
 5,416
 146
 9,942
 244
 12
Commercial mortgage-backed securities 15,500
 301
 8,930
 306
 24,430
 607
 22
Collateralized debt obligations 28,250
 136
 0
 0
 28,250
 136
 20
Other debt securities 210
 0
 0
 0
 210
 0
 1
Total available-for-sale securities $377,429
 $6,317
 $58,121
 $1,744
 $435,550
 $8,061
 634
Quality breakdown of available-for-sale securities:              
Investment grade $269,062
 $3,554
 $54,423
 $1,577
 $323,485
 $5,131
 187
Non-investment grade 108,367
 2,763
 3,698
 167
 112,065
 2,930
 447
Total available-for-sale securities $377,429
 $6,317
 $58,121
 $1,744
 $435,550
 $8,061
 634



  At December 31, 2018
  Less than 12 months 12 months or longer Total
(dollars in thousands) 
Fair
value
 
Unrealized
losses
 
Fair
value
 
Unrealized
losses
 
Fair
value
 
Unrealized
losses
 
No. of
holdings
Available-for-sale securities:              
U.S. Treasury $129,474
 $19
 $11,656
 $197
 $141,130
 $216
 7
Corporate debt securities 157,300
 6,866
 86,586
 2,688
 243,886
 9,554
 635
Residential mortgage-backed securities 777
 6
 1,618
 26
 2,395
 32
 3
Commercial mortgage-backed securities 17,624
 175
 16,997
 412
 34,621
 587
 30
Collateralized debt obligations 55,246
 826
 1,248
 4
 56,494
 830
 39
Other debt securities 8,213
 11
 0
 0
 8,213
 11
 7
Total available-for-sale securities $368,634
 $7,903
 $118,105
 $3,327
 $486,739
 $11,230
 721
Quality breakdown of available-for-sale securities:              
Investment grade $242,821
 $1,295
 $98,118
 $1,641
 $340,939
 $2,936
 147
Non-investment grade 125,813
 6,608
 19,987
 1,686
 145,800
 8,294
 574
Total available-for-sale securities $368,634
 $7,903
 $118,105
 $3,327
 $486,739
 $11,230
 721
  At December 31, 2017
  Less than 12 months 12 months or longer Total
(dollars in thousands) 
Fair
value
 
Unrealized
losses
 
Fair
value
 
Unrealized
losses
 
Fair
value
 
Unrealized
losses
 
No. of
holdings
Available-for-sale securities:              
U.S. treasury $10,237
 $110
 $1,497
 $29
 $11,734
 $139
 4
States & political subdivisions 52,553
 288
 14,361
 332
 66,914
 620
 33
Corporate debt securities 171,154
 1,585
 31,113
 339
 202,267
 1,924
 331
Residential mortgage-backed securities 4,156
 29
 7,064
 95
 11,220
 124
 11
Commercial mortgage-backed securities 10,836
 85
 11,984
 612
 22,820
 697
 19
Collateralized debt obligations 21,598
 41
 0
 0
 21,598
 41
 12
Other debt securities 1,499
 0
 0
 0
 1,499
 0
 1
Total fixed maturities 272,033
 2,138
 66,019
 1,407
 338,052
 3,545
 411
Nonredeemable preferred stock - financial services sector 9,644
 75
 0
 0
 9,644
 75
 5
Nonredeemable preferred stock - utilities sector 1,093
 25
 0
 0
 1,093
 25
 1
Total available-for-sale securities $282,770
 $2,238
 $66,019
 $1,407
 $348,789
 $3,645
 417
Quality breakdown of fixed maturities:              
Investment grade $214,586
 $1,064
 $62,193
 $985
 $276,779
 $2,049
 158
Non-investment grade 57,447
 1,074
 3,826
 422
 61,273
 1,496
 253
Total fixed maturities $272,033
 $2,138
 $66,019
 $1,407
 $338,052
 $3,545
 411

 
 
The above securities have been evaluated and determined to be temporary impairments for which we expect to recover our entire principal plus interest.  The primary components of this analysis include a general review of market conditions and financial performance of the issuer along with the extent and duration at which fair value is less than cost.  Any securities that we intend to sell or will more likely than not be required to sell before recovery are included in other-than-temporary impairments, which are recognized in earnings.



Net investment income
Interest and dividend income are recognized as earned and recorded to net investment income. Investment income, net of expenses, was generated from the following portfolios:

  Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(in thousands) 2019 2018 2019 2018
Fixed maturities (1)
 $5,488
 $6,263
 $11,649
 $12,373
Equity securities 141
 142
 282
 284
Cash equivalents and other 2,660
 1,026
 5,125
 2,034
Total investment income 8,289
 7,431
 17,056
 14,691
Less: investment expenses 259
 327
 509
 767
Investment income, net of expenses $8,030
 $7,104
 $16,547
 $13,924


(1)
Includes interest earned on note receivable from Erie Family Life Insurance Company of $0.4 million and $0.8 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018, respectively. The note was repaid in full in December 2018.
  Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017
Fixed maturities (1)
 $6,263
 $6,220
 $12,373
 $12,124
Equity securities 142
 17
 284
 49
Cash equivalents and other 1,026
 395
 2,034
 916
Total investment income 7,431
 6,632
 14,691
 13,089
Less: investment expenses 327
 393
 767
 869
Investment income, net of expenses $7,104
 $6,239
 $13,924
 $12,220

(1) Includes interest earned on note receivable from Erie Family Life Insurance Company ("EFL") of $0.4 million and $0.8 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively.


Realized investment gains (losses)
Realized gains and losses on sales of securities are recognized in income based upon the specific identification method. Realized gains (losses) on investments were as follows:

 Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017 2019 2018 2019 2018
Available-for-sale securities:  
  
  
  
  
  
    
Gross realized gains $235
 $507
 $575
 $1,087
 $2,062
 $235
 $4,320
 $575
Gross realized losses (301) (381) (986) (539) (823) (301) (1,163) (986)
Net realized (losses) gains on available-for-sale securities (66) 126
 (411) 548
Net realized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities 1,239
 (66) 3,157
 (411)
Equity securities (68) 
 (188) 
 63
 (68) 648
 (188)
Miscellaneous 102
 (2) 102
 92
 0
 102
 0
 102
Net realized investment (losses) gains $(32) $124
 $(497) $640
Net realized investment gains (losses) $1,302
 $(32) $3,805
 $(497)


 
The portion of net unrealized gains and losses recognized during the reporting period, related to equity securities still held at the reporting date, is calculated as follows:

  Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(in thousands) 2019 2018 2019 2018
Equity securities:        
Net gains (losses) recognized during the period $63
 $(68) $648
 $(188)
Less: net losses recognized on securities sold 0
 0
 0
 (34)
Net unrealized gains (losses) recognized on securities held at reporting date $63
 $(68) $648
 $(154)


  Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017
Equity securities: (1)
        
Total net realized losses $(68) $
 $(188) $
Less: net losses realized on securities sold 0
 
 (34) 
Net unrealized losses recognized during the period on securities held at reporting date $(68) $
 $(154) $
(1) With the adoption of ASU 2016-01, effective January 1, 2018, changes in unrealized gains and losses on equity securities are included in net realized investment gains (losses) in the Statement of Operations. The adoption of this guidance resulted in a reclassification of net unrealized losses of $0.1 million from accumulated other comprehensive loss to retained earnings at January 1, 2018.



Other-than-temporary impairments on available-for-sale securities recognized in earnings were $0.6$0.1 million and $0.1$0.6 million for the quarters ended June 30, 20182019 and 2017,2018, respectively, and $0.6$0.2 million and $0.2$0.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 20182019 and 2017,2018, respectively. We have the intent to sell all credit-impaired available-for-sale debt securities; therefore, the entire amount of the impairment charges were included in earnings and no non-credit impairments were recognized in other comprehensive income. 













Limited partnerships
The majority of our limited partnership holdings are considered investment companies where the general partners record assets at fair value. These limited partnerships are recorded using the equity method of accounting and are generally reported on a one-quarter lag; therefore, our year-to-date limited partnership results through June 30, 20182019 are comprised of partnership financial results for the fourth quarter of 20172018 and first quarter of 2018.2019.  Given the lag in reporting, our limited partnership results do not reflect the market conditions of the second quarter of 2018. We2019. Cash contributions made to and distributions received from the partnerships are recorded in the period in which the transaction occurs. At December 31, 2018 we also own someowned one real estate limited partnershipspartnership that dodid not meet the criteria of an investment company. These partnerships prepareThis partnership prepared audited financial statements on a cost basis. We have elected to report thesethis limited partnershipspartnership under the fair value option, which iswas based on the NAV from our partner's capital statement reflecting the general partner's estimate of fair value for the fund's underlying assets. Fair value provides consistency in the evaluation and financial reporting for these limited partnerships and limited partnerships accounted for under the equity method. Cash contributions made to and distributions received from the partnerships are recordedThis real estate limited partnership was fully liquidated in the periodJanuary 2019.

Equity in which the transaction occurs.

Amounts included in equity inearnings (losses) earnings of limited partnerships by method of accounting are included below:

were as follows:
  Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(in thousands) 2019 2018 2019 2018
Equity in earnings (losses) of limited partnerships - equity method $404
 $(216) $(743) $(21)
Change in fair value of limited partnerships - fair value option 0
 (3) 0
 (390)
Equity in earnings (losses) of limited partnerships $404
 $(219) $(743) $(411)

  Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017
Equity in (losses) earnings of limited partnerships accounted for under the equity method $(216) $149
 $(21) $399
Change in fair value of limited partnerships accounted for under the fair value option (3) 0
 (390) (37)
Equity in (losses) earnings of limited partnerships $(219) $149
 $(411) $362




The following table summarizes limited partnership investments by sector:

(in thousands) At June 30, 2019 At December 31, 2018
Private equity $26,793
 $28,271
Mezzanine debt 1,053
 1,152
Real estate 2,498
 2,192
Real estate - fair value option 0
 3,206
Total limited partnership investments $30,344
 $34,821


(in thousands) At June 30, 2018 At December 31, 2017
Private equity $30,501
 $31,663
Mezzanine debt 2,916
 3,516
Real estate 2,482
 5,127
Real estate - fair value option 3,752
 4,816
Total limited partnership investments $39,651
 $45,122



See also Note 13,14, "Commitments and Contingencies" for investment commitments related to limited partnerships.
   
   


Note 7.  Leases

Lease assets and liabilities recorded on our Statement of Financial Position were as follows:
(in thousands) June 30, 2019
Operating lease assets $26,587
   
Operating lease liabilities - current $11,736
Operating lease liabilities - long-term 14,539
Total operating lease liabilities $26,275



We currently have leases for real estate, technology equipment, copiers, and vehicles. Our largest operating lease asset at June 30, 2019 of $14.7 million is for office space leased from the Exchange, including the home office. Under this lease, rent is based on rental rates of like property and all operating expenses are the responsibility of the tenant (Indemnity). The lease agreement expires December 31, 2021.

Operating lease costs for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019 were $3.6 million and $7.2 million, respectively. Of this amount, the Exchange and its subsidiaries reimbursed us $1.6 million and $3.1 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, respectively, which represents the allocated share of lease costs supporting administrative services activities.

Note 7.8.  Borrowing Arrangements
 
Bank line of credit
As of June 30, 2018,2019, we have access to a $100 million bank revolving line of credit with a $25 million letter of credit sublimit that expires on November 3, 2020.October 30, 2023. As of June 30, 2018,2019, a total of $99.1 million remains available under the facility due to $0.9 million outstanding letters of credit, which reduce the availability for letters of credit to $24.1 million.  We had no borrowings outstanding on our line of credit as of June 30, 2018.  Bonds2019.  Investments with a fair value of $108.1$109.3 million were pledged as collateral on the line at June 30, 2018.2019. The securitiesinvestments pledged as collateral have no trading restrictions and are reported as cash and cash equivalents and available-for-sale securities in the Statements of Financial Position as of June 30, 2018.2019. The banks require compliance with certain covenants, which include leverage ratios and debt restrictions, for our line of credit.  We are in compliance with all covenants at June 30, 2018.2019.


Term loan credit facility
In 2016, we entered into a credit agreement for a $100 million senior secured draw term loan credit facility ("Credit Facility") for the acquisition of real property and construction of an office building that will serve as part of our principal headquarters. Under the agreement, $25 million was drawn on DecemberOn January 1, 2016, June 1, 2017, and December 1, 2017. The final $25 million was completed on June 1, 2018, for a total drawn amount of $100 million. During the draw period from December 1, 2016 through December 31, 2018, we will make monthly interest payments under the Credit Facility. Upon the expiration of the draw period,2019, the Credit Facility convertsconverted to a fully-amortized term loan with monthly payments of principal and interest over a period of 28 years, commencing on January 1, 2019. Borrowings under the Credit Facility bear interest at a fixed rate of 4.35%. In addition, we are required to pay over a quarterly commitment feeperiod of 0.08% on the unused portion of the Credit Facility during the draw period. Bonds28 years. Investments with a fair value of $108.3$108.6 million were pledged as collateral for the facility and are reported as cash and cash equivalents and available-for-sale securities in the Statements of Financial Position as of June 30, 2018.2019. The bank requires compliance with certain covenants, which include leverage ratios, debt restrictions and minimum net worth, for our Credit Facility. We are in compliance with all covenants at June 30, 2018.2019.
 
Amounts drawnThe remaining unpaid balance from the Credit Facility areis reported at carrying value on our Statements of Financial Position, net of unamortized loan origination and commitment fees. TheSee Note 5, "Fair Value" for the estimated fair value of this borrowing at June 30, 2018 was $94.3 million. The estimated fair value was determined using estimates based upon interest rates and credit spreads and are classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy as of June 30, 2018.these borrowings.
 
The scheduled maturity of the $100 million Credit Facility begins on January 1, 2019 with annualAnnual principal payments of $1.9 million in 2019, $2.0 million in 2020, $2.0 million in 2021, $2.1 million in 2022, $2.2 million in 2023 and $89.8 million thereafter.
The following table sets forth future principal payments:
(in thousands)  
Year Principal payments
2019$946
2020 1,955
2021 2,042
2022 2,132
2023 2,227
Thereafter 89,737







Note 8.9.  Postretirement Benefits
 
Pension plans
Our pension plans consist of a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan covering substantially all employees and an unfunded supplemental employee retirement plan for certain members of executive and senior management. Although we are the sponsor of these postretirement plans and record the funded status of these plans, the Exchange and its subsidiaries reimburse us for approximately 59%58% of the annual benefit expense of these plans, which represents pension benefits for employees performing administrative services and their allocated share of costs for employees in departments that support the administrative functions.
 
An accelerated contribution of $40 million was made to the defined benefit pension plan in the first quarter of 2018, and an additional $40 million contribution was made in April 2018.

Prior to 2003, the employee pension plan purchased annuities from EFL for certain plan participants that were receiving benefit payments under the pension plan. These are nonparticipating annuity contracts under which EFL has unconditionally contracted to provide specified benefits to beneficiaries; however, the pension plan remains the primary obligor to the beneficiaries. A contingent liability of $18.3 million at June 30, 2018 exists in the event EFL does not honor the annuity contracts.
The cost of our pension plans are as follows:
 Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017 2019 2018 2019 2018
Service cost for benefits earned $9,513
 $7,776
 $19,026
 $15,553
 $8,464
 $9,513
 $16,927
 $19,026
Interest cost on benefits obligation 8,845
 8,568
 17,691
 17,137
 9,826
 8,845
 19,653
 17,691
Expected return on plan assets (12,814) (10,316) (25,629) (20,633) (11,871) (12,814) (23,742) (25,629)
Prior service cost amortization 338
 218
 676
 436
 348
 338
 697
 676
Net actuarial loss amortization 3,202
 2,325
 6,404
 4,650
 1,278
 3,202
 2,556
 6,404
Pension plan cost (1)
 $9,084
 $8,571
 $18,168
 $17,143
 $8,045
 $9,084
 $16,091
 $18,168
 
(1)The components of pension plan costs other than the service cost component are included in the line item "Other income (expense)"income" in the Statements of Operations after reimbursements from the Exchange and its subsidiaries.




Note 9.10.  Income Taxes


TheIncome tax expense is provided on an interim basis based upon our estimate of the annual effective income tax rate, adjusted each quarter for discrete items. For the three months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, our effective tax rate may differ fromwas 17.2% and 21.1%, respectively, and for the statutory federalsix months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, our effective tax rate primarily due to permanent differences forwas 19.1% and 21.0%, respectively. Impacting our effective tax exemptrate in the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, was the settlement of an uncertain tax position. An income tax benefit of $4.1 million was recorded in June 2019, including $1.0 million of related interest income.expense, which reduced our effective tax rate by 3.8% and 2.0% in the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, respectively.

Income tax amounts are estimates based on our initial analysis and current interpretation of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act enacted in 2017. Given the complexity of the legislation, anticipated guidance from the U.S. Treasury, and the potential for additional guidance from the Securities and Exchange Commission or the FASB, these estimates may be adjusted during 2018.




Note 10.11.  Capital Stock
 
Class A and B common stock
Holders of Class B shares may, at their option, convert their shares into Class A shares at the rate of 2,400 Class A shares per Class B share.  There were no shares of Class B common stock converted into Class A common stock during the six months ended June 30, 20182019 and the year ended December 31, 2017.2018. There is no provision for conversion of Class A shares to Class B shares, and Class B shares surrendered for conversion cannot be reissued.

Stock repurchases
In 2011,, our Board of Directors approved a continuation of the current stock repurchase program of $150 million, with no time limitation.  There were no shares repurchased under this program during the six months ended June 30, 20182019 and the year ended December 31, 2017.2018. We had approximately $17.8 million of repurchase authority remaining under this program at June 30, 2018.2019.
 
During the six months ended June 30, 2018,2019, we purchased 22,24711,964 shares of our outstanding Class A nonvoting common stock outside of our publicly announced share repurchase program at a total cost of $2.6$2.0 million. Of this amount, we purchased 3,246 shares for $0.4 million, or $132.35 per share, for stock-based awards in conjunction with our equity compensation plan, for which the shares were delivered to plan participants in January 2019. We purchased 4,465 shares for $0.9 million, or $190.59 per share, to fund the rabbi trust for the outside director deferred stock compensation plan. The shares were transferred to the rabbi trust in February and May 2019. The remaining 4,253 shares were purchased at a total cost of $0.7 million, or $175.64 per share, to fund the rabbi trust for the incentive compensation deferral plan. The shares were transferred to the rabbi trust in February, March and May 2019.

During the year ended December 31, 2018, we purchased 27,120 shares of our outstanding Class A nonvoting common stock outside of our publicly announced share repurchase program at a total cost of $3.2 million. Of this amount, we purchased 5,830 shares for $0.7 million, or $117.39 per share, for stock-based awards in conjunction with our equity compensation plan, for which the shares were delivered to plan participants in January and May 2018. We purchased 4,576 shares for $0.5 million, or $115.69 per share, to fund the rabbi trust for the outside director deferred stock compensation plan. The shares were transferred to the rabbi trust in March and May 2018. The remaining 11,841 shares were purchased at a total cost of $1.4 million, or $119.14 per share, to fund the rabbi trust for the incentive compensation deferral plan. The shares were transferred to the rabbi trust in March and May 2018.

During the year ended December 31, 2017, we purchased 60,332 shares of our outstanding Class A nonvoting common stock outside of our publicly announced share repurchase program at a total cost of $7.3 million. Of this amount, we purchased 3,785 shares for $0.4 million, or $111.55 per share, for stock-based awards in conjunction with our equity compensation plan. We purchased 9,6639,285 shares for $1.2$1.1 million, or $121.85$122.19 per share, to fund the rabbi trust for the outside director deferred stock compensation plan. The remaining 46,88412,005 shares were purchased at a total cost of $5.7$1.4 million, or $122.40$119.28 per share, to fund the rabbi trust for stock-based awards in conjunction with our long-termthe incentive compensation deferral plan. These shares were delivered in 2017.2018.



Note 11.12.  Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") (loss) by component, including amounts reclassified to other comprehensive income ("OCI") (loss) and the related line item in the Statements of Operations where net income is presented, are as follows:
 Three months ended Three months ended Three months ended Three months ended
 June 30, 2018 June 30, 2017 June 30, 2019 June 30, 2018
(in thousands) Before Tax
Income Tax (1)
Net Before Tax
Income Tax (1)
Net Before TaxIncome TaxNet Before TaxIncome TaxNet
Investment securities:        
AOCI (loss), beginning of period $(3,460)$(727)$(2,733) $6,293
$2,202
$4,091
 $(2,235)$(470)$(1,765) $(3,460)$(727)$(2,733)
OCI (loss) before reclassifications (1,409)(296)(1,113) 1,746
611
1,135
 4,420
928
3,492
 (1,409)(296)(1,113)
Realized investment losses (gains) 66
14
52
 (126)(44)(82)
Realized investment (gains) losses (1,239)(260)(979) 66
14
52
Impairment losses 646
136
510
 61
22
39
 84
18
66
 646
136
510
OCI (loss) (697)(146)(551) 1,681
589
1,092
 3,265
686
2,579
 (697)(146)(551)
AOCI (loss), end of period $(4,157)$(873)$(3,284) $7,974
$2,791
$5,183
 $1,030
$216
$814
 $(4,157)$(873)$(3,284)
            
Pension and other postretirement plans: (2)
        
AOCI (loss), beginning of period $(200,954)$(42,201)$(158,753) $(190,695)$(66,744)$(123,951) $(154,190)$(32,381)$(121,809) $(200,954)$(42,201)$(158,753)
Amortization of prior service costs (1)
 348
73
275
 0
0
0
Amortization of net actuarial loss (1)
 1,210
254
956
 0
0
0
OCI 1,558
327
1,231
 0
0
0
AOCI (loss), end of period $(200,954)$(42,201)$(158,753) $(190,695)$(66,744)$(123,951) $(152,632)$(32,054)$(120,578) $(200,954)$(42,201)$(158,753)
            
Total        
AOCI (loss), beginning of period $(204,414)$(42,928)$(161,486) $(184,402)$(64,542)$(119,860) $(156,425)$(32,851)$(123,574) $(204,414)$(42,928)$(161,486)
Investment securities (697)(146)(551) 1,681
589
1,092
 3,265
686
2,579
 (697)(146)(551)
Pension and other postretirement plans 0
0
0
 0
0
0
 1,558
327
1,231
 0
0
0
OCI (loss) (697)(146)(551) 1,681
589
1,092
 4,823
1,013
3,810
 (697)(146)(551)
AOCI (loss), end of period $(205,111)$(43,074)$(162,037) $(182,721)$(63,953)$(118,768) $(151,602)$(31,838)$(119,764) $(205,111)$(43,074)$(162,037)

 Six months ended Six months ended Six months ended Six months ended
 June 30, 2018 June 30, 2017 June 30, 2019 June 30, 2018
(in thousands) Before Tax
Income Tax (1)
Net Before Tax
Income Tax (1)
Net Before TaxIncome TaxNet Before TaxIncome TaxNet
Investment securities:        
AOCI, beginning of period $3,410
$716
$2,694
 $3,954
$1,384
$2,570
AOCI (loss), beginning of period $(9,169)$(1,926)$(7,243) $3,410
$716
$2,694
OCI (loss) before reclassifications (8,539)(1,793)(6,746) 4,386
1,535
2,851
 13,194
2,771
10,423
 (8,539)(1,793)(6,746)
Realized investment losses (gains) 411
86
325
 (548)(192)(356)
Realized investment (gains) losses (3,157)(663)(2,494) 411
86
325
Impairment losses 646
136
510
 182
64
118
 162
34
128
 646
136
510
Cumulative effect of adopting ASU 2016-01 (3)(2)
 (85)(18)(67) 


 


 (85)(18)(67)
OCI (loss) (7,567)(1,589)(5,978) 4,020
1,407
2,613
 10,199
2,142
8,057
 (7,567)(1,589)(5,978)
AOCI (loss), end of period $(4,157)$(873)$(3,284) $7,974
$2,791
$5,183
 $1,030
$216
$814
 $(4,157)$(873)$(3,284)
          
Pension and other postretirement plans: (2)
        
AOCI (loss), beginning of period $(200,954)$(42,201)$(158,753) $(190,695)$(66,744)$(123,951) $(155,749)$(32,708)$(123,041) $(200,954)$(42,201)$(158,753)
Amortization of prior service costs (1)
 697
146
551
 0
0
0
Amortization of net actuarial loss (1)
 2,420
508
1,912
 0
0
0
OCI 3,117
654
2,463
 0
0
0
AOCI (loss), end of period $(200,954)$(42,201)$(158,753) $(190,695)$(66,744)$(123,951) $(152,632)$(32,054)$(120,578) $(200,954)$(42,201)$(158,753)
          
Total        
AOCI (loss), beginning of period $(197,544)$(41,485)$(156,059) $(186,741)$(65,360)$(121,381) $(164,918)$(34,634)$(130,284) $(197,544)$(41,485)$(156,059)
Investment securities (7,567)(1,589)(5,978) 4,020
1,407
2,613
 10,199
2,142
8,057
 (7,567)(1,589)(5,978)
Pension and other postretirement plans 0
0
0
 0
0
0
 3,117
654
2,463
 0
0
0
OCI (loss) (7,567)(1,589)(5,978) 4,020
1,407
2,613
 13,316
2,796
10,520
 (7,567)(1,589)(5,978)
AOCI (loss), end of period $(205,111)$(43,074)$(162,037) $(182,721)$(63,953)$(118,768) $(151,602)$(31,838)$(119,764) $(205,111)$(43,074)$(162,037)


(1)Deferred taxesEffective January 1, 2019, amounts reclassified from AOCI related to amortization of prior service costs and net actuarial loss were recognized atrecorded during interim periods. Prior to 2019, amounts reclassified for these items were recorded on an annual basis. These components are included in the corporate ratecomputation of 21%net periodic pension cost. See Note 9, "Postretirement Benefits", for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 and 35% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017.additional information.
(2)There are no comprehensive income items or amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive loss related to postretirement plan items during interim periods.
(3)ASU 2016-01 required a reclassification of unrealized losses of equity securities from AOCI to retained earnings at January 1, 2018. See Note 2, "Significant Accounting Policies".

Note 12.13. Concentrations of Credit Risk


Financial instruments could potentially expose us to concentrations of credit risk, including unsecured receivables from the Exchange. A large majority of our revenue and receivables are from the Exchange and its subsidiaries.affiliates. See also Note 1, "Nature of Operations". Management fee amounts and other reimbursements due from the Exchange and its subsidiariesaffiliates were $445.2$483.3 million and $418.3$449.9 million at June 30, 20182019 and December 31, 2017,2018, respectively. Given the financial strength of the Exchange and historical experience of no credit losses, we believe it is unlikely these receivables would have a significant credit loss exposure.




Note 13.14.  Commitments and Contingencies
 
We have contractual commitments to invest up to $13.9$9.9 million related to our limited partnership investments at June 30, 2018.2019.  These commitments are split among private equity securities of $5.5$4.4 million and mezzanine debt securities of $8.1 million, and real estate activities of $0.3$5.5 million. These commitments will be funded as required by the limited partnership agreements.


We are involved in litigation arising in the ordinary course of conducting business.  In accordance with current accounting standards for loss contingencies and based upon information currently known to us, we establish reserves for litigation when it is probable that a loss associated with a claim or proceeding has been incurred and the amount of the loss or range of loss can be reasonably estimated.  When no amount within the range of loss is a better estimate than any other amount, we accrue the minimum amount of the estimable loss.  To the extent that such litigation against us may have an exposure to a loss in excess of the amount we have accrued, we believe that such excess would not be material to our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.  Legal fees are expensed as incurred.  We believe that our accruals for legal proceedings are appropriate and, individually and in the aggregate, are not expected to be material to our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.


We review all litigation on an ongoing basis when making accrual and disclosure decisions.  For certain legal proceedings, we cannot reasonably estimate losses or a range of loss, if any, particularly for proceedings that are in their early stages of development or where the plaintiffs seek indeterminate damages.  Various factors, including, but not limited to, the outcome of potentially lengthy discovery and the resolution of important factual questions, may need to be determined before probability can be established or before a loss or range of loss can be reasonably estimated.  If the loss contingency in question is not both probable and reasonably estimable, we do not establish an accrual and the matter will continue to be monitored for any developments that would make the loss contingency both probable and reasonably estimable.  In the event that a legal proceeding results in a substantial judgment against, or settlement by, us, there can be no assurance that any resulting liability or financial commitment would not have a material adverse effect on the financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.




Note 14. 15. Subsequent Events
 
No items were identified in this period subsequent to the financial statement date that required adjustment or additional disclosure.





ITEM 2.MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
The following discussion of financial condition and results of operations highlights significant factors influencing Erie Indemnity Company ("Indemnity", "we", "us", "our").  This discussion should be read in conjunction with the historical financial statements and the related notes thereto included in Part I, Item 1. "Financial Statements" of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, and with Item 7. "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" for the year ended December 31, 2017,2018, as contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 22, 2018.21, 2019.
 
 
INDEX
 Page Number
 


CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
 
"Safe Harbor" Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995:
Statements contained herein that are not historical fact are forward-looking statements and, as such, are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ, perhaps materially, from those discussed herein.  Forward-looking statements relate to future trends, events or results and include, without limitation, statements and assumptions on which such statements are based that are related to our plans, strategies, objectives, expectations, intentions, and adequacy of resources.  Examples of forward-looking statements are discussions relating to premium and investment income, expenses, operating results, and compliance with contractual and regulatory requirements.  Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict.  Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in such forward-looking statements.  Among the risks and uncertainties, in addition to those set forth in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, that could cause actual results and future events to differ from those set forth or contemplated in the forward-looking statements include the following:

dependence upon our relationship with the Exchange and the management fee under the agreement with the subscribers at the Exchange;
dependence upon our relationship with the Exchange and the growth of the Exchange, including:
general business and economic conditions;
factors affecting insurance industry competition;
dependence upon the independent agency system; and
ability to maintain our reputation for customer service;
dependence upon our relationship with the Exchange and the financial condition of the Exchange, including:
the Exchange's ability to maintain acceptable financial strength ratings;
factors affecting the quality and liquidity of the Exchange's investment portfolio;
changes in government regulation of the insurance industry;
emerging claims and coverage issues in the industry; and
severe weather conditions or other catastrophic losses, including terrorism;
costs of providing policy issuance and renewal services to the Exchange under the subscriber's agreement;
credit risk from the Exchange;
ability to attract and retain talented management and employees;
ability to ensure system availability and effectively manage technology initiatives;
difficulties with technology or data security breaches, including cyber attacks;
ability to maintain uninterrupted business operations;
factors affecting the quality and liquidity of our investment portfolio;


our ability to meet liquidity needs and access capital; and
outcome of pending and potential litigation.


A forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and reflects our analysis only as of that date.  We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, or otherwise.



RECENTLY ADOPTED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 606, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers". ASC 606 requires an entity to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. (See Part I, Item 1. "Financial Statements - Note 2, Significant Accounting Policies, of Notes to Financial Statements" contained within this report.) We adopted ASC 606 as of January 1, 2018 using the modified retrospective method.

Under ASC 606, we determined that we are acting as the attorney-in-fact for the subscribers at the Exchange in two capacities pursuant to the subscriber's agreement. The first is providing policy issuance and renewal services. The second is acting as the attorney-in-fact on behalf of the Exchange, as well as the service provider for its insurance subsidiaries, with respect to all claims handling, life insurance, and investment management services, collectively referred to as "administrative services". Beginning January 1, 2018, the management fee, currently 25% of all direct and assumed premiums written by the Exchange, will be allocated between the two performance obligations. Prior to the adoption of ASC 606, the entire management fee was allocated to the policy issuance and renewal services. Additionally, the expenses we incur and related reimbursements we receive for administrative services are presented gross in our Statement of Operations effective January 1, 2018.

A significant portion of the management fee will be allocated to the policy issuance and renewal services and recognized at a point in time, i.e. the time of policy issuance or renewal. Therefore, the related revenue recognition pattern for the vast majority of our revenues remains unchanged. The management fee allocated to the administrative services will be recognized as revenue over a four-year period in correlation to costs incurred. Upon adoption at January 1, 2018, we established a contract liability related to the administrative services of $48.5 million, a deferred tax asset of $10.2 million, and recorded a cumulative effect adjustment that reduced shareholders' equity by $38.3 million. If ASC 606 had been effective in 2017, based on current estimates our revenue would have been reduced by approximately $1.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2017, and reduced by approximately $2.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2017.



RECENT ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
 
See Part I, Item 1. "Financial Statements - Note 2, Significant Accounting Policies, of Notes to Financial Statements" contained within this report for a discussion of other recently adopted as well as other recently issued accounting standards and the impact on our financial statements if known.




OPERATING OVERVIEW
 
Overview
We serve as the attorney-in-fact for the subscribers (policyholders) at the Exchange, a reciprocal insurer that writes property and casualty insurance. Our primary function as attorney-in-fact is to perform policy issuance and renewal services on behalf of the subscribers at the Exchange. We also act as attorney-in-fact on behalf of the Exchange, as well as the service provider for its insurance subsidiaries, with respect to all administrative services.


The Exchange is a reciprocal insurance exchange, which is an unincorporated association of individuals, partnerships and corporations that agree to insure one another. Each applicant for insurance to the Exchange signs a subscriber's agreement, which contains an appointment of Indemnity as their attorney-in-fact to transact the business of the Exchange on their behalf. Pursuant to the subscriber’s agreement for acting as attorney-in-fact in these two capacities, we earn a management fee calculated as a percentage of the direct and affiliated assumed premiums written by the Exchange.



Our earnings are primarily driven by the management fee revenue generated for the services we provide to the Exchange. The policy issuance and renewal services we provide to the Exchange are related to the sales, underwriting and issuance of policies. The sales related services we provide include agent compensation and certain sales and advertising support services. Agent compensation includes scheduled commissions to agents based upon premiums written as well as additional commissions and bonuses to agents, which are earned by achieving targeted measures. Agent compensation generally comprises approximately two-thirds of our policy issuance and renewal expenses. The underwriting services we provide include underwriting and policy processing. The remaining services we provide include customer service and administrative support. We also provide information technology services that support all the functions listed above. Included in these expenses are allocations of costs for departments that support these policy issuance and renewal functions.


By virtue of its legal structure as a reciprocal insurer, the Exchange does not have any employees or officers. Therefore, it enters into contractual relationships by and through an attorney-in-fact. Indemnity serves as the attorney-in-fact on behalf of the Exchange with respect to its administrative services. The Exchange's insurance subsidiaries also utilize Indemnity for these services in accordance with the service agreements between each of the subsidiaries and Indemnity. Claims handling services include costs incurred in the claims process, including the adjustment, investigation, defense, recording and payment functions. Life insurance management services include costs incurred in the management and processing of life insurance business. Investment management services are related to investment trading activity, accounting and all other functions attributable to the investment of funds. Included in these expenses are allocations of costs for departments that support these administrative functions. The amounts incurred for these services are reimbursed to Indemnity at cost in accordance with the subscriber's agreement and the service agreements. State insurance regulations require that intercompany service agreements and any material amendments be approved in advance by the state insurance department.


Our results of operations are tied to the growth and financial condition of the Exchange as the Exchange is our sole customer, and our earnings are largely generated from management fees based on the direct and affiliated assumed premiums written by the Exchange. The Exchange generates revenue by insuring preferred and standard risks, with personal lines comprising 71% of the 20172018 direct and affiliated assumed written premiums and commercial lines comprising the remaining 29%.  The principal personal lines products are private passenger automobile and homeowners.  The principal commercial lines products are commercial multi-peril, commercial automobile and workers compensation.


Financial Overview
 Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(dollars in thousands, except per share data) 2018 2017 % Change 2018 2017 % Change 2019 2018 % Change 2019 2018 % Change
 (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)    (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   
Operating income $95,323
 $83,448
 14.2
% $172,890
 $150,388
 15.0
% $96,610
 $95,323
 1.3
% $182,732
 $172,890
 5.7
%
Total investment income 6,207
 6,451
 (3.8) 12,370
 13,040
 (5.1)  9,652
 6,207
 55.5
 19,447
 12,370
 57.2
 
Interest expense, net 602
 257
 NM
 1,155
 423
 NM
  272
 602
 (54.9) 721
 1,155
 (37.6) 
Other income (expense) 58
 (407) NM
 102
 (816) NM
 
Other income 48
 58
 (17.9) 95
 102
 (7.1) 
Income before income taxes 100,986
 89,235
 13.2
 184,207
 162,189
 13.6
  106,038
 100,986
 5.0
 201,553
 184,207
 9.4
 
Income tax expense 21,280
 30,708
 (30.7) 38,743
 55,786
 (30.6)  18,284
 21,280
 (14.1) 38,488
 38,743
 (0.7) 
Net income $79,706
 $58,527
 36.2
% $145,464
 $106,403
 36.7
% $87,754
 $79,706
 10.1
% $163,065
 $145,464
 12.1
%
Net income per share - diluted $1.52
 $1.12
 36.2
% $2.78
 $2.03
 36.8
% $1.68
 $1.52
 10.1
% $3.12
 $2.78
 12.1
%
NM = not meaningful



Operating income increased in both the second quarter and six months ended June 30, 2018,2019, compared to the same periods in 2017, as the growth in total operating revenue outpaced the growth in total operating expenses.2018. Management fee revenue for policy issuance and renewal services increased $13.3 million5.7% and 5.9% in the second quarter of 2018 and $27.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018, compared to the same periods in 2017. Management fee revenue allocated to administrative services was $13.3 million in the second quarter of 2018 and $26.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018. No management fee revenue was allocated to administrative services in the second quarter or six months ended June 30, 2017.2019, respectively. Management fee revenue is based upon the management fee rate we charge, and the direct and affiliated assumed premiums written by the Exchange. The management fee rate was 25% for both 20182019 and 2017.2018. The direct and affiliated assumed premiums written by the Exchange increased 6.5%5.6% to $1.9$2.0 billion in the second quarter of 20182019 and 6.7%increased 5.8% to $3.6$3.8 billion for the six months ended June 30, 2018,2019, compared to the same periods in 2017.2018.

Cost of operations for policy issuance and renewal services increased 6.7% and 5.8% in the second quarter and six months ended June 30, 2019, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2018, primarily due to higher commissions driven by direct written premium growth, personnel costs and technology investments.

Management fee revenue for administrative services increased $0.9 million to $14.2 million in the second quarter of 2019 and increased $1.8 million to $28.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2019, compared to the same periods in 2018. The administrative services reimbursement revenue and corresponding cost of operations increased both total operating revenue and total operating expenses by $146.5$146.1 million forin the second quarter of 20182019 and $292.5$288.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018,2019, but had no net impact on operating income.income in either period.


Cost of operations for policy issuanceTotal investment income increased $3.4 million and renewal services increased 4.0% and 4.4%$7.1 million in the threesecond quarter and six months ended June 30, 2018,2019, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2017, due to higher commissions2018. The increase in both periods was primarily driven by net realized gains on investments and higher underwriting and policy processing costs driven by direct written premium growth.net investment income.


Total investment income decreased $0.2 millionIncome tax expense in the second quarter of 2018 and $0.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018, compared to the same periods in 2017, primarily driven2019 was impacted by net realized lossesan income tax benefit of approximately $4.1 million as a result of settling an uncertain tax position, which reduced our effective tax rate by 3.8% and impairments on investments.

Income before income taxes increased $11.8 million2.0% in the second quarter and $22.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018, while income tax expense decreased $9.4 million in the second quarter and $17.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018, due to the lower income tax rate of 21% which became effective January 1, 2018.2019, respectively.


General Conditions and Trends Affecting Our Business
Economic conditions
Unfavorable changes in economic conditions, including declining consumer confidence, inflation, high unemployment, and the threat of recession, among others, may lead the Exchange's customers to modify coverage, not renew policies, or even cancel policies, which could adversely affect the premium revenue of the Exchange, and consequently our management fee.  Further, unanticipated increased inflation costs including medical cost inflation, construction and auto repair cost inflation, and tort issues may impact the estimated loss reserves and future premium rates. If any of these items impacted the financial condition or continuing operations of the Exchange, it could have an impact on our financial results.
 
Financial market volatility
Our portfolio of fixed maturity, equity security, and limited partnership investments is subject to market volatility especially in periods of instability in the worldwide financial markets.  Over time, net investment income could also be impacted by volatility and by the general level of interest rates, which impact reinvested cash flow from the portfolio and business operations. Depending upon market conditions, which are unpredictable and remain uncertain, considerable fluctuation could exist in the fair value of our investment portfolio and reported total investment income, which could have an adverse impact on our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.



RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
Management fee revenue
On January 1, 2018, we adopted ASC 606, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers". Upon adoption, we determined weWe have two performance obligations in the subscriber’s agreement, providing policy issuance and renewal services and acting as attorney-in-fact for the Exchange, as well as the service provider for its insurance subsidiaries, with respect to all administrative services. We earn management fees for acting as the attorney-in-fact for the subscribers at the Exchange in these two capacities. Upon adoption of ASC 606, we are required tocapacities, and allocate our revenues between our performance obligations. Prior to the adoption of ASC 606, the entire management fee was allocated to the policy issuance and renewal services.
 
The management fee is calculated by multiplying all direct and affiliated assumed premiums written by the Exchange by the management fee rate, which is determined by our Board of Directors at least annually.  The management fee rate was set at 25%, the maximum rate, for both 20182019 and 2017.2018.  Changes in the management fee rate can affect our revenue and net income significantly. The transaction price, including management fee revenue and administrative service reimbursement revenue, is allocated based on the estimated standalone selling prices developed using industry information and other available information for similar services. We update the transaction price allocation annually based upon the most recent information available. There was no material change to the allocation in 2019.


The following table presents the allocation and disaggregation of revenue for our two performance obligations: 
Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(dollars in thousands)20182017% Change 20182017% Change20192018% Change 20192018% Change
(Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited)  (Unaudited)  
Policy issuance and renewal services          
Direct and assumed premiums written by the Exchange$1,887,999
$1,772,877
6.5% $3,570,793
$3,345,908
6.7%
Direct and affiliated assumed premiums written by the Exchange$1,993,593
$1,887,999
5.6
% $3,778,113
$3,570,793
5.8
%
Management fee rate24.2%25.0% 24.2%25.0% 24.2%24.2%  24.2%24.2%  
Management fee revenue456,896
443,219
3.1 864,132
836,477
3.3 482,449
456,896
5.6
 914,303
864,132
5.8
 
Change in allowance for management fee returned on cancelled policies (1)
(2,324)(1,900)NM (3,582)(3,100)NM (1,936)(2,324)16.7
 (2,807)(3,582)21.6
 
Management fee revenue - policy issuance and renewal services, net (2)
$454,572
$441,319
3.0% $860,550
$833,377
3.3%$480,513
$454,572
5.7
% $911,496
$860,550
5.9
%
          
Administrative services          
Direct and assumed premiums written by the Exchange$1,887,999
$
N/A% $3,570,793
$
N/A%
Direct and affiliated assumed premiums written by the Exchange$1,993,593
$1,887,999
5.6
% $3,778,113
$3,570,793
5.8
%
Management fee rate0.8%
 0.8%
 0.8%0.8%  0.8%0.8%  
Management fee revenue15,104

N/A 28,566

N/A 15,949
15,104
5.6
 30,225
28,566
5.8
 
Change in contract liability (3)(2)
(1,791)N/A
N/A (2,165)N/A
N/A (1,742)(1,791)2.8
 (2,052)(2,165)5.2
 
Change in allowance for management fee returned on cancelled policies (1)
(14)N/A
N/A (28)N/A
N/A (12)(14)12.4
 (27)(28)3.5
 
Management fee revenue - administrative services, net13,299

N/A 26,373

N/A 14,195
13,299
6.7
 28,146
26,373
6.7
 
Administrative services reimbursement revenue146,507

N/A 292,470

N/A 146,095
146,507
(0.3) 288,575
292,470
(1.3) 
Total revenue from administrative services$159,806
$
N/A% $318,843
$
N/A%$160,290
$159,806
0.3
% $316,721
$318,843
(0.7)%
NM = not meaningful
N/A = not applicable


(1)Management fees are returned to the Exchange when policies are cancelled mid-term and unearned premiums are refunded.  We record an estimated allowance for management fees returned on mid-term policy cancellations. This estimated allowance has been allocated between the two performance obligations consistent with the revenue allocation proportion.


(2)The allocation of management fee revenue between the two performance obligations beginning January 1, 2018, caused the growth in management fee revenue - policy issuance and renewal services to not correspond directly with the growth in direct and assumed premiums written by the Exchange in the second quarter and six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to same respective periods in 2017.

(3)With the adoption of ASC 606 effective January 1, 2018, managementManagement fee revenue - administrative services is recognized over time as the services are performed. See Part I, Item 1. "Financial Statements - Note 2, Significant Accounting Policies and Note 3, Revenue, of Notes to Financial Statements" contained within this report.



Direct and affiliated assumed premiums written by the Exchange
Direct and affiliated assumed premiums include premiums written directly by the Exchange and premiums assumed from its wholly owned property and casualty subsidiaries. Direct and affiliated assumed premiums written by the Exchange increased 6.5%5.6% to $2.0 billion in the second quarter of 2019, from $1.9 billion in the second quarter of 2018, compared to the second quarter of 2017, driven by increases in both policies in force and average premium per policy.  Year-over-year policies in force for all lines of business increased 2.7% in the second quarter of 2019 driven by continuing strong policyholder retention, compared to 3.5% in the second quarter of 2018 as the result of continuing strong policyholder retention and an increase in new policies written, compared to 3.2% in the second quarter of 2017.2018.  The year-over-year average premium per policy for all lines of business increased 3.4% at June 30, 2019, compared to 2.8% at June 30, 2018, compared2018.
Premiums generated from new business decreased 1.1% to 2.7%$233 million in the second quarter of 2019. While year-over-year average premium per policy on new business increased 6.4% at June 30, 2017.

2019, new business polices written decreased 7.4% in the second quarter of 2019. Premiums generated from new business increased 7.0% to $236 million in the second quarter of 2018, compared to an increase of 10.4% to $221 million in the second quarter of 2017.2018. Underlying thethis trend in new business premiumspremium was a 0.1% increase in new business policies written in the second quarter of 2018 compared toand a 6.3% increase in the second quarter of 2017, while the year-over-year average premium per policy on new business increasedincrease of 5.3% at June 30, 2018, compared to 4.2% at June 30, 2017.2018. Premiums generated from renewal business increased 6.6% to $1.8 billion in the second quarter of 2019, compared to an increase of 6.4% to $1.7 billion in the second quarter of 2018, compared to an increase of 5.1% to $1.6 billion in the second quarter of 2017.2018.  Underlying the trend in renewal business premiums was an increase in year-over-year average premium per policy of 2.5%2.9% at June 30, 20182019 and steady policy retention ratios.  Year-over-year average premium per policy increased 2.5% at June 30, 2017.2018.


Personal lines – Total personal lines premiums written increased 6.3%5.6% to $1.4 billion in the second quarter of 2019, from $1.3 billion in the second quarter of 2018, compared to 6.8% in the second quarter of 2017, driven by an increase of 3.7%2.7% in total personal lines policies in force and an increase of 3.1% in the total personal lines year-over-year average premium per policy.


Commercial lines – Total commercial lines premiums written increased 7.1%5.6% to $580 million in the second quarter of 2019, from $549 million in the second quarter of 2018, from $513 million in the second quarter of 2017, driven by a 2.6% increase in total commercial lines policies in force and a 2.8%4.0% increase in the total commercial lines year-over-year average premium per policy. 


Future trends-premium revenue – The Exchange plans to continue its efforts to grow premiums and improve its competitive position in the marketplace.  Expanding the size of its agency force through a careful agency selection process and increased market penetration in our existing operating territories is expected to contribute to future growth as existing and new agents build their books of business.


Changes in premium levels attributable to the growth in policies in force and rate changes directly affect the profitability of the Exchange and have a direct bearing on our management fee. Our continued focus on underwriting discipline and the maturing of pricing sophistication models has contributed to the Exchange's growth in new policies in force, steady policy retention ratios and increased average premium per policy.


Policy issuance and renewal services
Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(dollars in thousands)20182017% Change 20182017% Change20192018% Change 20192018% Change
(Unaudited)  (Unaudited)  (Unaudited)  (Unaudited)  
Management fee revenue - policy issuance and renewal services, net$454,572
$441,319
3.0
% $860,550
$833,377
3.3
%$480,513
$454,572
5.7
% $911,496
$860,550
5.9
%
Service agreement revenue7,080
7,245
(2.3) 14,225
14,503
(1.9) 6,907
7,080
(2.4) 13,599
14,225
(4.4) 
461,652
448,564
2.9
 874,775
847,880
3.2
 487,420
461,652
5.6
 925,095
874,775
5.8
 
Cost of policy issuance and renewal services379,628
365,116
4.0
 728,258
697,492
4.4
 405,005
379,628
6.7
 770,509
728,258
5.8
 
Operating income - policy issuance and renewal services$82,024
$83,448
(1.7)% $146,517
$150,388
(2.6)%$82,415
$82,024
0.5
% $154,586
$146,517
5.5
%




Policy issuance and renewal services
We allocate a portion of the management fee, which currently equates to 24.2% of the direct and affiliated assumed premiums written by the Exchange, for providing policy issuance and renewal services. This portion of the management fee is recognized as revenue when the policy is issued or renewed because it is at that time that the services we provide are substantially complete and the executed insurance policy is transferred to the customer. The increase in management fee revenue for policy issuance and renewal services was driven by the increase in the direct and affiliated assumed premiums written by the Exchange discussed previously.



Service agreement revenue
Service agreement revenue includes service charges we collect from subscribers/policyholders for providing extended payment terms on policies written and assumed by the Exchange, and late payment and policy reinstatement fees.  The service charges are fixed dollar amounts per billed installment.  Despite the growth in policies in force, theThe decrease in service agreement revenue reflects the continued shift to payment plans that do not incur service charges or offer a premium discount for certain payment methods. The shift to these plans is driven by the consumers' desire to avoid paying service charges and to take advantage of the discount.


Cost of policy issuance and renewal services
Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(dollars in thousands)20182017% Change 20182017% Change20192018% Change 20192018% Change
(Unaudited)  (Unaudited) (Unaudited)  (Unaudited)  
Commissions:           
Total commissions$261,573
$251,383
4.1 % $495,667
$471,861
5.0 %$273,256
$261,573
4.5
% $516,238
$495,667
4.2
%
Non-commission expense:(1)           
Underwriting and policy processing$38,732
$36,642
5.7 % $77,326
$72,055
7.3 %$39,760
$37,813
5.2
% $78,445
$76,407
2.7
%
Information technology34,900
35,387
(1.4) 68,849
70,162
(1.9)40,564
34,381
18.0
 79,994
68,330
17.1
 
Sales and advertising16,463
17,073
(3.6) 31,235
30,653
1.9
12,392
12,981
(4.5) 25,202
27,753
(9.2) 
Customer service8,247
6,943
18.8
 16,492
13,578
21.5
8,020
6,536
22.7
 16,336
14,781
10.5
 
Administrative and other19,713
17,688
11.4
 38,689
39,183
(1.3)31,013
26,344
17.7
 54,294
45,320
19.8
 
Total non-commission expense118,055
113,733
3.8
 232,591
225,631
3.1
131,749
118,055
11.6
 254,271
232,591
9.3
 
Total cost of policy issuance and renewal services$379,628
$365,116
4.0 % $728,258
$697,492
4.4 %$405,005
$379,628
6.7
% $770,509
$728,258
5.8
%


(1)2018 amounts have been reclassified between categories to conform to the current period presentation.



Commissions – Commissions increased $10.2$11.7 million in the second quarter of 20182019 and $23.8$20.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018,2019, compared to the same respective periods in 2017.2018. The increases were primarily driven by increasesthe growth in direct and affiliated assumed premiums written by the Exchange of 6.5% for5.6% in the second quarter of 2019 and 6.7%5.8% for the six months ended June 30, 2018, slightly2019, partially offset by lower agent incentive costs related to less profitable growth, compared to the same respective periods in 2017.2018. The estimated agent incentive payoutpayouts at June 30, 2018 is2019 are based on actual underwriting results for the two prior years and current year-to-date actual results and forecasted results for the remainder of 2018.2019. Therefore, fluctuations in the current quarter underwriting results can impact the estimated incentive payout on a quarter-to-quarter basis.


Non-commission expense – Non-commission expense increased $4.3$13.7 million in the second quarter of 20182019 compared to the same period in 2017.  Underwriting and policy processingsecond quarter of 2018. Information technology costs increased $2.1$6.2 million primarily due to increased underwriting report costs.professional fees. Customer service costs increased $1.3$1.5 million primarily due to increased personnel costs and credit card processing fees.costs. Administrative and other expenses increased $2.0$4.7 million primarily driven by an increase in long-term incentive plan cost due to a sales and use tax refund recorded inhigher company stock price during the second quarter of 2017.2019 compared to the second quarter of 2018. Personnel costs in all expense categories for the second quarter of 2019 were impacted by additional bonuses awarded to all employees of approximately $1.1 million.


Non-commission expense increased $7.0$21.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 20182019 compared to the same period in 2017. Underwriting and policy processing2018. Information technology costs increased $5.3$11.7 million primarily due to increased personnel costsprofessional fees. Administrative and underwriting report costs. Information technology costs decreased $1.3other expenses increased $9.0 million primarily driven by an increase in long-term incentive plan cost due to lower professional fees and hardware and software costs, somewhat offset bya higher personnel costs. Customer service costs increased $2.9 million primarily duecompany stock price during the six months ended June 30, 2019 compared to increased personnel costs and credit card processing fees.the six months ended June 30, 2018. Personnel costs in all expense categories were impacted by additional bonuses of approximately $4.8 million awarded to all employees as a result of tax savings realized fromapproximately $1.1 million for the lower corporate income tax rate that became effective January 1,six months ended June 30, 2019 and $4.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018. These increased personnel costs were somewhat offset by lower estimated costs for incentive plan awards related to underwriting performance.



Administrative services
Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(dollars in thousands)20182017% Change 20182017% Change20192018% Change 20192018% Change
(Unaudited)  (Unaudited) (Unaudited)  (Unaudited)  
Management fee revenue - administrative services, net$13,299
$
N/A% $26,373
$
N/A%$14,195
$13,299
6.7
% $28,146
$26,373
6.7
%
Administrative services reimbursement revenue146,507

N/A 292,470

N/A 146,095
146,507
(0.3) 288,575
292,470
(1.3) 
Total revenue allocated to administrative services159,806

N/A 318,843

N/A 160,290
159,806
0.3
 316,721
318,843
(0.7) 
Administrative services expenses          
Claims handling services127,544

N/A 255,649

N/A 127,296
127,544
(0.2) 251,495
255,649
(1.6) 
Investment management services8,485

N/A 16,773

N/A 8,402
8,485
(1.0) 17,185
16,773
2.5
 
Life management services10,478

N/A 20,048

N/A 10,397
10,478
(0.8) 19,895
20,048
(0.8) 
Operating income - administrative services$13,299
$
N/A% $26,373
$
N/A%$14,195
$13,299
6.7
% $28,146
$26,373
6.7
%
N/A = not applicable



Administrative services
We allocate a portion of the management fee, which currently equates to 0.8% of the direct and affiliated assumed premiums written by the Exchange, to the administrative services. This portion of the management fee is recognized as revenue over a four-year period representing the time over which the services are provided. We also report reimbursed costs as revenues, which are recognized monthly as services are provided. Beginning with the adoption of ASC 606 on January 1, 2018, theThe administrative services expenses we incur and the related reimbursements we receive are recorded gross in the StatementStatements of Operations.


Cost of administrative services
By virtue of its legal structure as a reciprocal insurer, the Exchange does not have any employees or officers. Therefore, it enters into contractual relationships by and through an attorney-in-fact. Indemnity serves as the attorney-in-fact on behalf of the Exchange with respect to its administrative services in accordance with the subscriber's agreement. The Exchange's insurance subsidiaries also utilize Indemnity for these services in accordance with the service agreements between each of the subsidiaries and Indemnity. The amounts incurred for these services are reimbursed to Indemnity at cost in accordance with the subscriber's agreement and the service agreements.  We record these reimbursements due from the Exchange and its insurance subsidiaries as a receivable.


Total investment income
A summary of the results of our investment operations is as follows:
 Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(dollars in thousands) 2018 2017 % Change 2018 2017 % Change 20192018 % Change 20192018 % Change
 (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)    (Unaudited) (Unaudited)   
Net investment income $7,104
 $6,239
 13.9
% $13,924
 $12,220
 13.9
% $8,030
$7,104
 13.0% $16,547
$13,924
 18.8
%
Net realized investment (losses) gains (32) 124
 NM
 (497) 640
 NM
 
Net realized investment gains (losses) 1,302
(32) NM 3,805
(497) NM
 
Net impairment losses recognized in earnings (646) (61) NM
 (646) (182) NM
  (84)(646) 87.1 (162)(646) 75.0
 
Equity in (losses) earnings of limited partnerships (219) 149
 NM
 (411) 362
 NM
 
Equity in earnings (losses) of limited partnerships 404
(219) NM (743)(411) (80.8) 
Total investment income $6,207
 $6,451
 (3.8)% $12,370
 $13,040
 (5.1)% $9,652
$6,207
 55.5% $19,447
$12,370
 57.2
%


NM = not meaningful




Net investment income
Net investment income primarily includes interest and dividends on our fixed maturity and equity security portfolios, net of investment expenses. 
Net investment income increased by $0.9 million in the second quarter of 2018, compared to the second quarter of 2017,2019 and increased by $1.7$2.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018,2019, compared to the six months ended June 30, 2017.same periods in 2018. The increase in net investment income inresults from both periods waswere primarily due to an increase inincreased income generated from cash and cash equivalents and earned on agent loans, both resulting from higher balances and rates. Those earnings were somewhat offset by decreased income on fixed maturities driven by an increase in rates. Additionally, preferred stock income increased due to higherlower average invested balances and bond income increased due to higher yields.balances.


Net realized investmentsinvestment gains (losses) gains
A breakdown of our net realized investment gains (losses) gains is as follows:
 Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017 2019 2018 2019 2018
Securities sold: (Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited)
Fixed maturities $(66) $271
 $(411) $693
 $1,239
 $(66) $3,157
 $(411)
Equity securities 0
 (145) (59) (145) 0
 0
 0
 (59)
Equity securities decreases in fair value (1)
 (68) 0
 (129) 0
Equity securities change in fair value (1)
 63
 (68) 648
 (129)
Miscellaneous 102
 (2) 102
 92
 0
 102
 0
 102
Net realized investment (losses) gains (2)
 $(32) $124
 $(497) $640
Net realized investment gains (losses) (2)
 $1,302
 $(32) $3,805
 $(497)
 
(1)The fair value of our equity portfolio is based upon exchange traded prices provided by a nationally recognized pricing service.
(2)See Part I, Item 1. "Financial Statements - Note 6, Investments, of Notes to Financial Statements" contained within this report for additional disclosures regarding net realized investment gains (losses) gains..




The second quarter of 2018 losses from sales of fixed maturity securities and decreases in fair value of equity securities were somewhat offset by miscellaneous gains. Net realized gains during the second quarter of 2017 from sales of fixed maturity securities were partially offset by losses from sales of equity securities. Net realized losses of $0.5 million for theand six months ended June 30, 2018 were primarily driven by losses from sales of securities coupled with decreases in fair value of equity securities. Net realized gains of $0.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 20172019 were primarily driven by gains from sales of fixed maturity securities partiallysecurities. Net realized losses during the second quarter and six months ended June 2018, while driven by sales activity and market value adjustments, were offset somewhat by losses from sales of equity securities.miscellaneous gains.


Net impairment losses recognized in earnings
Net impairment losses in the second quarter of 2018 were $0.6$0.1 million compared to $0.1and $0.6 million in the second quarterquarters of 2017. Net impairment losses were $0.62019 and 2018, respectively, and $0.2 million and $0.2$0.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 20182019 and 2017,2018, respectively. Impairments were primarily related toin all periods included securities in an unrealized loss position where we determined the loss was other-than-temporary based on credit factors. Impairments in both yearsThe 2018 periods also included securities in an unrealized loss position with intent to sell prior to expected recovery of our amortized cost basis.


Equity in earnings (losses) earnings of limited partnerships
The components of equity in earnings (losses) earnings of limited partnerships are as follows:
 
 Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017 2019 2018 2019 2018
 (Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited)
Private equity $(270) $(323) $66
 $228
 $187
 $(270) $(1,008) 66
Mezzanine debt 27
 33
 105
 (113) (51) 27
 (56) 105
Real estate 24
 439
 (582) 247
 268
 24
 321
 (582)
Total equity in (losses) earnings of limited partnerships $(219) $149
 $(411) $362
Equity in earnings (losses) of limited partnerships $404
 $(219) $(743) (411)
 


Limited partnership earnings pertain to investments in U.S. and foreign private equity, mezzanine debt, and real estate partnerships.  Valuation adjustments are recorded to reflect the changes in fair value of the underlying investments held by the limited partnerships.  These adjustments are recorded as a component of equity in earnings (losses) of limited partnerships in the Statements of Operations.


Limited partnership earnings tend to be cyclical based upon market conditions, the age of the partnership, and the nature of the investments.  Generally, limited partnership earnings are recorded on a quarter lag from financial statements we receive from our general partners.  As a consequence, earnings from limited partnerships reported at June 30, 20182019 reflect investment valuation changes resulting from the financial markets and the economy in the fourth quarter of 20172018 and the first quarter of 2018.2019.


Limited partnership investments generated gains of $0.4 million and losses of $0.2 million and $0.4 million in the second quarterquarters of 2019 and year to date 2018, respectively, compared to earningsand losses of $0.1$0.7 million and $0.4 million in the second quarter and year to date periods of 2017, respectively. The real estate sector generated lower earnings in the second quarter and losses in the six months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The real estate and private equity sectors generated higher earnings in the second quarter of 2019 compared to the second quarter of 2018. Losses generated for the six months ended June 2019 were primarily in the private equity sector, partially offset by earnings from real estate investments while losses for the six months ended June 2018 were primarily in the real estate sector.


Financial condition of Erie Insurance Exchange
Serving in the capacity of attorney-in-fact for the Exchange, we are dependent on the growth and financial condition of the Exchange, who is our sole customer. The strength of the Exchange and its wholly owned subsidiaries is rated annually by A.M. Best Company. Higher ratings of insurance companies generally indicate financial stability and a strong ability to pay claims. The ratings are generally based upon factors relevant to policyholders and are not directed toward return to investors. The Exchange and each of its property and casualty subsidiaries are rated A+ "Superior". On June 18, 2018,24, 2019, the outlook for the financial strength rating was affirmed as stable.According to A.M. Best, this second highest financial strength rating category is assigned to those companies that, in A.M. Best’s opinion, have achieved superior overall performance when compared to the standards established by A.M. Best and have a superior ability to meet obligations to policyholders over the long term. As of December 31, 2017,2018, only approximately 12% of insurance groups are rated A+ or higher, and the Exchange is included in that group.


The financial statements of the Exchange are prepared in accordance with statutory accounting principles prescribed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Financial statements prepared under statutory accounting principles focus on the solvency of the insurer and generally provide a more conservative approach than under GAAP.U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Statutory direct written premiums of the Exchange and its wholly owned property and casualty subsidiaries grew 6.7%5.8% to
$3.8 billion for the six months ended June 30, 2019 from $3.6 billion for the six months ended June 30, 2018 from $3.3 billion for the six months ended June 30, 2017.2018. These premiums, along with investment income, are the major sources of cash that support the operations of the Exchange. Policyholders’ surplus determined under statutory accounting principles was $9.0 billion at June 30, 2019, $8.6 billion at December 31, 2018, and $8.8 billion at June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, and $8.1 billion at June 30, 2017.2018. The Exchange and its wholly owned property and casualty subsidiaries' year-over-year policy retention ratio continues to be high at 90.2% at June 30, 2019, 90.1% at December 31, 2018, and 89.8% at June 30, 2018 and 89.6% at December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017.


2018.

FINANCIAL CONDITION
 
Investments
Our investment portfolio is managed with the objective of maximizing after-tax returns on a risk-adjusted basis.
 
Distribution of investments
 
 Carrying value at   Carrying value at   Carrying value at   Carrying value at  
(dollars in thousands) June 30, 2018 % to total December 31, 2017 % to total June 30, 2019 % to total December 31, 2018 % to total
 (Unaudited)  
  
 (Unaudited)  
  
Fixed maturities $705,428
 93% $745,961
 93% $689,108
 87% $748,523
 88%
Equity securities:                
Preferred stock 12,488
 2
 12,752
 2
 12,445
 2
 11,853
 1
Limited partnerships:                
Private equity 30,501
 4
 31,663
 4
 26,793
 3
 28,271
 3
Mezzanine debt 2,916
 0
 3,516
 0
 1,053
 0
 1,152
 0
Real estate 6,234
 1
 9,943
 1
 2,498
 0
 5,398
 1
Real estate mortgage loans (1)
 95
 0
 136
 0
Other investments (1)
 61,478
 8
 58,394
 7
Total investments $757,662
 100% $803,971
 100% $793,375
 100% $853,591
 100%
(1)Other investments primarily include agent loans. Agent loans are included with other assets in the Statements of Financial Position.

(1)    Real estate mortgage loans are included with Other assets in the Statements of Financial Position.



We continually review our investment portfolio to evaluate positions that might incur other-than-temporary declines in value. We record impairment write-downs on investments in instances where the fair value of the investment is substantially below cost, and we conclude that the decline in fair value is other-than-temporary, which includes consideration for intent to sell.  For all investment holdings, general economic conditions and/or conditions specifically affecting the underlying issuer or its industry, including downgrades by the major rating agencies, are considered in evaluating impairment in value.  In addition to specific factors, other factors considered in our review of investment valuation are the length of time the fair value is below cost and the amount the fair value is below cost.
 
We individually analyze all positions with emphasis on those that have, in management’sour opinion, declined significantly below cost.  In compliance with current impairment guidance for available-for-sale debt securities, we perform further analysis to determine if a credit-related impairment has occurred.  Some of the factors considered in determining whether a debt security is credit impaired include potential for the default of interest and/or principal, level of subordination, collateral of the issue, compliance with financial covenants, credit ratings and industry conditions.  We have the intent to sell all credit-impaired debt securities; therefore, the entire amount of the impairment charges are included in earnings and no impairments are recorded in other comprehensive income.  We believe our investment valuation philosophy and accounting practices result in appropriate and timely measurement of fair value and recognition of impairment.


Fixed maturities
Under our investment strategy, we maintain a fixed maturity portfolio that is of high quality and well diversified within each market sector.  This investment strategy also achieves a balanced maturity schedule.  Our fixed maturity portfolio is managed with the goal of achieving reasonable returns while limiting exposure to risk.  OurAs part of a rebalancing of our portfolio, we began selling off our municipal bond portfolio accounts for $258.5 million, or 37%,in the fourth quarter of the total fixed maturity portfolio at June 30, 2018. The overall credit rating of the municipal portfolio without consideration of the underlying insurance is AA+.proceeds were reinvested in U.S. Treasury and corporate debt securities.


Fixed maturities classified as available-for-sale are carried at fair value with unrealized gains and losses, net of deferred taxes, included in shareholders’ equity.  Net unrealized lossesgains on fixed maturities, net of deferred taxes, amounted to $2.7$1.0 million at June 30, 2018,2019, compared to net unrealized gainslosses of $3.3$7.0 million at December 31, 2017.2018.



The following table presents a breakdown of the fair value of our fixed maturity portfolio by sector and rating: (1) 
 At June 30, 2018 At June 30, 2019
(in thousands) (Unaudited) (Unaudited)
Industry Sector AAA AA A BBB 
Non- investment
grade
 
Fair
value
 AAA AA A BBB 
Non- investment
grade
 
Fair
value
Basic materials $0
 $0
 $0
 $0
 $15,308
 $15,308
 $0
 $0
 $0
 $3,042
 $7,790
 $10,832
Communications 0
 1,963
 1,998
 3,784
 26,050
 33,795
 0
 4,995
 0
 8,650
 16,629
 30,274
Consumer 0
 1,028
 2,461
 27,324
 43,820
 74,633
 0
 3,096
 10,264
 44,387
 28,815
 86,562
Diversified 0
 0
 0
 0
 710
 710
 0
 0
 0
 1,048
 463
 1,511
Energy 0
 995
 0
 4,006
 15,792
 20,793
 0
 0
 5,126
 8,215
 9,814
 23,155
Financial 0
 3,964
 22,262
 32,427
 18,295
 76,948
 0
 4,087
 52,454
 64,853
 7,692
 129,086
Government-municipal 100,546
 144,029
 13,916
 0
 0
 258,491
 359
 3,001
 0
 0
 0
 3,360
Healthcare 0
 0
 0
 0
 500
 500
Industrial 0
 0
 4,916
 1,018
 23,822
 29,756
 0
 0
 998
 13,284
 15,590
 29,872
Structured securities (2)
 59,139
 41,335
 13,895
 7,285
 6,336
 127,990
 75,864
 92,057
 8,806
 1,271
 0
 177,998
Technology 0
 996
 2,029
 6,482
 13,540
 23,047
 0
 2,996
 6,163
 12,673
 7,379
 29,211
U.S. treasury 0
 36,442
 0
 0
 0
 36,442
U.S. Treasury 0
 151,094
 0
 0
 0
 151,094
Utilities 0
 0
 0
 3,986
 3,029
 7,015
 0
 0
 2,740
 11,155
 2,258
 16,153
Total $159,685
 $230,752
 $61,477
 $86,312
 $167,202
 $705,428
 $76,223
 $261,326
 $86,551
 $168,578
 $96,430
 $689,108
 
(1)
Ratings are supplied by S&P, Moody’s, and Fitch.  The table is based upon the lowest rating for each security.
(2)Structured securities include residential mortgage-backed securities, commercial mortgage-backed securities, collateralized debt obligations, and asset-backed securities.




Equity Securities
Our equityEquity securities consist of nonredeemable preferred stock and are carried at fair value in the Statements of Financial Position with all changes in unrealized gains and losses reflected in the Statements of Operations, effective January 1, 2018 with the adoption of ASU 2016-01.  Previously, changes in unrealized gains and losses were reflected in Other Comprehensive Income, net of deferred taxes.

The following table presents an analysis of the fair value of ourOperations. All nonredeemable preferred stock securities by sector:was invested in the financial sector at both June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018.
(in thousands)    
Industry Sector At June 30, 2018 At December 31, 2017
  (Unaudited)  
Financial $12,488
 $11,659
Utilities 0
 1,093
Total $12,488
 $12,752



Limited partnerships
At June 30, 2018, investmentsInvestments in limited partnerships have decreased from the investment levels at December 31, 2017.2018 to June 30, 2019.  Changes in partnership values are a function of contributions and distributions, adjusted for market value changes in the underlying investments. The decrease in limited partnership investments was primarily due to net distributions received from the partnerships. We have made no new limited partnership commitments since 2006, and the balance of limited partnership investments is expected to declinecontinue to decrease over time as additional distributions are received. The results from our limited partnerships are based upon financial statements received from our general partners, which are generally received on a quarter lag.  As a result, the market values and earnings recorded during 20182019 reflect the partnership activity experienced in the fourth quarter of 20172018 and the first quarter of 2018.2019.
   



LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
 
Sources and Uses of Cash
Liquidity is a measure of a company’s ability to generate sufficient cash flows to meet the short- and long-term cash requirements of its business operations and growth needs.  Our liquidity requirements have been met primarily by funds generated from management fee revenue and income from investments.  Cash provided from these sources is used primarily to fund the costs of our management operations including commissions, salaries and wages, pension plans, share repurchases, dividends to shareholders, and the purchase and development of information technology.  We expect that our operating cash needs will be met by funds generated from operations.


Volatility in the financial markets presents challenges to us as we do occasionally access our investment portfolio as a source of cash.  Some of our fixed income investments, despite being publicly traded, are illiquid.  Volatility in these markets could impair our ability to sell certain of our fixed income securities or cause such securities to sell at deep discounts.  Additionally, our limited partnership investments are significantly less liquid.  We believe we have sufficient liquidity to meet our needs from sources other than the liquidation of securities.
 
Cash flow activities
The following table provides condensed cash flow information for the six months ended June 30:
(in thousands) 2018 2017 2019 2018
 (Unaudited) (Unaudited)
Net cash provided by operating activities $41,593
 $39,491
 $114,416
 $41,593
Net cash used in investing activities (5,653) (35,946)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 42,215
 (5,653)
Net cash used in financing activities (53,249) (47,908) (84,786) (53,249)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents $(17,309) $(44,363)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents $71,845
 $(17,309)
 
 
Net cash provided by operating activities was $114.4 million in the first six months of 2019, compared to $41.6 million in the first six months of 2018, compared2018.  This change was primarily due to $39.5 millionthe fact that we had no pension contribution coupled with lower bonuses paid to agents in the first six months of 2017.  Increased cash from operating activities for the first six months of2019. In 2018, was primarily due to an increase in management fee revenue received driven by the increase in direct and assumed premiums written by the Exchange along with a decrease in income taxes paid due to the lower corporate income tax rate effective January 1, 2018, compared to the first six months of 2017. Somewhat offsetting the increase in cash from operating activities was higher pension contributions and commissions and bonuses paid to agents, compared to the first six months of 2017. Ourour Board approved an $80 million accelerated pension contribution. We contributedcontribution, of which $40 million was contributed in January 2018 and $40 million in April 2018. In the first six months of 2017, we contributed $19.0 million to our pension plan.  We are reimbursed approximately 59%58% of the net periodic benefit cost of the pension plans from the Exchange and its subsidiaries, which includes pension benefits for employees performing administrative services and their allocated share of costs for employees in departments that support the administrative functions. Cash paid for agent commissions and bonuses increased $39.0 million to $540.5decreased $18.1 million in the first six months of 2019, compared to the first six months of 2018, due to higher scheduled commissions driven by premium growth and higher bonus award payments resulting fromless profitable underwriting results.

At June 30, 2018, we recorded a net deferred tax asset of $31.5 million.  The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act reduced the corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018. There was no deferred tax valuation allowance recorded at June 30, 2018.

Net cash used inprovided by investing activities totaledwas $42.2 million in the first six months of 2019, compared to cash used of $5.7 million in the first six months of 2018, compared to $35.9 million in2018. In the first six months of 2017.2019, more proceeds were generated from investment activity. The decrease in cash used for the first six months of 2018, compared to the first six months of 2017, was drivenhigher proceeds were somewhat offset by lowerhigher purchases of available-for-sale securities somewhat offset by increased loans madeand fixed asset purchases due to our independent agents.construction in progress related to the home office expansion. Also impacting our future investing activities are limited partnership commitments, which totaled $13.9$9.9 million at June 30, 2018,2019, and will be funded as required by the partnerships’ agreements.  Of this amount, the total remaining commitment to fund limited partnerships that invest in private equity securities was $5.5$4.4 million and mezzanine debt securities was $8.1 million and real estate activities was $0.3$5.5 million. Additionally, we have committed to incur future costs related to the construction of the building that will serve as part of our principal headquarters, which is expected to cost $100 million and is being funded by the senior secured draw term loan credit facility of the same amount. As of June 30, 2018, $39.02019, $71.6 million of costs have been incurredpaid related to this project.


Net cash used in financing activities totaled $84.8 million in the first six months of 2019, compared to $53.2 million in the first six months of 2018, compared2018. The increase in cash used was due to $47.9dividends paid to shareholders and principal payments on the senior secured draw term loan credit facility, which commenced January 1, 2019. Dividends paid to shareholders totaled $83.8 million in the first six months of 2017. The increase2019 and $78.2 million in cash used was primarily due to dividends paid to shareholders.the first six months of 2018. We increased both our Class A and Class B shareholder regular quarterly dividends by 7.3%7.1% for 2018,2019, compared to 2017.2018.  There are no regulatory

restrictions on the payment of dividends to our shareholders. Future financing activities will include the principal payments due annually over the term of the senior secured draw term loan credit facility, of which $0.9 million will be paid during the remainder of 2019. Financing activities in the first six months of 2018 were also impacted by the final scheduled draw of $25 million on June 1, 2018draw on the senior secured draw term loan credit facility. Future financing activities will include the principal payments due under the senior secured draw term loan credit facility, which will not commence until 2019.

There were no repurchases of our Class A nonvoting common stock in the first six months of 20182019 and 20172018 in conjunction with our stock repurchase program. In 2011, our Board of Directors approved a continuation of the current stock repurchase

program of $150 million with no time limitation.  This repurchase authority includes, and is not in addition to, any unspent amounts remaining under the prior authorization.  We had approximately $17.8 million of repurchase authority remaining under this program at June 30, 2018,2019, based upon trade date.


In the first six months of 2019, we purchased 11,964 shares of our outstanding Class A nonvoting common stock outside of our publicly announced share repurchase program at a total cost of $2.0 million. Of this amount, we purchased 3,246 shares for $0.4 million, or $132.35 per share, for stock-based awards in conjunction with our equity compensation plan, for which the shares were delivered to plan participants in January 2019. We purchased 4,465 shares for $0.9 million, or $190.59 per share, to fund the rabbi trust for the outside director deferred stock compensation plan. The shares were transferred to the rabbi trust in February and May 2019. The remaining 4,253 shares were purchased at a total cost of $0.7 million, or $175.64 per share, to fund the rabbi trust for the incentive compensation deferral plan. The shares were transferred to the rabbi trust in February, March and May 2019.
In the first six months of 2018, we purchased 22,247 shares of our outstanding Class A nonvoting common stock outside of our publicly announced share repurchase program at a total cost of $2.6 million. Of this amount, we purchased 5,830 shares for $0.7 million, or $117.39 per share, for stock-based awards in conjunction with our equity compensation plan, for which the shares were delivered to plan participants in January and May 2018. We purchased 4,576 shares for $0.5 million, or $115.69 per share, to fund the rabbi trust for the outside director deferred stock compensation plan. The shares were transferred to the rabbi trust in March and May 2018. The remaining 11,841 shares were purchased at a total cost of $1.4 million, or $119.14 per share, to fund the rabbi trust for the incentive compensation deferral plan. The shares were transferred to the rabbi trust in March and May 2018.
In the first six months of 2017, we purchased 55,935 shares of our outstanding Class A nonvoting common stock outside of our publicly announced share repurchase program at a total cost of $6.7 million. Of this amount, we purchased 3,785 shares for $0.4 million, or $111.55 per share, for stock-based awards in conjunction with our equity compensation plan, for which the shares were delivered to plan participants in January 2017. We purchased 5,266 shares for $0.6 million, or $118.56 per share, to fund the rabbi trust for the outside director deferred stock compensation plan. The shares were transferred to the rabbi trust in March and May 2017. The remaining 46,884 shares were purchased at a total cost of $5.7 million, or $122.40 per share, for stock-based awards in conjunction with our long-term incentive plan, for which the shares were delivered to plan participants in June 2017.


Capital Outlook
We regularly prepare forecasts evaluating the current and future cash requirements for both normal and extreme risk events.  Should an extreme risk event result in a cash requirement exceeding normal cash flows, we have the ability to meet our future funding requirements through various alternatives available to us.


Outside of our normal operating and investing cash activities, future funding requirements could be met through: 1) cash and cash equivalents, which total approximately $198.4$338.3 million at June 30, 2018,2019, 2) a $100 million bank revolving line of credit, and 3) liquidation of unpledged assets held in our investment portfolio, including preferred stock and investment grade bonds, which totaled approximately $334.3$387.3 million at June 30, 2018.2019.  Volatility in the financial markets could impair our ability to sell certain fixed income securities or cause such securities to sell at deep discounts.  Additionally, we have the ability to curtail or modify discretionary cash outlays such as those related to shareholder dividends and share repurchase activities.
 
As of June 30, 2018,2019, we have access to a $100 million bank revolving line of credit with a $25 million letter of credit sublimit that expires on November 3, 2020.October 30, 2023. As of June 30, 2018,2019, a total of $99.1 million remains available under the facility due to $0.9
$0.9 million outstanding letters of credit, which reduce the availability for letters of credit to $24.1 million.  We had no borrowings outstanding on our line of credit as of June 30, 2018. Bonds2019. Investments with a fair value of $108.1$109.3 million were pledged as collateral on the line at June 30, 2018. These securities2019. The investments pledged as collateral have no trading restrictions and are reported as cash and cash equivalents and available-for-sale securities in the Statements of Financial Position.  The banks require compliance with certain covenants, which include leverage ratios and debt restrictions.  We were in compliance with our bank covenants at June 30, 2018.2019.


BalanceOff-Balance Sheet Arrangements and Contractual Obligations
Off-balance sheet arrangements include those with unconsolidated entities that may have a material current or future effect on our financial condition or results of operations, including material variable interests in unconsolidated entities that conduct certain activities. We have no material off-balance sheet obligations. As of June 30, 2018,2019, there were no material changes to our future contractual obligations as previously reported in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017.

Surplus Note
We hold2018 other than a surplus note$36.1 million contract for $25 million from Erie Family Life Insurance Companysoftware, services and maintenance that is payable on demand on or after December 31, 2018; however, no principal or interest payments may be made without prior approval by the Pennsylvania

Insurance Commissioner.  Interest payments are scheduled towas executed in June 2019 that will be paid semi-annually. For eachover the contract term of three years. This contract will be included in "Other commitments" in the six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, we recognized interest income on the note of $0.8 million.Contractual Obligations table.



CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
 
We make estimates and assumptions that have a significant effect on the amounts and disclosures reported in the financial statements.  The most significant estimates relate to investment valuation and retirement benefit plans for employees.  While management believes its estimates are appropriate, the ultimate amounts may differ from estimates provided.  Our most critical accounting estimates are described in Item 7. "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" for the year ended December 31, 20172018 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 22, 201821, 2019.  See Part I, Item 1. "Financial Statements - Note 5, Fair Value, of Notes to Financial Statements" contained within this report for additional information on our valuation of investments.




ITEM 3.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
 
Our exposure to market risk is primarily related to fluctuations in prices and interest rates.  Quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk resulting from changes in prices, interest rates, and other risk exposures for the year ended December 31, 20172018 are included in Item 7A. "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk", of our Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 22, 201821, 2019.


ThereAlthough the components of the investment portfolio have changed, there have been no material changes that impactto our portfolio or reshape our periodic investment reviews of asset allocationsreported market risks during the six months ended June 30, 2018.2019.  For a recent discussion of conditions surrounding our investment portfolio, see the "Operating Overview", "Results of Operations", and "Financial Condition" discussions contained in Part I, Item 2. "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" contained within this report.




ITEM 4.CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 
We carried out an evaluation, with the participation of management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (pursuant to Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective.
 
Our management evaluated, with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, any change in our internal control over financial reporting and determined there has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting during the six months ended June 30, 20182019 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. Upon adoption of the new revenue recognition guidance on January 1, 2018, we implemented changes to our processes related to revenue recognition and the related control activities. There were no significant changes to our internal control over financial reporting due to the adoption of this new standard.



PART II. OTHER INFORMATION


ITEM 1.LEGAL PROCEEDINGS


State Court Lawsuit Against Erie Indemnity Company
Erie Indemnity Company (“Indemnity”) was named as a defendant in a complaint filed on August 1, 2012 by alleged subscribers of the Erie Insurance Exchange (the “Exchange”) in the Court of Common Pleas Civil Division of Fayette County, Pennsylvania captioned Erie Insurance Exchange, an unincorporated association, by Joseph S. Sullivan and Anita Sullivan, Patricia R. Beltz, and Jenna L. DeBord, trustees ad litem v. Erie Indemnity Co. (the “Sullivan” lawsuit).


As subsequently amended, the complaint alleges that, beginning on September 1, 1997, Indemnity retained “Service Charges” (installment fees) and “Added Service Charges” (late fees and policy reinstatement charges) on policies written by Exchange and its insurance subsidiaries, which allegedly should have been paid to Exchange, in the amount of approximately $308 million. In addition to their claim for monetary relief on behalf of Exchange, Plaintiffs seek an accounting of all so-called intercompany transactions between Indemnity and Exchange from 1996 to date. Plaintiffs allege that Indemnity breached its contractual, fiduciary, and equitable duties by retaining Service Charges and Added Service Charges that should have been retained by Exchange. Plaintiffs bring these same claims under three separate derivative-type theories. First, Plaintiffs purport to bring suit as members of Exchange on behalf of Exchange. Second, Plaintiffs purport to bring suit as trustees ad litem on behalf of Exchange. Third, Plaintiffs purport to bring suit on behalf of Exchange pursuant to Rule 1506 of the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure, which allows shareholders to bring suit derivatively on behalf of a corporation or similar entity.


Indemnity filed a motion in the state court in November 2012 seeking dismissal of the lawsuit. On December 19, 2013, the court granted Indemnity’s motion in part, holding that the Pennsylvania Insurance Holding Company Act “provides the [Pennsylvania Insurance] Department with special competence to address the subject matter of plaintiff’s claims” and referring “all issues” in the Sullivan lawsuit to the Pennsylvania Insurance Department (the “Department”) for “its views and any determination.” The court stayed all further proceedings and reserved decision on all other grounds for dismissal raised by Indemnity. Plaintiffs sought reconsideration of the court’s order, and on January 13, 2014, the court entered a revised order affirming its prior order and clarifying that the Department “shall decide any and all issues within its jurisdiction.” On January 30, 2014, Plaintiffs asked the court to certify its order to permit an immediate appeal to the Superior Court of Pennsylvania and to stay any proceedings in the Department pending completion of any appeal. On February 18, 2014, the court issued an order denying Plaintiffs’ motion. On March 20, 2014, Plaintiffs filed a petition for review with the Superior Court, which was denied by the Superior Court on May 5, 2014.


The Sullivan matter was assigned to an Administrative Judge within the Department for determination. The parties agreed that an evidentiary hearing was not required, entered into a stipulated record, and submitted briefing to the Department. Oral argument was held before the Administrative Judge on January 6, 2015. On April 29, 2015, the Department issued a declaratory opinion and order: (1) finding that the transactions between Exchange and Indemnity in which Indemnity retained or received revenue from installment and other service charges from Exchange subscribers complied with applicable insurance laws and regulations and that Indemnity properly retained charges paid by Exchange policyholders for certain installment premium payment plans, dishonored payments, policy cancellations, and policy reinstatements; and (2) returning jurisdiction over the matter to the Fayette County Court of Common Pleas.


On May 26, 2015, Plaintiffs appealed the Department’s decision to the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court. Oral argument was held before the Commonwealth Court en banc on December 9, 2015. On January 27, 2016, the Commonwealth Court issued an opinion vacating the Department’s ruling and directing the Department to return the case to the Court of Common Pleas, essentially holding that the primary jurisdiction referral of the trial court was improper at this time because the allegations of the complaint do not implicate the special competency of the Department.


On February 26, 2016, Indemnity filed a petition for allowance of appeal to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court seeking further review of the Commonwealth Court opinion. On March 14, 2016, Plaintiffs filed an answer opposing Indemnity’s petition for allowance of appeal; and, on March 28, 2016, Indemnity sought permission to file a reply brief in further support of its petition for allowance of appeal. On August 10, 2016, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court denied Indemnity’s petition for allowance of appeal; and the Sullivan lawsuit returned to the Court of Common Pleas of Fayette County.


On September 12, 2016, Plaintiffs filed a motion to stay the Sullivan lawsuit pending the outcome of the Federal Court Lawsuit they filed against Indemnity and former and current Directors of Indemnity on July 8, 2016. (See below.) Indemnity filed an opposition to Plaintiff’s motion to stay on September 19, 2016; and filed amended preliminary objections seeking dismissal of the Sullivan lawsuit on September 20, 2016. The motion to stay and the amended preliminary objections remain pending. On

June 27, 2018, Plaintiffs filed a motion for a status conference in the Sullivan lawsuit, which is scheduled to occur on lawsuit.

On July 30, 2018, the Court held a status conference and thereafter lifted the stay of proceedings. On September 28, 2018, Indemnity filed a Motion to Enforce the Federal Judgment in the Beltz II lawsuit, seeking dismissal of the Sullivan lawsuit with prejudice. On October 26, 2018, Plaintiffs filed an opposition to that Motion; and Indemnity filed a reply in further support on November 5, 2018. Oral argument was held on Indemnity’s Motion to Enforce the Federal Judgment on November 20, 2018. The Motion to Enforce the Federal Judgment remains pending.


Indemnity believes that it continues to have meritorious legal and factual defenses to the Sullivan lawsuit and intends to vigorously defend against all allegations and requests for relief.


Federal Court Lawsuit Against Erie Indemnity Company and Directors
On February 6, 2013, a lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, captioned Erie Insurance Exchange, an unincorporated association, by members Patricia R. Beltz, Joseph S. Sullivan and Anita Sullivan, and Patricia R. Beltz, on behalf of herself and others similarly situate v. Richard L. Stover; J. Ralph Borneman, Jr.; Terrence W. Cavanaugh; Jonathan Hirt Hagen; Susan Hirt Hagen; Thomas B. Hagen; C. Scott Hartz; Claude C. Lilly, III; Lucian L. Morrison; Thomas W. Palmer; Martin P. Sheffield; Elizabeth H. Vorsheck; and Robert C. Wilburn (the “Beltz” lawsuit), by alleged policyholders of Exchange who are also the plaintiffs in the Sullivan lawsuit. The individuals named as defendants in the Beltz lawsuit were the then-current Directors of Indemnity.


As subsequently amended, the Beltz lawsuit asserts many of the same allegations and claims for monetary relief as in the Sullivan lawsuit. Plaintiffs purport to sue on behalf of all policyholders of Exchange, or, alternatively, on behalf of Exchange itself. Indemnity filed a motion to intervene as a Party Defendant in the Beltz lawsuit in July 2013, and the Directors filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit in August 2013. On February 10, 2014, the court entered an order granting Indemnity’s motion to intervene and permitting Indemnity to join the Directors’ motion to dismiss; granting in part the Directors’ motion to dismiss; referring the matter to the Department to decide any and all issues within its jurisdiction; denying all other relief sought in the Directors’ motion as moot; and dismissing the case without prejudice. To avoid duplicative proceedings and expedite the Department’s review, the Parties stipulated that only the Sullivan action would proceed before the Department and any final and non-appealable determinations made by the Department in the Sullivan action will be applied to the Beltz action.


On March 7, 2014, Plaintiffs filed a notice of appeal to the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. Indemnity filed a motion to dismiss the appeal on March 26, 2014. On November 17, 2014, the Third Circuit deferred ruling on Indemnity’s motion to dismiss the appeal and instructed the parties to address that motion, as well as the merits of Plaintiffs’ appeal, in the parties’ briefing. Briefing was completed on April 2, 2015. In light of the Department’s April 29, 2015 decision in Sullivan, the Parties then jointly requested that the Beltz appeal be voluntarily dismissed as moot on June 5, 2015. The Third Circuit did not rule on the Parties’ request for dismissal and instead held oral argument as scheduled on June 8, 2015. On July 16, 2015, the Third Circuit issued an opinion and judgment dismissing the appeal. The Third Circuit found that it lacked appellate jurisdiction over the appeal, because the District Court’s February 10, 2014 order referring the matter to the Department was not a final, appealable order.


On July 8, 2016, the Beltz plaintiffs filed a new action labeled as a “Verified Derivative And Class Action Complaint” in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. The action is captioned Patricia R. Beltz, Joseph S. Sullivan, and Anita Sullivan, individually and on behalf of all others similarly situated, and derivatively on behalf of Nominal Defendant Erie Insurance Exchange v. Erie Indemnity Company; Kaj Ahlmann; John T. Baily; Samuel P. Black, III; J. Ralph Borneman, Jr.; Terrence W. Cavanaugh; Wilson C. Cooney; LuAnn Datesh; Patricia A. Goldman; Jonathan Hirt Hagen; Thomas B. Hagen; C. Scott Hartz; Samuel P. Katz; Gwendolyn King; Claude C. Lilly, III; Martin J. Lippert; George R. Lucore; Jeffrey A. Ludrof; Edmund J. Mehl; Henry N. Nassau; Thomas W. Palmer; Martin P. Sheffield; Seth E. Schofield; Richard L. Stover; Jan R. Van Gorder; Elizabeth A. Hirt Vorsheck; Harry H. Weil; and Robert C. Wilburn (the “Beltz II” lawsuit). The individual defendants are all present or former Directors of Indemnity (the “Directors”).


The allegations of the Beltz II lawsuit arise from the same fundamental, underlying claims as the Sullivan and prior Beltz litigation, i.e., that Indemnity improperly retained Service Charges and Added Service Charges. The Beltz II lawsuit alleges that the retention of the Service Charges and Added Service Charges was improper because, for among other reasons, that retention constituted a breach of the Subscriber’s Agreement and an Implied Covenant of Good Faith and Fair Dealing by Indemnity, breaches of fiduciary duty by Indemnity and the other defendants, conversion by Indemnity, and unjust enrichment by defendants Jonathan Hirt Hagen, Thomas B. Hagen, and Elizabeth A. Hirt Vorsheck, at the expense of Exchange. The Beltz II lawsuit requests, among other things, that a judgment be entered against the Defendants certifying the action as a class action pursuant to Rule 23 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure; declaring Plaintiffs as representatives of the Class and Plaintiffs’ counsel as counsel for the Class; declaring the conduct alleged as unlawful, including, but not limited to, Defendants’ retention of the Service Charges and Added Service Charges; enjoining Defendants from continuing to retain the Service Charges and Added Service Charges; and awarding compensatory and punitive damages and interest.

On September 23, 2016, Indemnity filed a motion to dismiss the Beltz II lawsuit. On September 30, 2016, the Directors filed their own motions to dismiss the Beltz II lawsuit. On July 17, 2017, the Court granted Indemnity’s and the Directors’ motions

to dismiss the Beltz II lawsuit, dismissing the case in its entirety. The Court ruled that “the Subscriber’s Agreement does not govern the separate and additional charges at issue in the Complaint” and, therefore, dismissed the breach of contract claim against Indemnity for failure to state a claim.  The Court also ruled that the remaining claims, including the claims for breach of fiduciary duty against Indemnity and the Directors, are barred by the applicable statutes of limitation or fail to state legally cognizable claims. On August 14, 2017, Plaintiffs filed a notice of appeal to the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.


On May 10, 2018, the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit affirmed the District Court’s dismissal of the Beltz II lawsuit. On May 24, 2018, Plaintiffs filed a petition seeking rehearing of their appeal before the Third Circuit. The Third Circuit denied that petition on June 14, 2018.


Federal Court Lawsuit Against Erie Indemnity Company and Directors
On December 28, 2017 a lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania captioned Lynda Ritz, individually and on behalf of all others similarly situated and derivatively on behalf of Nominal Defendant Erie Insurance Exchange v. Erie Indemnity Company, J. Ralph Borneman, Jr., Terrence W. Cavanaugh, Eugene C. Connell, LuAnn Datesh, Jonathan Hirt Hagen, Thomas B. Hagen, C. Scott Hartz, Brian A. Hudson, Sr., Claude C. Lilly, III, George R. Lucore, Thomas W. Palmer, Martin P. Sheffield, Richard L. Stover, Elizabeth A. Hirt Vorsheck, and Robert C. Wilburn, and Erie Insurance Exchange (Nominal Defendant) (the “Ritz” lawsuit). The individual named as Plaintiff is alleged to be a policyholder (subscriber) of the Erie Insurance Exchange (the “Exchange”). With the exception of Terrence W. Cavanaugh and Robert C. Wilburn, the individuals named as Defendants comprise the current Board of Directors of Indemnity. Messrs. Cavanaugh and Wilburn are former Directors of Indemnity (the “Directors”).


The Complaint alleges that since at least 2007, Erie Indemnity Company has taken “unwarranted and excessive” management fees as compensation for its services under the Subscriber’s Agreement.  Count I of the Complaint purports to allege a claim for breach of alleged fiduciary duties against Indemnity and the Directors on behalf of Plaintiff and a putative class of subscribers.  Count II purports to allege a claim for breach of alleged fiduciary duties against Indemnity and the Directors on behalf of Exchange.  Count III purports to allege a claim for breach of contract and an alleged implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing against Indemnity on behalf of Plaintiff and a putative class.  Count IV purports to allege a claim of unjust enrichment against several Directors.


The Complaint seeks compensatory and punitive damages and requests the Court to enjoin Indemnity from continuing to retain excessive management fees; and order such other relief as may be appropriate.


On March 5, 2018, Indemnity filed a motion to dismiss the Ritz lawsuit. The Directors also filed their own motions to dismiss the Ritz lawsuit on March 5, 2018. Plaintiff filed her responses to both motions on April 26, 2018; and Indemnity and the Directors filed their replies in support of their motions on May 25, 2018. TheOn February 4, 2019, the Court granted Indemnity’s and the Directors’ motions to dismiss the Ritz lawsuit remain pending.

Indemnity believes it has meritorious legal and factual defenses and intends to vigorously defend against suit in its entirety, with prejudice, on the basis that all allegations and requests for relief inof the Ritz lawsuit. The Directors have advised Indemnity that they intend to vigorously defend against thealleged claims in the Ritz lawsuit suit are barred and have sought indemnificationprecluded as a matter of law by the judgment entered in favor of Indemnity and advancementthe Directors in the Beltz II suit.

On March 4, 2019, Plaintiff filed a Motion for Reconsideration of expenses from the Company in connectionCourt’s ruling dismissing the suit with prejudice. On April 5, 2019, Indemnity and the Directors filed their opposition to the Motion for Reconsideration. The Motion for Reconsideration was denied on May 13, 2019. Plaintiff declined to appeal the dismissal of the Ritz lawsuit.


For additional information on contingencies, see Part I, Item 1. "Financial Statements - Note 13,14, Commitments and Contingencies, of Notes to Financial Statements".




ITEM 1A.RISK FACTORS
 
There have been no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 20172018 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 22, 201821, 2019.





ITEM 2.UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
 
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
In 2011, our Board of Directors approved a continuation of the current stock repurchase program, authorizing repurchases for a total of $150 million with no time limitation.  This repurchase authority included, and was not in addition to, any unspent amounts remaining under the prior authorization. There were no repurchases of our Class A common stock under this program during the quarter ending June 30, 2018.2019. We had approximately $17.8 million of repurchase authority remaining under this program at June 30, 2018.2019.


During the quarter ending June 30, 2018,2019, we purchased 4,9562,239 shares of our outstanding Class A nonvoting common stock outside of our publicly announced share repurchase program at a total cost of $0.6 million. Of this amount, we purchased 2,376 shares for $0.3$0.4 million, or $116.46$198.01 per share, to fund the rabbi trust for the outside director deferred stock compensation plan and the incentive compensation deferral plan. The shares were transferred to the rabbi trust in May 2018. We purchased 2,580 shares for $0.3 million, or $114.33 per share, for stock-based awards in conjunction with our equity compensation plan, for which the shares were delivered to plan participants in May 2018.2019.

ITEM 6.EXHIBITS


Exhibit  
Number Description of Exhibit
   
10.1* 
10.2*
   
31.1* 
   
31.2* 
   
32* 
   
101.INS* XBRL Instance Document.Document - the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document.
   
101.SCH* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.
   
101.CAL* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.
   
101.DEF* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.
   
101.LAB* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.
   
101.PRE* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.


* Filed herewith.



SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
   Erie Indemnity Company 
   (Registrant) 
     
     
Date:July 26, 201825, 2019By:/s/ Timothy G. NeCastro 
   Timothy G. NeCastro, President & CEO 
     
  By:/s/ Gregory J. Gutting 
   Gregory J. Gutting, Executive Vice President & CFO 


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