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, 20202021
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 No. 1-13653

afg-20210630_g1.jpg
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC.
Incorporated under the Laws of Ohio                                                                IRS Employer I.D. No. 31-1544320
301 East Fourth Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
(513) 579-2121
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, and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes  No 

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has submitted electronically, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months. Yes  No 

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer                          Accelerated filer                           Non-accelerated filer  
Smaller reporting company                     Emerging 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. 
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes  No 
Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each ClassTrading Symbol(s)Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Common StockAFGNew York Stock Exchange
6% Subordinated Debentures due November 15, 2055AFGHNew York Stock Exchange
5.875% Subordinated Debentures due March 30, 2059AFGBNew York Stock Exchange
5.625% Subordinated Debentures due June 1, 2060AFGDNew York Stock Exchange
5.125% Subordinated Debentures due December 15, 2059AFGCNew York Stock Exchange
4.50% Subordinated Debentures due September 15, 2060AFGENew York Stock Exchange
As of August 1, 2020,2021, there were 88,540,12884,749,383 shares of the Registrant’s Common Stock outstanding, excluding 14.9 million shares owned by subsidiaries.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
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Table of Contents
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
PART I
ITEM 1. — FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (UNAUDITED)
(Dollars in Millions)
June 30,
2020
December 31,
2019
June 30,
2021
December 31,
2020
Assets:Assets:Assets:
Cash and cash equivalentsCash and cash equivalents$2,698  $2,314  Cash and cash equivalents$3,365 $1,665 
Investments:Investments:Investments:
Fixed maturities, available for sale at fair value (amortized cost — $45,670 and $44,524; allowance for expected credit losses of $61 at June 30, 2020)48,046  46,505  
Fixed maturities, available for sale at fair value (amortized cost — $9,481 and $8,812; allowance for expected credit losses of $9 and $12)Fixed maturities, available for sale at fair value (amortized cost — $9,481 and $8,812; allowance for expected credit losses of $9 and $12)9,732 9,084 
Fixed maturities, trading at fair valueFixed maturities, trading at fair value97  113  Fixed maturities, trading at fair value26 24 
Equity securities, at fair valueEquity securities, at fair value1,602  1,937  Equity securities, at fair value965 889 
Investments accounted for using the equity methodInvestments accounted for using the equity method1,781  1,688  Investments accounted for using the equity method1,378 1,235 
Mortgage loansMortgage loans1,475  1,329  Mortgage loans461 377 
Policy loans158  164  
Equity index call options605  924  
Real estate and other investmentsReal estate and other investments279  278  Real estate and other investments198 220 
Total cash and investmentsTotal cash and investments56,741  55,252  Total cash and investments16,125 13,494 
Recoverables from reinsurersRecoverables from reinsurers3,476  3,415  Recoverables from reinsurers3,330 3,288 
Prepaid reinsurance premiumsPrepaid reinsurance premiums733  678  Prepaid reinsurance premiums865 768 
Agents’ balances and premiums receivableAgents’ balances and premiums receivable1,366  1,335  Agents’ balances and premiums receivable1,423 1,229 
Deferred policy acquisition costsDeferred policy acquisition costs818  1,037  Deferred policy acquisition costs258 244 
Assets of managed investment entitiesAssets of managed investment entities4,393  4,736  Assets of managed investment entities5,086 4,971 
Other receivablesOther receivables880  975  Other receivables682 678 
Variable annuity assets (separate accounts)577  628  
Other assetsOther assets1,676  1,867  Other assets835 977 
GoodwillGoodwill207  207  Goodwill176 176 
Assets of discontinued annuity operationsAssets of discontinued annuity operations47,885 
Total assetsTotal assets$70,867  $70,130  Total assets$28,780 $73,710 
Liabilities and Equity:Liabilities and Equity:Liabilities and Equity:
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expensesUnpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses$10,321  $10,232  Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses$10,498 $10,392 
Unearned premiumsUnearned premiums2,778  2,830  Unearned premiums3,054 2,803 
Annuity benefits accumulated41,392  40,406  
Life, accident and health reserves606  612  
Payable to reinsurersPayable to reinsurers746  814  Payable to reinsurers829 807 
Liabilities of managed investment entitiesLiabilities of managed investment entities4,236  4,571  Liabilities of managed investment entities5,029 4,914 
Long-term debtLong-term debt1,912  1,473  Long-term debt1,963 1,963 
Variable annuity liabilities (separate accounts)577  628  
Other liabilitiesOther liabilities2,173  2,295  Other liabilities1,806 1,584 
Liabilities of discontinued annuity operationsLiabilities of discontinued annuity operations44,458 
Total liabilitiesTotal liabilities64,741  63,861  Total liabilities23,179 66,921 
Redeemable noncontrolling interests—  —  
Shareholders’ equity:Shareholders’ equity:Shareholders’ equity:
Common Stock, 0 par value
— 200,000,000 shares authorized
— 88,659,407 and 90,303,686 shares outstanding
89  90  
Common Stock, 0 par value
— 200,000,000 shares authorized
— 84,713,927 and 86,345,246 shares outstanding
Common Stock, 0 par value
— 200,000,000 shares authorized
— 84,713,927 and 86,345,246 shares outstanding
85 86 
Capital surplusCapital surplus1,299  1,307  Capital surplus1,303 1,281 
Retained earningsRetained earnings3,685  4,009  Retained earnings4,023 4,149��
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of taxAccumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax1,053  863  Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax190 1,273 
Total shareholders’ equityTotal shareholders’ equity6,126  6,269  Total shareholders’ equity5,601 6,789 
Noncontrolling interestsNoncontrolling interests—  —  Noncontrolling interests
Total equityTotal equity6,126  6,269  Total equity5,601 6,789 
Total liabilities and equityTotal liabilities and equity$70,867  $70,130  Total liabilities and equity$28,780 $73,710 
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF EARNINGS (UNAUDITED)
(In Millions, Except Per Share Data)
Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
20202019202020192021202020212020
Revenues:Revenues:Revenues:
Property and casualty insurance net earned premiumsProperty and casualty insurance net earned premiums$1,184  $1,200  $2,393  $2,373  Property and casualty insurance net earned premiums$1,250 $1,184 $2,423 $2,393 
Net investment incomeNet investment income468  580  1,012  1,122  Net investment income164 88 352 192 
Realized gains (losses) on securities204  56  (347) 240  
Income (loss) of managed investment entities:
Realized gains (losses) on:Realized gains (losses) on:
SecuritiesSecurities43 108 120 (220)
SubsidiarySubsidiary
Income of managed investment entities:Income of managed investment entities:
Investment incomeInvestment income49  70  108  139  Investment income44 49 90 108 
Loss on change in fair value of assets/liabilities(5) (2) (48) (2) 
Gain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilitiesGain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities(3)(16)
Other incomeOther income51  56  108  112  Other income20 19 43 43 
Total revenuesTotal revenues1,951  1,960  3,226  3,984  Total revenues1,531 1,445 3,040 2,500 
Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:
Property and casualty insurance:Property and casualty insurance:Property and casualty insurance:
Losses and loss adjustment expensesLosses and loss adjustment expenses771  723  1,478  1,415  Losses and loss adjustment expenses714 771 1,381 1,478 
Commissions and other underwriting expensesCommissions and other underwriting expenses409  426  829  825  Commissions and other underwriting expenses390 409 770 829 
Annuity benefits426  339  702  650  
Annuity and supplemental insurance acquisition expenses(35) 33  78  61  
Interest charges on borrowed moneyInterest charges on borrowed money23  17  40  33  Interest charges on borrowed money23 23 47 40 
Expenses of managed investment entitiesExpenses of managed investment entities38  59  86  114  Expenses of managed investment entities39 42 78 95 
Other expensesOther expenses101  104  183  214  Other expenses77 60 141 103 
Total costs and expensesTotal costs and expenses1,733  1,701  3,396  3,312  Total costs and expenses1,243 1,305 2,417 2,545 
Earnings (loss) before income taxes218  259  (170) 672  
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxesEarnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes288 140 623 (45)
Provision (credit) for income taxesProvision (credit) for income taxes51  50  (33) 137  Provision (credit) for income taxes48 37 116 (4)
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interestsNet earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interests240 103 507 (41)
Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operationsNet earnings (loss) from discontinued operations762 64 914 (96)
Net earnings (loss), including noncontrolling interestsNet earnings (loss), including noncontrolling interests167  209  (137) 535  Net earnings (loss), including noncontrolling interests1,002 167 1,421 (137)
Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests(10) (1) (13) (4) 
Less: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interestsLess: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests(10)(13)
Net Earnings (Loss) Attributable to ShareholdersNet Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders$177  $210  $(124) $539  Net Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders$1,002 $177 $1,421 $(124)
Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders per Common Share:
Basic$1.98  $2.34  $(1.38) $6.02  
Diluted$1.97  $2.31  $(1.38) $5.94  
Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders per Basic Common Share from:Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders per Basic Common Share from:
Continuing operationsContinuing operations$2.83 $1.26 $5.94 $(0.31)
Discontinued operationsDiscontinued operations8.95 0.72 10.69 (1.07)
Total basic earnings (loss) attributable to shareholdersTotal basic earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders$11.78 $1.98 $16.63 $(1.38)
Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders per Diluted Common Share:Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders per Diluted Common Share:
Continuing operationsContinuing operations$2.81 $1.26 $5.90 $(0.31)
Discontinued operationsDiscontinued operations8.89 0.71 10.61 (1.07)
Total diluted earnings (loss) attributable to shareholdersTotal diluted earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders$11.70 $1.97 $16.51 $(1.38)
Average number of Common Shares:Average number of Common Shares:Average number of Common Shares:
BasicBasic89.7  89.7  90.0  89.6  Basic85.0 89.7 85.5 90.0 
DilutedDiluted90.0  91.0  90.0  90.8  Diluted85.6 90.0 86.1 90.0 
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Table of Contents
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (UNAUDITED)
(In Millions)
 
Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
20202019202020192021202020212020
Net earnings (loss), including noncontrolling interestsNet earnings (loss), including noncontrolling interests$167  $209  $(137) $535  Net earnings (loss), including noncontrolling interests$1,002 $167 $1,421 $(137)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Net unrealized gains (losses) on securities:Net unrealized gains (losses) on securities:Net unrealized gains (losses) on securities:
Unrealized holding gains on securities arising during the period1,021  356  156  740  
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on securities arising during the periodUnrealized holding gains (losses) on securities arising during the period133 1,021 (148)156 
Reclassification adjustment for realized (gains) losses included in net earningsReclassification adjustment for realized (gains) losses included in net earnings(7) (8) 12  (11) Reclassification adjustment for realized (gains) losses included in net earnings(7)(7)(18)12 
Reclassification adjustment for unrealized gains of subsidiaries soldReclassification adjustment for unrealized gains of subsidiaries sold(884)(884)
Total net unrealized gains (losses) on securitiesTotal net unrealized gains (losses) on securities(758)1,014 (1,050)168 
Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges:Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges:
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on cash flow hedges arising during the periodUnrealized holding gains (losses) on cash flow hedges arising during the period12 (1)48 
Reclassification adjustment for investment income included in net earningsReclassification adjustment for investment income included in net earnings(4)(9)(11)(18)
Reclassification adjustment for unrealized gains on cash flow hedges of subsidiaries soldReclassification adjustment for unrealized gains on cash flow hedges of subsidiaries sold(29)(29)
Total net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedgesTotal net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges(27)(41)30 
Foreign currency translation adjustmentsForeign currency translation adjustments(6)
Pension and other postretirement plans adjustments (“OPRP”):Pension and other postretirement plans adjustments (“OPRP”):
Unrealized holding losses on pension and OPRP arising during the periodUnrealized holding losses on pension and OPRP arising during the period(1)(1)
Reclassification adjustment for pension settlement loss included in net earningsReclassification adjustment for pension settlement loss included in net earnings
Total pension and OPRP adjustmentsTotal pension and OPRP adjustments
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxOther comprehensive income (loss), net of tax(777)1,021 (1,083)192 
Total net unrealized gains on securities1,014  348  168  729  
Net unrealized gains on cash flow hedges 18  30  29  
Foreign currency translation adjustments —  (6)  
Other comprehensive income, net of tax1,021  366  192  762  
Total comprehensive income, net of taxTotal comprehensive income, net of tax1,188  575  55  1,297  Total comprehensive income, net of tax225 1,188 338 55 
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interestsLess: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests(10) —  (11) (3) Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests(10)(11)
Comprehensive income attributable to shareholdersComprehensive income attributable to shareholders$1,198  $575  $66  $1,300  Comprehensive income attributable to shareholders$225 $1,198 $338 $66 
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (UNAUDITED)
(Dollars in Millions)
 Shareholders’ Equity  Redeemable
CommonCommon Stock
and Capital
RetainedAccumulated
Other Comp.
 Noncon-
trolling
TotalNoncon-
trolling
SharesSurplusEarningsIncomeTotalInterestsEquityInterests
Balance at March 31, 202185,126,062 $1,364 $4,354 $967 $6,685 $$6,685 
Net earnings— — 1,002 — 1,002 1,002 
Other comprehensive loss— — — (777)(777)— (777)
Dividends ($14.50 per share)— — (1,232)— (1,232)— (1,232)
Shares issued:
Exercise of stock options561,732 30 — — 30 — 30 
Restricted stock awards— — — — — — 
Other benefit plans27,833 — — — 
Dividend reinvestment plan34,348 — — — 
Stock-based compensation expense— — — — 
Shares acquired and retired(916,520)(15)(99)— (114)— (114)
Shares exchanged — benefit plans(14,380)(2)— (2)— (2)
Forfeitures of restricted stock(105,148)— — — — — — 
Balance at June 30, 202184,713,927 $1,388 $4,023 $190 $5,601 $$5,601 
Balance at March 31, 202089,827,336 $1,399 $3,616 $32 $5,047 $$5,047 $
Net earnings (loss)— — 177 — 177 177 (10)
Other comprehensive income— — — 1,021 1,021 — 1,021 
Dividends ($0.45 per share)— — (41)— (41)— (41)
Shares issued:
Exercise of stock options5,250 — — — — 
Restricted stock awards— — — — — — — 
Other benefit plans51,955 — — — — 
Dividend reinvestment plan2,733 — — — — — — — 
Stock-based compensation expense— — — — — 
Shares acquired and retired(1,194,236)(19)(57)— (76)— (76)— 
Shares exchanged — benefit plans(540)— — — 
Forfeitures of restricted stock(33,091)— — — 
Other— (10)— (10)(10)10 
Balance at June 30, 202088,659,407 $1,388 $3,685 $1,053 $6,126 $$6,126 $
 Shareholders’ Equity  Redeemable
CommonCommon Stock
and Capital
RetainedAccumulated
Other Comp.
 Noncon-
trolling
TotalNoncon-
trolling
SharesSurplusEarningsInc. (Loss)TotalInterestsEquityInterests
Balance at March 31, 202089,827,336  $1,399  $3,616  $32  $5,047  $—  $5,047  $—  
Net earnings (loss)—  —  177  —  177  —  177  (10) 
Other comprehensive income—  —  —  1,021  1,021  —  1,021  —  
Dividends ($0.45 per share)—  —  (41) —  (41) —  (41) —  
Shares issued:
Exercise of stock options5,250  —  —  —  —  —  —  —  
Restricted stock awards—  —  —  —  —  —  —  —  
Other benefit plans51,955   —  —   —   —  
Dividend reinvestment plan2,733  —  —  —  —  —  —  —  
Stock-based compensation expense—   —  —   —   —  
Shares acquired and retired(1,194,236) (19) (57) —  (76) —  (76) —  
Shares exchanged — benefit plans(540) —  —  —  —  —  —  —  
Forfeitures of restricted stock(33,091) —  —  —  —  —  —  —  
Other—  —  (10) —  (10) —  (10) 10  
Balance at June 30, 202088,659,407  $1,388  $3,685  $1,053  $6,126  $—  $6,126  $—  
Balance at March 31, 201989,637,713  $1,346  $3,875  $444  $5,665  $—  $5,665  $—  
Net earnings (loss)—  —  210  —  210  —  210  (1) 
Other comprehensive income—  —  —  365  365  —  365   
Dividends ($1.90 per share)—  —  (170) —  (170) —  (170) —  
Shares issued:
Exercise of stock options247,753  11  —  —  11  —  11  —  
Restricted stock awards—  —  —  —  —  —  —  —  
Other benefit plans30,081   —  —   —   —  
Dividend reinvestment plan7,596   —  —   —   —  
Stock-based compensation expense—   —  —   —   —  
Shares exchanged — benefit plans(3,519) —  (1) —  (1) —  (1) —  
Forfeitures of restricted stock(2,023) —  —  —  —  —  —  —  
Other—  —  —  —  —  —  —  —  
Balance at June 30, 201989,917,601  $1,367  $3,914  $809  $6,090  $—  $6,090  $—  

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (UNAUDITED) — CONTINUED
(Dollars in Millions)
 Shareholders’ Equity  Redeemable
CommonCommon Stock
and Capital
RetainedAccumulated
Other Comp.
 Noncon-
trolling
TotalNoncon-
trolling
SharesSurplusEarningsInc. (Loss)TotalInterestsEquityInterests
Balance at December 31, 201990,303,686  $1,397  $4,009  $863  $6,269  $—  $6,269  $—  
Cumulative effect of accounting change—  —   —   —   —  
Net loss—  —  (124) —  (124) —  (124) (13) 
Other comprehensive income—  —  —  190  190  —  190   
Dividends ($0.90 per share)—  —  (81) —  (81) —  (81) —  
Shares issued:
Exercise of stock options209,343   —  —   —   —  
Restricted stock awards227,867  —  —  —  —  —  —  —  
Other benefit plans66,496   —  —   —   —  
Dividend reinvestment plan4,350  —  —  —  —  —  —  —  
Stock-based compensation expense—  10  —  —  10  —  10  —  
Shares acquired and retired(2,020,519) (31) (106) —  (137) —  (137) —  
Shares exchanged — benefit plans(96,394) (2) (9) —  (11) —  (11) —  
Forfeitures of restricted stock(35,422) —  —  —  —  —  —  —  
Other—  —  (11) —  (11) —  (11) 11  
Balance at June 30, 202088,659,407  $1,388  $3,685  $1,053  $6,126  $—  $6,126  $—  
Balance at December 31, 201889,291,724  $1,334  $3,588  $48  $4,970  $ $4,972  $—  
Net earnings (loss)—  —  539  —  539  —  539  (4) 
Other comprehensive income—  —  —  761  761  —  761   
Dividends ($2.30 per share)—  —  (206) —  (206) —  (206) —  
Shares issued:
Exercise of stock options400,006  17  —  —  17  —  17  —  
Restricted stock awards232,565  —  —  —  —  —  —  —  
Other benefit plans41,143   —  —   —   —  
Dividend reinvestment plan9,489   —  —   —   —  
Stock-based compensation expense—  12  —  —  12  —  12  —  
Shares exchanged — benefit plans(46,989) (1) (4) —  (5) —  (5) —  
Forfeitures of restricted stock(10,337) —  —  —  —  —  —  —  
Other—  —  (3) —  (3) (2) (5)  
Balance at June 30, 201989,917,601  $1,367  $3,914  $809  $6,090  $—  $6,090  $—  
 Shareholders’ Equity  Redeemable
CommonCommon Stock
and Capital
RetainedAccumulated
Other Comp.
 Noncon-
trolling
TotalNoncon-
trolling
SharesSurplusEarningsIncomeTotalInterestsEquityInterests
Balance at December 31, 202086,345,246 $1,367 $4,149 $1,273 $6,789 $$6,789 
Net earnings— — 1,421 — 1,421 1,421 
Other comprehensive loss— — — (1,083)(1,083)— (1,083)
Dividends ($15.00 per share)— — (1,275)— (1,275)— (1,275)
Shares issued:
Exercise of stock options964,744 49 — — 49 — 49 
Restricted stock awards207,020 — — — — — — 
Other benefit plans43,465 — — — 
Dividend reinvestment plan36,654 — — — 
Stock-based compensation expense— — — — 
Shares acquired and retired(2,674,222)(43)(263)— (306)— (306)
Shares exchanged — benefit plans(91,364)(1)(9)— (10)— (10)
Forfeitures of restricted stock(117,616)— — — — — — 
Balance at June 30, 202184,713,927 $1,388 $4,023 $190 $5,601 $$5,601 
Balance at December 31, 201990,303,686 $1,397 $4,009 $863 $6,269 $$6,269 $
Cumulative effect of accounting change— — — — — 
Net loss— — (124)— (124)(124)(13)
Other comprehensive income— — — 190 190 — 190 
Dividends ($0.90 per share)— — (81)— (81)— (81)— 
Shares issued:
Exercise of stock options209,343 — — — — 
Restricted stock awards227,867 — — — — — — — 
Other benefit plans66,496 — — — — 
Dividend reinvestment plan4,350 — — — — — — — 
Stock-based compensation expense— 10 — — 10 — 10 — 
Shares acquired and retired(2,020,519)(31)(106)— (137)— (137)— 
Shares exchanged — benefit plans(96,394)(2)(9)— (11)— (11)— 
Forfeitures of restricted stock(35,422)— — — — — — — 
Other— — (11)— (11)(11)11 
Balance at June 30, 202088,659,407 $1,388 $3,685 $1,053 $6,126 $$6,126 $
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
(In Millions)
Six months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
2020201920212020
Operating Activities:Operating Activities:Operating Activities:
Net earnings (loss), including noncontrolling interestsNet earnings (loss), including noncontrolling interests$(137) $535  Net earnings (loss), including noncontrolling interests$1,421 $(137)
Adjustments:Adjustments:Adjustments:
Depreciation and amortizationDepreciation and amortization79  72  Depreciation and amortization133 79 
Annuity benefitsAnnuity benefits702  650  Annuity benefits377 702 
Realized (gains) losses on investing activitiesRealized (gains) losses on investing activities346  (241) Realized (gains) losses on investing activities(1,141)346 
Net sales of trading securities11  —  
Net (purchases) sales of trading securitiesNet (purchases) sales of trading securities(1)11 
Deferred annuity and life policy acquisition costsDeferred annuity and life policy acquisition costs(79) (120) Deferred annuity and life policy acquisition costs(98)(79)
Change in:Change in:Change in:
Reinsurance and other receivablesReinsurance and other receivables46  85  Reinsurance and other receivables(147)46 
Other assetsOther assets211  (298) Other assets250 211 
Insurance claims and reservesInsurance claims and reserves30  (92) Insurance claims and reserves349 30 
Payable to reinsurersPayable to reinsurers(68)  Payable to reinsurers22 (68)
Other liabilitiesOther liabilities(233) 329  Other liabilities123 (233)
Managed investment entities’ assets/liabilitiesManaged investment entities’ assets/liabilities116  (3) Managed investment entities’ assets/liabilities(22)116 
Other operating activities, netOther operating activities, net63  (43) Other operating activities, net(296)63 
Net cash provided by operating activitiesNet cash provided by operating activities1,087  877  Net cash provided by operating activities970 1,087 
Investing Activities:Investing Activities:Investing Activities:
Purchases of:Purchases of:Purchases of:
Fixed maturitiesFixed maturities(6,121) (3,761) Fixed maturities(5,573)(6,121)
Equity securitiesEquity securities(324) (80) Equity securities(66)(324)
Mortgage loansMortgage loans(152) (43) Mortgage loans(90)(152)
Equity index options and other investmentsEquity index options and other investments(501) (467) Equity index options and other investments(294)(501)
Real estate, property and equipmentReal estate, property and equipment(20) (20) Real estate, property and equipment(26)(20)
Proceeds from:Proceeds from:Proceeds from:
Maturities and redemptions of fixed maturitiesMaturities and redemptions of fixed maturities2,343  2,347  Maturities and redemptions of fixed maturities3,466 2,343 
Repayments of mortgage loansRepayments of mortgage loans 38  Repayments of mortgage loans14 
Sales of fixed maturitiesSales of fixed maturities2,777  459  Sales of fixed maturities665 2,777 
Sales of equity securitiesSales of equity securities342  139  Sales of equity securities452 342 
Sales and settlements of equity index options and other investmentsSales and settlements of equity index options and other investments404  329  Sales and settlements of equity index options and other investments530 404 
Sales of real estate, property and equipmentSales of real estate, property and equipment  Sales of real estate, property and equipment
Sales of businessesSales of businesses3,547 
Cash and cash equivalents of businesses soldCash and cash equivalents of businesses sold(2,060)
Managed investment entities:Managed investment entities:Managed investment entities:
Purchases of investmentsPurchases of investments(603) (697) Purchases of investments(987)(603)
Proceeds from sales and redemptions of investmentsProceeds from sales and redemptions of investments540  702  Proceeds from sales and redemptions of investments1,061 540 
Other investing activities, netOther investing activities, net —  Other investing activities, net21 
Net cash used in investing activities(1,296) (1,052) 
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activitiesNet cash provided by (used in) investing activities661 (1,296)
Financing Activities:Financing Activities:Financing Activities:
Annuity receiptsAnnuity receipts2,097  2,744  Annuity receipts2,403 2,097 
Ceded annuity receiptsCeded annuity receipts(311)(78)
Annuity surrenders, benefits and withdrawalsAnnuity surrenders, benefits and withdrawals(1,641) (1,668) Annuity surrenders, benefits and withdrawals(1,931)(1,641)
Ceded annuity receipts(78) —  
Ceded annuity surrenders, benefits and withdrawalsCeded annuity surrenders, benefits and withdrawals282 
Net transfers from variable annuity assetsNet transfers from variable annuity assets28  28  Net transfers from variable annuity assets34 28 
Additional long-term borrowingsAdditional long-term borrowings439  121  Additional long-term borrowings439 
Issuances of managed investment entities’ liabilitiesIssuances of managed investment entities’ liabilities1,017 
Retirements of managed investment entities’ liabilitiesRetirements of managed investment entities’ liabilities(46) (5) Retirements of managed investment entities’ liabilities(1,045)(46)
Issuances of Common StockIssuances of Common Stock12  19  Issuances of Common Stock52 12 
Repurchases of Common StockRepurchases of Common Stock(137) —  Repurchases of Common Stock(306)(137)
Cash dividends paid on Common StockCash dividends paid on Common Stock(81) (205) Cash dividends paid on Common Stock(1,271)(81)
Net cash provided by financing activities593  1,034  
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activitiesNet cash provided by (used in) financing activities(1,076)593 
Net Change in Cash and Cash EquivalentsNet Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents384  859  Net Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents555 384 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of periodCash and cash equivalents at beginning of period2,314  1,515  Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period2,810 2,314 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of periodCash and cash equivalents at end of period$2,698  $2,374  Cash and cash equivalents at end of period$3,365 $2,698 
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
INDEX TO NOTES
A.Accounting PoliciesH.Managed Investment Entities
B.Acquisition of BusinessesI.Goodwill and Other Intangibles
B.Discontinued OperationsI.Long-Term Debt
C.Sales of BusinessesJ.Shareholders’ Equity
D.Segments of OperationsJ.K.Long-Term DebtIncome Taxes
D.E.Fair Value MeasurementsK.Shareholders’ Equity
E.InvestmentsL.Income TaxesContingencies
F.DerivativesInvestmentsMM.ContingenciesInsurance
G.Deferred Policy Acquisition CostsManaged Investment EntitiesN.Insurance

A.    Accounting Policies

Basis of Presentation   The accompanying consolidated financial statements for American Financial Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries (“AFG”) are unaudited; however, management believes that all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring accruals unless otherwise disclosed herein) necessary for fair presentation have been made. The results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for the year. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and, therefore, do not include all information and footnotes necessary to be in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).

Certain reclassifications have been made to prior periods to conform to the current year’s presentation.presentation including reclassifying the assets and liabilities of the Annuity subsidiaries sold in May 2021 to assets and liabilities of discontinued annuity operations and their earnings to net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations. See Note B — “Discontinued Operations.” All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. The results of operations of companies since their formation or acquisition are included in the consolidated financial statements. Events or transactions occurring subsequent to June 30, 2020,2021, and prior to the filing of this Form 10-Q, have been evaluated for potential recognition or disclosure herein.

Unless otherwise stated, the information in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements relates to AFG’s continuing operations.

The preparation of the financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Changes in circumstances could cause actual results to differ materially from those estimates.

Discontinued Operations  Disposals of components of an entity that represent a strategic shift and that have a major effect on a reporting entity’s operations and financial results are reported as discontinued operations.

Fair Value Measurements   Accounting standards define fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The standards establish a hierarchy of valuation techniques based on whether the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability (“inputs”) are observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect AFG’s assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. AFG did not have any material nonrecurring fair value measurements in the first six months of 2020.2021.

Credit Losses on Financial Instruments   On January 1, 2020, AFG adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses: Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, which provides a new loss model for determining credit-related impairments for financial instruments measured at amortized cost (mortgage loans, premiums receivable and reinsurance recoverables) and requires an entity to estimate the credit losses expected over the life of an exposure or pool of exposures. The estimate of expected credit losses considers historical information, current information, as well as reasonable and supportable forecasts, including estimates of prepayments. Expected credit losses, and subsequent increases or decreases in such expected losses, are recorded immediately through net earnings as an allowance that is deducted from the amortized cost basis of the financial asset, with the net carrying value of the financial asset presented on the balance sheet at the amount expected to be collected. AFG’s portfolio of mortgage loans crosses a wide variety of commercial properties with very strong loan to value ratios and no credit losses in recent years. In addition, the reinsurance used in AFG’s insurance operations is purchased from financially
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
strong (highly rated) reinsurers and the Company has a long history of collecting premiums receivable through various economic cycles. At the date of adoption, the impact of adjusting AFG’s existing allowances for uncollectable mortgage loans, premiums receivable and reinsurance recoverables to the allowances calculated under the new guidance resulted in a reduction in the net allowance, which was recorded as the cumulative effect of an accounting change ($7 million increase in retained earnings at January 1, 2020).

The updated guidance also amended the current other-than-temporary impairment model for available for sale debt securities by requiring the recognition of impairments relating to credit losses through an allowance and limits the amount
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
of credit loss to the difference between a security’s amortized cost basis and its fair value. Subsequent increases or decreases in expected credit losses will beare recorded immediately in net earnings through realized gains (losses).

Investments   Equity securities other than those accounted for under the equity method are reported at fair value with holding gains and losses generally recorded in realized gains (losses) on securities. However, AFG records holding gains and losses on securities classified as “trading” under previous guidance, its small portfolio of limited partnerships and similar investments carried at fair value and certain other securities classified at purchase as “fair value through net investment income” in net investment income.

Fixed maturity securities classified as “available for sale” are reported at fair value with unrealized gains and losses included in AOCIaccumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) in AFG’s Balance Sheet. Fixed maturity securities classified as “trading” are reported at fair value with changes in unrealized holding gains or losses during the period included in net investment income. Mortgage loans (net of any allowance) and policy loans are carried primarily at the aggregate unpaid balance.

Premiums and discounts on fixed maturity securities are amortized using the effective interest method. Mortgage-backed securities (“MBS”) are amortized over a period based on estimated future principal payments, including prepayments. Prepayment assumptions are reviewed periodically and adjusted to reflect actual prepayments and changes in expectations.

Limited partnerships and similar investments are generally accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Under the equity method, AFG records its share of the earnings or losses of the investee based on when they areit is reported by the investee in its financial statements rather than in the period in which the investee declares a dividend. AFG’s share of the earnings or losses from equity method investments is generally recorded on a quarter lag due to the timing of the receipt of the investee’s financial statements. AFG’s equity in the earnings (losses) of limited partnerships and similar investments is included in net investment income.

Realized gains or losses on the disposal of fixed maturity securities are determined on the specific identification basis. When a decline in the value of an available for sale fixed maturity is considered to be other-than-temporary at the balance sheet date, an allowance for credit losses (impairment), including any write-off of accrued interest, is charged to earnings (included in realized gains (losses) on securities). If management can assert that it does not intend to sell the security and it is not more likely than not that it will have to sell it before recovery of its amortized cost basis (net of allowance), then the impairment allowance is separated into two components: (i) the amount related to credit losses (recorded in earnings) and (ii) the amount related to all other factors (recorded in other comprehensive income). The credit-related portion is measured by comparing a security’s amortized cost to the present value of its current expected cash flows discounted at its effective yield prior to the charge. If management intends to sell an impaired security, or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security before recovery, an impairment is recorded in earnings to reduce the amortized cost (net of allowance) of that security to fair value. See “Credit Losses on Financial Instruments” above for a discussion of new guidance adopted on January 1, 2020.

Derivatives Derivatives included in AFG’s Balance Sheet are recorded at fair value. Changes in fair value of derivatives are included in earnings unless the derivatives are designated and qualify as highly effective cash flow hedges. Derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting under GAAP consist primarily of (i) components of certain fixed maturity securities (primarily interest-only and principal-only MBS) and (ii) the equity-based component of certain annuity products (included in annuity benefits accumulated) and related equity index options designed to be consistent with the characteristics of the liabilities and used to mitigate the risk embedded in those annuity products.

To qualify for hedge accounting, at the inception of a derivative contract, AFG formally documents the relationship between the terms of the hedge and the hedged items and its risk management objective. This documentation includes defining how hedge effectiveness and ineffectiveness will be measured on a retrospective and prospective basis.

Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as highly effective cash flow hedges are recorded in AOCI and are reclassified into earnings when the variability of the cash flows from the hedged items impacts earnings. When the change in the fair value of a qualifying cash flow hedge is included in earnings, it is included in the same line item in the statement of earnings as the cash flows from the hedged item. AFG uses interest rate swaps that are designated and qualify as highly effective cash flow hedges to mitigate interest rate risk related to certain floating-rate securities included in AFG’s portfolio of fixed maturity securities.

Goodwill   Goodwill represents the excess of cost of subsidiaries over AFG’s equity in their underlying net assets.assets at the date of acquisition. Goodwill is not amortized, but is subject to an impairment test at least annually. An entity is not required to complete the
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
quantitative annual goodwill impairment test on a reporting unit if the entity elects to perform a qualitative analysis and determines that it is more likely than not that the reporting unit’s fair value exceeds its carrying amount.

Reinsurance   Amounts recoverable from reinsurers are estimated in a manner consistent with the claim liability associated with the reinsured policies. AFG’s property and casualty insurance subsidiaries report as assets (i) the estimated reinsurance recoverable on paid and unpaid losses, including an estimate for losses incurred but not reported, and (ii) amounts paid or due to reinsurers applicable to the unexpired terms of policies in force. Payable to reinsurers includes ceded premiums due to reinsurers, as well as ceded premiums retained by AFG’s property and casualty insurance subsidiariesAFG under contracts to fund ceded
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
losses as they become due. AFG’s insurance subsidiariesAFG also assumeassumes reinsurance from other companies. Earnings on reinsurance assumed is recognized based on information received from ceding companies.

An AFG subsidiary cedes life insurance policies to a third party on a funds withheld basis whereby the subsidiary retains the assets (securities) associated with the reinsurance contract. Interest is credited to the reinsurer based on the actual investment performance of the retained assets. This reinsurance contract is considered to contain an embedded derivative (that must be adjusted to fair value) because the yield on the payable is based on a specific block of the ceding company’s assets, rather than the overall creditworthiness of the ceding company. AFG determined that changes in the fair value of the underlying portfolio of fixed maturity securities is an appropriate measure of the value of the embedded derivative. The securities related to this contract are classified as “trading.” The adjustment to fair value on the embedded derivative offsets the investment income recorded on the adjustment to fair value of the related trading portfolio.

Certain reinsurance arrangements in AFG’s annuity operations do not transfer significant insurance risk and are therefore accounted for using the deposit method. This accounting treatment results in amounts paid by AFG to the reinsurer to be recorded as a deposit asset. The reinsurance deposit asset is adjusted as amounts are paid or received under the underlying contracts.

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs (“DPAC”)   Policy acquisition costs (principally commissions, premium taxes and certain underwriting and policy issuance costs) directly related to the successful acquisition or renewal of an insurance contract are deferred. DPAC also includes capitalized costs associated with sales inducements offered to fixed annuity policyholders such as enhanced interest rates and premium and persistency bonuses.

For the property and casualty companies, DPAC is limited based upon recoverability without any consideration for anticipated investment income and is charged against income ratably over the terms of the related policies. A premium deficiency is recognized if the sum of expected claims costs, claims adjustment expenses and unamortized acquisition costs exceed the related unearned premiums. A premium deficiency is first recognized by charging any unamortized acquisition costs to expense to the extent required to eliminate the deficiency. If the premium deficiency is greater than unamortized acquisition costs, a liability is accrued for the excess deficiency and reported with unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses.

DPAC related to annuities is deferred to the extent deemed recoverable and amortized, with interest, in relation to the present value of actual and expected gross profits on the policies. Expected gross profits consist principally of estimated future investment margin (estimated future net investment income less interest credited on policyholder funds) and surrender, mortality, and other life and annuity policy charges, less death, annuitization and guaranteed withdrawal benefits in excess of account balances and estimated future policy administration expenses. To the extent that realized gains and losses result in adjustments to the amortization of DPAC related to annuities, such adjustments are reflected as components of realized gains (losses) on securities.

DPAC related to traditional life and health insurance is amortized over the expected premium paying period of the related policies, in proportion to the ratio of annual premium revenues to total anticipated premium revenues. See “Life, Accident and Health Reserves” below for details on the impact of loss recognition on the accounting for traditional life and health insurance contracts.

DPAC includes the present value of future profits on business in force of annuity and life, accident and health insurance companies acquired (“PVFP”). PVFP represents the portion of the costs to acquire companies that is allocated to the value of the right to receive future cash flows from insurance contracts existing at the date of acquisition. PVFP is amortized with interest in relation to expected gross profits of the acquired policies for annuities and universal life products and in relation to the premium paying period for traditional life and health insurance products.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
DPAC and certain other balance sheet amounts related to annuity and life businesses are also adjusted, net of tax, for the change in expense that would have been recorded if the unrealized gains (losses) from securities had actually been realized. These adjustments are included in unrealized gains (losses) on marketable securities, a component of AOCI in AFG’s Balance Sheet.

Managed Investment Entities   A company is considered the primary beneficiary of, and therefore must consolidate, a variable interest entity (“VIE”) based primarily on its ability to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact that entity’s economic performance and the obligation to absorb losses of, or receive benefits from, the entity that could potentially be significant to the VIE.

AFG manages, and has investments in, collateralized loan obligations (“CLOs”) that are VIEs (see Note HG — “Managed Investment Entities”). AFG has determined that it is the primary beneficiary of these CLOs because (i) its role as asset manager gives it the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of the CLOs and (ii) through its investment in the CLO debt tranches, it has exposure to CLO losses (limited to the amount AFG invested) and the right to receive CLO benefits that could potentially be significant to the CLOs.

Because AFG has no right to use the CLO assets and no obligation to pay the CLO liabilities, the assets and liabilities of the CLOs are shown separately in AFG’s Balance Sheet. AFG has elected the fair value option for reporting on the CLO assets and liabilities to improve the transparency of financial reporting related to the CLOs. The net gain or loss from accounting for the CLO assets and liabilities at fair value is presented separately in AFG’s Statement of Earnings.

The fair values of a CLO’s assets may differ from the separately measured fair values of its liabilities even though the CLO liabilities only have recourse to the CLO assets. AFG has set the carrying value of the CLO liabilities equal to the fair value of the CLO assets (which have more observable fair values) as an alternative to reporting those liabilities at a separately measured fair value. CLO earnings attributable to AFG’s shareholders are measured by the change in the fair value of AFG’s investments in the CLOs and management fees earned.

Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses   The net liabilities stated for unpaid claims and for expenses of investigation and adjustment of unpaid claims represent management’s best estimate and are based upon (i) the accumulation of case estimates for losses reported prior to the close of the accounting period on direct business written; (ii) estimates received from ceding reinsurers and insurance pools and associations; (iii) estimates of unreported losses (including possible development on known claims) based on past experience; (iv) estimates based on experience of expenses for investigating and adjusting claims; and (v) the current state of the law and coverage litigation. Establishing reserves for asbestos, environmental and other mass tort claims involves considerably more judgment than other types of claims due to, among other things, inconsistent court decisions, an increase in bankruptcy filings as a result of asbestos-related liabilities, novel theories of coverage, and judicial interpretations that often expand theories of recovery and broaden the scope of coverage.

Loss reserve liabilities are subject to the impact of changes in claim amounts and frequency and other factors. Changes in estimates of the liabilities for losses and loss adjustment expenses are reflected in the statement of earnings in the period in which determined. Despite the variability inherent in such estimates, management believes that the liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses are adequate.

Annuity Benefits Accumulated   Annuity receipts and benefit payments are recorded as increases or decreases in annuity benefits accumulated rather than as revenue and expense. Increases in this liability for interest credited are charged to annuity benefits expense and decreases for annuity policy charges are recorded in other income. For traditional fixed annuities, the liability for annuity benefits accumulated represents the account value that had accrued to the benefit of the policyholder as of the balance sheet date. For fixed-indexed annuities (“FIAs”), the liability for annuity benefits accumulated includes an embedded derivative that represents the estimated fair value of the index participation with the remaining component representing the discounted value of the guaranteed minimum contract benefits.

For certain products, annuity benefits accumulated also includes reserves for accrued persistency and premium bonuses, guaranteed withdrawals and excess benefits expected to be paid on future deaths and annuitizations (“EDAR”). The liabilities for EDAR and guaranteed withdrawals are accrued for and modified using assumptions consistent with those used in determining DPAC and DPAC amortization, except that amounts are determined in relation to the present value of total expected assessments. Total expected assessments consist principally of estimated future investment margin, surrender, mortality, and other life and annuity policy charges, and unearned revenues once they are recognized as income.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
Annuity benefits accumulated also includes amounts advanced from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati.

Unearned Revenue   Certain upfront policy charges on annuities are deferred as unearned revenue (included in other liabilities) and recognized in net earnings (included in other income) using the same assumptions and estimated gross profits used to amortize DPAC.

Life, Accident and Health Reserves Liabilities for future policy benefits under traditional life, accident and health policies are computed using the net level premium method. Computations are based on the original projections of investment yields, mortality, morbidity and surrenders and include provisions for unfavorable deviations unless a loss recognition event (premium deficiency) occurs. Claim reserves and liabilities established for accident and health claims are modified as necessary to reflect actual experience and developing trends.

For long-duration contracts (such as traditional life and long-term care policies), loss recognition occurs when, based on current expectations as of the measurement date, existing contract liabilities plus the present value of future premiums (including reasonably expected rate increases) are not expected to cover the present value of future claims payments and related settlement and maintenance costs (excluding overhead) as well as unamortized acquisition costs. If a block of business is determined to be in loss recognition, a charge is recorded in earnings in an amount equal to the excess of the present value of expected future claims costs and unamortized acquisition costs over existing reserves plus the present value of expected future premiums (with no provision for adverse deviation). The charge is recorded first to reduce unamortized acquisition costs and then as an additional reserve (if unamortized acquisition costs have been reduced to zero).

In addition, reserves for traditional life and long-term care policies are subject to adjustment for loss recognition charges that would have been recorded if the unrealized gains (losses) from securities had actually been realized. This adjustment is included in unrealized gains (losses) on marketable securities, a component of AOCI in AFG’s Balance Sheet.

Debt Issuance Costs   Debt issuance costs related to AFG’s outstanding debt are presented in its Balance Sheet as a direct reduction in the carrying value of long-term debt and are amortized over the life of the related debt using the effective interest method as a component of interest expense. Debt issuance costs related to AFG’s revolving credit facilities are included in other assets in AFG’s Balance Sheet.

Variable Annuity Assets and Liabilities Separate accounts related to variable annuities represent the fair value of deposits invested in underlying investment funds on which AFG earns a fee. Investment funds are selected and may be changed only by the policyholder, who retains all investment risk.

AFG’s variable annuity contracts contain a guaranteed minimum death benefit (“GMDB”) to be paid if the policyholder dies before the annuity payout period commences. In periods of declining equity markets, the GMDB may exceed the value of the policyholder’s account. A GMDB liability is established for future excess death benefits using assumptions together with a range of reasonably possible scenarios for investment fund performance that are consistent with DPAC capitalization and amortization assumptions.

Leases   On January 1, 2019, AFG adopted ASU 2016-02, which requires entities that lease assetsLeases for terms of longer than one year to recognizeare recognized as assets and liabilities for the rights and obligations created by those leases on the balance sheet based on the present value of contractual cash flows. The adoption of the new guidance did not have a material effect on AFG’s results of operations or liquidity.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
At June 30, 20202021 AFG has a $184$143 million lease liability included in other liabilities and a lease right-of-use asset of $163$124 million included in other assets compared to $180$159 million and $158$139 million, respectively, at December 31, 2019.2020.

Noncontrolling Interests   For balance sheet purposes, noncontrolling interests represent the interests of shareholders other than AFG in consolidated entities. In the statement of earnings, net earnings and losses attributable to noncontrolling interests represents such shareholders’ interest in the earnings and losses of those entities. Noncontrolling interests that are redeemable at the option of the holder are presented separately in the mezzanine section of the balance sheet (between liabilities and equity).

Premium Recognition   Property and casualty premiums are earned generally over the terms of the policies on a pro rata basis. Unearned premiums represent that portion of premiums written, which is applicable to the unexpired terms of policies in force. On reinsurance assumed from other insurance companies or written through various underwriting organizations, unearned premiums are based on information received from such companies and organizations. For
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
traditional life, accident and health products, premiums are recognized as revenue when legally collectible from policyholders. For interest-sensitive life and universal life products, premiums are recorded in a policyholder account, which is reflected as a liability. Revenue is recognized as amounts are assessed against the policyholder account for mortality coverage and contract expenses.

Income Taxes   Deferred income taxes are calculated using the liability method. Under this method, deferred income tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax bases and are measured using enacted tax rates. A valuation allowance is established to reduce total deferred tax assets to an amount that will more likely than not be realized. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recorded in net earnings in the period that includes the enactment date.

AFG recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only when the position is more likely than not to be sustained under examination by the appropriate taxing authority. Interest and penalties on AFG’s reserve for uncertain tax positions are recognized as a component of tax expense.

Stock-Based Compensation   All share-based grants are recognized as compensation expense on a straight-line basis over their vesting periods based on their calculated fair value at the date of grant. AFG uses the Black Scholes pricing model to measure the fair value of employee stock options.

AFG records excess tax benefits or deficiencies for share-based payments through income tax expense in the statement of earnings. In addition, AFG accounts for forfeitures of awards when they occur.

Benefit Plans   AFG provides retirement benefits to qualified employees of participating companies through the AFG 401(k) Retirement and Savings Plan, a defined contribution plan. AFG makes all contributions to the retirement fund portion of the plan and matches a percentage of employee contributions to the savings fund. Company contributions are expensed in the year for which they are declared. AFG and many of its subsidiaries provide health care and life insurance benefits to eligible retirees. AFG also provides postemployment benefits to former or inactive employees (primarily those on disability) who were not deemed retired under other company plans. The projected future cost of providing these benefits is expensed over the period employees earn such benefits.

Earnings Per Share   Although basic earnings per share only considers shares of common stock outstanding during the period, the calculation of diluted earnings per share includes the following adjustments to weighted average common shares related to stock-based compensation plans: second quarter of 2021 and 2020 and 2019 0.30.6 million and 1.30.3 million; first six months of 2021 and 2020 — 0.6 million and 2019 — NaN, and 1.2 million, respectively.

There were 0 anti-dilutive potential common shares for the second quarter of 2021 or 2020 or the first six months of 2021 and 0.6 million anti-dilutive potential common shares for the first six months of 2020 due to AFG’s net loss and 0 anti-dilutive potential common shares for the second quarter of 2020 or 2019 or the first six months of 2019.attributable to shareholders in that period.

Statement of Cash Flows   For cash flow purposes, “investing activities” are defined as making and collecting loans and acquiring and disposing of debt or equity instruments, property and equipment and businesses. “Financing activities” include obtaining resources from owners and providing them with a return on their investments, borrowing money and repaying amounts borrowed. Annuity receipts, surrenders, benefits and withdrawals are also reflected as financing activities. All other activities are considered “operating.” Short-term investments having original maturities of three months or less when purchased are considered to be cash equivalents for purposes of the financial statements.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
B.    AcquisitionDiscontinued Operations

Annuity Business   On May 28, 2021, AFG completed the sale of its Annuity business to Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (“MassMutual”) with an effective date of May 31, 2021. MassMutual acquired Great American Life Insurance Company (“GALIC”) and its two insurance subsidiaries, Annuity Investors Life Insurance Company and Manhattan National Life Insurance Company. In addition to AFG’s annuity operations, these subsidiaries included AFG’s run-off life and long-term care operations. Proceeds from the sale were $3.57 billion (including $32 million in preliminary post-closing adjustments). AFG realized a $656 million net gain on the sale. The sale continues to be subject to post-closing adjustments which are expected to be final by the end of 2021. Beginning with the first quarter of 2021, the results of the Annuity business sold were reported as discontinued operations in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, which included adjusting prior period results to reflect these operations as discontinued.

Prior to the sale, AFG acquired approximately $480 million in investments accounted for using the equity method and approximately $100 million of directly owned real estate from GALIC.

Details of the assets and liabilities of the Annuity subsidiaries sold were as follows (in millions):
May 31, 2021December 31, 2020
Assets of businesses sold:
Cash and cash equivalents$2,060 $1,145 
Investments38,322 38,011 
Recoverables from reinsurers6,748 6,804 
Other assets2,139 1,925 
Total assets of discontinued annuity operations49,269 47,885 
Liabilities of businesses sold:
Annuity benefits accumulated43,690 42,573 
Other liabilities1,801 1,885 
Total liabilities of discontinued annuity operations45,491 44,458 
Receivable from AFG for real estate-related investments537 
Reclassify AOCI(913)(1,071)
Net investment in annuity businesses sold, excluding AOCI$2,865 $2,893 

Details of the results of operations for the discontinued annuity operations were (in millions):
Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
2021 (*)20202021 (*)2020
Net investment income$299 $382 $746 $797 
Realized gains (losses) on securities31 96 112 (127)
Other income20 32 52 65 
Total revenues350 510 910 735 
Annuity benefits216 426 377 702 
Annuity and supplemental insurance acquisition expenses24 (35)136 78 
Other expenses27 41 73 80 
Total costs and expenses267 432 586 860 
Earnings (loss) before income taxes from discontinued operations83 78 324 (125)
Provision (credit) for income taxes on operations18 14 66 (29)
Net earnings (loss) from operations, net of tax65 64 258 (96)
Gain on sale, net of tax697 656 
Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations$762 $64 $914 $(96)
(*)Results through the May 31, 2021 effective date of the sale.

Net investment income in the table above excludes $22 million and $7 million in the second quarter of 2021 and 2020 and $51 million and $19 million in first six months of 2021 and 2020, respectively, related to the real estate-related entities that AFG acquired from the discontinued annuity operations prior to the completion of the sale.
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
The impact of the sale of the annuity business is shown below (in millions):
May 31, 2021
Cash proceeds$3,537 
Receivable from MassMutual32 
Sale related expenses(8)
Total net proceeds3,561 
Net investment in annuity businesses sold, excluding AOCI2,865 
Reclassify net deferred tax asset(210)
Pretax gain on sale906 
Income tax expense:
Reclassify net deferred tax asset210 
Tax liabilities triggered by pending sale in the first quarter of 202141 
Other(1)
Total income tax expense250 
Net gain on sale$656 

Summarized cash flows for the discontinued annuity operations were (in millions):
Six months ended June 30,
20212020
Net cash provided by operating activities$87 $605 
Net cash used in investing activities(1,709)(1,008)
Net cash provided by financing activities477 406 

Derivatives   The vast majority of AFG’s derivatives were held by the sold annuity subsidiaries. The following table summarizes the gains (losses) included in net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations for changes in the fair value of derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting for the first six months of 2021 and 2020 (in millions):
Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
Derivative2021202020212020
MBS with embedded derivatives$(1)$$(1)$
Fixed-indexed and variable-indexed annuities (embedded derivative)(182)(601)(222)46 
Equity index call options123 383 237 (245)
Equity index put options(1)
Reinsurance contract (embedded derivative)(3)(1)
$(57)$(214)$20 $(196)


C.    Sales of Businesses

EffectiveAnnuity Operations   See Note B — “Discontinued Operations,” for information on the sale of AFG’s annuity operations.

Neon   In December 2019, AFG initiated actions to exit the Lloyd’s of London insurance market, which included placing Neon Underwriting Ltd. and its other Lloyd’s subsidiaries in June 2019, National Interstate,run-off. Neon and its predecessor, Marketform, failed to achieve AFG’s profitability objectives since AFG’s purchase of Marketform in 2008. In December 2020, AFG completed the sale of GAI Holding Bermuda and its subsidiaries, comprising the legal entities that own Neon, to RiverStone Holdings Limited for proceeds of $6 million. The sale completed AFG’s exit from the Lloyd’s of London insurance market. In the second quarter of 2021, AFG recognized a property and casualty insurancepretax gain on sale of a subsidiary of AFG, entered into$4 million related to contingent consideration received on the sale of Neon.

Under GAAP accounting guidance, only disposals of components of an agreement with Atlas Financial Holdings, Inc. (“AFH”) to become the exclusive underwriter of AFH’s paratransit book of business. National Interstate estimatesentity that the majority of AFH’s $110 million paratransit business will be eligible for quotation under this arrangement following inception of the agreement. Under the terms of the agreement (as extended in 2020), AFH will actrepresent a strategic shift and that have a major effect on a reporting entity’s operations and financial results are reported as an underwriting manager for National Interstate until at least August 2021 for fleets with seven or fewer vehicles and until November 2020 for accounts with eight or more vehicles, after which time National Interstate is entitled to acquire the renewal rights for the business from AFH for a purchase price equal to 15% of the in force gross written premiums at that date. The majority of the purchase price ultimately paid for the renewal rights will be recorded as an intangible renewal rights asset and will be amortized over the estimated life of the business acquired. In connection with the transaction, AFG was granted a five-year warrant to acquire approximately 2.4 million shares of AFH (19.9% at the acquisition date). The estimated fair value of the warrant was approximately $1 million at the date it was received.discontinued operations. Because
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
AFG’s primary business continues to be commercial property and casualty insurance, as well as the immaterial expected impact on AFG’s ongoing results of operations, the sale of Neon was not reported as a discontinued operation.

On June 30, 2020, AFG acquired 100% ofRevenues, costs and expenses, and earnings before income taxes for the indirect noncontrolling interest in Neon, its United Kingdom-based Lloyd’s insurer from certain former and current Neon executives for cash based on the nominal fair value of the interest acquired as determined by a third-party valuation firm.subsidiaries sold were (in millions):
Three months endedSix months ended
June 30, 2020June 30, 2020
Net earned premiums$61 $132 
Loss and loss adjustment expenses66 106 
Commissions and other underwriting expenses38 70 
Underwriting loss(43)(44)
Net investment income(6)
Other income and expenses, net(2)
Loss before income taxes and noncontrolling interests$(42)$(52)

C.D.    Segments of Operations

Subsequent to the sale of its annuity operations, see Note B — “Discontinued Operations,” AFG manages its business as 32 segments: (i) Property and casualty insurance (ii) Annuity and (iii) Other, which includes holding company costs revenues and costs of AFG’s limited insurance operations outside of property and casualty insurance and annuity segments, and operations attributable to the noncontrolling interests of the managed investment entities.

AFG reports its property and casualty insurance business in the following Specialty sub-segments: (i) Property and transportation, which includes physical damage and liability coverage for buses and trucks, inland and ocean marine, agricultural-related products and other commercial property coverages, (ii) Specialty casualty, which includes primarily excess and surplus, executive and professional liability, general liability, umbrella and excess liability, specialty coverages in targeted markets, customized programs for small to mid-sized businesses and workers’ compensation insurance, and (iii) Specialty financial, which includes risk management insurance programs for lending and leasing institutions (including equipment leasing and collateral and lender-placed mortgage property insurance), fidelity and surety products and trade credit insurance. Premiums and underwriting profit included under Other specialty represent business assumed by AFG’s internal reinsurance program from the operations that make up AFG’s other Specialty sub-segments and amortization of deferred gains on retroactive reinsurance transactions related to the sales of businesses in prior years. AFG’s annuity business sells traditional fixed and indexed annuities in the retail, financial institutions, broker-dealer and registered investment advisor markets. AFG’s reportable segments and their components were determined based primarily upon similar economic characteristics, products and services.

In December 2019, AFG initiated actions to exit the Lloyd’s of London insurance market, which included placing its Lloyd’s subsidiaries including its Lloyd’s Managing Agency, Neon Underwriting Ltd., into run-off. Neon and its predecessor, Marketform, have failed to achieve AFG’s profitability objectives since AFG’s purchase of Marketform in 2008. Beginning prospectively with the first quarter of 2020, the results for AFG’s Specialty casualty sub-segment exclude the run-off operations of Neon (“Neon exited lines”).

The following tables (in millions) show AFG’s revenues and earnings before income taxes by segment and sub-segment.
Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
2020201920202019
Revenues
Property and casualty insurance:
Premiums earned:
Specialty
Property and transportation$390  $379  $776  $740  
Specialty casualty547  634  1,103  1,263  
Specialty financial144  151  300  297  
Other specialty42  36  82  73  
Other lines (a)61  —  132  —  
Total premiums earned1,184  1,200  2,393  2,373  
Net investment income (b)72  124  165  228  
Other income    
Total property and casualty insurance1,259  1,326  2,566  2,606  
Annuity:
Net investment income384  451  806  886  
Other income30  30  65  58  
Total annuity414  481  871  944  
Other74  97  136  194  
Total revenues before realized gains (losses)1,747  1,904  3,573  3,744  
Realized gains (losses) on securities204  56  (347) 240  
Total revenues$1,951  $1,960  $3,226  $3,984  
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED

The following tables (in millions) show AFG’s revenues and earnings before income taxes by segment and sub-segment.
Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
2021202020212020
Revenues
Property and casualty insurance:
Premiums earned:
Specialty
Property and transportation$453 $390 $847 $776 
Specialty casualty588 547 1,159 1,103 
Specialty financial157 144 314 300 
Other specialty52 42 103 82 
Other lines (a)61 132 
Total premiums earned1,250 1,184 2,423 2,393 
Net investment income (b)143 72 302 165 
Other income
Total property and casualty insurance1,394 1,259 2,730 2,566 
Other (c)90 78 186 154 
Total revenues before realized gains (losses)1,484 1,337 2,916 2,720 
Realized gains (losses) on securities43 108 120 (220)
Realized gain on subsidiary
Total revenues$1,531 $1,445 $3,040 $2,500 
(a)Represents premiums earned in the Neon exited lines (which were sold in December 2020) during the second quarter and first six months of 2020. Neon’s $89 million and $177 million in earned premiums during the second quarter and first six months of 2019, respectively, are included in the Specialty casualty sub-segment.
(b)Includes income of less than $1 million for the second quarter of 2020 and a loss of $6 million in the Neon exited lines in the first six months of 2020 (primarily from the change in fair value of equity securities).
Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
2020201920202019
Earnings (Loss) Before Income Taxes
Property and casualty insurance:
Underwriting:
Specialty
Property and transportation$33  $ $60  $43  
Specialty casualty27  47  79  83  
Specialty financial—  21  17  34  
Other specialty(6) (12) (13) (12) 
Other lines (a)(45) (1) (47) (2) 
Total underwriting 59  96  146  
Investment and other income, net (b)65  115  149  210  
Total property and casualty insurance74  174  245  356  
Annuity(17) 71  12  161  
Other (c)(43) (42) (80) (85) 
Total earnings before realized gains (losses) and income taxes14  203  177  432  
Realized gains (losses) on securities204  56  (347) 240  
Total earnings (loss) before income taxes$218  $259  $(170) $672  
(c)Includes $22 million and $7 million in the second quarter of 2021 and 2020 and $51 million and $19 million in first six months of 2021 and 2020, respectively, in investment income from real estate-related entities acquired from the discontinued annuity operations prior to closing of the sale.
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
2021202020212020
Earnings (Loss) Before Income Taxes
Property and casualty insurance:
Underwriting:
Specialty
Property and transportation$62 $33 $118 $60 
Specialty casualty71 27 127 79 
Specialty financial21 46 17 
Other specialty(1)(6)(4)(13)
Other lines (a)(1)(45)(1)(47)
Total underwriting152 286 96 
Investment and other income, net (b)136 65 290 149 
Total property and casualty insurance288 74 576 245 
Other (c)(47)(42)(77)(70)
Total earnings before realized gains (losses) and income taxes241 32 499 175 
Realized gains (losses) on securities43 108 120 (220)
Realized gain on subsidiary
Total earnings (loss) before income taxes$288 $140 $623 $(45)
(a)Includes an underwriting loss of $43 million in the second quarter of 2020 and $44 million in the first six months of 2020 in the Neon exited lines. Neon’s $4 million and $14 million underwriting losses in the second quarter and first six months of 2019, respectively, are included in the Specialty casualty sub-segment.
(b)Includes $1 million and $10 million in the second quarter and first six months of 2020, respectively, in net expenses from the Neon exited lines, before noncontrolling interest.
(c)Includes holding company interest and expenses.expenses and $22 million and $2 million (net of DAC) in the second quarter of 2021 and 2020 and $51 million and $8 million (net of DAC) in the first six months of 2021 and 2020, respectively, of earnings from the real estate-related entities acquired from the discontinued annuity operations prior to closing of the sale.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
D.E.    Fair Value Measurements

Accounting standards for measuring fair value are based on inputs used in estimating fair value. The three levels of the hierarchy are as follows:

Level 1 — Quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets (markets in which transactions occur with sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis). AFG’s Level 1 financial instruments consist primarily of publicly traded equity securities, highly liquid government bonds for which quoted market prices in active markets are available and short-term investments of managed investment entities.

Level 2 — Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in inactive markets (markets in which there are few transactions, the prices are not current, price quotations vary substantially over time or among market makers, or in which little information is released publicly); and valuations based on other significant inputs that are observable in active markets. AFG’s Level 2 financial instruments include separate account assets, corporate and municipal fixed maturity securities, asset-backed securities (“ABS”), mortgage-backed securities (“MBS”), certain non-affiliated common stocks equity index options and investments of managed investment entities priced using observable inputs. Level 2 inputs include benchmark yields, reported trades, corroborated broker/dealer quotes, issuer spreads and benchmark securities. When non-binding broker quotes can be corroborated by comparison to similar securities priced using observable inputs, they are classified as Level 2.

Level 3 — Valuations derived from market valuation techniques generally consistent with those used to estimate the fair values of Level 2 financial instruments in which one or more significant inputs are unobservable or when the market for a security exhibits significantly less liquidity relative to markets supporting Level 2 fair value measurements. The unobservable inputs may include management’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use based on the best information available at the valuation date. Financial instruments whose fair value is estimated based on non-binding broker quotes or internally developed using significant inputs not based on, or corroborated by, observable market information are classified as Level 3.

As discussed in Note A — “Accounting Policies — Managed Investment Entities,” AFG has set the carrying value of its CLO liabilities equal to the fair value of the CLO assets (which have more observable fair values) as an alternative to reporting those liabilities at separately measured fair values. As a result, the CLO liabilities are categorized within the fair value hierarchy on the same basis (proportionally) as the related CLO assets. Since the portion of the CLO liabilities allocated to Level 3 is derived from the fair value of the CLO assets, these amounts are excluded from the progression of Level 3 financial instruments.

AFG’s management is responsible for the valuation process and uses data from outside sources (including nationally recognized pricing services and broker/dealers) in establishing fair value. AFG’s internal investment professionals are a group of approximately 20 analystsinvestment professionals whose primary responsibility is to manage AFG’s investment portfolio. These professionals monitor individual investments as well as overall industries and are active in the financial markets on a daily basis. The group is led by AFG’s chief investment officer, who reports directly to one of AFG’s Co-CEOs. Valuation techniques utilized by pricing services and prices obtained from external sources are reviewed by AFG’s internal investment professionals who are familiar with the securities being priced and the markets in which they trade to ensure the fair value determination is representative of an exit price. To validate the appropriateness of the prices obtained, these investment managers consider widely published indices (as benchmarks), recent trades, changes in interest rates, general economic conditions and the credit quality of the specific issuers. In addition, the Company communicates directly with the pricing services regarding the methods and assumptions used in pricing, including verifying, on a test basis, the inputs used by the service to value specific securities.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
Assets and liabilities of continuing operations measured and carried at fair value in the financial statements are summarized below (in millions):
Level 1Level 2Level 3Total
June 30, 2020
Assets:
Available for sale (“AFS”) fixed maturities:
U.S. Government and government agencies$167  $28  $15  $210  
States, municipalities and political subdivisions—  6,844  107  6,951  
Foreign government—  184  —  184  
Residential MBS—  3,066  156  3,222  
Commercial MBS—  856  33  889  
Collateralized loan obligations—  4,300  207  4,507  
Other asset-backed securities—  5,987  1,328  7,315  
Corporate and other28  23,215  1,525  24,768  
Total AFS fixed maturities195  44,480  3,371  48,046  
Trading fixed maturities 96  —  97  
Equity securities1,075  75  452  1,602  
Equity index call options—  605  —  605  
Assets of managed investment entities (“MIE”)151  4,225  17  4,393  
Variable annuity assets (separate accounts) (*)—  577  —  577  
Other assets — derivatives—  124  —  124  
Total assets accounted for at fair value$1,422  $50,182  $3,840  $55,444  
Liabilities:
Liabilities of managed investment entities$145  $4,074  $17  $4,236  
Derivatives in annuity benefits accumulated—  —  3,675  3,675  
Other liabilities — derivatives—  10  —  10  
Total liabilities accounted for at fair value$145  $4,084  $3,692  $7,921  
December 31, 2019
Assets:
Available for sale fixed maturities:
U.S. Government and government agencies$151  $43  $15  $209  
States, municipalities and political subdivisions—  6,858  105  6,963  
Foreign government—  172  —  172  
Residential MBS—  2,987  173  3,160  
Commercial MBS—  892  35  927  
Collateralized loan obligations—  4,265  15  4,280  
Other asset-backed securities—  5,842  1,286  7,128  
Corporate and other29  21,879  1,758  23,666  
Total AFS fixed maturities180  42,938  3,387  46,505  
Trading fixed maturities 111  —  113  
Equity securities1,433  67  437  1,937  
Equity index call options—  924  —  924  
Assets of managed investment entities213  4,506  17  4,736  
Variable annuity assets (separate accounts) (*)—  628  —  628  
Other assets — derivatives—  50  —  50  
Total assets accounted for at fair value$1,828  $49,224  $3,841  $54,893  
Liabilities:
Liabilities of managed investment entities$206  $4,349  $16  $4,571  
Derivatives in annuity benefits accumulated—  —  3,730  3,730  
Other liabilities — derivatives—  10  —  10  
Total liabilities accounted for at fair value$206  $4,359  $3,746  $8,311  
(*)Variable annuity liabilities equal the fair value of variable annuity assets.
Level 1Level 2Level 3Total
June 30, 2021
Assets:
Available for sale (“AFS”) fixed maturities:
U.S. Government and government agencies$218 $$$221 
States, municipalities and political subdivisions2,024 36 2,060 
Foreign government208 208 
Residential MBS770 28 798 
Commercial MBS130 130 
Collateralized loan obligations1,378 1,384 
Other asset-backed securities2,044 315 2,359 
Corporate and other2,348 220 2,572 
Total AFS fixed maturities222 8,905 605 9,732 
Trading fixed maturities26 26 
Equity securities672 48 245 965 
Assets of managed investment entities (“MIE”)269 4,802 15 5,086 
Total assets of continuing operations accounted for at fair value$1,163 $13,781 $865 $15,809 
Liabilities:
Liabilities of managed investment entities$266 $4,749 $14 $5,029 
Total liabilities of continuing operations accounted for at fair value$266 $4,749 $14 $5,029 
December 31, 2020
Assets:
Available for sale fixed maturities:
U.S. Government and government agencies$195 $$$198 
States, municipalities and political subdivisions2,273 39 2,312 
Foreign government176 176 
Residential MBS877 38 915 
Commercial MBS90 92 
Collateralized loan obligations1,046 16 1,062 
Other asset-backed securities1,742 305 2,047 
Corporate and other2,140 138 2,282 
Total AFS fixed maturities199 8,347 538 9,084 
Trading fixed maturities24 24 
Equity securities665 48 176 889 
Assets of managed investment entities217 4,733 21 4,971 
Total assets of continuing operations accounted for at fair value$1,081 $13,152 $735 $14,968 
Liabilities:
Liabilities of managed investment entities$215 $4,678 $21 $4,914 
Total liabilities of continuing operations accounted for at fair value$215 $4,678 $21 $4,914 

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
Approximately 7%5% of the total assets of continuing operations carried at fair value at June 30, 2020,2021, were Level 3 assets. Approximately 37%24% ($1.40 billion)206 million) of thethose Level 3 assets were priced using non-binding broker quotes, for which there is a lack of transparency as to the inputs used to determine fair value. Details as to the quantitative inputs are neither provided by the brokers nor otherwise reasonably obtainable by AFG. Approximately $68 million (8%) of the Level 3 assets were priced by pricing services where either a single price was not corroborated, prices varied enough among the providers, or other market factors led management to determine these securities be classified as Level 3 assets.

Internally developed Level 3 asset fair values of continuing operations represent approximately $1.87 billion$491 million (57%) of the total fair value of Level 3 assets at June 30, 2020. Of this amount, approximately $736 million relates to2021. Internally priced fixed maturity securities that werematurities are priced using management’s best estimatea variety of aninputs, including appropriate credit spreadspreads over the treasury yield (of a similar duration) to discount future expected cash flows using a third-party model. The credit spread applied by management is the significant unobservable input. For this group, trade information and prices of 41comparable securities the average spread used was 389 basis points over the reference treasury yield and the spreads ranged from 53 basis points to 1,253 basis points (approximately 70%other security specific features (such as optional early redemption). Internally developed prices for equity securities are based primarily on financial information of the spreads were between 200entities invested in and 700 basis points). Had management used higher spreads, the fair valuesales of this group of securities would have been lower. Conversely, if the spreads used were lower, the fair values would have been higher. For the remainder of the internally developed prices, any justifiable changes in unobservable inputs used to determine fair value would not have resulted in a material change in AFG’s financial position.
The derivatives embedded in AFG’s fixed-indexed and variable-indexed annuity liabilities are measured using a discounted cash flow approach and had a fair value of $3.68 billion at June 30, 2020. The following table presents information about the unobservable inputs used by management in determining fair value of these Level 3 liabilities. See Note F — “Derivatives.”

Unobservable InputRange
Adjustment for insurance subsidiary’s credit risk0.2% – 3.5% over the risk-free rate
Risk margin for uncertainty in cash flows0.80% reduction in the discount rate
Surrenders4% – 21% of indexed account value
Partial surrenders2% – 9% of indexed account value
Annuitizations0.1% – 1% of indexed account value
Deaths1.9% – 10.7% of indexed account value
Budgeted option costs2.5% – 3.3% of indexed account value

The range of adjustments for insurance subsidiary’s credit risk is based on the Moody’s corporate A2 bond index and reflects credit spread variations across the yield curve. The range of projected surrender rates reflects the specific surrender charges and other features of AFG’s individual fixed-indexed and variable-indexed annuity products with an expected range of 7% to 10% in the majority of future calendar years (4% to 21% over all periods). Increasing the budgeted option cost or risk margin for uncertainty in cash flow assumptions in the table above would increase the fair value of the fixed-indexed and variable-indexed annuity embedded derivatives, while increasing any of the other unobservable inputs in the table above would decrease the fair value of the embedded derivatives.

comparable
18

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
companies. Since internally developed Level 3 asset fair values represent less than 10% of AFG’s Shareholders’ Equity, any justifiable changes in unobservable inputs used to determine internally developed fair values would not have a material impact on AFG’s financial position.
Changes in balances of Level 3 financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value during the second quarter and first six months of 20202021 and 20192020 are presented below (in millions). The transfers into and out of Level 3 were due to changes in the availability of market observable inputs. All transfers are reflected in the table at fair value as of the end of the reporting period.
Total realized/unrealized
gains (losses) included in
Total realized/unrealized
gains (losses) included in
Balance at March 31, 2020Net
earnings (loss)
Other
comprehensive
income (loss)
Purchases
and
issuances
Sales and
settlements
Transfer
into
Level 3
Transfer
out of
Level 3
Balance at June 30, 2020Balance at March 31, 2021Net
earnings (loss)
OCIPurchases
and
issuances
Sales and
settlements
Transfer
into
Level 3
Transfer
out of
Level 3
Sale of annuity businessBalance at June 30, 2021
AFS fixed maturities:AFS fixed maturities:AFS fixed maturities:
U.S. government agencyU.S. government agency$15  $ $(1) $—  $—  $—  $—  $15  U.S. government agency$$$$$$$$$
State and municipalState and municipal105  —   —  (1) —  (2) 107  State and municipal39 (3)36 
Residential MBSResidential MBS163  —   —  (4) —  (7) 156  Residential MBS27 (1)(1)28 
Commercial MBSCommercial MBS32   —  —  —  —  —  33  Commercial MBS
Collateralized loan obligationsCollateralized loan obligations168  (3) 13  —  —  29  —  207  Collateralized loan obligations
Other asset-backed securitiesOther asset-backed securities1,030  —   198  (25) 121  —  1,328  Other asset-backed securities326 38 (49)(1)315 
Corporate and otherCorporate and other1,548   47  48  (20)  (103) 1,525  Corporate and other204 (2)22 (2)(3)220 
Total AFS fixed maturitiesTotal AFS fixed maturities3,061  —  72  246  (50) 154  (112) 3,371  Total AFS fixed maturities602 (2)60 (55)(5)605 
Equity securitiesEquity securities436  (1) —  17  —  —  —  452  Equity securities227 18 12 (5)(7)245 
Assets of MIEAssets of MIE16  (1) —  —  —   —  17  Assets of MIE14 (1)15 
Assets of discontinued annuity operationsAssets of discontinued annuity operations2,806 15 21 13 (136)(2,719)
Total Level 3 assetsTotal Level 3 assets$3,513  $(2) $72  $263  $(50) $156  $(112) $3,840  Total Level 3 assets$3,649 $30 $22 $86 $(196)$$(12)$(2,719)$865 
Embedded derivatives$(3,099) $(601) $—  $(46) $71  $—  $—  $(3,675) 
Liabilities of discontinued annuity operationsLiabilities of discontinued annuity operations$(3,954)$(183)$$(72)$66 $$$4,143 $
Total Level 3 liabilities (*)Total Level 3 liabilities (*)$(3,099) $(601) $—  $(46) $71  $—  $—  $(3,675) Total Level 3 liabilities (*)$(3,954)$(183)$$(72)$66 $$$4,143 $


Total realized/unrealized
gains (losses) included in
Total realized/unrealized
gains (losses) included in
Balance at March 31, 2019Net
earnings (loss)
Other
comprehensive
income (loss)
Purchases
and
issuances
Sales and
settlements
Transfer
into
Level 3
Transfer
out of
Level 3
Balance at June 30, 2019Balance at March 31, 2020Net
earnings (loss)
OCIPurchases
and
issuances
Sales and
settlements
Transfer
into
Level 3
Transfer
out of
Level 3
Balance at June 30, 2020
AFS fixed maturities:AFS fixed maturities:AFS fixed maturities:
U.S. government agencyU.S. government agency$ $—  $—  $—  $—  $—  $—  $ U.S. government agency$$$$$$$$
State and municipalState and municipal63  —   —  (1) 18  —  82  State and municipal41 (1)41 
Residential MBSResidential MBS169   —  —  (4)  (32) 139  Residential MBS44 (1)(2)42 
Commercial MBSCommercial MBS55   —  —  (2) —  (5) 50  Commercial MBS
Collateralized loan obligationsCollateralized loan obligations37  —  —  —  —  13  —  50  Collateralized loan obligations44 (1)55 
Other asset-backed securitiesOther asset-backed securities633  —   17  (18) —  (268) 367  Other asset-backed securities238 39 (6)20 293 
Corporate and otherCorporate and other2,346  —  20  229  (161)  (422) 2,014  Corporate and other172 (4)178 
Total AFS fixed maturitiesTotal AFS fixed maturities3,311   25  246  (186) 35  (727) 2,710  Total AFS fixed maturities545 47 (12)29 (2)615 
Equity securitiesEquity securities354  (1) —  19  (1)  —  377  Equity securities155 164 
Assets of MIEAssets of MIE20  (1) —  —  —  —  —  19  Assets of MIE16 (1)17 
Assets of discontinued annuity operationsAssets of discontinued annuity operations2,797 (2)64 208 (38)125 (110)3,044 
Total Level 3 assetsTotal Level 3 assets$3,685  $ $25  $265  $(187) $41  $(727) $3,106  Total Level 3 assets$3,513 $(2)$72 $263 $(50)$156 $(112)$3,840 
Embedded derivatives$(3,247) $(251) $—  $(101) $58  $—  $—  $(3,541) 
Liabilities of discontinued annuity operationsLiabilities of discontinued annuity operations$(3,099)$(601)$$(46)$71 $$$(3,675)
Total Level 3 liabilities (*)Total Level 3 liabilities (*)$(3,247) $(251) $—  $(101) $58  $—  $—  $(3,541) Total Level 3 liabilities (*)$(3,099)$(601)$$(46)$71 $$$(3,675)
(*)As previously discussed, these tables exclude the portion of MIE liabilities allocated to Level 3, which are derived from the fair value of the MIE assets.
19

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
Total realized/unrealized
gains (losses) included in
Total realized/unrealized
gains (losses) included in
Balance at December 31, 2019Net
earnings (loss)
Other
comprehensive
income (loss)
Purchases
and
issuances
Sales and
settlements
Transfer
into
Level 3
Transfer
out of
Level 3
Balance at June 30, 2020Balance at December 31, 2020Net
earnings (loss)
OCIPurchases
and
issuances
Sales and
settlements
Transfer
into
Level 3
Transfer
out of
Level 3
Sale of annuity businessBalance at June 30, 2021
AFS fixed maturities:AFS fixed maturities:AFS fixed maturities:
U.S. government agencyU.S. government agency$15  $ $(2) $—  $—  $—  $—  $15  U.S. government agency$$$$$$$$$
State and municipalState and municipal105  —   —  (2) —  (2) 107  State and municipal39 (3)36 
Residential MBSResidential MBS173   (8) —  (9)  (7) 156  Residential MBS38 (3)(1)(18)28 
Commercial MBSCommercial MBS35   —  —  (3) —  —  33  Commercial MBS(2)
Collateralized loan obligationsCollateralized loan obligations15  (10) 15  —  —  187  —  207  Collateralized loan obligations16 (1)(1)(9)
Other asset-backed securitiesOther asset-backed securities1,286  (14) (7) 275  (203) 134  (143) 1,328  Other asset-backed securities305 90 (72)14 (23)315 
Corporate and otherCorporate and other1,758  (2) 20  167  (56)  (371) 1,525  Corporate and other138 (1)(1)106 (20)(5)220 
Total AFS fixed maturitiesTotal AFS fixed maturities3,387  (18) 24  442  (273) 332  (523) 3,371  Total AFS fixed maturities538 (3)(1)202 (97)23 (57)605 
Equity securitiesEquity securities437  (25) —  23  —  17  —  452  Equity securities176 71 24 (19)(7)245 
Assets of MIEAssets of MIE17  (2) —  —  —   —  17  Assets of MIE21 (12)15 
Assets of discontinued annuity operationsAssets of discontinued annuity operations2,971 85 (21)209 (328)32 (229)(2,719)
Total Level 3 assetsTotal Level 3 assets$3,841  $(45) $24  $465  $(273) $351  $(523) $3,840  Total Level 3 assets$3,706 $156 $(22)$437 $(444)$56 $(305)$(2,719)$865 
Embedded derivatives$(3,730) $46  $—  $(124) $133  $—  $—  $(3,675) 
Liabilities of discontinued annuity operationsLiabilities of discontinued annuity operations$(3,933)$(222)$$(146)$158 $$$4,143 $
Total Level 3 liabilities (*)Total Level 3 liabilities (*)$(3,730) $46  $—  $(124) $133  $—  $—  $(3,675) Total Level 3 liabilities (*)$(3,933)$(222)$$(146)$158 $$$4,143 $


Total realized/unrealized
gains (losses) included in
Total realized/unrealized
gains (losses) included in
Balance at December 31, 2018Net
earnings (loss)
Other
comprehensive
income (loss)
Purchases
and
issuances
Sales and
settlements
Transfer
into
Level 3
Transfer
out of
Level 3
Balance at June 30, 2019Balance at December 31, 2019Net
earnings (loss)
Other
comprehensive
income (loss)
Purchases
and
issuances
Sales and
settlements
Transfer
into
Level 3
Transfer
out of
Level 3
Balance at June 30, 2020
AFS fixed maturities:AFS fixed maturities:AFS fixed maturities:
U.S. government agencyU.S. government agency$ $—  $—  $—  $(1) $—  $—  $ U.S. government agency$$$$$$$$
State and municipalState and municipal59  —   —  (2) 18  —  82  State and municipal40 (1)41 
Residential MBSResidential MBS197   (5) —  (10)  (54) 139  Residential MBS45 (1)(2)(2)42 
Commercial MBSCommercial MBS56   —  —  (3) —  (5) 50  Commercial MBS
Collateralized loan obligationsCollateralized loan obligations116  (3)  —  —  13  (82) 50  Collateralized loan obligations(1)52 55 
Other asset-backed securitiesOther asset-backed securities731  —   92  (132) —  (329) 367  Other asset-backed securities256 (5)61 (47)27 293 
Corporate and otherCorporate and other1,996   51  661  (249)  (449) 2,014  Corporate and other223 (1)(1)32 (11)(66)178 
Total AFS fixed maturitiesTotal AFS fixed maturities3,164  10  64  753  (397) 35  (919) 2,710  Total AFS fixed maturities571 (6)93 (61)82 (68)615 
Equity securitiesEquity securities336  —  —  20  (1) 22  —  377  Equity securities161 (17)11 164 
Assets of MIEAssets of MIE21  (2) —  —  —  —  —  19  Assets of MIE17 (2)17 
Assets of discontinued annuity operationsAssets of discontinued annuity operations3,092 (20)20 361 (212)258 (455)3,044 
Total Level 3 assetsTotal Level 3 assets$3,521  $ $64  $773  $(398) $57  $(919) $3,106  Total Level 3 assets$3,841 $(45)$24 $465 $(273)$351 $(523)$3,840 
Embedded derivatives$(2,720) $(713) $—  $(213) $105  $—  $—  $(3,541) 
Liabilities of discontinued annuity operationsLiabilities of discontinued annuity operations$(3,730)$46 $$(124)$133 $$$(3,675)
Total Level 3 liabilities (*)Total Level 3 liabilities (*)$(2,720) $(713) $—  $(213) $105  $—  $—  $(3,541) Total Level 3 liabilities (*)$(3,730)$46 $$(124)$133 $$$(3,675)
(*)As previously discussed, these tables exclude the portion of MIE liabilities allocated to Level 3, which are derived from the fair value of the MIE assets.

20

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
Fair Value of Financial Instruments   The carrying value and fair value of financial instruments of continuing operations that are not carried at fair value in the financial statements are summarized below (in millions):
CarryingFair ValueCarryingFair Value
ValueTotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3ValueTotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3
June 30, 2020
June 30, 2021June 30, 2021
Financial assets:Financial assets:Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalentsCash and cash equivalents$2,698  $2,698  $2,698  $—  $—  Cash and cash equivalents$3,365 $3,365 $3,365 $$
Mortgage loansMortgage loans1,475  1,492  —  —  1,492  Mortgage loans461 479 479 
Policy loans158  158  —  —  158  
Total financial assets not accounted for at fair valueTotal financial assets not accounted for at fair value$4,331  $4,348  $2,698  $—  $1,650  Total financial assets not accounted for at fair value$3,826 $3,844 $3,365 $$479 
Financial liabilities:
Annuity benefits accumulated (*)$41,137  $42,462  $—  $—  $42,462  
Long-term debtLong-term debt1,912  2,060  —  2,057   Long-term debt$1,963 $2,294 $$2,291 $
Total financial liabilities not accounted for at fair valueTotal financial liabilities not accounted for at fair value$43,049  $44,522  $—  $2,057  $42,465  Total financial liabilities not accounted for at fair value$1,963 $2,294 $$2,291 $
December 31, 2019
December 31, 2020December 31, 2020
Financial assets:Financial assets:Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalentsCash and cash equivalents$2,314  $2,314  $2,314  $—  $—  Cash and cash equivalents$1,665 $1,665 $1,665 $$
Mortgage loansMortgage loans1,329  1,346  —  —  1,346  Mortgage loans377 382 382 
Policy loans164  164  —  —  164  
Total financial assets not accounted for at fair valueTotal financial assets not accounted for at fair value$3,807  $3,824  $2,314  $—  $1,510  Total financial assets not accounted for at fair value$2,042 $2,047 $1,665 $$382 
Financial liabilities:
Annuity benefits accumulated (*)$40,159  $40,182  $—  $—  $40,182  
Long-term debtLong-term debt1,473  1,622  —  1,619   Long-term debt$1,963 $2,325 $$2,322 $
Total financial liabilities not accounted for at fair valueTotal financial liabilities not accounted for at fair value$41,632  $41,804  $—  $1,619  $40,185  Total financial liabilities not accounted for at fair value$1,963 $2,325 $$2,322 $
(*)
F.    Investments
Excludes $255 million and $247 million of life contingent annuities in the payout phase
Available for sale fixed maturities held by AFG’s continuing operations at June 30, 20202021 and December 31, 2019, respectively.2020, consisted of the following (in millions):

Amortized
Cost
Allowance for Expected Credit LossesGross UnrealizedNet
Unrealized
Fair
Value
GainsLosses
June 30, 2021
Fixed maturities:
U.S. Government and government agencies$218 $$$(1)$$221 
States, municipalities and political subdivisions1,967 93 93 2,060 
Foreign government206 208 
Residential MBS747 53 (2)51 798 
Commercial MBS127 130 
Collateralized loan obligations1,382 (2)1,384 
Other asset-backed securities2,341 29 (4)25 2,359 
Corporate and other2,493 83 (3)80 2,572 
Total fixed maturities$9,481 $$272 $(12)$260 $9,732 
December 31, 2020
Fixed maturities:
U.S. Government and government agencies$192 $$$$$198 
States, municipalities and political subdivisions2,196 116 116 2,312 
Foreign government172 176 
Residential MBS859 57 (1)56 915 
Commercial MBS89 92 
Collateralized loan obligations1,065 (4)1,062 
Other asset-backed securities2,040 27 (13)14 2,047 
Corporate and other2,199 88 (3)85 2,282 
Total fixed maturities$8,812 $12 $305 $(21)$284 $9,084 
21

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
E. Investments

Available for sale fixed maturities that are included in assets of discontinued annuity operations at June 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019,2020, consisted of the following (in millions):
Amortized
Cost
Allowance for Expected Credit LossesGross UnrealizedNet
Unrealized
Fair
Value
Amortized
Cost
Allowance for Expected Credit LossesGross UnrealizedNet
Unrealized
Fair
Value
GainsLossesNet
Unrealized
Fair
Value
June 30, 2020
December 31, 2020December 31, 2020
Fixed maturities:Fixed maturities:Fixed maturities:
U.S. Government and government agenciesU.S. Government and government agencies$196  $—  $14  $—  $14  $210  U.S. Government and government agencies$39 $$$$$44 
States, municipalities and political subdivisionsStates, municipalities and political subdivisions6,373  —  581  (3) 578  6,951  States, municipalities and political subdivisions3,053 370 (2)368 3,421 
Foreign governmentForeign government176  —   —   184  Foreign government31 35 
Residential MBSResidential MBS3,000   239  (12) 227  3,222  Residential MBS1,953 194 (4)190 2,140 
Commercial MBSCommercial MBS852  —  39  (2) 37  889  Commercial MBS659 40 (1)39 698 
Collateralized loan obligationsCollateralized loan obligations4,625  20  16  (114) (98) 4,507  Collateralized loan obligations3,491 10 23 (13)10 3,491 
Other asset-backed securitiesOther asset-backed securities7,400  14  118  (189) (71) 7,315  Other asset-backed securities5,098 11 142 (53)89 5,176 
Corporate and otherCorporate and other23,048  22  1,879  (137) 1,742  24,768  Corporate and other17,272 1,874 (24)1,850 19,118 
Total fixed maturitiesTotal fixed maturities$45,670  $61  $2,894  $(457) $2,437  $48,046  Total fixed maturities$31,596 $28 $2,652 $(97)$2,555 $34,123 
December 31, 2019
Fixed maturities:
U.S. Government and government agencies$199  $—  $10  $—  $10  $209  
States, municipalities and political subdivisions6,604  —  363  (4) 359  6,963  
Foreign government170  —   (1)  172  
Residential MBS2,900  —  265  (5) 260  3,160  
Commercial MBS896  —  31  —  31  927  
Collateralized loan obligations4,307  —  10  (37) (27) 4,280  
Other asset-backed securities6,992  —  156  (20) 136  7,128  
Corporate and other22,456  —  1,231  (21) 1,210  23,666  
Total fixed maturities$44,524  $—  $2,069  $(88) $1,981  $46,505  

Equity securities held by AFG’s continuing operations, which are reported at fair value with holding gains and losses recognized in net earnings, consisted of the following at June 30, 20202021 and December 31, 20192020 (in millions):
June 30, 2020December 31, 2019June 30, 2021December 31, 2020
Fair ValueFair ValueFair ValueFair Value
Actual Costover (under)Actual Costover (under)Actual Costover (under)Actual Costover (under)
Fair ValueCostFair ValueCostActual CostFair ValueActual CostFair ValueCost
Common stocksCommon stocks$1,178  $885  $(293) $1,164  $1,283  $119  Common stocks$455 $106 $516 $(6)
Perpetual preferred stocksPerpetual preferred stocks730  717  (13) 640  654  14  Perpetual preferred stocks358 404 46 369 379 10 
Total equity securities carried at fair valueTotal equity securities carried at fair value$1,908  $1,602  $(306) $1,804  $1,937  $133  Total equity securities carried at fair value$813 $965 $152 $885 $889 $

Investments accounted for using the equity method held by AFG’s continuing operations, by category, carrying value and net investment income are as follows (in millions):
Carrying ValueNet Investment Income
June 30, 2021December 31, 2020Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
2021202020212020
Real estate-related investments (*)$1,014 $915 $45 $13 $99 $38 
Private equity314 266 24 (13)45 (17)
Private debt50 54 (6)(4)
Total investments accounted for using the equity method$1,378 $1,235 $71 $(6)$149 $17 
(*)Includes 88% invested in multi-family properties, 2% in single family properties and 10% in other property types as of June 30, 2021 and 87% invested in multi-family properties, 2% in single family properties and 11% in other property types as of December 31, 2020.

The earnings (losses) from these investments are generally reported on a three-month lag due to the timing required to obtain the necessary information from the funds. AFG regularly reviews and discusses fund performance with the fund managers to corroborate the reasonableness of the underlying reported asset values and to assess whether any events have occurred within the lag period that may materially affect the valuation of these investments.

With respect to partnerships and similar investments, AFG’s continuing operations had unfunded commitments of $275 million and $290 million as of June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively.

Assets of discontinued annuity operations includes investments accounted for under the equity method of $646 million as of December 31, 2020.

22

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
The following tables showtable shows gross unrealized losses (dollars in millions) on available for sale fixed maturities held by AFG’s continuing operations by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at the following balance sheet dates.
Less Than Twelve MonthsTwelve Months or MoreLess Than Twelve MonthsTwelve Months or More
Unrealized
Loss
Fair
Value
Fair Value as
% of Cost
Unrealized
Loss
Fair
Value
Fair Value as
% of Cost
Unrealized
Loss
Fair
Value
Fair Value as
% of Cost
Unrealized
Loss
Fair
Value
Fair Value as
% of Cost
June 30, 2020
June 30, 2021June 30, 2021
Fixed maturities:Fixed maturities:Fixed maturities:
U.S. Government and government agenciesU.S. Government and government agencies$—  $ 100 %$—  $—  — %U.S. Government and government agencies$(1)$109 99 %$$%
States, municipalities and political subdivisionsStates, municipalities and political subdivisions(3) 112  97 %—  18  100 %States, municipalities and political subdivisions100 %17 100 %
Foreign governmentForeign government—   100 %—  —  — %Foreign government35 100 %%
Residential MBSResidential MBS(10) 328  97 %(2) 34  94 %Residential MBS(1)82 99 %(1)10 91 %
Commercial MBSCommercial MBS(2) 57  97 %—  —  — %Commercial MBS%%
Collateralized loan obligationsCollateralized loan obligations(44) 1,732  98 %(70) 1,510  96 %Collateralized loan obligations(1)297 100 %(1)235 100 %
Other asset-backed securitiesOther asset-backed securities(176) 2,918  94 %(13) 133  91 %Other asset-backed securities(1)288 100 %(3)92 97 %
Corporate and otherCorporate and other(121) 2,826  96 %(16) 204  93 %Corporate and other(2)119 98 %(1)55 98 %
Total fixed maturitiesTotal fixed maturities$(356) $7,979  96 %$(101) $1,899  95 %Total fixed maturities$(6)$936 99 %$(6)$409 99 %
December 31, 2019
December 31, 2020December 31, 2020
Fixed maturities:Fixed maturities:Fixed maturities:
U.S. Government and government agenciesU.S. Government and government agencies$—  $16  100 %$—  $11  100 %U.S. Government and government agencies$$23 100 %$$%
States, municipalities and political subdivisionsStates, municipalities and political subdivisions(3) 254  99 %(1) 82  99 %States, municipalities and political subdivisions39 100 %10 100 %
Foreign governmentForeign government(1) 70  99 %—  —  — %Foreign government100 %%
Residential MBSResidential MBS(4) 509  99 %(1) 69  99 %Residential MBS(1)86 99 %100 %
Commercial MBSCommercial MBS—  17  100 %—  —  — %Commercial MBS100 %100 %
Collateralized loan obligationsCollateralized loan obligations(11) 1,284  99 %(26) 1,728  99 %Collateralized loan obligations(1)192 99 %(3)366 99 %
Other asset-backed securitiesOther asset-backed securities(12) 1,211  99 %(8) 123  94 %Other asset-backed securities(10)465 98 %(3)92 97 %
Corporate and otherCorporate and other(13) 1,100  99 %(8) 211  96 %Corporate and other(2)133 99 %(1)17 94 %
Total fixed maturitiesTotal fixed maturities$(44) $4,461  99 %$(44) $2,224  98 %Total fixed maturities$(14)$952 99 %$(7)$497 99 %

At June 30, 2020,2021, the gross unrealized losses on fixed maturities of $457$12 million relate to 993366 securities. Investment grade securities (as determined by nationally recognized rating agencies) represented approximately 83%69% of the gross unrealized loss and 86%91% of the fair value.

To evaluate fixed maturities for expected credit losses (impairment), management considers whether the unrealized loss is credit-driven or a result of changes in market interest rates, the extent to which fair value is less than cost basis, historical operating, balance sheet and cash flow data from the issuer, third party research and communications with industry specialists and discussions with issuer management.

AFG analyzes its MBS securities for expected credit losses (impairment) each quarter based upon expected future cash flows. Management estimates expected future cash flows based upon its knowledge of the MBS market, cash flow projections (which reflect loan to collateral values, subordination, vintage and geographic concentration) received from independent sources, implied cash flows inherent in security ratings and analysis of historical payment data.

Management believes AFG will recover its cost basis (net of any allowance) in the securities with unrealized losses and that AFG has the ability to hold the securities until they recover in value and had no intent to sell them at June 30, 2020.2021.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
See Note A — “Accounting Policies — Credit Losses on Financial Instruments,” for a discussion of new guidance effective January 1, 2020, which impacts the accounting for expected credit losses (impairments) of fixed maturity securities. Under the new guidance, credit losses on available for sale fixed maturities continue to beare measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows compared to amortized cost; however,cost. Beginning January 1, 2020, impairment losses are now recognized through an allowance instead of a direct writedown ofdirectly writing down the amortized cost. Under the new guidance, recoveriesRecoveries of previously impaired amounts are recorded as an immediate reversal of all or a portion of the allowance instead of accreted as investment income through a yield adjustment.allowance. In addition, the allowance on available for sale fixed maturities cannot cause the amortized cost net of the allowance to be below fair value. Accordingly, future changes in the fair value of an impaired security (when the allowance was limited by the fair value) due to reasons other than issuer credit (e.g. changes in market interest rates) result in increases or decreases in the allowance, which are recorded through realized gains (losses) on securities. A progression of the allowance for expected credit losses on fixed maturity securities held by AFG’s continuing operations is shown below (in millions):
Structured
Securities (*)
Corporate and OtherTotalStructured
Securities (*)
Corporate and OtherTotal
Balance at March 31$37  $24  $61  
Balance at March 31, 2021Balance at March 31, 2021$$$10 
Initial allowance for purchased securities with credit deteriorationInitial allowance for purchased securities with credit deterioration
Provision for expected credit losses on securities with no previous allowanceProvision for expected credit losses on securities with no previous allowance
Additions (reductions) to previously recognized expected credit lossesAdditions (reductions) to previously recognized expected credit losses(1)
Reductions due to sales or redemptionsReductions due to sales or redemptions(1)(1)
Balance at June 30, 2021Balance at June 30, 2021$$$
Balance at March 31, 2020Balance at March 31, 2020$11 $$14 
Initial allowance for purchased securities with credit deteriorationInitial allowance for purchased securities with credit deterioration
Provision for expected credit losses on securities with no previous allowanceProvision for expected credit losses on securities with no previous allowance
Additions (reductions) to previously recognized expected credit lossesAdditions (reductions) to previously recognized expected credit losses(1)(1)(2)
Reductions due to sales or redemptionsReductions due to sales or redemptions
Balance at June 30, 2020Balance at June 30, 2020$11 $$14 
Balance at January 1, 2021Balance at January 1, 2021$10 $$12 
Initial allowance for purchased securities with credit deteriorationInitial allowance for purchased securities with credit deterioration —   Initial allowance for purchased securities with credit deterioration
Provision for expected credit losses on securities with no previous allowanceProvision for expected credit losses on securities with no previous allowance   Provision for expected credit losses on securities with no previous allowance
Additions (reductions) to previously recognized expected credit lossesAdditions (reductions) to previously recognized expected credit losses(1) (6) (7) Additions (reductions) to previously recognized expected credit losses(2)(1)
Reductions due to sales or redemptionsReductions due to sales or redemptions—  —  —  Reductions due to sales or redemptions(2)(2)
Balance at June 30$39  $22  $61  
Balance at June 30, 2021Balance at June 30, 2021$$$
Balance at January 1$—  $—  $—  
Balance at January 1, 2020Balance at January 1, 2020$$$
Impact of adoption of new accounting policyImpact of adoption of new accounting policy—  —  —  Impact of adoption of new accounting policy
Initial allowance for purchased securities with credit deteriorationInitial allowance for purchased securities with credit deterioration —   Initial allowance for purchased securities with credit deterioration
Provision for expected credit losses on securities with no previous allowanceProvision for expected credit losses on securities with no previous allowance39  28  67  Provision for expected credit losses on securities with no previous allowance12 16 
Additions (reductions) to previously recognized expected credit lossesAdditions (reductions) to previously recognized expected credit losses(1) (6) (7) Additions (reductions) to previously recognized expected credit losses(1)(1)(2)
Reductions due to sales or redemptionsReductions due to sales or redemptions—  —  —  Reductions due to sales or redemptions
Balance at June 30$39  $22  $61  
Balance at June 30, 2020Balance at June 30, 2020$11 $$14 
(*)Includes mortgage-backed securities, collateralized loan obligations and other asset-backed securities.

In the second quarter and first six months of 2021 and 2020, AFG purchased 2 residential mortgage-backedAFG’s continuing operations did not purchase any securities with expected credit losses. In aggregate at the time
24

Table of purchase, the par value was $8 million, the purchase price was $6 million and both the allowance for credit losses and the discount were $1 million.Contents
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED

The table below sets forth the scheduled maturities of AFG’s available for sale fixed maturities as of June 30, 20202021 (dollars in millions). Securities with sinking funds are reported at average maturity. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain securities may be called or prepaid by the issuers.
AmortizedFair ValueAmortizedFair Value
Cost, net (*)Amount%Cost, net (*)Amount%
MaturityMaturityMaturity
One year or lessOne year or less$1,851  $1,874  %One year or less$1,045 $1,059 11 %
After one year through five yearsAfter one year through five years10,604  11,212  23 %After one year through five years2,553 2,656 27 %
After five years through ten yearsAfter five years through ten years14,125  15,485  32 %After five years through ten years1,002 1,053 11 %
After ten yearsAfter ten years3,191  3,542  %After ten years283 293 %
29,771  32,113  66 %4,883 5,061 52 %
Collateralized loan obligations and other ABS (average life of approximately 4 years)11,991  11,822  25 %
MBS (average life of approximately 3-1/2 years)3,847  4,111  %
Collateralized loan obligations and other ABS (average life of approximately 3-1/2 years)Collateralized loan obligations and other ABS (average life of approximately 3-1/2 years)3,715 3,743 38 %
MBS (average life of approximately 3 years)MBS (average life of approximately 3 years)874 928 10 %
TotalTotal$45,609  $48,046  100 %Total$9,472 $9,732 100 %
(*)Amortized cost, net of allowance for expected credit losses.

Certain risks are inherent in fixed maturity securities, including loss upon default, price volatility in reaction to changes in interest rates, and general market factors and risks associated with reinvestment of proceeds due to prepayments or redemptions in a period of declining interest rates.
There were no investments in individual issuers that exceeded 10% of shareholders’ equity at June 30, 2021 or December 31, 2020.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
There were no investments in individual issuers that exceeded 10% of shareholders’ equity at June 30, 2020 or December 31, 2019.

Net Unrealized Gain on MarketableFixed Maturity Securities   The following table shows (in millions) the components of the net unrealized gain on securities that is included in AOCI in AFG’s Balance Sheet.
PretaxDeferred TaxNet
June 30, 2021
Net unrealized gain on fixed maturities$260 $(55)$205 
December 31, 2020
Net unrealized gain on fixed maturities held by continuing operations$284 $(60)$224 
Discontinued operations (*):
Net unrealized gain on fixed maturities$2,555 $(536)$2,019 
Deferred policy acquisition costs — annuity segment(934)196 (738)
Annuity benefits accumulated(324)68 (256)
Life, accident and health reserves(3)(3)
Unearned revenue11 (2)
Total net unrealized gain from discontinued operations1,305 (274)1,031 
Total net unrealized gain on fixed maturity securities$1,589 $(334)$1,255 
(*)In addition to adjusting fixed maturity securities classified as “available for sale” to fair value, GAAP requires that deferred policy acquisition costs and certain other balance sheet amounts related to AFG’s discontinued annuity, long-term care and life businesses be adjusted to the extent that unrealized gains and losses from securities would result in adjustments to those balances had the unrealized gains or losses actually been realized.

The following table shows (in millions) the components of the net unrealized gain on securities that is included in AOCI in AFG’s Balance Sheet.
PretaxDeferred TaxNet
June 30, 2020
Net unrealized gain on:
Fixed maturities — annuity segment (*)$2,031  $(427) $1,604  
Fixed maturities — all other406  (85) 321  
Total fixed maturities2,437  (512) 1,925  
Deferred policy acquisition costs — annuity segment(877) 184  (693) 
Annuity benefits accumulated(269) 57  (212) 
Life, accident and health reserves(1) —  (1) 
Unearned revenue14  (3) 11  
Total net unrealized gain on marketable securities$1,304  $(274) $1,030  
December 31, 2019
Net unrealized gain on:
Fixed maturities — annuity segment (*)$1,611  $(338) $1,273  
Fixed maturities — all other370  (78) 292  
Total fixed maturities1,981  (416) 1,565  
Deferred policy acquisition costs — annuity segment(681) 143  (538) 
Annuity benefits accumulated(219) 46  (173) 
Life, accident and health reserves(1) —  (1) 
Unearned revenue11  (2)  
Total net unrealized gain on marketable securities$1,091  $(229) $862  
(*)Net unrealized gains on fixed maturity investments supporting AFG’s annuity benefits accumulated.

Net Investment Income   The following table shows (in millions) investment income earned and investment expenses incurred.incurred in AFG’s continuing operations.
Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
2020201920202019
Investment income:
Fixed maturities$485  $478  $976  $947  
Equity securities:
Dividends16  22  33  44  
Change in fair value (a) (b)  (3) 18  
Equity in earnings of partnerships and similar investments(54) 45  (29) 66  
Other18  34  46  59  
Gross investment income474  586  1,023  1,134  
Investment expenses(6) (6) (11) (12) 
Net investment income (b)$468  $580  $1,012  $1,122  
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
2021202020212020
Investment income:
Fixed maturities$72 $77 $144 $159 
Equity securities:
Dividends15 18 
Change in fair value (a) (b)34 (8)
Equity in earnings of partnerships and similar investments71 (6)149 17 
Other14 
Gross investment income166 89 356 195 
Investment expenses(2)(1)(4)(3)
Net investment income (b)$164 $88 $352 $192 
(a)Although the change in the fair value of the majority of AFG’s equity securities is recorded in realized gains (losses) on securities, AFG records holding gains and losses in net investment income on equity securities classified as “trading” under previous guidance and on a small portfolio of limited partnership and similar investments that do not qualify for the equity method of accounting.
(b)Net investment income in the second quarter and first six months of 2020 includes income of less than $1 million and losses of $6 million respectively, on investments held by the companies that comprise the Neon exited lines due primarily to the $7 million loss in first quarter of 2020 recorded on equity securities that are carried at fair value through net investment income.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
Realized gains (losses) and changes in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) from continuing operations included in AOCI related to fixed maturity and equity security investmentssecurities are summarized as follows (in millions):
Three months ended June 30, 2020Three months ended June 30, 2019
Realized gains (losses)Realized gains (losses)
Before ImpairmentsImpairment AllowanceTotalChange in UnrealizedBefore ImpairmentsImpairmentsTotalChange in Unrealized
Fixed maturities$ $ $ $2,343  $11  $(3) $ $789  
Equity securities202  —  202  —  44  —  44  —  
Mortgage loans and other investments—  —  —  —   —   —  
Other (*)(2) —  (2) (1,059) —    (349) 
Total pretax203   204  1,284  58  (2) 56  440  
Tax effects(43) —  (43) (270) (12)  (11) (92) 
Net of tax$160  $ $161  $1,014  $46  $(1) $45  $348  
Six months ended June 30, 2020Six months ended June 30, 2019
Realized gains (losses)Realized gains (losses)
Before ImpairmentsImpairment AllowanceTotalChange in UnrealizedBefore ImpairmentsImpairmentsTotalChange in Unrealized
Fixed maturities$32  $(60) $(28) $456  $14  $(6) $ $1,642  
Equity securities(333) —  (333) —  226  —  226  —  
Mortgage loans and other investments —   —   —   —  
Other (*)(5) 15  10  (243)    (719) 
Total pretax(302) (45) (347) 213  244  (4) 240  923  
Tax effects63  10  73  (45) (51)  (50) (194) 
Net of tax$(239) $(35) $(274) $168  $193  $(3) $190  $729  
(*)Primarily adjustments to deferred policy acquisition costs and reserves related to the annuity business.
Three months ended June 30, 2021Three months ended June 30, 2020
Realized gains (losses)Realized gains (losses)
Before ImpairmentsImpairment AllowanceTotalChange in UnrealizedBefore ImpairmentsImpairment AllowanceTotalChange in Unrealized
Fixed maturities$$$$20 $$$$257 
Equity securities42 42 107 107 
Mortgage loans and other investments
Total pretax43 43 20 108 108 257 
Tax effects(9)(9)(4)(23)(23)(54)
Net of tax$34 $$34 $16 $85 $$85 $203 
Six months ended June 30, 2021Six months ended June 30, 2020
Realized gains (losses)Realized gains (losses)
Before ImpairmentsImpairment AllowanceTotalChange in UnrealizedBefore ImpairmentsImpairment AllowanceTotalChange in Unrealized
Fixed maturities$$$$(24)$$(14)$(10)$(20)
Equity securities119 119 (211)(211)
Mortgage loans and other investments
Total pretax119 120 (24)(206)(14)(220)(20)
Tax effects(25)(25)43 46 
Net of tax$94 $$95 $(19)$(163)$(11)$(174)$(16)

All equity securities other than those accounted for under the equity method are carried at fair value through net earnings. AFG recorded net holding gains (losses) on equity securities from continuing operations during the second quarter and first six months of 20202021 and 20192020 on securities that were still owned at June 30, 20202021 and June 30, 20192020 as follows (in millions):
Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
20202019202020192021202020212020
Included in realized gains (losses)Included in realized gains (losses)$161  $38  $(340) $193  Included in realized gains (losses)$36 $86 $98 $(206)
Included in net investment incomeIncluded in net investment income10    18  Included in net investment income34 (1)
$171  $45  $(336) $211  $44 $95 $132 $(207)

Gross realized gains and losses (excluding changes in impairment write-downsallowance and mark-to-market of derivatives) on available for sale fixed maturity investment transactions from continuing operations consisted of the following (in millions):
Six months ended June 30,
20202019
Gross gains$56  $11  
Gross losses(31) (9) 

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
F. Derivatives

As discussed under “Derivatives” in Note A — “Accounting Policies,” AFG uses derivatives in certain areas of its operations.

Derivatives That Do Not Qualify for Hedge Accounting   The following derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting under GAAP are included in AFG’s Balance Sheet at fair value (in millions):
 June 30, 2020December 31, 2019
DerivativeBalance Sheet LineAssetLiabilityAssetLiability
MBS with embedded derivativesFixed maturities$171  $—  $102  $—  
Fixed-indexed and variable-indexed annuities (embedded derivative)Annuity benefits accumulated—  3,675  —  3,730  
Equity index call optionsEquity index call options605  —  924  —  
Equity index put optionsOther liabilities—   —   
Reinsurance contracts (embedded derivative)Other liabilities—   —   
$776  $3,685  $1,026  $3,735  

The MBS with embedded derivatives consist of primarily interest-only and principal-only MBS. AFG records the entire change in the fair value of these securities in earnings. These investments are part of AFG’s overall investment strategy and represent a small component of AFG’s overall investment portfolio.

AFG’s fixed-indexed and variable-indexed annuities provide policyholders with a crediting rate tied, in part, to the performance of an existing stock market or other financial index. AFG attempts to mitigate the risk in the index-based component of these products through the purchase and sale of call and put options on the appropriate index. AFG receives collateral from certain counterparties to support its purchased call option assets (net of collateral required under put option contracts with the same counterparties). This collateral ($284 million at June 30, 2020 and $577 million at December 31, 2019) is included in other assets in AFG’s Balance Sheet with an offsetting liability to return the collateral, which is included in other liabilities. AFG’s strategy is designed so that the net change in the fair value of the call option assets and put option liabilities will generally offset the economic change in the net liability from the index participation. Both the index-based component of the annuities (an embedded derivative) and the related call and put options are considered derivatives that must be adjusted for changes in fair value through earnings each period. The fair values of these derivatives are impacted by actual and expected stock market performance and interest rates as well as other factors. Fluctuations in certain of these factors, such as changes in interest rates and the performance of the stock market, are not economic in nature for the current reporting period, but rather impact the timing of reported results.

As discussed under “Reinsurance” in Note A, AFG has a reinsurance contract that is considered to contain an embedded derivative.

The following table summarizes the gains (losses) included in AFG’s Statement of Earnings for changes in the fair value of derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting for the second quarter and first six months of 2020 and 2019 (in millions):
Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
DerivativeStatement of Earnings Line2020201920202019
MBS with embedded derivativesRealized gains (losses) on securities$ $ $ $12  
Fixed-indexed and variable-indexed annuities (embedded derivative)Annuity benefits(601) (251) 46  (713) 
Equity index call optionsAnnuity benefits383  148  (245) 514  
Equity index put optionsAnnuity benefits —  (1)  
Reinsurance contract (embedded derivative)Net investment income(3) (1) (1) (2) 
$(213) $(98) $(194) $(188) 
Six months ended June 30,
20212020
Gross gains$$
Gross losses(1)(3)

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
Derivatives Designated and Qualifying as Cash Flow Hedges   As of June 30, 2020, AFG has 9 active interest rate swaps that are designated and qualify as highly effective cash flow hedges to mitigate interest rate risk related to certain floating-rate securities included in AFG’s portfolio of fixed maturity securities. The purpose of each of these swaps is to effectively convert a portion of AFG’s floating-rate fixed maturity securities to fixed rates by offsetting the variability in cash flows attributable to changes in short-term LIBOR.

Under the terms of the swaps, AFG receives fixed-rate interest payments in exchange for variable interest payments based on short-term LIBOR. The notional amounts of the interest rate swaps generally decline over each swap’s respective life (the swaps expire between December 2023 and June 2030) in anticipation of the expected decline in AFG’s portfolio of fixed maturity securities with floating interest rates based on short-term LIBOR. The total outstanding notional amount of AFG’s interest rate swaps was $1.68 billion at June 30, 2020 compared to $1.98 billion at December 31, 2019, reflecting the scheduled amortization discussed above, the termination of a swap with a total notional amount of $83 million in the first quarter of 2020, the termination of 2 swaps with a total notional amount of $166 million in the second quarter of 2020 and the expiration of a swap with a notional amount of $44 million in the second quarter of 2020. The fair value of the interest rate swaps in an asset position and included in other assets was $124 million at June 30, 2020 and $50 million at December 31, 2019. The fair value of the interest rate swaps in a liability position and included in other liabilities was 0 at June 30, 2020 and $5 million at December 31, 2019. The net unrealized gain or loss on cash flow hedges is included in AOCI, net of DPAC and deferred taxes. Amounts reclassified from AOCI (before DPAC and taxes) to net investment income were income of $11 million in the second quarter of 2020 and $1 million in the second quarter of 2019 and income of $23 million and losses of $1 million for the first six months of 2020 and 2019, respectively. AFG had a $13 million liability to return collateral related to these swaps (included in other liabilities) at June 30, 2020 and a $20 million receivable for collateral posted related to these swaps (included in other assets) at December 31, 2019.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
G.    Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs

A progression of deferred policy acquisition costs is presented below (in millions):
P&CAnnuity and Other
DeferredDeferredSalesConsolidated
CostsCostsInducementsPVFPSubtotalUnrealized (*)TotalTotal
Balance at March 31, 2020$310  $1,264  $73  $34  $1,371  $(108) $1,263  $1,573  
Additions148  30  —  —  30  —  30  178  
Amortization:
Periodic amortization(160) 50  (1) (1) 48  —  48  (112) 
Included in realized gains—  (2)  —  (1) —  (1) (1) 
Foreign currency translation(2) —  —  —  —  —  —  (2) 
Change in unrealized—  —  —  —  —  (818) (818) (818) 
Balance at June 30, 2020$296  $1,342  $73  $33  $1,448  $(926) $522  $818  
Balance at March 31, 2019$312  $1,336  $84  $40  $1,460  $(325) $1,135  $1,447  
Additions194  56  —  —  56  —  56  250  
Amortization:
Periodic amortization(175) (19) (4) (2) (25) —  (25) (200) 
Included in realized gains—  —   —   —    
Foreign currency translation(1) —  —  —  —  —  —  (1) 
Change in unrealized—  —  —  —  —  (294) (294) (294) 
Balance at June 30, 2019$330  $1,373  $81  $38  $1,492  $(619) $873  $1,203  
Balance at December 31, 2019$322  $1,303  $75  $36  $1,414  $(699) $715  $1,037  
Additions306  79   —  80  —  80  386  
Amortization:
Periodic amortization(330) (48) (4) (3) (55) —  (55) (385) 
Included in realized gains—    —   —    
Foreign currency translation(2) —  —  —  —  —  —  (2) 
Change in unrealized—  —  —  —  —  (227) (227) (227) 
Balance at June 30, 2020$296  $1,342  $73  $33  $1,448  $(926) $522  $818  
Balance at December 31, 2018$299  $1,285  $86  $42  $1,413  $(30) $1,383  $1,682  
Additions381  120   —  121  —  121  502  
Amortization:
Periodic amortization(350) (34) (7) (4) (45) —  (45) (395) 
Included in realized gains—    —   —    
Foreign currency translation—  —  —  —  —  —  —  —  
Change in unrealized—  —  —  —  —  (589) (589) (589) 
Balance at June 30, 2019$330  $1,373  $81  $38  $1,492  $(619) $873  $1,203  
(*)Adjustments to DPAC related to net unrealized gains/losses on securities and cash flow hedges.

The present value of future profits (“PVFP”) amounts in the table above are net of $157 million and $154 million of accumulated amortization at June 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
H. Managed Investment Entities

AFG is the investment manager and its subsidiaries have investments ranging from 15.0%4.5% to 100.0%46.8% of the most subordinate debt tranche of 1112 active collateralized loan obligation entities (“CLOs”), which are considered variable interest entities. AFG’s subsidiariesAFG also ownowns portions of the senior debt tranches of certain of these CLOs. Upon formation between 2012 and 2018,2020, these entities issued securities in various senior and subordinate classes and invested the proceeds primarily in secured bank loans, which serve as collateral for the debt securities issued by each CLO. None of the collateral was purchased from AFG. AFG’s investments in the subordinate debt tranches of these entities receive residual income from the CLOs only after the CLOs pay expenses (including management fees to AFG) and interest on and returns of capital to senior levels of debt securities. There are no contractual requirements for AFG to provide additional funding for these entities. AFG has not provided and does not intend to provide any financial support to these entities.

AFG’s maximum exposure to economic loss on the CLOs that it manages is limited to its investment in those CLOs, which had an aggregate fair value of $157$57 million (including $72$45 million invested in the most subordinate tranches) at June 30, 2020,2021, and $165$200 million at December 31, 2019.2020.

During the first six months of 2020, AFG subsidiaries purchased $57 million face amount of senior debt and subordinate tranches of existing CLOs for $39 million. During both the first six months of 20202021 and 2019,2020, AFG subsidiaries received $38 million and less than $1 million, respectively, in sale and redemption proceeds from its CLO investments.

The revenues and expenses of the CLOs are separately identified in AFG’s Statement of Earnings, after the elimination of management fees and earnings attributable to shareholders of AFG as measured by the change in the fair value of AFG’s investments in the CLOs. Selected financial information related to the CLOs is shown below (in millions):
Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
20202019202020192021202020212020
Investment in CLO tranches at end of period$157  $191  $157  $191  
Gains (losses) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities (a):
Investment in CLO tranches at end of period:Investment in CLO tranches at end of period:
Held by continuing operationsHeld by continuing operations$57 $39 $57 $39 
Held by discontinued annuity operationsHeld by discontinued annuity operations118 118 
TotalTotal$57 $157 $57 $157 
Gains (losses) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities (*):Gains (losses) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities (*):
AssetsAssets363  —  (316) 87  Assets$21 $363 $67 $(316)
LiabilitiesLiabilities(368) (2) 268  (89) Liabilities(15)(366)(59)300 
Management fees paid to AFGManagement fees paid to AFG    Management fees paid to AFG
CLO earnings (losses) attributable to AFG shareholders (b)  (34) 16  
CLO earnings (losses) attributable to AFG shareholders:CLO earnings (losses) attributable to AFG shareholders:
From continuing operationsFrom continuing operations$$$12 $(11)
From discontinued annuity operationsFrom discontinued annuity operations20 (23)
TotalTotal$14 $$32 $(34)
(a)(*)Included in revenues in AFG’s Statement of Earnings.
(b)Included in earnings before income taxes in AFG’s Statement of Earnings.

The aggregate unpaid principal balance of the CLOs’ fixed maturity investments exceeded the fair value of the investments by $439$69 million and $146$150 million at June 30, 20202021 and December 31, 2019,2020, respectively. The aggregate unpaid principal balance of the CLOs’ debt exceeded its carrying value by $379$182 million and $129$141 million at those dates. The CLO assets include loans with an aggregate fair value of $42$5 million at June 30, 20202021 and $10$11 million at December 31, 2019,2020, for which the CLOs are not accruing interest because the loans are in default (aggregate unpaid principal balance of $92$15 million at June 30, 20202021 and $25$28 million at December 31, 2019)2020).

In addition to the CLOs that it manages, AFGAFG’s continuing operations had investments in CLOs that are managed by third parties (therefore not consolidated), which are included in available for sale fixed maturity securities and had a fair value of $4.51$1.38 billion at June 30, 20202021 and $4.28$1.06 billion at December 31, 2019.2020.

I.H.    Goodwill and Other Intangibles

There were 0 changes in the goodwill balance from AFG’s continuing operations of $207$176 million during the first six months of 2020. Included in other assets in AFG’s Balance Sheet is $37 million at June 30, 2020 and $43 million at December 31, 2019 in amortizable intangible assets related to property and casualty insurance acquisitions. These amounts are net of accumulated amortization of $56 million and $50 million, respectively. Amortization of intangibles was $3 million in both the second quarters of 2020 and 2019, and $6 million in both the first six months of 2020 and 2019.2021.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
J.Included in other assets in AFG’s Balance Sheet is $30 million at June 30, 2021 and $34 million at December 31, 2020 in amortizable intangible assets related to property and casualty insurance acquisitions. These amounts are net of accumulated amortization of $65 million and $62 million, respectively. Amortization of intangibles was $1 million and $3 million in the second quarter of 2021 and 2020, respectively, and $4 million and $6 million in the first six months of 2021 and 2020, respectively.

I.    Long-Term Debt

Long-term debt consisted of the following (in millions):
June 30, 2020December 31, 2019June 30, 2021December 31, 2020
PrincipalDiscount and Issue CostsCarrying ValuePrincipalDiscount and Issue CostsCarrying ValuePrincipalDiscount and Issue CostsCarrying ValuePrincipalDiscount and Issue CostsCarrying Value
Direct Senior Obligations of AFG:Direct Senior Obligations of AFG:Direct Senior Obligations of AFG:
4.50% Senior Notes due June 20474.50% Senior Notes due June 2047$590  $(2) $588  $590  $(2) $588  4.50% Senior Notes due June 2047$590 $(2)$588 $590 $(2)$588 
3.50% Senior Notes due August 20263.50% Senior Notes due August 2026425  (3) 422  425  (3) 422  3.50% Senior Notes due August 2026425 (3)422 425 (3)422 
5.25% Senior Notes due April 20305.25% Senior Notes due April 2030300  (7) 293  —  —  —  5.25% Senior Notes due April 2030300 (6)294 300 (6)294 
OtherOther —    —   Other
1,318  (12) 1,306  1,018  (5) 1,013  1,318 (11)1,307 1,318 (11)1,307 
Direct Subordinated Obligations of AFG:Direct Subordinated Obligations of AFG:Direct Subordinated Obligations of AFG:
4.50% Subordinated Debentures due September 20604.50% Subordinated Debentures due September 2060200 (5)195 200 (5)195 
5.125% Subordinate Debentures due December 20595.125% Subordinate Debentures due December 2059200  (6) 194  200  (6) 194  5.125% Subordinate Debentures due December 2059200 (6)194 200 (6)194 
6% Subordinated Debentures due November 2055150  (5) 145  150  (5) 145  
5.625% Subordinated Debentures due June 20605.625% Subordinated Debentures due June 2060150  (4) 146  —  —  —  5.625% Subordinated Debentures due June 2060150 (4)146 150 (4)146 
5.875% Subordinated Debentures due March 20595.875% Subordinated Debentures due March 2059125  (4) 121  125  (4) 121  5.875% Subordinated Debentures due March 2059125 (4)121 125 (4)121 
625  (19) 606  475  (15) 460  675 (19)656 675 (19)656 
$1,943  $(31) $1,912  $1,493  $(20) $1,473  $1,993 $(30)$1,963 $1,993 $(30)$1,963 

In April and May 2020, AFG issued $300 million in 5.25% Senior Notes due in 2030 and $150 million in 5.625% Subordinated Debentures due in June 2060, respectively. The net proceeds of these offerings will be used for general corporate purposes, which includes repurchases of outstanding common shares.

AFG has 0 scheduledScheduled principal payments on its long-term debt for the balance of 2020 or in2021, the subsequent five years.years and thereafter are as follows: 2021 — NaN; 2022 — NaN; 2023 — NaN; 2024 — NaN; 2025 — NaN; 2026 — $425 million and thereafter — $1.57 billion.

AFG can borrow up to $500 million under its revolving credit facility, which expires in June 2021.December 2025. Amounts borrowed under this agreement bear interest at rates ranging from 1.00% to 1.875% (currently 1.375%) over LIBOR based on AFG’s credit rating. NaN amounts were borrowed under this facility at June 30, 20202021 or December 31, 2019.2020.

K.J.    Shareholders’ Equity

AFG is authorized to issue 12.5 million shares of Voting Preferred Stock and 12.5 million shares of Nonvoting Preferred Stock, each without par value.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax (“AOCI”)   Comprehensive income is defined as all changes in shareholders’ equity except those arising from transactions with shareholders. Comprehensive income includes net earnings and other comprehensive income, which consists primarily of changes in net unrealized gains or losses on available for sale securities.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
The progression of the components of accumulated other comprehensive income follows (in millions):
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
AOCI
Beginning
Balance
PretaxTaxNet
of
tax
Attributable to
noncontrolling
interests
Attributable to
shareholders
AOCI
Ending
Balance
Quarter ended June 30, 2021Quarter ended June 30, 2021
Net unrealized gains (losses) on securities:Net unrealized gains (losses) on securities:
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on securities arising during the periodUnrealized holding gains (losses) on securities arising during the period$168 $(35)$133 $$133 
Reclassification adjustment for realized (gains) losses included in net earnings (*)Reclassification adjustment for realized (gains) losses included in net earnings (*)(9)(7)(7)
Reclassification for unrealized gains on securities of subsidiaries soldReclassification for unrealized gains on securities of subsidiaries sold(1,119)235 (884)(884)
Total net unrealized gains (losses) on securitiesTotal net unrealized gains (losses) on securities$963 (960)202 (758)(758)$205 
Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges:Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges:
Unrealized holding gains on cash flow hedges arising during the periodUnrealized holding gains on cash flow hedges arising during the period(1)
Reclassification adjustment for investment income included in net earnings from discontinued operationsReclassification adjustment for investment income included in net earnings from discontinued operations(5)(4)(4)
Reclassification for unrealized gains on cash flow hedges of subsidiaries soldReclassification for unrealized gains on cash flow hedges of subsidiaries sold(37)(29)(29)
Total net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedgesTotal net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges27 (35)(27)(27)
Foreign currency translation adjustmentsForeign currency translation adjustments(16)(16)
Pension and other postretirement plans (“OPRP”) adjustments:Pension and other postretirement plans (“OPRP”) adjustments:
Unrealized holding losses on pension and OPRP arising during the periodUnrealized holding losses on pension and OPRP arising during the period(1)(1)(1)
Reclassification adjustment for pension settlement loss included in other expense in net earningsReclassification adjustment for pension settlement loss included in other expense in net earnings11 (2)
Total Pension and OPRP adjustmentsTotal Pension and OPRP adjustments(7)10 (2)
TotalTotal$967 $(985)$208 $(777)$$(777)$190 
AOCI
Beginning
Balance
PretaxTaxNet
of
tax
Attributable to
noncontrolling
interests
Attributable to
shareholders
AOCI
Ending
Balance
Quarter ended June 30, 2020Quarter ended June 30, 2020Quarter ended June 30, 2020
Net unrealized gains on securities:Net unrealized gains on securities:Net unrealized gains on securities:
Unrealized holding gains on securities arising during the periodUnrealized holding gains on securities arising during the period$1,293  $(272) $1,021  $—  $1,021  Unrealized holding gains on securities arising during the period$1,293 $(272)$1,021 $$1,021 
Reclassification adjustment for realized (gains) losses included in net earnings (*)Reclassification adjustment for realized (gains) losses included in net earnings (*)(9)  (7) —  (7) Reclassification adjustment for realized (gains) losses included in net earnings (*)(9)(7)(7)
Total net unrealized gains (losses) on securitiesTotal net unrealized gains (losses) on securities$16  1,284  (270) 1,014  —  1,014  $1,030  Total net unrealized gains (losses) on securities$16 1,284 (270)1,014 1,014 $1,030 
Net unrealized gains on cash flow hedges44   (1)  —   47  
Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges:Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges:
Unrealized holding gains on cash flow hedges arising during the periodUnrealized holding gains on cash flow hedges arising during the period16 (4)12 12 
Reclassification adjustment for investment income included in net earnings from discontinued operationsReclassification adjustment for investment income included in net earnings from discontinued operations(12)(9)(9)
Total net unrealized gains on cash flow hedgesTotal net unrealized gains on cash flow hedges44 (1)47 
Foreign currency translation adjustmentsForeign currency translation adjustments(21)  —   —   (17) Foreign currency translation adjustments(21)(17)
Pension and other postretirement plans adjustmentsPension and other postretirement plans adjustments(7) —  —  —  —  —  (7) Pension and other postretirement plans adjustments(7)(7)
TotalTotal$32  $1,292  $(271) $1,021  $—  $1,021  $1,053  Total$32 $1,292 $(271)$1,021 $$1,021 $1,053 
Quarter ended June 30, 2019
Net unrealized gains on securities:
Unrealized holding gains on securities arising during the period$450  $(94) $356  $—  $356  
Reclassification adjustment for realized (gains) losses included in net earnings (*)(10)  (8) —  (8) 
Total net unrealized gains on securities$464  440  (92) 348  —  348  $812  
Net unrealized gains on cash flow hedges—  23  (5) 18  —  18  18  
Foreign currency translation adjustments(12) (1)  —  (1) (1) (13) 
Pension and other postretirement plans adjustments(8) —  —  —  —  —  (8) 
Total$444  $462  $(96) $366  $(1) $365  $809  
Six months ended June 30, 2020
Net unrealized gains (losses) on securities:
Unrealized holding gains on securities arising during the period$198  $(42) $156  $—  $156  
Reclassification adjustment for realized (gains) losses included in net earnings (*)15  (3) 12  —  12  
Total net unrealized gains (losses) on securities$862  213  (45) 168  —  168  $1,030  
Net unrealized gains on cash flow hedges17  38  (8) 30  —  30  47  
Foreign currency translation adjustments(9) (6) —  (6) (2) (8) (17) 
Pension and other postretirement plans adjustments(7) —  —  —  —  —  (7) 
Total$863  $245  $(53) $192  $(2) $190  $1,053  
Six months ended June 30, 2019
Net unrealized gains on securities:
Unrealized holding gains on securities arising during the period$937  $(197) $740  $—  $740  
Reclassification adjustment for realized (gains) losses included in net earnings (*)(14)  (11) —  (11) 
Total net unrealized gains on securities$83  923  (194) 729  —  729  $812  
Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges(11) 37  (8) 29  —  29  18  
Foreign currency translation adjustments(16)    (1)  (13) 
Pension and other postretirement plans adjustments(8) —  —  —  —  —  (8) 
Total$48  $963  $(201) $762  $(1) $761  $809  
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
AOCI
Beginning
Balance
PretaxTaxNet
of
tax
Attributable to
noncontrolling
interests
Attributable to
shareholders
AOCI
Ending
Balance
Six months ended June 30, 2021
Net unrealized gains (losses) on securities:
Unrealized holding gains on securities arising during the period$(187)$39 $(148)$$(148)
Reclassification adjustment for realized (gains) losses included in net earnings (*)(23)(18)(18)
Reclassification for unrealized gains of subsidiaries sold(1,119)235 (884)(884)
Total net unrealized gains (losses) on securities$1,255 (1,329)279 (1,050)(1,050)$205 
Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges:
Unrealized holding losses on cash flow hedges arising during the period(1)(1)(1)
Reclassification adjustment for investment income included in net earnings from discontinued operations(14)(11)(11)
Reclassification for unrealized gains on cash flow hedges of subsidiaries sold(37)(29)(29)
Total net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges41 (52)11 (41)(41)
Foreign currency translation adjustments(16)(16)
Pension and OPRP adjustments:
Unrealized holding losses on pension and OPRP arising during the period(1)(1)(1)
Reclassification adjustment for pension settlement loss included in other expense in net earnings11 (2)
Total Pension and OPRP adjustments(7)10 (2)
Total$1,273 $(1,371)$288 $(1,083)$$(1,083)$190 
Six months ended June 30, 2020
Net unrealized gains (losses) on securities:
Unrealized holding gains on securities arising during the period$198 $(42)$156 $$156 
Reclassification adjustment for realized (gains) losses included in net earnings (*)15 (3)12 12 
Total net unrealized gains (losses) on securities$862 213 (45)168 168 $1,030 
Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges:
Unrealized holding gains on cash flow hedges arising during the period61 (13)48 48 
Reclassification adjustment for investment income included in net earnings from discontinued operations(23)(18)(18)
Total net unrealized gains on cash flow hedges1738 (8)30 30 47 
Foreign currency translation adjustments(9)(6)(6)(2)(8)(17)
Pension and other postretirement plans adjustments(7)(7)
Total$863 $245 $(53)$192 $(2)$190 $1,053 
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
(*)The reclassification adjustment out of net unrealized gains (losses) on securities affected the following lines in AFG’s Statement of Earnings:
OCI componentAffected line in the statement of earnings
Pretax - continuing operationsRealized gains (losses) on securities
Pretax - discontinued operationsNet earnings (loss) from discontinued operations
Tax - continuing operationsProvision (credit) for income taxes
Tax - discontinued operationsNet earnings (loss) from discontinued operations
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
Stock Incentive Plans   Under AFG’s stock incentive plans, employees of AFG and its subsidiaries are eligible to receive equity awards in the form of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock awards, restricted stock units and stock awards. In the first six months of 2020,2021, AFG issued 227,867207,020 shares of restricted Common Stock (fair value of $104.15$111.13 per share) under the Stock Incentive Plan.

Total compensation expense related to stock incentive plans of AFG and its subsidiaries was $4$2 million and $6$4 million in the second quartersquarter of 2021 and 2020 and 2019, respectively,$7 million and $9 million and $12 million in the first six months of 20202021 and 2019, respectively.2020.

L.K.    Income Taxes

The following is a reconciliation of income taxes on continuing operations at the statutory rate of 21% to the provision for income taxes as shown in AFG’s Statement of Earnings (dollars in millions):
Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
20202019202020192021202020212020
Amount% of EBTAmount% of EBTAmount% of EBTAmount% of EBTAmount% of EBTAmount% of EBTAmount% of EBTAmount% of EBT
Earnings (loss) before income taxes (“EBT”)$218  $259  $(170) $672  
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes (“EBT”)Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes (“EBT”)$288 $140 $623 $(45)
Income taxes at statutory rateIncome taxes at statutory rate$45  21 %$54  21 %$(36) 21 %$141  21 %Income taxes at statutory rate$61 21 %$30 21 %$131 21 %$(9)21 %
Effect of:Effect of:Effect of:
Stock-based compensationStock-based compensation(8)(3 %)%(10)(2 %)(3)%
Employee stock ownership plan dividend paid deductionEmployee stock ownership plan dividend paid deduction(8)(3 %)%(8)(1 %)%
Tax exempt interestTax exempt interest(3) (1 %)(3) (1 %)(6) %(7) (1 %)Tax exempt interest(2)(1 %)(3)(2 %)(4)(1 %)(5)11 %
Stock-based compensation—  — %(2) (1 %)(4) %(4) (1 %)
Dividends received deductionDividends received deduction—  — %(1) — %(1) %(2) — %Dividends received deduction(1)%%(1)%(1)%
Employee Stock Ownership Plan dividends paid deduction—  — %(1) — %—  — %(1) — %
Change in valuation allowance % — %11  (6 %) — %
Nondeductible expenses—  — % % (1 %) %
Foreign operationsForeign operations—  — %—  — % (1 %)—  — %Foreign operations(1)%%(2)%(2 %)
Nondeductible expensesNondeductible expenses%%%(4 %)
Change in valuation allowanceChange in valuation allowance%%%11 (25 %)
OtherOther—  (1 %)—  (1 %)—  (1 %) — %Other%%%(1 %)
Provision (credit) for income taxes as shown in the statement of earningsProvision (credit) for income taxes as shown in the statement of earnings$51  23 %$50  19 %$(33) 19 %$137  20 %Provision (credit) for income taxes as shown in the statement of earnings$48 17 %$37 26 %$116 19 %$(4)%

The changes in valuation allowance in the table above are primarily increases in the valuation allowance on tax benefits related to losses in the Neon Lloyd’s insurance business. Approximately $23$27 million of AFG’s net operating loss carryforwards (“NOL”) subject to separate return limitation year (“SRLY”) tax rules will expire unutilized at December 31, 2020.2021. Since AFG maintains a full valuation allowance against its SRLY NOLs, the expiration of these loss carryforwards will be offset by a corresponding reduction in the valuation allowance and will have no overall impact on AFG’s income tax expense or results of operations.

M.L.    Contingencies

In December 2015, AFG completed the sale of substantially all of its run-off long-term care insurance business to HC2 Holdings, Inc. (“HC2”). As part of the transaction, AFG agreed to provide up to an aggregate of $35 million of capital support for the insurance companies, on an as-needed basis to maintain specified surplus levels, subject to immediate reimbursement by HC2 through a five-year capital maintenance agreement. AFG was released of any obligation to perform under this agreement in the first quarter of 2020.

Other than the matter described above, thereThere have been no significant changes to the matters discussed and referred to in Note N — “Contingencies” of AFG’s 20192020 Form 10-K, which covers property and casualty insurance reserves for claims related to environmental exposures, asbestos and other mass tort claims and environmental and occupational injury and disease claims of subsidiaries’ former subsidiary railroad and manufacturing operations.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
N.M.    Insurance

Property and Casualty Insurance Reserves The following table provides an analysis of changes in the liability for losses and loss adjustment expenses during the first six months of 20202021 and 20192020 (in millions):
Six months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
2020201920212020
Balance at beginning of yearBalance at beginning of year$10,232  $9,741  Balance at beginning of year$10,392 $10,232 
Less reinsurance recoverables, net of allowanceLess reinsurance recoverables, net of allowance3,024  2,942  Less reinsurance recoverables, net of allowance3,117 3,024 
Net liability at beginning of yearNet liability at beginning of year7,208  6,799  Net liability at beginning of year7,275 7,208 
Provision for losses and LAE occurring in the current periodProvision for losses and LAE occurring in the current period1,597  1,501  Provision for losses and LAE occurring in the current period1,507 1,597 
Net increase (decrease) in the provision for claims of prior years(119) (86) 
Total losses and LAE incurred (*)1,478  1,415  
Net decrease in the provision for claims of prior yearsNet decrease in the provision for claims of prior years(126)(119)
Total losses and LAE incurredTotal losses and LAE incurred1,381 1,478 
Payments for losses and LAE of:Payments for losses and LAE of:Payments for losses and LAE of:
Current yearCurrent year(284) (291) Current year(258)(284)
Prior yearsPrior years(1,068) (1,079) Prior years(1,083)(1,068)
Total paymentsTotal payments(1,352) (1,370) Total payments(1,341)(1,352)
Foreign currency translation and otherForeign currency translation and other(20)  Foreign currency translation and other(20)
Net liability at end of periodNet liability at end of period7,314  6,845  Net liability at end of period7,316 7,314 
Add back reinsurance recoverables, net of allowanceAdd back reinsurance recoverables, net of allowance3,007  2,732  Add back reinsurance recoverables, net of allowance3,182 3,007 
Gross unpaid losses and LAE included in the balance sheet at end of periodGross unpaid losses and LAE included in the balance sheet at end of period$10,321  $9,577  Gross unpaid losses and LAE included in the balance sheet at end of period$10,498 $10,321 
(*)
Includes $106 million in losses and LAE incurred
The net decrease in the Neon exited lines inprovision for claims of prior years during the first six months of 2020.2021 reflects (i) lower than anticipated claim frequency and severity in the transportation businesses, lower than expected losses in the crop business and lower than expected claim severity in the property and inland marine business (within the Property and transportation sub-segment), (ii) lower than anticipated claim severity in the workers’ compensation businesses (within the Specialty casualty sub-segment) and (iii) lower than anticipated claim frequency in the surety business and lower than expected claim frequency and severity in the financial institutions business (within the Specialty financial sub-segment). This favorable development was partially offset by (i) higher than expected claim frequency and severity in the equine business (within the Property and transportation sub-segment) and (ii) higher than anticipated claim severity in the general liability, targeted markets and professional liability businesses (within the Specialty casualty sub-segment).

The net decrease in the provision for claims of prior years during the first six months of 2020 reflects (i) lower than expected claim frequency and severity in the agricultural businesses and lower than anticipated claim frequency and severity in the transportation businesses (within the Property and transportation sub-segment), (ii) lower than anticipated claim frequency and severity in the workers’ compensation businesses and lower than anticipated claim frequency in the executive liability business (within the Specialty casualty sub-segment) and (iii) lower than anticipated claim frequency in the trade credit and surety businesses (within the Specialty financial sub-segment). This favorable development was partially offset by higher than expected claim frequency and severity in the excess and surplus lines businesses (within the Specialty casualty sub-segment).

The net decrease in the provision for claims of prior years during the first six months of 2019 reflects (i) lower than expected losses in the crop business and lower than expected claim frequency and severity in the transportation businesses (all within the Property and transportation sub-segment), (ii) lower than anticipated claim severity in the workers’ compensation businesses (within the Specialty casualty sub-segment), and (iii) lower than expected claim frequency and severity in the surety and financial institutions businesses and lower than anticipated claim severity in the fidelity business (all within the Specialty financial sub-segment). This favorable development was partially offset by higher than expected claim severity in the in the excess and surplus lines businesses and higher than expected losses at Neon (all within the Specialty casualty sub-segment).

Neon.
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — CONTINUED
Recoverables from Reinsurers and Premiums Receivable See Note A — “Accounting Policies — Credit Losses on Financial Instruments,” for a discussion of new guidance effective January 1, 2020, which impacts the accounting for expected credit losses of recoverables from reinsurers and premiums receivable. Progressions of the 2021 and 2020 allowance for expected credit losses on recoverables from reinsurers and premiums receivable related to continuing operations are shown below (in millions):
Recoverables from ReinsurersPremiums Receivable
Balance at March 31$13  $ 
Provision for expected credit losses—   
Write-offs charged against the allowance—  —  
Balance at June 30$13  $10  
Balance at January 1$18  $13  
Impact of adoption of new accounting policy(6) (3) 
Provision (credit) for expected credit losses —  
Write-offs charged against the allowance—  —  
Balance at June 30$13  $10  

Recoverables from ReinsurersPremiums Receivable
2021202020212020
Balance at March 31$$$11 $
Provision (credit) for expected credit losses(2)
Write-offs charged against the allowance
Balance at June 30$$$$10 
Balance at January 1$$18 $10 $13 
Impact of adoption of new accounting policy— (11)— (3)
Provision (credit) for expected credit losses(1)
Write-offs charged against the allowance
Balance at June 30$$$$10 
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
ITEM 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
INDEX TO MD&AINDEX TO MD&AINDEX TO MD&A
PagePagePagePage

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor for forward-looking statements. Some of the forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “anticipates”, “believes”, “expects”, “projects”, “estimates”, “intends”, “plans”, “seeks”, “could”, “may”, “should”, “will” or the negative version of those words or other comparable terminology. Such forward-looking statements include statements relating to: expectations concerning market and other conditions and their effect on future premiums, revenues, earnings, investment activities, and the amount and timing of share repurchases; recoverability of asset values; expected losses and the adequacy of reserves for asbestos, environmental pollution and mass tort claims; rate changes; and improved loss experience.

Actual results and/or financial condition could differ materially from those contained in or implied by such forward-looking statements for a variety of reasons including but not limited to:
changes in financial, political and economic conditions, including changes in interest and inflation rates, currency fluctuations and extended economic recessions or expansions in the U.S. and/or abroad;
performance of securities markets, including the cost of equity index options;markets;
new legislation or declines in credit quality or credit ratings that could have a material impact on the valuation of securities in AFG’s investment portfolio;
the availability of capital;
changes in insurance law or regulation, including changes in statutory accounting rules, and changes in regulation of the Lloyd’s market, including modifications to capital requirements, changes in costs associated with the exit from the Lloyd’s market and the run-off of AFG’s Lloyd’s based insurer, Neon;requirements;
the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak, including the effects on the international and national economy and credit markets, legislative or regulatory developments affecting the insurance industry, quarantines or other travel or health-related restrictions;
changes in the legal environment affecting AFG or its customers;
tax law and accounting changes;
levels of natural catastrophes and severe weather, terrorist activities (including any nuclear, biological, chemical or radiological events), incidents of war or losses resulting from pandemics, civil unrest and other major losses;
disruption caused by cyber-attacks or other technology breaches or failures by AFG or its business partners and service providers, which could negatively impact AFG’s business and/or expose AFG to litigation;
development of insurance loss reserves and establishment of other reserves, particularly with respect to amounts associated with asbestos and environmental claims;
availability of reinsurance and ability of reinsurers to pay their obligations;
trends in persistency and mortality;
competitive pressures;
the ability to obtain adequate rates and policy terms;
changes in AFG’s credit ratings or the financial strength ratings assigned by major ratings agencies to AFG’s operating subsidiaries; and
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
the impact of the conditions in the international financial markets and the global economy relating to AFG’s international operations.

The forward-looking statements herein are made only as of the date of this report. The Company assumes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements.
OVERVIEW

Financial Condition
AFG is organized as a holding company with almost all of its operations being conducted by subsidiaries. AFG, however, has continuing cash needs for administrative expenses, the payment of principal and interest on borrowings, shareholder dividends, and taxes. Therefore, certain analyses are most meaningfully presented on a parent only basis while others are best done on a total enterprise basis. In addition, because most of its businesses are financial in nature, AFG does not prepare its consolidated financial statements using a current-noncurrent format. Consequently, certain traditional ratios and financial analysis tests are not meaningful.

Sale of the Annuity Business
On May 28, 2021, AFG sold its annuity business consisting of Great American Life Insurance Company (“GALIC”) and its two insurance subsidiaries, Annuity Investors Life Insurance Company and Manhattan National Life Insurance Company, as well as a broker-dealer affiliate, Great American Advisors, Inc., and insurance distributor, AAG Insurance Agency, Inc. to Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (“MassMutual”). Total proceeds from the sale were $3.57 billion. AFG realized an after-tax non-core gain on the sale of $697 million ($8.14 per share) in the second quarter of 2021. Beginning with the first quarter of 2021 the results of the annuity businesses sold are reported as discontinued operations, in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), which included adjusting prior period results to reflect these operations as discontinued.

Results of Operations
Through the operations of its subsidiaries, AFG is engaged primarily in property and casualty insurance, focusing on specialized commercial products for businesses, and in the sale of traditional fixed and indexed annuities in the retail, financial institutions, broker-dealer and registered investment advisor markets.businesses. As discussed above, AFG’s former annuity operations are reported as discontinued operations.

AFG reported net earnings from continuing operations attributable to shareholders of $177$240 million ($1.972.81 per share, diluted) for the second quarter of 2021 compared to $113 million ($1.26 per share, diluted) for the second quarter of 2020, reflecting higher underwriting profit and net investment income, partially offset by lower net realized gains on securities and higher holding company expenses.

AFG reported net earnings from continuing operations attributable to shareholders of $507 million ($5.90 per share, diluted) for the first six months of 2021 compared to a net loss of $124$28 million ($1.380.31 per share, diluted) for the first six months of 2020 compared to net earnings of $210 million ($2.31 per share, diluted) for the second quarter of 2019 and $539 million ($5.94 per share, diluted) for the first six months of 2019. The COVID-19 pandemic has had widespread financial and economic impacts, including a significant decrease in both the equity and credit markets, which adversely impacted returns on AFG’s $3.64 billion of investments that are accounted for using the equity method or carried at fair value through net earnings. AFG’s results reflect:
higherreflecting net realized gains on securities in the second quarter of 2020 compared to the second quarter of 2019 and net realized losses on securities in the first six months of 2020 compared to net realized gainslosses in the first six months of 2019,
lower earnings in the annuity segment, including losses from investments accounted for using the equity method2020 and lower earnings from AFG-managed CLOs,
lowerhigher underwriting profit and net investment income, in the property and casualty insurance segment due primarily to losses from investments accounted for using the equity method and AFG-managed CLOs,
lower underwriting profit in the property and casualty insurance segment,
partially offset by higher interest charges on borrowed money due to higher average indebtedness, and
lower holding company expenses.

Outlook
The COVID-19 pandemic began to have a significant impact on global, social and economic activity during the first quarter of 2020. AFG has taken actions under its business continuity plan to minimize risk to the Company’s employees and to prevent any significant disruption to AFG’s business, agents or policyholders.

Management believes that AFG’s strong financial position coming into 2020 and current liquidity and capital at its subsidiaries will give AFG the flexibility to continue to effectively address and respond to the ongoing uncertainties presented by the pandemic. Even with management’s expectation that the impacts of the pandemic will continue through 2020,throughout 2021, AFG’s insurance subsidiaries are projected to have capital at or in excess of the levels required by ratings agencies in order to maintain their current ratings, and the parent company does not have any near-term debt maturities.

The widespread economic impactsAs a result of the pandemic, including a significant decreasecontracted economy, exposures in both equity and credit markets, adversely affected AFG’s investment returns during the first six months of 2020. Because the majoritymany of AFG’s investmentsproperty and casualty businesses changed due to workforce reduction, fewer miles driven and reduced revenue. This has and may continue to lead to lower frequency in limited partnershipscertain lines while there has and similar investments accounted for using the equity method are reported on a quarter lag, second quarter 2020 returns from those investments reflect the financial results and valuations as of March 31, 2020, including the impact of the downturn in financial markets during the first quarter. Management expects theremay continue to be continued volatilityCOVID-19 related increases in the financial markets for the remainderclaim frequency in other lines of 2020.

business.
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Management anticipates that the pandemic and current recessionary economic conditions will continue to impact premiums and earnings for the remainder of 2020. As a result of the contracted economy, exposures in many of AFG’s property and casualty businesses have changed due to workforce reduction, fewer miles driven and reduced revenue. This may lead to lower frequency in certain lines while there may be COVID-19 related increases in claim frequency in other lines of business. With longer state mandated grace periods for premium payments, AFG’s property and casualty subsidiaries could see a slowdown in cash collections and higher premiums receivable balances throughout the remainder of 2020, which will require management to monitor the reinvestment of cash flows from the property and casualty subsidiaries’ investment portfolios.

There is also uncertainty as to potential government decree or legislation that could alter the coverage landscape, such as the imposition of retroactive business interruption insurance. Like most of the insurance industry, AFG’s business interruption coverages require direct physical damage to covered property for business interruption coverage to apply and the vast majority of AFG’s property policies also contain virus exclusions.

While AFG has not experienced an increase in death claims or surrender activity in the annuity business related to COVID-19, stay at home orders and other restrictions are likely to continue to reduce annuity sales for the remainder of 2020. See Part II, Item 1A — “Risk Factors.”

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Significant accounting policies are summarized in Note A — “Accounting Policies” to the financial statements. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”)GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that can have a significant effect on amounts reported in the financial statements. As more information becomes known, these estimates and assumptions change and, thus, impact amounts reported in the future. The areas related to AFG’s continuing operations where management believes the degree of judgment required to determine amounts recorded in the financial statements is most significant are as follows:
the establishment of insurance reserves, especially asbestos and environmental-related reserves,
the recoverability of reinsurance,
the amortization of annuity deferred policy acquisition costs,
the measurement of the derivatives embedded in indexed annuity liabilities,
the establishment of asbestos and environmental reserves of former railroad and manufacturing operations, and
the valuation of investments, including the determination of impairment allowances.

For a discussion of these policies, see Management’s Discussion and Analysis — “Critical Accounting Policies” in AFG’s 20192020 Form 10-K.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Ratios
AFG’s debt to total capital ratio on a consolidated basis is shown below (dollars in millions):
June 30, 2020December 31,June 30, 2021December 31,
20192018June 30, 202120202019
Principal amount of long-term debtPrincipal amount of long-term debt$1,943  $1,493  $1,318  Principal amount of long-term debt$1,993 $1,993 $1,493 
Total capitalTotal capital6,992  6,883  6,218  Total capital7,389 7,486 6,883 
Ratio of debt to total capital:Ratio of debt to total capital:Ratio of debt to total capital:
Including subordinated debtIncluding subordinated debt27.8 %21.7 %21.2 %Including subordinated debt27.0 %26.6 %21.7 %
Excluding subordinated debtExcluding subordinated debt18.9 %14.8 %16.4 %Excluding subordinated debt17.8 %17.6 %14.8 %

The ratio of debt to total capital is a non-GAAP measure that management believes is useful for investors, analysts and ratings agencies to evaluate AFG’s financial strength and liquidity and to provide insight into how AFG finances its operations. In addition, maintaining a ratio of debt, excluding subordinated debt and debt secured by real estate (if any), to total capital of 35% or lower is a financial covenant in AFG’s bank credit facility. The ratio is calculated by dividing the principal amount of AFG’s long-term debt by its total capital, which includes long-term debt, noncontrolling interests and shareholders’ equity (excluding unrealized gains (losses) related to fixed maturity investments).

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Fixed charges are computed on a “total enterprise” basis. For purposes of calculating the ratios, “earnings (loss)” have been computed by adding to pretax earnings (loss) the fixed charges and the noncontrolling interests in earnings of subsidiaries having fixed charges and the undistributed equity in earnings or losses of investees. Fixed charges include interest (including annuity benefits as indicated), amortization of debt premium/discount and expense, preferred dividend and distribution requirements of subsidiaries and a portion of rental expense deemed to be representative of the interest factor. The ratio of core earnings to fixed charges excluding annuity benefits and the ratio of earnings (loss) to fixed charges excluding and including annuity benefits are shown in the table below:
Six months ended June 30, 2020Year ended December 31, 2019
Ratio of core earnings to fixed charges excluding annuity benefits9.56  12.78  
Impact of non-core items(11.03) 1.83  
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges excluding annuity benefits*14.61  
Impact of including interest on annuities as a fixed charge(2.32) (12.76) 
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges including annuity benefits*1.85  

*Earnings for the six months ended June 30, 2020 were insufficient to cover fixed charges by $111 million.

Although the ratio of earnings to fixed charges excluding annuity benefits is not required or encouraged to be disclosed under Securities and Exchange Commission rules, some investors and lenders may not consider interest credited to annuity policyholders’ accounts a borrowing cost for an insurance company, and accordingly, believe this ratio is meaningful.

Condensed Consolidated Cash Flows
AFG’s principal sources of cash include insurance premiums, income from its investment portfolio and proceeds from the maturities, redemptions and sales of investments. Insurance premiums in excess of acquisition expenses and operating costs are invested until they are needed to meet policyholder obligations or made available to the parent company through dividends to cover debt obligations and corporate expenses, and to provide returns to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends. Cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities as detailed in AFG’s Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows are shown below (in millions):
Six months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
2020201920212020
Net cash provided by operating activitiesNet cash provided by operating activities$1,087  $877  Net cash provided by operating activities$970 $1,087 
Net cash used in investing activities(1,296) (1,052) 
Net cash provided by financing activities593  1,034  
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activitiesNet cash provided by (used in) investing activities661 (1,296)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activitiesNet cash provided by (used in) financing activities(1,076)593 
Net change in cash and cash equivalentsNet change in cash and cash equivalents$384  $859  Net change in cash and cash equivalents$555 $384 

Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities   AFG’s property and casualty insurance operations typically produce positive net operating cash flows as premiums collected and investment income exceed policy acquisition costs, claims payments and operating expenses. AFG’s net cash provided by operating activities is impacted by the level and timing of property and casualty premiums, claim and expense payments and recoveries from reinsurers. AFG’s discontinued annuity operations typically produce positive net operating cash flows as investment income exceeds acquisition costs and operating expenses. Interest credited on annuity policyholder funds is a non-cash increase in AFG’s annuity benefits accumulated liability and annuity premiums, benefits and withdrawals are considered financing activities due to the deposit-type nature of annuities. Cash flows provided by operating activities also include the activity of AFG’s managed investment entities (collateralized loan obligations)obligations (“CLO”)) other than those activities included in investing or financing activities. The changes in the assets and liabilities of the managed investment entities included in operating activities reduced cash flows from operating activities by $22 million during the first six months of 2021 and increased cash flows from operating activities by $116 million duringin the first six months of 2020, and reduced cash flows from operating activities by $3 million in the first six months of 2019, accounting for a $119$138 million increasedecline in cash flows from operating activities in the 20202021 period compared to the 20192020 period. As discussed in Note A — “Accounting Policies — Managed Investment Entities” to the financial statements, AFG has no right to use the CLO assets and no obligation to pay the CLO liabilities and such assets and liabilities are shown separately in AFG’s Balance Sheet. Excluding the impact of the managed investment entities, net cash provided by operating activities was $992 million in the first six months of 2021 compared to $971 million in the first six months of 2020, compared to $880 million in the first six months of 2019, an increase of $91$21 million.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Net Cash Used inProvided by (Used in) Investing Activities   AFG’s investing activities consist primarily of the investment of funds provided by its property and casualty businesses and discontinued annuity businesses. Netoperations. In May 2021, AFG sold its annuity business to MassMutual for initial cash proceeds of $3.54 billion. This increase in cash provided by investing activities was partially offset by a decrease in cash and cash equivalents of $2.06 billion representing balances held in the annuity subsidiaries that were sold. Excluding the impact of the May 2021 sale of the annuity business, net cash used in investing activities was $1.30 billion$816 million for the first six months of 20202021 compared to $1.05$1.30 billion in the first six months of 2019, an increase2020, a decrease of $244$480 million. As discussed below (under net cash provided by (used in) financing activities), AFG’s discontinued annuity segmentoperations had net cash flows from annuity policyholders of $477 million in the first six months of 2021 compared to $406 million in the first six months of 2020 and $1.10 billion in the first six months of 2019.2020. In addition to the investment of funds provided by the insurance operations, investing activities also include the purchase and disposal of managed investment entity investments, which are presented separately in AFG’s Balance Sheet. Net investment activity in the managed investment entities was a $63$74 million usesource of cash in the first six months of 20202021 compared to a $5$63 million sourceuse of cash in the 20192020 period, accounting for a $68$137 million increasedecrease in net cash used in investing activities in the first six months of 20202021 compared to the same 20192020 period. See Note A — “Accounting Policies — Managed Investment Entities” and Note HG — “Managed Investment Entities” to the financial statements.

Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities   AFG’s financing activities consist primarily of transactions with annuity policyholders, issuances and retirements of long-term debt, issuances and repurchases of common stock, and dividend payments. Net cash provided byused in financing activities was $593 million$1.08 billion for the first six months of 20202021 compared to $1.03 billionnet cash provided by financing activities of $593 million in the first six months of 2019,2020, a decrease in net cash provided by financing activities of $441 million.$1.67 billion. Net annuity receipts exceeded annuity surrenders, benefits, withdrawals and transfers by $477 million in the first six months of 2021 compared to $406 million in the first six months of 2020, compared to $1.10 billion in the first six months of 2019, accounting for a $698$71 million decreaseincrease in net cash provided by financing activities in the 20202021 period compared to the 20192020 period. In May 2020, AFG issued $150 million of 5.625% Subordinated Debentures due in 2060 and in April 2020,
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
AFG issued $300 million of 5.25% Senior Notes due in 2030. The net proceeds of these offerings contributed $439 million to net cash provided by financing activities in the first six monthmonths of 2020. In March 2019, AFG issued $125 million of 5.875% Subordinated Debentures due in 2059, the net proceeds of which contributed $121 million to net cash provided by financing activities in the first six months of 2019. During the first six months of 2020,2021, AFG repurchased $137$306 million of its Common Stock compared to no share repurchases$137 million in the 20192020 period. In addition to its regular quarterly cash dividends, AFG paid a special cash dividend of $1.50$14.00 per share in May 2019June 2021 totaling $135 million,$1.19 billion, which resulted in total cash dividends of $205 million$1.27 billion in the first six months of 20192021 compared to $81 million in the first six months of 2020. Financing activities also include issuances and retirements of managed investment entity liabilities, which are nonrecourse to AFG and presented separately in AFG’s Balance Sheet. Retirements of managed investment entity liabilities wereexceeded issuances by $28 million in the first six months of 2021 compared to $46 million in the first six months of 2020, compared to $5 million in the first six months of 2019, accounting for a $41$18 million decreaseincrease in net cash provided by financing activities in the 20202021 period compared to the 20192020 period. See Note A — “Accounting Policies — Managed Investment Entities” and Note HG — “Managed Investment Entities” to the financial statements.

Parent and Subsidiary Liquidity

Parent Holding Company Liquidity   Management believes AFG has sufficient resources to meet its liquidity requirements. If funds generated from operations, including dividends, tax payments and borrowings from subsidiaries, are insufficient to meet fixed charges in any period, AFG would be required to utilize parent company cash and marketable securitiesinvestments or to generate cash through borrowings, sales of other assets, or similar transactions.

As discussed above, AFG sold its annuity business to MassMutual for proceeds of $3.57 billion (including $32 million in preliminary post-closing adjustments). AFG’s capital and liquidity was significantly enhanced as a result of the transaction. During the first six months of 2021, AFG repurchased 2,674,222 shares of its Common Stock for $306 million and paid a special cash dividend of $14.00 per share in June totaling approximately $1.19 billion. On August 2, 2021, AFG paid an additional special cash dividend of $2.00 per share of AFG Common Stock totaling approximately $170 million. Management will continue to evaluate opportunities for deploying AFG’s significant remaining excess capital, including returning capital to shareholders in the form of regular and special cash dividends and through opportunistic share repurchases. In addition, excess capital will be deployed into AFG’s core businesses as management identifies the potential for healthy, profitable organic growth, and opportunities to expand the Specialty property and casualty niche businesses through acquisitions and start-ups that meet target return thresholds.

In 2020, AFG repurchased 4,531,394 shares of its Common Stock for $313 million and paid a special cash dividend of $2.00 per share of AFG Common Stock in December totaling approximately $173 million.

In 2020, AFG issued $300 million of 5.25% Senior Notes due in April 2030, $150 million of 5.625% Subordinated Debentures due in June 2060 and $200 million of 4.50% Subordinated Debentures due in September 2060 to increase liquidity and provide flexibility at the parent holding company in its response to the uncertainties of the economic environment. The net proceeds from the offerings were used for general corporate purposes, which included repurchases of outstanding common shares and the November 2020 redemption of AFG’s $150 million outstanding principal amount of 6% Subordinated Debentures due in November 2055 at par value.

AFG can borrow up to $500 million under its revolving credit facility, which expires in June 2021.December 2025. Amounts borrowed under this agreement bear interest at rates ranging from 1.00% to 1.875% (currently 1.375%) over LIBOR based on AFG’s credit rating. The credit facility also includes provisions relating to the replacement of LIBOR with different floating rates in the event of the discontinuance of LIBOR. There were no borrowings under this agreement, or under any other parent company short-term borrowing arrangements, during 20192020 or the first six months of 2020.

In April and May 2020, AFG issued $300 million of 5.25% Senior Notes due in April 2030 and $150 million of 5.625% Subordinated Debentures due in June 2060 to increase liquidity and provide flexibility at the parent holding company in its response to the uncertainties of the current economic environment. The net proceeds of the offerings will be used for general corporate purposes.

During the first six months of 2020, AFG repurchased 2,020,519 shares of its Common Stock for $137 million.

In December 2019, AFG issued $200 million of 5.125% Subordinated Debentures due in December 2059. A portion of the net proceeds of the offering were used to redeem AFG’s $150 million outstanding principal amount of 6-1/4% Subordinated Debentures due in September 2054, at par value, with the remainder used for general corporate purposes.

In March 2019, AFG issued $125 million of 5.875% Subordinated Debentures due in March 2059. The net proceeds of the offering were used for general corporate purposes.
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued

In 2019, AFG paid special cash dividends of $3.30 per share of AFG Common Stock ($1.50 per share in May and $1.80 per share in November) resulting in a total distribution of approximately $297 million.2021.

Under a tax allocation agreement with AFG, its 80%-owned U.S. subsidiaries generally pay taxes to (or recover taxes from) AFG based on each subsidiary’s contribution to amounts due under AFG’s consolidated tax return.

Subsidiary Liquidity   Great American Life Insurance Company (“GALIC”), a wholly-owned annuity subsidiary, is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati (“FHLB”). The FHLB makes advances and provides other banking services to member institutions, which provides the annuity operations with an additional source of liquidity. At June 30, 2020, GALIC had $1.26��billion in outstanding advances from the FHLB (included in annuity benefits accumulated), bearing interest at rates ranging from 0.36% to 1.35% (average rate of 0.54% at June 30, 2020). While these advances must be repaid between 2020 and 2025 ($125 million in 2020, $931 million in 2021 and $200 million in 2025), GALIC has the option to prepay all or a portion on the majority of the advances. GALIC has invested the proceeds from the advances in fixed maturity securities with similar expected lives as the advances for the purpose of earning a spread over the interest payments due to the FHLB. At June 30, 2020, GALIC estimated that it had additional borrowing capacity of approximately $740 million from the FHLB.

The liquidity requirements of AFG’s insurance subsidiaries relate primarily to the liabilities associated with their products as well as operating costspolicyholder claims and underwriting expenses and payments of dividends and taxes to AFG and contributions of capital to their subsidiaries.AFG. Historically, cash flows from premiums and investment income have generally provided more than sufficient funds to meet these requirements. Funds received in excess of cash requirements are generally invested in additional marketable securities. In addition, the insurance subsidiaries generally hold a significant amount of highly liquid, short-termshort duration investments.

The excess cash flow of AFG’s property and casualty group allows it to extend the duration of its investment portfolio somewhat beyond that of its claim reserves. Due to the anticipated slowdown in cash collections from the state mandated increases in grace periods for premium payments, AFG’s property
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and casualty insurance subsidiaries have maintained higher than typical cash balances since March 2020. AFG has not experienced a material increase in uncollectable premiums receivable as policyholders continue to make payments in accordance with the agreed upon terms.

In the annuity business, where profitability is largely dependent on earning a spread between invested assetsAnalysis of Financial Condition and annuity liabilities, the durationResults of investments is generally maintained close to that of liabilities. In a rising interest rate environment, significant protection from withdrawals exists in the form of temporary and permanent surrender charges on AFG’s annuity products. With declining rates, AFG receives some protection (from spread compression) due to the ability to lower crediting rates, subject to contractually guaranteed minimum interest rates (“GMIRs”). With interest rates at historic lows, AFG began to lower crediting rates on existing policies in the first six months of 2020, particularly on policies near or after the end of the surrender charge period. At June 30, 2020, AFG could reduce the average crediting rate on approximately $32 billion of traditional fixed, fixed-indexed and variable-indexed annuities without guaranteed withdrawal benefits by approximately 114 basis points (on a weighted average basis). The table below shows the breakdown of annuity reserves by GMIR. The current interest crediting rates on substantially all of AFG’s annuities with a GMIR of 3% or higher are at their minimum.Operations — Continued
% of Reserves
June 30,December 31,
GMIR202020192018
1 — 1.99%85%84%81%
2 — 2.99%3%3%4%
3 — 3.99%6%7%8%
4.00% and above6%6%7%
Annuity benefits accumulated (in millions)$41,392$40,406$36,616

AFG believes its insurance subsidiaries maintain sufficient liquidity to pay claims and benefits and operatingunderwriting expenses. In addition, these subsidiaries have sufficient capital to meet commitments in the event of unforeseen events such as reserve deficiencies, inadequate premium rates or reinsurer insolvencies. Even in the current uncertain COVID-19 environment, management believes that the capital levels in AFG’s insurance subsidiaries are adequate to maintain its businessesbusiness and rating agency ratings. Should the current adverse financial conditions continue through 2020, AFG’s insurance subsidiaries will reduce dividend payments to AFG parent as needed to maintain sufficient capital at the
41

AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
insurance companies. Nonetheless, changes in statutory accounting rules, significant declines in the fair value of the insurance subsidiaries’ investment portfolios or significant ratings downgrades on these investments, could create a need for additional capital.

Investments
AFG’s investment portfolio at June 30, 2020,2021, contained $48.05$9.73 billion in fixed maturity securities classified as available for sale and carried at fair value with unrealized gains and losses included in accumulated other comprehensive income and $97$26 million in fixed maturities classified as trading with holding gains and losses included in net investment income. In addition, AFG’s investment portfolio includes $1.27 billion$708 million in equity securities carried at fair value with holding gains and losses included in realized gains (losses) on securities and $330$257 million in equity securities carried at fair value with holding gains and losses included in net investment income.

Fair values for AFG’s portfolio are determined by AFG’s internal investment professionals using data from nationally recognized pricing services as well as non-binding broker quotes. Fair values of equity securities are generally based on published closing prices. For AFG’s fixed maturity portfolio, approximately 90%84% was priced using pricing services at June 30, 20202021 and the balance was priced primarily by using non-binding broker quotes. When prices obtained for the same security vary, AFG’s internal investment professionals select the price they believe is most indicative of an exit price.

The pricing services use a variety of observable inputs to estimate fair value of fixed maturities that do not trade on a daily basis. Based upon information provided by the pricing services, these inputs include, but are not limited to, recent reported trades, benchmark yields, issuer spreads, bids or offers, reference data, and measures of volatility. Included in the pricing of mortgage-backed securities (“MBS”) are estimates of the rate of future prepayments and defaults of principal over the remaining life of the underlying collateral. Due to the lack of transparency in the process that brokers use to develop prices, valuations that are based on brokers’ prices are classified as Level 3 in the GAAP hierarchy unless the price can be corroborated, for example, by comparison to similar securities priced using observable inputs.

Valuation techniques utilized by pricing services and prices obtained from external sources are reviewed by AFG’s internal investment professionals who are familiar with the securities being priced and the markets in which they trade to ensure the fair value determination is representative of an exit price. To validate the appropriateness of the prices obtained, these investment managers consider widely published indices (as benchmarks), recent trades, changes in interest rates, general economic conditions and the credit quality of the specific issuers. In addition, AFG communicates directly with pricing services regarding the methods and assumptions used in pricing, including verifying, on a test basis, the inputs used by the services to value specific securities.

In general, the fair value of AFG’s fixed maturity investments is inversely correlated to changes in interest rates. The following table demonstrates the sensitivity of such fair values to reasonably likely changes in interest rates by illustrating the estimated effect on AFG’s fixed maturity portfolio and accumulated other comprehensive income that an immediate increase of 100 basis points in the interest rate yield curve would have at June 30, 20202021 (dollars in millions). Effects of increases or decreases from the 100 basis points illustrated would be approximately proportional.

Fair value of fixed maturity portfolio$48,1439,758 
Percentage impact on fair value of 100 bps increase in interest rates(4.02.5 %)
Pretax impact on fair value of fixed maturity portfolio$(1,926)(244)
Offsetting adjustments to deferred policy acquisition costs and other balance sheet amounts850 
Estimated pretax impact on accumulated other comprehensive income(1,076)
Deferred income tax226 
Estimated after-tax impact on accumulated other comprehensive income$(850)

Approximately 91%88% of the fixed maturities held by AFG at June 30, 2020,2021, were rated “investment grade” (credit rating of AAA to BBB) by nationally recognized rating agencies.agencies, 4% were rated “non-investment grade” and 8% were not rated. Investment grade securities generally bear lower yields and lower degrees of risk than those that are unrated and non-investment grade. Management believes that the high-quality investment portfolio should generate a stable and predictable investment return.

MBS are subject to significant prepayment risk because, in periods of declining interest rates, mortgages may be repaid more rapidly than scheduled as borrowers refinance higher rate mortgages to take advantage of lower rates.

42

AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Summarized information for AFG’s MBS (including those classified as trading) at June 30, 2020, is shown in the table below (dollars in millions). Agency-backed securities are those issued by a U.S. government-backed agency; Alt-A mortgages are those with risk profiles between prime and subprime. The average life of the residential and commercial MBS is approximately 4 years and 3 years, respectively.
Amortized
Cost, net (*)
Fair ValueFair Value as
% of Cost
Unrealized
Gain (Loss)
% Rated
Investment
Grade
Collateral type
Residential:
Agency-backed$437  $445  102 %$ 100 %
Non-agency prime1,330  1,435  108 %105  60 %
Alt-A843  929  110 %86  36 %
Subprime386  414  107 %28  36 %
Commercial852  889  104 %37  94 %
$3,848  $4,112  107 %$264  64 %
(*)Amortized cost, net of allowance for expected credit losses.

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”) assigns creditworthiness designations on a scale of 1 to 6 with 1 being the highest quality and 6 being the lowest quality. The NAIC retains third-party investment management firms to assist in the determination of appropriate NAIC designations for MBS based not only on the probability of loss (which is the primary basis of ratings by the major ratings firms), but also on the severity of loss and statutory carrying value. At June 30, 2020, 97% (based on statutory carrying value of $3.80 billion) of AFG’s MBS had an NAIC designation of 1.

Municipal bonds represented approximately 14%22% of AFG’s fixed maturity portfolio at June 30, 2020.2021. AFG’s municipal bond portfolio is high quality, with 99% of the securities rated investment grade at that date. The portfolio is well diversified across the states of issuance and individual issuers. At June 30, 2020,2021, approximately 78%90% of the municipal bond portfolio was held in revenue bonds, with the remaining 22%10% held in general obligation bonds.

Summarized information for the unrealized gains and losses recorded in AFG’s Balance Sheet at June 30, 2020, is shown in the following table (dollars in millions). Approximately $1.54 billion of available for sale fixed maturity securities had no unrealized gains or losses at June 30, 2020.
Securities
With
Unrealized
Gains
Securities
With
Unrealized
Losses
Available for Sale Fixed Maturities
Fair value of securities$36,628  $9,878  
Amortized cost of securities, net of allowance for expected credit losses$33,734  $10,335  
Gross unrealized gain (loss)$2,894  $(457) 
Fair value as % of amortized cost109 %96 %
Number of security positions4,322  993  
Number individually exceeding $2 million gain or loss331  43  
Concentration of gains (losses) by type or industry (exceeding 5% of unrealized):
States and municipalities$581  $(3) 
Banks, savings and credit institutions404  (15) 
Mortgage-backed securities278  (14) 
Insurance200  (3) 
Technology175  (2) 
Other asset-backed securities118  (189) 
Collateralized loan obligations16  (114) 
Percentage rated investment grade94 %86 %

4340

AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued

Summarized information for the unrealized gains and losses recorded in AFG’s Balance Sheet at June 30, 2021, is shown in the following table (dollars in millions). Approximately $902 million of available for sale fixed maturity securities had no unrealized gains or losses at June 30, 2021.
Securities
With
Unrealized
Gains
Securities
With
Unrealized
Losses
Available for Sale Fixed Maturities
Fair value of securities$7,485 $1,345 
Amortized cost of securities, net of allowance for expected credit losses$7,213 $1,357 
Gross unrealized gain (loss)$272 $(12)
Fair value as % of amortized cost104 %99 %
Number of security positions1,794 366 
Number individually exceeding $2 million gain or loss— 
Concentration of gains (losses) by type or industry (exceeding 5% of unrealized):
States and municipalities$93 $— 
Mortgage-backed securities56 (2)
Other asset-backed securities29 (4)
Collateralized loan obligations(2)
U.S. Government and government agencies(1)
Percentage rated investment grade93 %91 %

The table below sets forth the scheduled maturities of AFG’s available for sale fixed maturity securities at June 30, 2020,2021, based on their fair values. Securities with sinking funds are reported at average maturity. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain securities may be called or prepaid by the issuers.
Securities
With
Unrealized
Gains
Securities
With
Unrealized
Losses
Securities
With
Unrealized
Gains
Securities
With
Unrealized
Losses
MaturityMaturityMaturity
One year or lessOne year or less%%One year or less10 %— %
After one year through five yearsAfter one year through five years27 %11 %After one year through five years30 %19 %
After five years through ten yearsAfter five years through ten years38 %14 %After five years through ten years13 %%
After ten yearsAfter ten years%%After ten years%%
78 %32 %57 %25 %
Collateralized loan obligations and other asset-backed securities (average life of approximately 4 years)12 %64 %
Mortgage-backed securities (average life of approximately 3-1/2 years)10 %%
Collateralized loan obligations and other asset-backed securities (average life of approximately 3-1/2 years)Collateralized loan obligations and other asset-backed securities (average life of approximately 3-1/2 years)34 %68 %
Mortgage-backed securities (average life of approximately 3 years)Mortgage-backed securities (average life of approximately 3 years)%%
100 %100 %100 %100 %

41

Table of Contents
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
The table below (dollars in millions) summarizes the unrealized gains and losses on fixed maturity securities by dollar amount:
Aggregate
Fair
Value
Aggregate
Unrealized
Gain (Loss)
Fair
Value as
% of Cost
Fixed Maturities at June 30, 2020
Securities with unrealized gains:
Exceeding $500,000 (1,617 securities)$24,210  $2,467  111 %
$500,000 or less (2,705 securities)12,418  427  104 %
$36,628  $2,894  109 %
Securities with unrealized losses:
Exceeding $500,000 (288 securities)$5,397  $(381) 93 %
$500,000 or less (705 securities)4,481  (76) 98 %
$9,878  $(457) 96 %
Aggregate
Fair
Value
Aggregate
Unrealized
Gain (Loss)
Fair
Value as
% of Cost
Fixed Maturities at June 30, 2021
Securities with unrealized gains:
Exceeding $500,000 (120 securities)$1,409 $108 108 %
$500,000 or less (1,674 securities)6,076 164 103 %
$7,485 $272 104 %
Securities with unrealized losses:
Exceeding $500,000 (3 securities)$10 $(2)83 %
$500,000 or less (363 securities)1,335 (10)99 %
$1,345 $(12)99 %

The following table (dollars in millions) summarizes the unrealized losses for all securities with unrealized losses by issuer quality and the length of time those securities have been in an unrealized loss position:
Aggregate
Fair
Value
Aggregate
Unrealized
Loss
Fair
Value as
% of Cost
Securities with Unrealized Losses at June 30, 2020
Investment grade fixed maturities with losses for:
Less than one year (531 securities)$6,704  $(292) 96 %
One year or longer (131 securities)1,824  (88) 95 %
$8,528  $(380) 96 %
Non-investment grade fixed maturities with losses for:
Less than one year (296 securities)$1,275  $(64) 95 %
One year or longer (35 securities)75  (13) 85 %
$1,350  $(77) 95 %
Aggregate
Fair
Value
Aggregate
Unrealized
Loss
Fair
Value as
% of Cost
Securities with Unrealized Losses at June 30, 2021
Investment grade fixed maturities with losses for:
Less than one year (126 securities)$868 $(5)99 %
One year or longer (96 securities)354 (3)99 %
$1,222 $(8)99 %
Non-investment grade fixed maturities with losses for:
Less than one year (42 securities)$68 $(1)99 %
One year or longer (102 securities)55 (3)95 %
$123 $(4)97 %

When a decline in the value of a specific investment is considered to be other-than-temporary, an allowance for credit losses (impairment) is charged to earnings (accounted for as a realized loss). The determination of whether unrealized losses are other-than-temporary requires judgment based on subjective as well as objective factors as detailed in AFG’s 20192020 Form 10-K under Management’s Discussion and Analysis — “Investments.”
44

Table of Contents
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued

Based on its analysis, management believes AFG will recover its cost basis (net of any allowance) in the fixed maturity securities with unrealized losses and that AFG has the ability to hold the securities until they recover in value and had no intent to sell them at June 30, 2020.2021. Although AFG has the ability to continue holding its fixed maturity investments with unrealized losses, its intent to hold them may change due to deterioration in the issuers’ creditworthiness, decisions to lessen exposure to a particular issuer or industry, asset/liability management decisions, market movements, changes in views about appropriate asset allocation or the desire to offset taxable realized gains. Should AFG’s ability or intent change regarding a particular security, a charge for impairment would likely be required. While it is not possible to accurately predict if or when a specific security will become impaired, chargesincreases in the allowance for other-than-temporary impairmentcredit losses could be material to results of operations in future periods. Significant declines in the fair value of AFG’s investment portfolio could have a significant adverse effect on AFG’s liquidity. For information on AFG’s realized gains (losses) on securities, including charges for other-than-temporary impairment, see “Results of Operations — Consolidated Realized Gains (Losses) on Securities.”

Uncertainties
Management believes that the areas posing the greatest risk of material loss are the adequacy of its insurance reserves and contingencies arising out of its former railroad and manufacturing operations. See Management’s Discussion and Analysis — “Uncertainties — Asbestos and Environmental-related (“A&E”) Insurance Reserves” in AFG’s 20192020 Form 10-K. In the third quarter of 2020, AFG expects to complete a comprehensive external study of its asbestos and environmental exposures relating to the run-off operations of its property and casualty insurance segment and exposures related to its former railroad and manufacturing operations with the aid of specialty actuarial, engineering and consulting firms and outside counsel. AFG generally conducts an external study of these exposures every few years with an in-depth internal review during the intervening years.10–K.

42

Table of Contents
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
MANAGED INVESTMENT ENTITIES

Accounting standards require AFG to consolidate its investments in collateralized loan obligation (“CLO”) entities that it manages and owns an interest in (in the form of debt). See Note A — “Accounting Policies — Managed Investment Entities” and Note HG — “Managed Investment Entities” to the financial statements. The effect of consolidating these entities is shown in the tables below (in millions). The “Before CLO Consolidation” columns include AFG’s investment and earnings in the CLOs on an unconsolidated basis.
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Table of Contents
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET
Before CLO
Consolidation
Managed
Investment
Entities
Consol.
Entries
Consolidated
As Reported
Before CLO
Consolidation
Managed
Investment
Entities
Consol.
Entries
Consolidated
As Reported
June 30, 2020
June 30, 2021June 30, 2021
Assets:Assets:Assets:
Cash and investmentsCash and investments$56,898  $—  $(157) (a)$56,741  Cash and investments$16,182 $— $(57)(*)$16,125 
Assets of managed investment entitiesAssets of managed investment entities—  4,393  —  4,393  Assets of managed investment entities— 5,086 — 5,086 
Other assetsOther assets9,733  —  —  (a)9,733  Other assets7,569 — — (*)7,569 
Assets of discontinued annuity operationsAssets of discontinued annuity operations— — — — 
Total assetsTotal assets$66,631  $4,393  $(157) $70,867  Total assets$23,751 $5,086 $(57)$28,780 
Liabilities:Liabilities:Liabilities:
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses and unearned premiumsUnpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses and unearned premiums$13,099  $—  $—  $13,099  Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses and unearned premiums$13,552 $— $— $13,552 
Annuity, life, accident and health benefits and reserves41,998  —  —  41,998  
Liabilities of managed investment entitiesLiabilities of managed investment entities—  4,393  (157) (a)4,236  Liabilities of managed investment entities— 5,086 (57)(*)5,029 
Long-term debt and other liabilitiesLong-term debt and other liabilities5,408  —  —  5,408  Long-term debt and other liabilities4,598 — — 4,598 
Liabilities of discontinued annuity operationsLiabilities of discontinued annuity operations— — — — 
Total liabilitiesTotal liabilities60,505  4,393  (157) 64,741  Total liabilities18,150 5,086 (57)23,179 
Redeemable noncontrolling interests—  —  —  —  
Shareholders’ equity:Shareholders’ equity:Shareholders’ equity:
Common Stock and Capital surplusCommon Stock and Capital surplus1,388  —  —  1,388  Common Stock and Capital surplus1,388 — — 1,388 
Retained earningsRetained earnings3,685  —  —  3,685  Retained earnings4,023 — — 4,023 
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of taxAccumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax1,053  —  —  1,053  Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax190 — — 190 
Total shareholders’ equityTotal shareholders’ equity6,126  —  —  6,126  Total shareholders’ equity5,601 — — 5,601 
Noncontrolling interestsNoncontrolling interests—  —  —  —  Noncontrolling interests— — — — 
Total equityTotal equity6,126  —  —  6,126  Total equity5,601 — — 5,601 
Total liabilities and equityTotal liabilities and equity$66,631  $4,393  $(157) $70,867  Total liabilities and equity$23,751 $5,086 $(57)$28,780 
December 31, 2019
December 31, 2020December 31, 2020
Assets:Assets:Assets:
Cash and investmentsCash and investments$55,416  $—  $(164) (a)$55,252  Cash and investments$13,550 $— $(56)(*)$13,494 
Assets of managed investment entitiesAssets of managed investment entities—  4,736  —  4,736  Assets of managed investment entities— 4,971 — 4,971 
Other assetsOther assets10,143  —  (1) (a)10,142  Other assets7,361 — (1)(*)7,360 
Assets of discontinued annuity operationsAssets of discontinued annuity operations47,885 — — 47,885 
Total assetsTotal assets$65,559  $4,736  $(165) $70,130  Total assets$68,796 $4,971 $(57)$73,710 
Liabilities:Liabilities:Liabilities:
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses and unearned premiumsUnpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses and unearned premiums$13,062  $—  $—  $13,062  Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses and unearned premiums$13,195 $— $— $13,195 
Annuity, life, accident and health benefits and reserves41,018  —  —  41,018  
Liabilities of managed investment entitiesLiabilities of managed investment entities—  4,736  (165) (a)4,571  Liabilities of managed investment entities— 4,971 (57)(*)4,914 
Long-term debt and other liabilitiesLong-term debt and other liabilities5,210  —  —  5,210  Long-term debt and other liabilities4,354 — — 4,354 
Liabilities of discontinued annuity operationsLiabilities of discontinued annuity operations44,458 — — 44,458 
Total liabilitiesTotal liabilities59,290  4,736  (165) 63,861  Total liabilities62,007 4,971 (57)66,921 
Redeemable noncontrolling interests—  —  —  —  
Shareholders’ equity:Shareholders’ equity:Shareholders’ equity:
Common Stock and Capital surplusCommon Stock and Capital surplus1,397  —  —  1,397  Common Stock and Capital surplus1,367 — — 1,367 
Retained earningsRetained earnings4,009  —  —  4,009  Retained earnings4,149 — — 4,149 
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of taxAccumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax863  —  —  863  Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax1,273 — — 1,273 
Total shareholders’ equityTotal shareholders’ equity6,269  —  —  6,269  Total shareholders’ equity6,789 — — 6,789 
Noncontrolling interestsNoncontrolling interests—  —  —  —  Noncontrolling interests— — — — 
Total equityTotal equity6,269  —  —  6,269  Total equity6,789 — — 6,789 
Total liabilities and equityTotal liabilities and equity$65,559  $4,736  $(165) $70,130  Total liabilities and equity$68,796 $4,971 $(57)$73,710 
(a)(*)Elimination of the fair value of AFG’s investment in CLOs and related accrued interest.

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Table of Contents
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF EARNINGS
Before CLO
Consolidation (a)
Managed
Investment
Entities
Consol.
Entries
Consolidated
As Reported
Before CLO
Consolidation (a)
Managed
Investment
Entities
Consol.
Entries
Consolidated
As Reported
Three months ended June 30, 2020
Three months ended June 30, 2021Three months ended June 30, 2021
Revenues:Revenues:Revenues:
Property and casualty insurance net earned premiumsProperty and casualty insurance net earned premiums$1,184  $—  $—  $1,184  Property and casualty insurance net earned premiums$1,250 $— $— $1,250 
Net investment incomeNet investment income470  —  (2) (b)468  Net investment income171 — (7)(b)164 
Realized gains (losses) on securities204  —  —  204  
Income (loss) of managed investment entities:
Realized gains (losses) on:Realized gains (losses) on:
SecuritiesSecurities43 — — 43 
SubsidiarySubsidiary— — 
Income of managed investment entities:Income of managed investment entities:
Investment incomeInvestment income—  49  —  49  Investment income— 44 — 44 
Gain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilitiesGain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities—  (2) (3) (b)(5) Gain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities— (b)
Other incomeOther income55  —  (4) (c)51  Other income24 — (4)(c)20 
Total revenuesTotal revenues1,913  47  (9) 1,951  Total revenues1,492 47 (8)1,531 
Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:
Insurance benefits and expensesInsurance benefits and expenses1,571  —  —  1,571  Insurance benefits and expenses1,104 — — 1,104 
Expenses of managed investment entitiesExpenses of managed investment entities—  47  (9) (b)(c)38  Expenses of managed investment entities— 47 (8)(b)(c)39 
Interest charges on borrowed money and other expensesInterest charges on borrowed money and other expenses124  —  —  124  Interest charges on borrowed money and other expenses100 — — 100 
Total costs and expensesTotal costs and expenses1,695  47  (9) 1,733  Total costs and expenses1,204 47 (8)1,243 
Earnings (loss) before income taxes218  —  —  218  
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxesEarnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes288 — — 288 
Provision (credit) for income taxesProvision (credit) for income taxes51  —  —  51  Provision (credit) for income taxes48 — — 48 
Net earnings (loss), including noncontrolling interests167  —  —  167  
Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests(10) —  —  (10) 
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interestsNet earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interests240 — — 240 
Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operationsNet earnings (loss) from discontinued operations762 — — 762 
Less: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interestsLess: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests— — — — 
Net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholdersNet earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders$177  $—  $—  $177  Net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders$1,002 $— $— $1,002 
Three months ended June 30, 2019
Three months ended June 30, 2020Three months ended June 30, 2020
Revenues:Revenues:Revenues:
Property and casualty insurance net earned premiumsProperty and casualty insurance net earned premiums$1,200  $—  $—  $1,200  Property and casualty insurance net earned premiums$1,184 $— $— $1,184 
Net investment incomeNet investment income585  —  (5) (b)580  Net investment income88 — — (b)88 
Realized gains (losses) on securitiesRealized gains (losses) on securities56  —  —  56  Realized gains (losses) on securities108 — — 108 
Income (loss) of managed investment entities:
Income of managed investment entities:Income of managed investment entities:
Investment incomeInvestment income—  70  —  70  Investment income— 49 — 49 
Gain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilitiesGain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities—  (1) (1) (b)(2) Gain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities— (2)(1)(b)(3)
Other incomeOther income60  —  (4) (c)56  Other income23 — (4)(c)19 
Total revenuesTotal revenues1,901  69  (10) 1,960  Total revenues1,403 47 (5)1,445 
Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:
Insurance benefits and expensesInsurance benefits and expenses1,521  —  —  1,521  Insurance benefits and expenses1,180 — — 1,180 
Expenses of managed investment entitiesExpenses of managed investment entities—  69  (10) (b)(c)59  Expenses of managed investment entities— 47 (5)(b)(c)42 
Interest charges on borrowed money and other expensesInterest charges on borrowed money and other expenses121  —  —  121  Interest charges on borrowed money and other expenses83 — — 83 
Total costs and expensesTotal costs and expenses1,642  69  (10) 1,701  Total costs and expenses1,263 47 (5)1,305 
Earnings (loss) before income taxes259  —  —  259  
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxesEarnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes140 — — 140 
Provision (credit) for income taxesProvision (credit) for income taxes50  —  —  50  Provision (credit) for income taxes37 — — 37 
Net earnings (loss), including noncontrolling interests209  —  —  209  
Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests(1) —  —  (1) 
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interestsNet earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interests103 — — 103 
Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operationsNet earnings (loss) from discontinued operations64 — — 64 
Less: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interestsLess: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests(10)— — (10)
Net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholdersNet earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders$210  $—  $—  $210  Net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders$177 $— $— $177 
(a)Includes income of $2$7 million in the second quarter of 2021 and less than $1 million in the second quarter of 2020, and $5 million in the second quarter of 2019, representing the change in fair value of AFG’s CLO investments plus $4 million in both the second quarter of 20202021 and 20192020, in CLO management fees earned.
(b)Elimination of the change in fair value of AFG’s investments in the CLOs, including $5 million and $6$4 million in the second quarter of 20202021 and 2019, respectively,$1 million in the second quarter of 2020, in distributions recorded as interest expense by the CLOs.
(c)Elimination of management fees earned by AFG.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF EARNINGS
Before CLO
Consolidation (a)
Managed
Investment
Entities
Consol.
Entries
Consolidated
As Reported
Before CLO
Consolidation (a)
Managed
Investment
Entities
Consol.
Entries
Consolidated
As Reported
Six months ended June 30, 2020
Six months ended June 30, 2021Six months ended June 30, 2021
Revenues:Revenues:Revenues:
Property and casualty insurance net earned premiumsProperty and casualty insurance net earned premiums$2,393  $—  $—  $2,393  Property and casualty insurance net earned premiums$2,423 $— $— $2,423 
Net investment incomeNet investment income978  —  34  (b)1,012  Net investment income364 — (12)(b)352 
Realized gains (losses) on securities(347) —  —  (347) 
Income (loss) of managed investment entities:
Realized gains (losses) on:Realized gains (losses) on:
SecuritiesSecurities120 — — 120 
SubsidiarySubsidiary— — 
Income of managed investment entities:Income of managed investment entities:
Investment incomeInvestment income—  108  —  108  Investment income— 90 — 90 
Gain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilitiesGain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities—  (2) (46) (b)(48) Gain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities— (b)
Other incomeOther income116  —  (8) (c)108  Other income51 — (8)(c)43 
Total revenuesTotal revenues3,140  106  (20) 3,226  Total revenues2,962 92 (14)3,040 
Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:
Insurance benefits and expensesInsurance benefits and expenses3,087  —  —  3,087  Insurance benefits and expenses2,151 — — 2,151 
Expenses of managed investment entitiesExpenses of managed investment entities—  106  (20) (b)(c)86  Expenses of managed investment entities— 92 (14)(b)(c)78 
Interest charges on borrowed money and other expensesInterest charges on borrowed money and other expenses223  —  —  223  Interest charges on borrowed money and other expenses188 — — 188 
Total costs and expensesTotal costs and expenses3,310  106  (20) 3,396  Total costs and expenses2,339 92 (14)2,417 
Earnings (loss) before income taxes(170) —  —  (170) 
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxesEarnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes623 — — 623 
Provision (credit) for income taxesProvision (credit) for income taxes(33) —  —  (33) Provision (credit) for income taxes116 — — 116 
Net earnings (loss), including noncontrolling interests(137) —  —  (137) 
Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests(13) —  —  (13) 
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interestsNet earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interests507 — — 507 
Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operationsNet earnings (loss) from discontinued operations914 — — 914 
Less: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interestsLess: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests— — — — 
Net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholdersNet earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders$(124) $—  $—  $(124) Net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders$1,421 $— $— $1,421 
Six months ended June 30, 2019
Six months ended June 30, 2020Six months ended June 30, 2020
Revenues:Revenues:Revenues:
Property and casualty insurance net earned premiumsProperty and casualty insurance net earned premiums$2,373  $—  $—  $2,373  Property and casualty insurance net earned premiums$2,393 $— $— $2,393 
Net investment incomeNet investment income1,138  —  (16) (b)1,122  Net investment income181 — 11 (b)192 
Realized gains (losses) on securitiesRealized gains (losses) on securities240  —  —  240  Realized gains (losses) on securities(220)— — (220)
Income (loss) of managed investment entities:
Income of managed investment entities:Income of managed investment entities:
Investment incomeInvestment income—  139  —  139  Investment income— 108 — 108 
Gain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilitiesGain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities—  (6)  (b)(2) Gain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities— (2)(14)(b)(16)
Other incomeOther income119  —  (7) (c)112  Other income51 — (8)(c)43 
Total revenuesTotal revenues3,870  133  (19) 3,984  Total revenues2,405 106 (11)2,500 
Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:
Insurance benefits and expensesInsurance benefits and expenses2,951  —  —  2,951  Insurance benefits and expenses2,307 — — 2,307 
Expenses of managed investment entitiesExpenses of managed investment entities—  133  (19) (b)(c)114  Expenses of managed investment entities— 106 (11)(b)(c)95 
Interest charges on borrowed money and other expensesInterest charges on borrowed money and other expenses247  —  —  247  Interest charges on borrowed money and other expenses143 — — 143 
Total costs and expensesTotal costs and expenses3,198  133  (19) 3,312  Total costs and expenses2,450 106 (11)2,545 
Earnings (loss) before income taxes672  —  —  672  
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxesEarnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes(45)— — (45)
Provision (credit) for income taxesProvision (credit) for income taxes137  —  —  137  Provision (credit) for income taxes(4)— — (4)
Net earnings (loss), including noncontrolling interests535  —  —  535  
Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests(4) —  —  (4) 
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interestsNet earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interests(41)— — (41)
Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operationsNet earnings (loss) from discontinued operations(96)— — (96)
Less: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interestsLess: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests(13)— — (13)
Net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholdersNet earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders$539  $—  $—  $539  Net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders$(124)$— $— $(124)
(a)Includes a lossincome of $34$12 million in the first six monthsof 2021 and losses of $11 million in the first six months of 2020, and income of $16 million in the first six months of 2019, representing the change in fair value of AFG’s CLO investments plus $8 million and $7 million in both the first six months of 20202021 and 2019, respectively,the first six months of 2020, in CLO management fees earned.
(b)Elimination of the change in fair value of AFG’s investments in the CLOs, including $12$6 million in both the first six months of 20202021 and 2019,$3 million in the first six months of 2020, in distributions recorded as interest expense by the CLOs.
(c)Elimination of management fees earned by AFG.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

General
AFG’s net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders, determined in accordance with GAAP, include certain items that may not be indicative of its ongoing core operations. For example,In addition to discontinued operations, core net operating earnings excludes realized gains (losses) on securities because such gains and losses are influenced significantly by financial markets, interest rates and the timing of sales. Similarly, significant gains and losses from the sale of real estate are excluded from core earnings as they are influenced by the timing of sales and realized gains (losses) and significant tax benefits (charges) related to subsidiaries are excluded because such gains and losses are largely the result of the changing business strategy and market opportunities. In addition, special charges related to coverage that AFG no longer writes, such as the Neon exited lines discussed below and for asbestos and environmental exposures, are excluded from core earnings.

In January 2021, AFG entered into a definitive agreement to sell its annuity business to MassMutual. Beginning prospectively with the first quarter of 2021 and through the May 31, 2021 effective date of the sale, the results of its annuity segment and the run-off life and long-term care operations are reported as discontinued operations, in accordance with GAAP, which included adjusting prior period results to reflect these operations as discontinued.

AFG recorded $762 million in non-core net earnings from its discontinued annuity operations in the second quarter of 2019, AFG’s core2021, which includes a $697 million after tax gain on the sale, compared to $64 million in the second quarter of 2020. The first six months of 2021 include $914 million in non-core net operating earnings from the discontinued annuity operations compared to non-core net losses of $96 million in the first six months of 2020. See “Discontinued Annuity Operations” below for its annuity segment excludes unlocking,details of the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to fixed-indexed annuities (“FIAs”), and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest ratesdiscontinued annuity operations on the accounting for FIAs over or under the cost of the equity index options purchased to mitigate the risk in the index-based component of those FIAs (“annuity non-core earnings (losses)”). Fluctuations in interest rates and the stock market, among other factors, can cause volatility in the periodic measurement of FIA liabilities that management believes can be inconsistent with the long-term economics of this growing portion of AFG’s annuity business. Management believes that separating these impacts as “non-core” will provide investors with a better view of the fundamental performance of the business, and a more comparable measure of the annuity segment’s business compared to the results identified as “core” by its peers. Core net operating earnings for the annuity segment for the first quarter of 2019 and prior periods were not adjusted, so results for the six months ended June 30, 2020 are not directly comparable to the six months ended June 30, 2019. The impact of the items now considered annuity non-core earnings (losses) on prior periods is highlighted in the discussion following the reconciliation of net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders to core net operating earnings.for the second quarter and first six months of 2021 and 2020.

In December 2019, AFG initiated actions to exit the Lloyd’s of London insurance market, which included placing its Lloyd’s subsidiaries including its Lloyd’s Managing Agency, Neon Underwriting Ltd., into run-off. Neon and its predecessor, Marketform, have failed to achieve AFG’s profitability objectives since AFG’s purchase of Marketform in 2008. Consistent with the treatment of other items that are not indicative of AFG’s ongoing operations (both favorable and unfavorable), beginning prospectively with the first quarter of 2020, AFG’s core net operating earnings for its property and casualty insurance segment excludes the run-off operations of Neon (“Neon exited lines”). In December 2020, AFG sold GAI Holding Bermuda and its subsidiaries, comprising the legal entities that own Neon, to RiverStone Holdings Limited.

AFG recorded non-core net losses of $32 million in the second quarter of 2020 and $39 million in the first six months of 2020 related to the run-off of the Neon business. In the second quarter of 2021, AFG recognized a non-core after tax gain of $3 million related to contingent consideration received on the sale of Neon. The Neon exited lines impact is highlighted in the discussion following the reconciliation of net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders to core net operating earnings.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
The following table (in millions, except per share amounts) identifies non-core items and reconciles net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders to core net operating earnings, a non-GAAP financial measure. AFG believes core net operating earnings is a useful tool for investors and analysts in analyzing ongoing operating trends and for management to evaluate financial performance against historical results because it believes this provides a more comparable measure of its continuing business.
Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
20202019202020192021202020212020
Components of net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders:Components of net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders:Components of net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders:
Core operating earnings before income taxesCore operating earnings before income taxes$115  $236  $326  $465  Core operating earnings before income taxes$252 $74 $510 $227 
Pretax non-core items:Pretax non-core items:Pretax non-core items:
Realized gains (losses) on securitiesRealized gains (losses) on securities204  56  (347) 240  Realized gains (losses) on securities43 108 120 (220)
Annuity non-core earnings (losses) (a)(59) (33) (97) (33) 
Neon exited lines (b)(42) —  (52) —  
Neon exited lines (*)Neon exited lines (*)(42)(52)
OtherOther(11)— (11)— 
Earnings (loss) before income taxesEarnings (loss) before income taxes218  259  (170) 672  Earnings (loss) before income taxes288 140 623 (45)
Provision (credit) for income taxes:Provision (credit) for income taxes:Provision (credit) for income taxes:
Core operating earningsCore operating earnings20  45  60  93  Core operating earnings47 14 99 42 
Non-core items:Non-core items:Non-core items:
Realized gains (losses) on securitiesRealized gains (losses) on securities43  11  (73) 50  Realized gains (losses) on securities23 25 (46)
Annuity non-core earnings (losses) (a)(12) (6) (20) (6) 
Total provision for income taxes51  50  (33) 137  
Net earnings (loss), including noncontrolling interests167  209  (137) 535  
Less net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests:
Core operating earnings (loss)—  (1) —  (4) 
Neon exited lines (b)(10) —  (13) —  
Total net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests(10) (1) (13) (4) 
Neon exited lines (*)Neon exited lines (*)— — 
OtherOther(9)— (9)— 
Total provision (credit) for income taxesTotal provision (credit) for income taxes48 37 116 (4)
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interestsNet earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interests240 103 507 (41)
Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operationsNet earnings (loss) from discontinued operations762 64 914 (96)
Less net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests:Less net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests:
Neon exited lines (*)Neon exited lines (*)— (10)— (13)
Net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholdersNet earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders$177  $210  $(124) $539  Net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders$1,002 $177 $1,421 $(124)
Net earnings (loss):Net earnings (loss):Net earnings (loss):
Core net operating earningsCore net operating earnings$95  $192  $266  $376  Core net operating earnings$205 $60 $411 $185 
Realized gains (losses) on securitiesRealized gains (losses) on securities161  45  (274) 190  Realized gains (losses) on securities34 85 95 (174)
Annuity non-core earnings (losses) (a)(47) (27) (77) (27) 
Neon exited lines (b)(32) —  (39) —  
Neon exited lines (*)Neon exited lines (*)(32)(39)
OtherOther(2)— (2)— 
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operationsNet earnings (loss) from continuing operations240 113 507 (28)
Discontinued annuity operationsDiscontinued annuity operations762 64 914 (96)
Net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholdersNet earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders$177  $210  $(124) $539  Net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders$1,002 $177 $1,421 $(124)
Diluted per share amounts:Diluted per share amounts:Diluted per share amounts:
Core net operating earningsCore net operating earnings$1.05  $2.12  $2.94  $4.14  Core net operating earnings$2.39 $0.67 $4.78 $2.04 
Realized gains (losses) on securitiesRealized gains (losses) on securities1.80  0.48  (3.03) 2.09  Realized gains (losses) on securities0.40 0.95 1.10 (1.92)
Annuity non-core earnings (losses) (a)(0.52) (0.29) (0.86) (0.29) 
Neon exited lines (b)(0.36) —  (0.43) —  
Neon exited lines (*)Neon exited lines (*)0.04 (0.36)0.04 (0.43)
OtherOther(0.02)— (0.02)— 
Diluted per share amounts, continuing operationsDiluted per share amounts, continuing operations2.81 1.26 5.90 (0.31)
Discontinued annuity operationsDiscontinued annuity operations8.89 0.71 10.61 (1.07)
Net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholdersNet earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders$1.97  $2.31  $(1.38) $5.94  Net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders$11.70 $1.97 $16.51 $(1.38)
(a)(*)As discussed above, beginning prospectively with the second quarter of 2019, unlocking, the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs, and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs over or under the cost of the equity index options purchased to mitigate the risk in the index-based component of those FIAs are considered annuity non-core earnings (losses).
(b)As discussed above, beginning prospectively with the first quarter of 2020, the Neon run-off operations are considered property and casualty insurance non-core earnings (losses). In the second quarter of 2021, AFG recognized a non-core after tax gain of $3 million related to contingent consideration received on the sale of Neon.

Because AFG’s limited partnerships and similar investments accounted for using the equity method are reported on a quarter lag,Net earnings attributable to shareholders were $1.00 billion in the second quarter returns reflect March 31,of 2021 compared to $177 million in the second quarter of 2020. The improvement reflects higher core net operating earnings, higher net earnings from the discontinued annuity operations, non-core losses from the Neon exited lines in the second quarter of 2020 results provided by third party sources and incorporate the downturn in financial markets during the first quarter.

lower net
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Net earnings attributablerealized gains on securities in the second quarter of 2021 compared to shareholders was $177the second quarter of 2020. The discontinued annuity operations includes an after-tax gain from the sale of the annuity subsidiaries of $697 million in the second quarter of 2020 compared to $210 million in the second quarter of 2019 reflecting lower core net operating earnings, higher losses from the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs over or under the cost of the equity index options purchased to mitigate the risk in the index-based component of those FIAs, and non-core losses from the Neon exited lines, partially offset by higher net realized gains on securities.2021. Core net operating earnings for the second quarter of 2020 decreased $972021 increased $145 million compared to the second quarter of 20192020 reflecting the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on partnershipshigher underwriting profit and similar investments and AFG-managed CLOsnet investment income in both the property and casualty insurance and annuity segments.segment, partially offset by higher holding company expenses. Realized gains (losses) on securities in the second quarter of 20202021 and 20192020 resulted primarily from the change in fair value of equity securities that were still held at the balance sheet date.

Net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders waswere $1.42 billion in the first six months of 2021 compared to a net loss of $124 million for the first six months of 2020 compared to net earnings of $539 million for the first six months of 2019 reflecting net realized losses on securities in the 2020 period compared to net realized gains in the 2019 period, lower core net operating earnings and non-core losses from the Neon exited lines. In addition, net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders includes after-tax losses of $77 million in the first six months of 2020 and $36 million2020. The improved results reflect higher core net operating earnings, net realized gains on securities in the first six months of 2019 ($92021 compared to net realized losses in the first six months of 2020, non-core losses from the Neon exited lines in the 2020 period and net earnings from the discontinued annuity operations in the first six months of 2021 compared to a net loss in the first six months of 2020. The discontinued annuity operations includes an after-tax gain from the sale of the annuity subsidiaries of $656 million in the 2021 period (including $41 million in tax liabilities triggered by the pending sale in the first quarter and $27 million in the second quarter) from the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs over or under the cost of the equity index options purchased to mitigate the risk in the index-based component of those FIAs. As discussed above, this impact on the accounting for FIAs is considered non-core earnings (losses) beginning prospectively with the second quarter of 2019. Excluding the $9 million after-tax negative impact of these items on results for the first quarter of 2019, core2021). Core net operating earnings for the first six months of 2020 decreased $1192021 increased $226 million compared to the first six months of 20192020 reflecting the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on partnershipshigher underwriting profit and similar investments and AFG-managed CLOsnet investment income in both the property and casualty insurance and annuity segments,segment, partially offset by lowerhigher interest charges on borrowed money and higher holding company expenses. Realized gains (losses) on securities in the first six months of 20202021 and 20192020 resulted primarily from the change in fair value of equity securities that were still held at the balance sheet date.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS — THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2021 AND 2020

Segmented Statement of Earnings
Subsequent to the agreement to sell the Annuity subsidiaries, AFG reports its continuing operations as two segments: (i) Property and casualty insurance (“P&C”) and (ii) Other, which includes holding company costs and income and expenses related to the managed investment entities (“MIEs”).
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS — THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2020 AND 2019

Segmented Statement of Earnings
AFG reports its business as three segments: (i) Property and casualty insurance (“P&C”), (ii) Annuity and (iii) Other, which includes run-off long-term care and life, holding company costs and income and expenses related to the managed investment entities (“MIEs”).

AFG’s net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders, determined in accordance with GAAP, include certain items that may not be indicative of its ongoing core operations. The following tables for the three months ended June 30, 20202021 and 20192020 identify such items by segment and reconcile net earnings attributable to shareholders to core net operating earnings, a non-GAAP financial measure that AFG believes is a useful tool for investors and analysts in analyzing ongoing operating trends (in millions):
OtherOther
P&CAnnuityConsol. MIEsHolding Co., other and unallocatedTotalNon-core reclassNeon exited lines (c)GAAP TotalP&CAnnuityConsol. MIEsHolding Co., other and unallocatedTotalNon-core reclassGAAP Total
Three months ended June 30, 2020
Three months ended June 30, 2021Three months ended June 30, 2021
Revenues:Revenues:Revenues:
Property and casualty insurance net earned premiumsProperty and casualty insurance net earned premiums$1,123  $—  $—  $—  $1,123  $—  $61  $1,184  Property and casualty insurance net earned premiums$1,250 $— $— $— $1,250 $— $1,250 
Net investment incomeNet investment income72  384  (2) 14  468  —  —  468  Net investment income143 22 (7)164 — 164 
Realized gains (losses) on securities—  —  —  —  —  204  —  204  
Income (loss) of MIEs:
Realized gains (losses) on:Realized gains (losses) on:
SecuritiesSecurities— — — — — 43 43 
SubsidiarySubsidiary— — — — — 
Income of MIEs:Income of MIEs:
Investment incomeInvestment income—  —  49  —  49  —  —  49  Investment income— — 44 — 44 — 44 
Gain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilitiesGain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities—  —  (5) —  (5) —  —  (5) Gain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities— — — — 
Other incomeOther income 30  (4) 22  51  —  —  51  Other income— (4)23 20 — 20 
Total revenuesTotal revenues1,198  414  38  36  1,686  204  61  1,951  Total revenues1,394 22 39 29 1,484 47 1,531 
Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:
Property and casualty insurance:Property and casualty insurance:Property and casualty insurance:
Losses and loss adjustment expensesLosses and loss adjustment expenses705  —  —  —  705  —  66  771  Losses and loss adjustment expenses714 — — — 714 — 714 
Commissions and other underwriting expensesCommissions and other underwriting expenses366  —  —   371  —  38  409  Commissions and other underwriting expenses384 — — 390 — 390 
Annuity benefits—  274  —  (5) 269  157  —  426  
Annuity and supplemental insurance acquisition expenses—  62  —   63  (98) —  (35) 
Interest charges on borrowed moneyInterest charges on borrowed money—  —  —  23  23  —  —  23  Interest charges on borrowed money— — — 23 23 — 23 
Expenses of MIEsExpenses of MIEs—  —  38  —  38  —  —  38  Expenses of MIEs— — 39 — 39 — 39 
Other expensesOther expenses11  36  —  55  102  —  (1) 101  Other expenses— — 58 66 11 77 
Total costs and expensesTotal costs and expenses1,082  372  38  79  1,571  59  103  1,733  Total costs and expenses1,106 — 39 87 1,232 11 1,243 
Earnings (loss) before income taxes116  42  —  (43) 115  145  (42) 218  
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxesEarnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes288 22 — (58)252 36 288 
Provision (credit) for income taxesProvision (credit) for income taxes22   —  (8) 20  31  —  51  Provision (credit) for income taxes57 — (15)47 48 
Net earnings (loss), including noncontrolling interests94  36  —  (35) 95  114  (42) 167  
Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests—  —  —  —  —  —  (10) (10) 
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interestsNet earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interests231 17 — (43)205 35 240 
Less: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interestsLess: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests— — — — — — — 
Core Net Operating Earnings (Loss)Core Net Operating Earnings (Loss)94  36  —  (35) 95  Core Net Operating Earnings (Loss)231 17 — (43)205 
Non-core earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders (a):Non-core earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders (a):Non-core earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders (a):
Realized gains (losses) on securities, net of taxRealized gains (losses) on securities, net of tax—  —  —  161  161  (161) —  —  Realized gains (losses) on securities, net of tax— — — 34 34 (34)— 
Annuity non-core earnings (losses), net of tax (b)—  (47) —  —  (47) 47  —  —  
Neon exited lines (c)(32) —  —  —  (32) —  32  —  
Discontinued operations, net of taxDiscontinued operations, net of tax— 762 — — 762 — 762 
Neon exited lines (b)Neon exited lines (b)— — — (3)— 
Other, net of taxOther, net of tax— — — (2)(2)— 
Net Earnings (Loss) Attributable to ShareholdersNet Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders$62  $(11) $—  $126  $177  $—  $—  $177  Net Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders$234 $779 $— $(11)$1,002 $— $1,002 
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
OtherOther
P&CAnnuityConsol. MIEsHolding Co., other and unallocatedTotalNon-core reclassGAAP TotalP&CAnnuityConsol. MIEsHolding Co., other and unallocatedTotalNon-core reclassNeon exited lines (b)GAAP Total
Three months ended June 30, 2019
Three months ended June 30, 2020Three months ended June 30, 2020
Revenues:Revenues:Revenues:
Property and casualty insurance net earned premiumsProperty and casualty insurance net earned premiums$1,200  $—  $—  $—  $1,200  $—  $1,200  Property and casualty insurance net earned premiums$1,123 $— $— $— $1,123 $— $61 $1,184 
Net investment incomeNet investment income124  451  (5) 10  580  —  580  Net investment income72 — 88 — — 88 
Realized gains (losses) on securitiesRealized gains (losses) on securities—  —  —  —  —  56  56  Realized gains (losses) on securities— — — — — 108 — 108 
Income (loss) of MIEs:
Income of MIEs:Income of MIEs:
Investment incomeInvestment income—  —  70  —  70  —  70  Investment income— — 49 — 49 — — 49 
Gain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilitiesGain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities—  —  (2) —  (2) —  (2) Gain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities— — (3)— (3)— — (3)
Other incomeOther income 30  (4) 28  56  —  56  Other income(1)(4)21 19 — — 19 
Total revenuesTotal revenues1,326  481  59  38  1,904  56  1,960  Total revenues1,198 42 30 1,276 108 61 1,445 
Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:
Property and casualty insurance:Property and casualty insurance:Property and casualty insurance:
Losses and loss adjustment expensesLosses and loss adjustment expenses723  —  —  —  723  —  723  Losses and loss adjustment expenses705 — — — 705 — 66 771 
Commissions and other underwriting expensesCommissions and other underwriting expenses418  —  —   426  —  426  Commissions and other underwriting expenses366 — — 371 — 38 409 
Annuity benefits—  275  —  (3) 272  67  339  
Annuity and supplemental insurance acquisition expenses—  67  —  —  67  (34) 33  
Interest charges on borrowed moneyInterest charges on borrowed money—  —  —  17  17  —  17  Interest charges on borrowed money— — — 23 23 — — 23 
Expenses of MIEsExpenses of MIEs—  —  59  —  59  —  59  Expenses of MIEs— — 42 — 42 — — 42 
Other expensesOther expenses11  35  —  58  104  —  104  Other expenses11 — 45 61 — (1)60 
Total costs and expensesTotal costs and expenses1,152  377  59  80  1,668  33  1,701  Total costs and expenses1,082 42 73 1,202 — 103 1,305 
Earnings (loss) before income taxes174  104  —  (42) 236  23  259  
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxesEarnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes116 — (43)74 108 (42)140 
Provision (credit) for income taxesProvision (credit) for income taxes35  20  —  (10) 45   50  Provision (credit) for income taxes22 — — (8)14 23 — 37 
Net earnings (loss), including noncontrolling interests139  84  —  (32) 191  18  209  
Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests(1) —  —  —  (1) —  (1) 
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interestsNet earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interests94 — (35)60 85 (42)103 
Less: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interestsLess: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests— — — — — — (10)(10)
Core Net Operating Earnings (Loss)Core Net Operating Earnings (Loss)140  84  —  (32) 192  Core Net Operating Earnings (Loss)94 — (35)60 
Non-core earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders (a):Non-core earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders (a):Non-core earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders (a):
Realized gains (losses) on securities, net of taxRealized gains (losses) on securities, net of tax—  —  —  45  45  (45) —  Realized gains (losses) on securities, net of tax— — — 85 85 (85)— — 
Discontinued operations, net of taxDiscontinued operations, net of tax— 64 — — 64 — — 64 
Neon exited lines (b)Neon exited lines (b)(32)— — — (32)— 32 — 
Annuity non-core earnings (losses), net of tax (b)—  (27) —  —  (27) 27  —  
Net Earnings (Loss) Attributable to ShareholdersNet Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders$140  $57  $—  $13  $210  $—  $210  Net Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders$62 $65 $— $50 $177 $— $— $177 
(a)See the reconciliation of core earnings to GAAP net earnings under “Results of Operations — General” for details on the tax and noncontrolling interest impacts of these reconciling items.
(b)As discussed under “Results of Operations — General,” beginning with the second quarter of 2019, unlocking, the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs, and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs over or under the cost of the equity index options purchased to mitigate the risk in the index-based component of those FIAs are considered annuity non-core earnings (losses).
(c)As discussed under “Results of Operations — General,” beginning with the first quarter of 2020, the Neon run-off operations are considered property and casualty insurance non-core earnings (losses).

Property and Casualty Insurance Segment — Results of Operations
Performance measures such as underwriting profit or loss and related combined ratios are often used by property and casualty insurers to help users of their financial statements better understand the company’s performance. Underwriting profitability is measured by the combined ratio, which is a sum of the ratios of losses and loss adjustment expenses, and commissions and other underwriting expenses to premiums. A combined ratio under 100% indicates an underwriting profit. The combined ratio does not reflect net investment income, other income, other expenses or federal income taxes.

AFG’s property and casualty insurance operations contributed $74$292 million in GAAP pretax earnings in the second quarter of 20202021 compared to $174$74 million in the second quarter of 2019, a decrease2020, an increase of $100$218 million (57%(295%). Property and casualty core pretax earnings were $288 million in the second quarter of 2021 compared to $116 million in the second quarter of 2020, compared to $174an increase of $172 million (148%). The increase in GAAP pretax earnings reflects higher core pretax earnings and the impact of losses in the Neon exited lines in the second quarter of 2019, a decrease of $58 million (33%).2020. The decreaseincrease in both GAAP and core pretax earnings reflects lower net investment incomehigher core underwriting profit in the second quarter of 20202021 compared to the second quarter of 20192020 and significantly higher net investment income. Improved results from alternative investments (partnerships and similar investments and AFG-managed CLOs) were partially offset by lower other net investment income, due primarily to the impact of financial market disruption on earnings (losses) from partnerships and similar investments.

lower short-term interest rates.
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued

The following table details AFG’s GAAP and core earnings before income taxes from its property and casualty insurance operations for the three months ended June 30, 20202021 and 20192020 (dollars in millions):
Three months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,
20202019% Change20212020% Change
Gross written premiumsGross written premiums$1,539  $1,664  (8 %)Gross written premiums$1,937 $1,539 26 %
Reinsurance premiums cededReinsurance premiums ceded(416) (400) %Reinsurance premiums ceded(568)(416)37 %
Net written premiumsNet written premiums1,123  1,264  (11 %)Net written premiums1,369 1,123 22 %
Change in unearned premiumsChange in unearned premiums—  (64) (100 %)Change in unearned premiums(119)— — %
Net earned premiumsNet earned premiums1,123  1,200  (6 %)Net earned premiums1,250 1,123 11 %
Loss and loss adjustment expensesLoss and loss adjustment expenses705  723  (2 %)Loss and loss adjustment expenses714 705 %
Commissions and other underwriting expensesCommissions and other underwriting expenses366  418  (12 %)Commissions and other underwriting expenses384 366 %
Core underwriting gainCore underwriting gain52  59  (12 %)Core underwriting gain152 52 192 %
Net investment incomeNet investment income72  124  (42 %)Net investment income143 72 99 %
Other income and expenses, netOther income and expenses, net(8) (9) (11 %)Other income and expenses, net(7)(8)(13 %)
Core earnings before income taxesCore earnings before income taxes116  174  (33 %)Core earnings before income taxes288 116 148 %
Pretax non-core Neon exited lines (*)Pretax non-core Neon exited lines (*)(42) —  — %Pretax non-core Neon exited lines (*)(42)(110 %)
GAAP earnings before income taxes$74  $174  (57 %)
(*) In December 2019, AFG initiated actions to exit the Lloyd’s of London insurance market, which included placing its Lloyd’s subsidiaries including its Lloyd’s Managing Agency, Neon Underwriting Ltd. (“Neon”), into run-off. As discussed under “Results of Operations — General,” following the December 2019 decision to exit the Lloyd’s of London insurance market, the results from the Neon exited lines are being treated as non-core earnings (losses) prospectively beginning in 2020. Each line item in the table above has been adjusted to remove the impact from the Neon run-off operations in 2020. The following table details the impact of the Neon exited lines to each component of earnings (loss) before income taxes in the property and casualty insurance operations for the three months ended June 30, 2020 (in millions):
GAAP earnings before income taxes and noncontrolling interestsGAAP earnings before income taxes and noncontrolling interests$292 $74 295 %
(*) In December 2019, AFG initiated actions to exit the Lloyd’s of London insurance market, which included placing its Lloyd’s subsidiaries including its Lloyd’s Managing Agency, Neon Underwriting Ltd. (“Neon”), into run-off. As discussed under “Results of Operations — General,” following the December 2019 decision to exit the Lloyd’s of London insurance market, the results from the Neon exited lines are treated as non-core earnings (losses). Each line item in the table above has been adjusted to remove the impact from the Neon run-off operations in 2020. The following table details the impact of the Neon exited lines to each component of earnings (loss) before income taxes in the property and casualty insurance operations for the three months ended June 30, 2020 (in millions):
(*) In December 2019, AFG initiated actions to exit the Lloyd’s of London insurance market, which included placing its Lloyd’s subsidiaries including its Lloyd’s Managing Agency, Neon Underwriting Ltd. (“Neon”), into run-off. As discussed under “Results of Operations — General,” following the December 2019 decision to exit the Lloyd’s of London insurance market, the results from the Neon exited lines are treated as non-core earnings (losses). Each line item in the table above has been adjusted to remove the impact from the Neon run-off operations in 2020. The following table details the impact of the Neon exited lines to each component of earnings (loss) before income taxes in the property and casualty insurance operations for the three months ended June 30, 2020 (in millions):
Three months ended June 30, 2020Three months ended June 30, 2020
Excluding Neon
exited lines
Neon
exited lines
Total
Excluding Neon
exited lines
Neon
exited lines
Total
Gross written premiumsGross written premiums$1,539  $14  $1,553  Gross written premiums$1,539 $14 $1,553 
Reinsurance premiums cededReinsurance premiums ceded(416) (6) (422) Reinsurance premiums ceded(416)(6)(422)
Net written premiumsNet written premiums1,123   1,131  Net written premiums1,123 1,131 
Change in unearned premiumsChange in unearned premiums—  53  53  Change in unearned premiums— 53 53 
Net earned premiumsNet earned premiums1,123  61  1,184  Net earned premiums1,123 61 1,184 
Loss and loss adjustment expensesLoss and loss adjustment expenses705  66  771  Loss and loss adjustment expenses705 66 771 
Commissions and other underwriting expensesCommissions and other underwriting expenses366  38  404  Commissions and other underwriting expenses366 38 404 
Underwriting gain (loss)Underwriting gain (loss)52  (43)  Underwriting gain (loss)52 (43)
Net investment incomeNet investment income72  —  72  Net investment income72 — 72 
Other income and expenses, netOther income and expenses, net(8)  (7) Other income and expenses, net(8)(7)
Earnings (loss) before income taxes and noncontrolling interestsEarnings (loss) before income taxes and noncontrolling interests$116  $(42) $74  Earnings (loss) before income taxes and noncontrolling interests$116 $(42)$74 
Three months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,
20202019Change20212020Change
Combined Ratios:Combined Ratios:Combined Ratios:
Specialty linesSpecialty linesSpecialty lines
Loss and LAE ratioLoss and LAE ratio62.6 %60.2 %2.4 %Loss and LAE ratio57.2 %62.6 %(5.4 %)
Underwriting expense ratioUnderwriting expense ratio32.6 %34.8 %(2.2 %)Underwriting expense ratio30.7 %32.6 %(1.9 %)
Combined ratioCombined ratio95.2 %95.0 %0.2 %Combined ratio87.9 %95.2 %(7.3 %)
Aggregate — including exited linesAggregate — including exited linesAggregate — including exited lines
Loss and LAE ratioLoss and LAE ratio65.1 %60.3 %4.8 %Loss and LAE ratio57.2 %65.1 %(7.9 %)
Underwriting expense ratioUnderwriting expense ratio34.1 %34.8 %(0.7 %)Underwriting expense ratio30.7 %34.1 %(3.4 %)
Combined ratioCombined ratio99.2 %95.1 %4.1 %Combined ratio87.9 %99.2 %(11.3 %)

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
AFG reports the underwriting performance of its Specialty property and casualty insurance business in the following sub-segments: (i) Property and transportation, (ii) Specialty casualty and (iii) Specialty financial.

To understand the overall profitability of particular lines, the timing of claims payments and the related impact of investment income must be considered. Certain “short-tail” lines of business (primarily property coverages) generally have quick loss payouts, which reduce the time funds are held, thereby limiting investment income earned thereon. In contrast, “long-tail” lines of business (primarily liability coverages and workers’ compensation) generally have payouts that are either structured over many years or take many years to settle, thereby significantly increasing investment income earned on related premiums received.

Gross Written Premiums
Gross written premiums (“GWP”) for AFG’s property and casualty insurance segment were $1.94 billion for the second quarter of 2021 compared to $1.55 billion for the second quarter of 2020, compared to $1.66 billion for the second quarteran increase of 2019, a decrease of $111$384 million (7%(25%). Detail of AFG’s property and casualty gross written premiums is shown below (dollars in millions):
Three months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,
2020201920212020
GWP%GWP%% ChangeGWP%GWP%% Change
Property and transportationProperty and transportation$611  39 %$579  35 %%Property and transportation$851 44 %$611 39 %39 %
Specialty casualtySpecialty casualty752  49 %896  54 %(16 %)Specialty casualty897 46 %752 49 %19 %
Specialty financialSpecialty financial176  11 %189  11 %(7 %)Specialty financial189 10 %176 11 %%
Total specialtyTotal specialty1,539  99 %1,664  100 %(8 %)Total specialty1,937 100 %1,539 99 %26 %
Neon exited linesNeon exited lines14  %—  — %— %Neon exited lines— — %14 %(100 %)
AggregateAggregate$1,553  100 %$1,664  100 %(7 %)Aggregate$1,937 100 %$1,553 100 %25 %

Reinsurance Premiums Ceded
Reinsurance premiums ceded (“Ceded”) for AFG’s property and casualty insurance segment were 29% of gross written premiums for the second quarter of 2021 compared to 27% of gross written premiums for the second quarter of 2020, compared to 24% of gross written premiums for the second quarter of 2019, an increase of 32 percentage points. Detail of AFG’s property and casualty reinsurance premiums ceded is shown below (dollars in millions):
Three months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,
20202019Change in20212020Change in
Ceded% of GWPCeded% of GWP% of GWPCeded% of GWPCeded% of GWP% of GWP
Property and transportationProperty and transportation$(185) 30 %$(157) 27 %%Property and transportation$(287)34 %$(185)30 %%
Specialty casualtySpecialty casualty(241) 32 %(234) 26 %%Specialty casualty(305)34 %(241)32 %%
Specialty financialSpecialty financial(37) 21 %(40) 21 %— %Specialty financial(30)16 %(37)21 %(5 %)
Other specialtyOther specialty47  31  Other specialty54 47 
Total specialtyTotal specialty(416) 27 %(400) 24 %%Total specialty(568)29 %(416)27 %%
Neon exited linesNeon exited lines(6) 43 %—  — %43 %Neon exited lines— — %(6)43 %(43 %)
AggregateAggregate$(422) 27 %$(400) 24 %%Aggregate$(568)29 %$(422)27 %%

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Net Written Premiums
Net written premiums (“NWP”) for AFG’s property and casualty insurance segment were $1.37 billion for the second quarter of 2021 compared to $1.13 billion for the second quarter of 2020, compared to $1.26 billion for the second quarteran increase of 2019, a decrease of $133$238 million (11%(21%). Detail of AFG’s property and casualty net written premiums is shown below (dollars in millions):
Three months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,
2020201920212020
NWP%NWP%% ChangeNWP%NWP%% Change
Property and transportationProperty and transportation$426  38 %$422  33 %%Property and transportation$564 41 %$426 38 %32 %
Specialty casualtySpecialty casualty511  45 %662  52 %(23 %)Specialty casualty592 43 %511 45 %16 %
Specialty financialSpecialty financial139  12 %149  12 %(7 %)Specialty financial159 12 %139 12 %14 %
Other specialtyOther specialty47  %31  %52 %Other specialty54 %47 %15 %
Total specialtyTotal specialty1,123  99 %1,264  100 %(11 %)Total specialty1,369 100 %1,123 99 %22 %
Neon exited linesNeon exited lines %—  — %— %Neon exited lines— — %%(100 %)
AggregateAggregate$1,131  100 %$1,264  100 %(11 %)Aggregate$1,369 100 %$1,131 100 %21 %

Net Earned Premiums
Net earned premiums (“NEP”) for AFG’s property and casualty insurance segment were $1.25 billion for the second quarter of 2021 compared to $1.18 billion for the second quarter of 2020, compared to $1.20 billion for the second quarteran increase of 2019, a decrease of $16$66 million (1%(6%). Detail of AFG’s property and casualty net earned premiums is shown below (dollars in millions):
Three months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,
2020201920212020
NEP%NEP%% ChangeNEP%NEP%% Change
Property and transportationProperty and transportation$390  33 %$379  32 %%Property and transportation$453 36 %$390 33 %16 %
Specialty casualtySpecialty casualty547  46 %634  53 %(14 %)Specialty casualty588 47 %547 46 %%
Specialty financialSpecialty financial144  12 %151  13 %(5 %)Specialty financial157 13 %144 12 %%
Other specialtyOther specialty42  %36  %17 %Other specialty52 %42 %24 %
Total specialtyTotal specialty1,123  95 %1,200  100 %(6 %)Total specialty1,250 100 %1,123 95 %11 %
Neon exited linesNeon exited lines61  %—  — %— %Neon exited lines— — %61 %(100 %)
AggregateAggregate$1,184  100 %$1,200  100 %(1 %)Aggregate$1,250 100 %$1,184 100 %%

Gross written premiums for the second quarter of 2020 decreased $1112021 increased $384 million (7%(25%) compared to the second quarter of 20192020 reflecting a decrease in the Specialty casualty and Specialty financial sub-segments, partially offset by an increase in each of the Specialty property and transportation sub-segment.casualty insurance sub-segments due primarily to higher renewal rates and increased exposures. Overall average renewal rates increased approximately 9% in the second quarter of 2020.2021. Excluding rate decreases in the workers’ compensation business, renewal pricing increased approximately 13%12%.

Property and transportation Gross written premiums increased $32$240 million (6%(39%) in the second quarter of 2020 when2021 compared to the second quarter of 2019, which was impacted by delayed acreage reporting from insureds2020 due primarily to higher premiums in the transportation businesses, as a result of excess moisturenew accounts, combined with strong renewals and late planting of cornincreased exposures in the alternative risk transfer business and soybean crops. Excludinghigher premiums in the crop insurance gross written premiums for the second quarter of 2020 decreased by 3% in this group when compared to the 2019 second quarter. Decreases in premiums due to return of premiums and reduced exposuresbusiness as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic were partially offset by new business opportunitieshigher commodity futures pricing and timing differences in the transportation, property and inland marine and ocean marine businesses.writing of premiums. Average renewal rates increased approximately 7% for this group in the second quarter of 2020.2021. Reinsurance premiums ceded as a percentage of gross written premiums increased 34 percentage points in the second quarter of 20202021 compared to the second quarter of 20192020 reflecting growth in the crop and certain ocean marine business,insurance operations, which cede a larger percentage of premiums than the other businesses in the Specialty propertyProperty and transportation sub-segment.sub-segment and the impact of $3 million in reinsurance reinstatement premiums in the second quarter of 2021 related to a large property loss.

Specialty casualty Gross written premiums decreased $144increased $145 million (16%(19%) in the second quarter of 20202021 compared to the second quarter of 2019 due primarily2020. Significant renewal rate increases and new business opportunities contributed to higher premiums in the excess liability businesses. Higher renewal rates and increased exposures contributed to premium growth in the excess and surplus lines business. The executive liability and mergers and acquisitions businesses also contributed meaningfully to the run-off of Neon. Excluding the impact of $159 million in gross written premiums from the Neon exited linesyear-over-year growth. Average renewal rates increased approximately 11% for this group in the second quarter of 2019,2021. Excluding rate decreases in the workers’ compensation business, renewal rates for this group increased approximately 17%. Reinsurance premiums ceded as a percentage of gross written premiums increased 2%2 percentage points in the second quarter of 20202021 compared to the second quarter of 2019. This increase reflects significant renewal rate increases, coupled with new business opportunities2020 reflecting growth in the excess and surplus and excess liability businesses, partially offset by lower premiums due to reduced exposures in the workers’ compensation businesses as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Average renewal rates increased approximately 12% for this group in the second quarter of 2020. Excluding rate decreases in the workers’ compensation business, renewal rates for this group increased approximately 21%. Reinsurance premiums ceded as a percentage of gross written premiums increased 6 percentage points in the second quarter of 2020 compared to the second quarter of 2019 reflecting growth in the excess and surplus, mergers and excess liabilityacquisitions and environmental businesses, which cede a larger percentage of premiums than the other businesses in the Specialty casualty sub-segment.

Specialty financial Gross written premiums decreasedincreased $13 million (7%) in the second quarter of 20202021 compared to the second quarter of 20192020 due primarily to lower premiums fromrenewal rate increases and new business opportunities within the impact of various state regulations regarding policy cancellationslender services, surety and the placement of forced coverage in the financial institutions business.fidelity businesses. Average renewal rates increased approximately 6%8% for this group in the second quarter of 2020.2021. Reinsurance premiums ceded as a percentage of gross written premiums were comparable fordecreased 5 percentage points in the second quarter of 2021 compared to the second quarter of 2020 andreflecting lower cessions in the second quarter of 2019.financial institutions business due to reduced premiums from collateral protection insurance that is 100% reinsured.

Other specialty The amounts shown as reinsurance premiums ceded represent business assumed by AFG’s internal reinsurance program from the operations that make up AFG’s other Specialty property and casualty insurance sub-segments. Reinsurance premiums assumed increased $16$7 million (52%(15%) in the second quarter of 20202021 compared to the second quarter of 2019,2020, reflecting an increase in premiums retained, primarily from businesses in the Specialty casualty sub-segment.

Combined Ratio
The table below (dollars in millions) details the components of the combined ratio and underwriting profit for AFG’s property and casualty insurance segment:
Three months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,
20202019Change2020201920212020Change20212020
Property and transportationProperty and transportationProperty and transportation
Loss and LAE ratioLoss and LAE ratio61.3 %68.4 %(7.1 %)Loss and LAE ratio58.2 %61.3 %(3.1 %)
Underwriting expense ratioUnderwriting expense ratio30.4 %30.7 %(0.3 %)Underwriting expense ratio28.4 %30.4 %(2.0 %)
Combined ratioCombined ratio91.7 %99.1 %(7.4 %)Combined ratio86.6 %91.7 %(5.1 %)
Underwriting profitUnderwriting profit$33  $ Underwriting profit$62 $33 
Specialty casualtySpecialty casualtySpecialty casualty
Loss and LAE ratioLoss and LAE ratio67.1 %60.0 %7.1 %Loss and LAE ratio61.9 %67.1 %(5.2 %)
Underwriting expense ratioUnderwriting expense ratio27.8 %32.5 %(4.7 %)Underwriting expense ratio26.0 %27.8 %(1.8 %)
Combined ratioCombined ratio94.9 %92.5 %2.4 %Combined ratio87.9 %94.9 %(7.0 %)
Underwriting profitUnderwriting profit$27  $47  Underwriting profit$71 $27 
Specialty financialSpecialty financialSpecialty financial
Loss and LAE ratioLoss and LAE ratio44.9 %32.3 %12.6 %Loss and LAE ratio33.0 %44.9 %(11.9 %)
Underwriting expense ratioUnderwriting expense ratio55.5 %53.3 %2.2 %Underwriting expense ratio53.4 %55.5 %(2.1 %)
Combined ratioCombined ratio100.4 %85.6 %14.8 %Combined ratio86.4 %100.4 %(14.0 %)
Underwriting profit (loss)Underwriting profit (loss)$—  $21  Underwriting profit (loss)$21 $— 
Total SpecialtyTotal SpecialtyTotal Specialty
Loss and LAE ratioLoss and LAE ratio62.6 %60.2 %2.4 %Loss and LAE ratio57.2 %62.6 %(5.4 %)
Underwriting expense ratioUnderwriting expense ratio32.6 %34.8 %(2.2 %)Underwriting expense ratio30.7 %32.6 %(1.9 %)
Combined ratioCombined ratio95.2 %95.0 %0.2 %Combined ratio87.9 %95.2 %(7.3 %)
Underwriting profitUnderwriting profit$54  $60  Underwriting profit$153 $54 
Aggregate — including exited linesAggregate — including exited linesAggregate — including exited lines
Loss and LAE ratioLoss and LAE ratio65.1 %60.3 %4.8 %Loss and LAE ratio57.2 %65.1 %(7.9 %)
Underwriting expense ratioUnderwriting expense ratio34.1 %34.8 %(0.7 %)Underwriting expense ratio30.7 %34.1 %(3.4 %)
Combined ratioCombined ratio99.2 %95.1 %4.1 %Combined ratio87.9 %99.2 %(11.3 %)
Underwriting profitUnderwriting profit$ $59  Underwriting profit$152 $

The Specialty property and casualty insurance operations generated an underwriting profit of $153 million in the second quarter of 2021 compared to $54 million in the second quarter of 2020, compared to $60an increase of $99 million (183%). The higher underwriting profit in the second quarter of 2021 reflects higher underwriting profits in each of the Specialty property and casualty insurance sub-segments. Overall catastrophe losses were $10 million (0.9 points on the combined ratio) and related net reinstatement premiums were $1 million in the second quarter of 2019, a decrease2021 compared to catastrophe losses of $6 million (10%). The lower
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
underwriting profit$26 million (2.3 points) in the second quarter of 2020 reflects lower underwriting profits in the Specialty casualty and Specialty financial sub-segments, partially offset by higher underwriting profit in the Property and transportation sub-segment.2020. Underwriting results for the Specialty property and casualty insurance operations includes $85$2 million in COVID-19 related losses (7.6(0.2 points on the combined ratio) and $85 million (7.6 points) in COVID-19 related losses in the second quarter of 2020.2021 and the second quarter of 2020, respectively.

Property and transportation Underwriting profit for this group was $62 million for the second quarter of 2021 compared to $33 million for the second quarter of 2020, compared to $4 million for the second quarter of 2019, an increase of $29 million (725%(88%). This increase reflects higher favorable prior year reserve development of $22underwriting profit in the crop, property and inland marine and transportation businesses. Catastrophe losses were $6 million (1.4 points on the combined ratio) compared to $15 million (3.8 points) in the second quarter of 2020 compared to the second quarter of 2019, primarily in the transportation businesses.2020. COVID-19 related losses for this group were $3 million (0.8 points on the combined ratio) in the second quarter of 2020. Catastrophe losses were $15 million (3.8 points) in the second quarter of 2020 compared to $8 million (2.0 points) in the second quarter of 2019.

Specialty casualty Underwriting profit for this group was $71 million for the second quarter of 2021 compared to $27 million for the second quarter of 2020, compared to $47an increase of $44 million for(163%). This increase reflects higher underwriting profitability in the excess and surplus lines, excess liability, targeted markets and executive liability businesses in the second quarter of 2019, a decrease2021 compared to the second quarter of $202020. Catastrophe losses were $2 million (43%).(0.3 points on the combined ratio) compared to $6 million (0.9 points) in the second quarter of 2020. COVID-19 related losses for this group were $52 million (9.5 points on the combined ratio) in the second quarter of 2020, primarily in the workers’ compensation and executive liability businesses. These losses, in addition to lower year-over-year underwriting profitability in the alternative markets and social services businesses were partially offset by higher favorable prior year reserve development of $20 million in the second quarter of 2020 compared to the second quarter of 2019, primarily in the workers’ compensation businesses, higher profitability in the excess and surplus and excess liability businesses, and the impact of $4 million of underwriting losses at Neon in the second quarter of 2019.

Specialty financial ThisUnderwriting profit for this group reportedwas $21 million for the second quarter of 2021 compared to an underwriting loss of less than $1 million forin the second quarter of 2020, an increase of $21 million. This increase reflects higher year-over-year underwriting profitability in the trade credit business. Catastrophe losses were $2 million (1.8 points on the combined ratio) compared to an underwriting profit of $21$5 million (3.6 points) in the second quarter of 2019, a decrease of $21 million (100%).2020. COVID-19 related losses for this group were $30$2 million (21.1(1.3 points on the combined ratio) in the second quarter of 2021 compared to $30 million (21.1 points) in the second quarter of 2020, primarily related to trade credit insurance.

Other specialty This group reported an underwriting loss of $1 million in the second quarter of 2021 compared to $6 million in the second quarter of 2020, compared to $12a decrease of $5 million in the second quarter of 2019, reflecting(83%). This decrease reflects lower losses in the business assumed by AFG’s internal reinsurance program from the operations that make up AFG’s other Specialty sub-segments in the second quarter of 20202021 compared to the second quarter of 2019.2020.

Aggregate Aggregate underwriting results for AFG’s property and casualty insurance segment includes an underwriting loss of $43 million at Neon in the second quarter of 2020, due primarily to losses related to the COVID-19 pandemic. AFG also recorded adverse prior year reserve development of $2$1 million and $1$2 million in the second quarter of 20202021 and 2019,2020, respectively, related to business outside of the Specialty group that AFG no longer writes.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses
AFG’s overall loss and LAE ratio was 57.2% for the second quarter of 2021 compared to 65.1% for the second quarter of 2020, compared to 60.3% for the second quartera decrease of 2019, an increase of 4.87.9 percentage points. The components of AFG’s property and casualty losses and LAE amounts and ratio are detailed below (dollars in millions):
Three months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,
AmountRatioChange inAmountRatioChange in
2020201920202019Ratio2021202020212020Ratio
Property and transportationProperty and transportationProperty and transportation
Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe lossesCurrent year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$249  $257  63.9 %68.0 %(4.1 %)Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$297 $249 65.6 %63.9 %1.7 %
Prior accident years developmentPrior accident years development(28) (6) (7.2 %)(1.6 %)(5.6 %)Prior accident years development(40)(28)(8.8 %)(7.2 %)(1.6 %)
COVID-19 related losses —  0.8 %— %0.8 %
Current year COVID-19 related lossesCurrent year COVID-19 related losses— — %0.8 %(0.8 %)
Current year catastrophe lossesCurrent year catastrophe losses15   3.8 %2.0 %1.8 %Current year catastrophe losses15 1.4 %3.8 %(2.4 %)
Property and transportation losses and LAE and ratioProperty and transportation losses and LAE and ratio$239  $259  61.3 %68.4 %(7.1 %)Property and transportation losses and LAE and ratio$263 $239 58.2 %61.3 %(3.1 %)
Specialty casualtySpecialty casualtySpecialty casualty
Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe lossesCurrent year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$360  $410  66.0 %64.6 %1.4 %Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$381 $360 64.9 %66.0 %(1.1 %)
Prior accident years developmentPrior accident years development(51) (31) (9.3 %)(4.7 %)(4.6 %)Prior accident years development(20)(51)(3.4 %)(9.3 %)5.9 %
COVID-19 related losses52  —  9.5 %— %9.5 %
Current year COVID-19 related lossesCurrent year COVID-19 related losses— 52 0.1 %9.5 %(9.4 %)
Current year catastrophe lossesCurrent year catastrophe losses  0.9 %0.1 %0.8 %Current year catastrophe losses0.3 %0.9 %(0.6 %)
Specialty casualty losses and LAE and ratioSpecialty casualty losses and LAE and ratio$367  $380  67.1 %60.0 %7.1 %Specialty casualty losses and LAE and ratio$363 $367 61.9 %67.1 %(5.2 %)
Specialty financialSpecialty financialSpecialty financial
Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe lossesCurrent year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$41  $55  28.2 %36.4 %(8.2 %)Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$60 $41 37.2 %28.2 %9.0 %
Prior accident years developmentPrior accident years development(11) (9) (8.0 %)(5.9 %)(2.1 %)Prior accident years development(12)(11)(7.3 %)(8.0 %)0.7 %
COVID-19 related losses30  —  21.1 %— %21.1 %
Current year COVID-19 related lossesCurrent year COVID-19 related losses30 1.3 %21.1 %(19.8 %)
Current year catastrophe lossesCurrent year catastrophe losses  3.6 %1.8 %1.8 %Current year catastrophe losses1.8 %3.6 %(1.8 %)
Specialty financial losses and LAE and ratioSpecialty financial losses and LAE and ratio$65  $49  44.9 %32.3 %12.6 %Specialty financial losses and LAE and ratio$52 $65 33.0 %44.9 %(11.9 %)
Total SpecialtyTotal SpecialtyTotal Specialty
Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe lossesCurrent year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$677  $752  60.3 %62.7 %(2.4 %)Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$769 $677 61.5 %60.3 %1.2 %
Prior accident years developmentPrior accident years development(85) (42) (7.6 %)(3.4 %)(4.2 %)Prior accident years development(68)(85)(5.4 %)(7.6 %)2.2 %
COVID-19 related losses85  —  7.6 %— %7.6 %
Current year COVID-19 related lossesCurrent year COVID-19 related losses85 0.2 %7.6 %(7.4 %)
Current year catastrophe lossesCurrent year catastrophe losses26  12  2.3 %0.9 %1.4 %Current year catastrophe losses10 26 0.9 %2.3 %(1.4 %)
Total Specialty losses and LAE and ratioTotal Specialty losses and LAE and ratio$703  $722  62.6 %60.2 %2.4 %Total Specialty losses and LAE and ratio$713 $703 57.2 %62.6 %(5.4 %)
Aggregate — including exited linesAggregate — including exited linesAggregate — including exited lines
Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe lossesCurrent year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$717  $752  60.7 %62.7 %(2.0 %)Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$769 $717 61.5 %60.7 %0.8 %
Prior accident years developmentPrior accident years development(77) (41) (6.5 %)(3.3 %)(3.2 %)Prior accident years development(67)(77)(5.4 %)(6.5 %)1.1 %
COVID-19 related losses105  —  8.8 %— %8.8 %
Current year COVID-19 related lossesCurrent year COVID-19 related losses105 0.2 %8.8 %(8.6 %)
Current year catastrophe lossesCurrent year catastrophe losses26  12  2.1 %0.9 %1.2 %Current year catastrophe losses10 26 0.9 %2.1 %(1.2 %)
Aggregate losses and LAE and ratioAggregate losses and LAE and ratio$771  $723  65.1 %60.3 %4.8 %Aggregate losses and LAE and ratio$714 $771 57.2 %65.1 %(7.9 %)

Current accident year losses and LAE, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses
The current accident year loss and LAE ratio, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses for AFG’s Specialty property and casualty insurance operations was 61.5% for the second quarter of 2021 compared to 60.3% for the second quarter of 2020, compared to 62.7% for the second quarteran increase of 2019, an improvement of 2.41.2 percentage points.

Property and transportation   The 4.11.7 percentage point improvementincrease in the loss and LAE ratio for the current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses reflects a decreasegrowth in the crop operations, which has a higher loss and LAE ratio at National Interstate,than many of the businesses in the property and transportation segment, a higher loss and LAE ratio in the ocean marine business due to higher claim frequency and severity in the second quarter of 2021 compared to the second quarter of 2020 and a higher loss and LAE ratio in the equine business due to higher claim severity in the second quarter of 2021 compared to the second quarter of 2020.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
due primarily to rate increases and lower claim frequency in the second quarter of 2020, and lower loss and LAE ratios in the Singapore branch and equine mortality business in the second quarter of 2020 compared to the second quarter of 2019.

Specialty casualty   The 1.41.1 percentage point increase in the loss and LAE ratio for the current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses reflects the impact of the Neon exited lines in the second quarter of 2019, which have a lower loss and LAE ratio than many of the other businesses in the Specialty casualty group. Excluding the impact of the Neon exited lines, the loss and LAE ratio for the current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses increased 0.4 percentage points in the second quarter of 2020 compared to the second quarter of 2019.

Specialty financial The 8.2 percentage point improvementdecrease in the loss and LAE ratio for the current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses reflects a decrease in the loss and LAE ratios of the excess and surplus businesses due primarily to the earned impact of rate increases obtained in 2020 and the first six months of 2021, partially offset by an increase in the loss and LAE ratio of the executive liability business.

Specialty financial The 9.0 percentage point increase in the loss and LAE ratio for the current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses reflects an increase in the loss and LAE ratio of the financial institutions business.and trade credit businesses.

Net prior year reserve development
AFG’s Specialty property and casualty insurance operations recorded net favorable reserve development related to prior accident years of $68 million in the second quarter of 2021 compared to $85 million in the second quarter of 2020, compared to $42a decrease of $17 million in the second quarter of 2019, an increase of $43 million (102%(20%).

Property and transportation Net favorable reserve development of $40 million in the second quarter of 2021 reflects lower than anticipated claim frequency and severity in the transportation and agricultural businesses and lower than expected claim severity in the property and inland marine business. Net favorable reserve development of $28 million in the second quarter of 2020 reflects lower than anticipated claim frequency and severity in the transportation and agricultural businesses.

Specialty casualty Net favorable reserve development of $20 million in the second quarter of 2021 reflects lower than anticipated claim severity in the workers’ compensation businesses and lower than expected claim frequency and severity in the agricultural businesses. Net favorable reserve development of $6 millionexcess and surplus lines businesses, partially offset by higher than anticipated severity in the second quarter of 2019 reflects lower than expected losses in the crop business.

Specialty casualtygeneral liability claims. Net favorable reserve development of $51 million in the second quarter of 2020 reflects lower than anticipated claim frequency and severity in the workers’ compensation businesses. Net favorable reserve development of $31 million in the second quarter of 2019 reflects lower than anticipated claim severity in the workers’ compensation businesses, partially offset by higher than expected claim severity in the excess and surplus lines businesses.

Specialty financial Net favorable reserve development of $12 million in the second quarter of 2021 reflects lower than anticipated claim frequency in the surety business and lower than expected claim frequency and severity in the financial institutions business. Net favorable reserve development of $11 million in the second quarter of 2020 reflects lower than anticipated claim frequency in the trade credit and surety businesses. Net favorable reserve development of $9 million in the second quarter of 2019 reflects lower than expected claim frequency and severity in the surety and financial institutions businesses.

Other specialty In addition to the development discussed above, total Specialty prior year reserve development includes net adverse reserve development of $4 million in the second quarter of 2021 and $5 million in the second quarter of 2020, and $4 million in the second quarter of 2019, reflecting net adverse reserve development of $7 million and $6 million in the second quarter of 2020 and the second quarter of 2019, respectively, associated with AFG’s internal reinsurance program, partially offset by the amortization of the deferred gaingains on the retroactive reinsurance transactions entered into in connection with the sale of businesses in 1998 and 2001.

Aggregate Aggregate net prior accident years reserve development for AFG’s property and casualty insurance segment includes net adverse reserve development of $6 million in the second quarter of 2020 from the Neon exited lines and net adverse reserve development of $2$1 million and $1$2 million in the second quarter of 20202021 and the second quarter of 2019,2020, respectively, related to other business outside of the Specialty group that AFG no longer writes.

COVID-19 related losses
Underwriting results for AFG’s Specialty property and casualty insurance operations forrecorded $2 million in reserve charges related to COVID-19 in the second quarter of 2021 primarily related to the economic slowdown impacting the trade credit business, and released approximately $4 million of accident year 2020 included $85 million in COVID-19 related losses.reserves based on loss experience. Given the uncertainties surrounding the ultimate number orand scope of claims relating to the pandemic, these charges, approximately 90%66% of which establish reserves for claims that have beenthe $96 million in COVID-19 related losses are held as incurred but not reported represent the Company’s current best estimate of losses from the pandemic and related economic disruption incurred throughreserves at June 30, 2020.2021. Underwriting results for the second quarter of 2020 include $85 million of reserve charges related to COVID-19. Approximately 70% of AFG’s 2020 COVID-19 related losses were reported in the workers’worker’s compensation, executive liability and trade credit businesses, with the remainder spread across numerous other businesses.

In addition, COVID related losses were the primary driver of the increased underwriting loss recorded in the Neon exited lines for the second quarter of 2020.
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued

Catastrophe losses
AFG generally seeks to reduce its exposure to catastrophes through individual risk selection, including minimizing coastal and known fault-line exposures, and the purchase of reinsurance. Based on data available at December 31, 2019,2020, AFG’s
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
exposure to a catastrophic earthquake or windstorm that industry models indicate should statistically occur once in every 100, 250 or 500 years as a percentage of AFG’s Shareholders’ Equity is shown below:
Approximate impact of modeled loss
Industry Modelon AFG’s Shareholders’ Equity
100-year event1%
250-year event2%1%
500-year event6%2%

AFG maintains comprehensive property catastrophe reinsurance coverage for its property and casualty insurance operations, including a $15 million per occurrence net retention, for its U.S.-based property and casualty insurance operations for losses up to $109 million. Neon’s excess$125 million in the vast majority of circumstances. In certain unlikely events, AFG’s ultimate loss catastrophe reinsurance limits the maximum retained loss per event to $15under this coverage could be as high as $24 million for losses up to $145 million on direct business and $15 million for losses up to $45 million on assumed business. AFG’s property and casualty insurance operationsa single occurrence. AFG further maintainmaintains supplemental fully collateralized reinsurance coverage up to 95%94% of $200$325 million for catastrophe losses in excess of $109$125 million of traditional catastrophe reinsurance through a catastrophe bond. Effective July 1, 2020, AFG purchased an additional $50 million of reinsurance coverage for losses in excess of $100 million. Recoveries from the catastrophe bond apply before calculating losses recoverable from this catastrophe excess of loss reinsurance.

Catastrophe losses of $10 million in the second quarter of 2021 resulted primarily from storms in multiple regions of the United States. Catastrophe losses of $26 million in the second quarter of 2020 resulted primarily from storms and tornadoes in multiple regions of the United States and included $4 million related to civil unrest. Catastrophe losses of $12 million in the second quarter of 2019 resulted primarily from storms and tornadoes in multiple regions of the United States.

Commissions and Other Underwriting Expenses
AFG’s property and casualty commissions and other underwriting expenses (“U/W Exp”) were $404$384 million in the second quarter of 20202021 compared to $418$404 million for the second quarter of 2019,2020, a decrease of $14$20 million (3%(5%). AFG’s underwriting expense ratio, calculated as commissions and other underwriting expenses divided by net premiums earned, was 30.7% for the second quarter of 2021 compared to 34.1% for the second quarter of 2020, compared to 34.8% for the second quarter of 2019, a decrease of 0.73.4 percentage points. Detail of AFG’s property and casualty commissions and other underwriting expenses and underwriting expense ratios is shown below (dollars in millions):
Three months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,
20202019Change in20212020Change in
U/W Exp% of NEPU/W Exp% of NEP% of NEPU/W Exp% of NEPU/W Exp% of NEP% of NEP
Property and transportationProperty and transportation$118  30.4 %$116  30.7 %(0.3 %)Property and transportation$128 28.4 %$118 30.4 %(2.0 %)
Specialty casualtySpecialty casualty153  27.8 %207  32.5 %(4.7 %)Specialty casualty154 26.0 %153 27.8 %(1.8 %)
Specialty financialSpecialty financial79  55.5 %81  53.3 %2.2 %Specialty financial84 53.4 %79 55.5 %(2.1 %)
Other specialtyOther specialty16  37.3 %14  39.1 %(1.8 %)Other specialty18 35.7 %16 37.3 %(1.6 %)
Total specialtyTotal specialty366  32.6 %418  34.8 %(2.2 %)Total specialty384 30.7 %366 32.6 %(1.9 %)
Neon exited linesNeon exited lines38  —  Neon exited lines— 38 
AggregateAggregate$404  34.1 %$418  34.8 %(0.7 %)Aggregate$384 30.7 %$404 34.1 %(3.4 %)

Property and transportation   Commissions and other underwriting expenses as a percentage of net earned premiums decreased 0.32.0 percentage points in the second quarter of 20202021 compared to the second quarter of 20192020 reflecting higher profitability-based ceding commissions received from reinsurers in the crop business and the impact of higher premiums on the ratio in the property and inland marine business, partially offset by lower profitability-based ceding commissions received from reinsurers in the crop businesstransportation businesses in the second quarter of 20202021 compared to the second quarter of 2019.2020.

Specialty casualty   Commissions and other underwriting expenses as a percentage of net earned premiums decreased 4.71.8 percentage points in the second quarter of 20202021 compared to the second quarter of 2019 due2020 reflecting higher ceding commissions received from reinsurers as a result of growth in the excess liability and excess and surplus businesses and the impact of higher premiums on the ratio in the second quarter of 2021 compared to the runoffsecond quarter of Neon. Neon has2020.

Specialty financial   Commissions and other underwriting expenses as a higher expense ratio than manypercentage of the other businesses in the Specialty casualty sub-segment. Excluding Neon exited lines, the underwriting expense rationet earned premiums decreased 2.22.1 percentage points in the second quarter of 2021 compared to the second quarter of 2020 reflecting the impact of higher premiums on the ratio in the second quarter of 2021 compared to the second quarter of 2020.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
2020 compared to the second quarter of 2019 reflecting the impact of higher premiums on the ratio in the excess and surplus and excess liability businesses.

Specialty financial   Commissions and other underwriting expenses as a percentage of net earned premiums increased 2.2 percentage points in the second quarter of 2020 compared to the second quarter of 2019 reflecting the impact of lower premiums on the ratio.

Property and Casualty Net Investment Income
Excluding the Neon exited lines, netNet investment income in AFG’s property and casualty insurance operations was $72$143 million in the second quarter of 20202021 compared to $124$72 million (excluding the Neon exited lines) in the second quarter of 2019, a decrease2020, an increase of $52$71 million (42%(99%). The average invested assets and overall yield earned on investments held by AFG’s property and casualty insurance operations are provided below (dollars in millions):
Three months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,
20202019Change% Change20212020Change% Change
Net investment income$72  $124  $(52) (42 %)
Net investment income:Net investment income:
Net investment income excluding alternative investmentsNet investment income excluding alternative investments$80 $85 $(5)(6 %)
Alternative investmentsAlternative investments63 (13)76 (585 %)
Total net investment incomeTotal net investment income$143 $72 $71 99 %
Average invested assets (at amortized cost)Average invested assets (at amortized cost)$11,454  $11,193  $261  %Average invested assets (at amortized cost)$12,630 $11,454 $1,176 10 %
Yield (net investment income as a % of average invested assets)Yield (net investment income as a % of average invested assets)2.51 %4.43 %(1.92 %)Yield (net investment income as a % of average invested assets)4.53 %2.51 %2.02 %
Tax equivalent yield (*)Tax equivalent yield (*)2.64 %4.60 %(1.96 %)Tax equivalent yield (*)4.67 %2.64 %2.03 %
(*)Adjusts the yield on equity securities and tax-exempt bonds to the fully taxable equivalent yield.

The property and casualty insurance segment’s decreaseincrease in net investment income for the second quarter of 20202021 compared to the second quarter of 20192020 reflects lowersignificantly higher earnings from partnershipsalternative investments (partnerships and similar investments inand AFG-managed CLOs), partially offset by the second quartereffect of 2020, higher average cash balanceslower fixed maturity yields and lower short-term interest rates, partially offset by the impact of growth in the property and casualty insurance segment.rates. The property and casualty insurance segment’s overall yield on investments (net investment income as a percentage of average invested assets) was 4.53% for the second quarter of 2021 compared to 2.51% for the second quarter of 2020, compared to 4.43% for the second quarteran increase of 2019, a decrease of 1.922.02 percentage points. AFG’s property and casualty insurance operations recorded $13 million in losses from partnerships and similarThe annualized return earned on alternative investments and AFG-managed CLOswas 22.9% in the second quarter of 20202021 compared to $23 million in earnings in the second quarter of 2019, a $36 million (157%) decrease in earnings. The annualized yield earned on these partnerships and similar investments and AFG-managed CLOs was a negative yieldreturn of 5.9% in the second quarter of 2020 compared to a positive yield of 13.3% in the prior year period. Because the property and casualty segment’s partnerships and similar investments accounted for using the equity method are reported on a quarter lag, the second quarter 2020 returns on those investments reflect the financial results and valuations for the quarter ended March 31, 2020, including the impact of the downturn in financial markets during the first quarter.

Property and Casualty Other Income and Expenses, Net
Other income and expenses, net for AFG’s property and casualty insurance operations was a net expense of $7 million for the second quarter of 2021 compared to $8 million for the second quarter of 2020, compared to $9 million for the second quarter of 2019, a decrease of $1 million (11%(13%). The table below details the items included in other income and expenses, net for AFG’s property and casualty insurance operations (in millions):
Three months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,
2020201920212020
Other incomeOther income$ $ Other income$$
Other expensesOther expensesOther expenses
Amortization of intangiblesAmortization of intangibles  Amortization of intangibles
OtherOther  Other
Total other expensesTotal other expenses11  11  Total other expenses11 
Other income and expenses, netOther income and expenses, net$(8) $(9) Other income and expenses, net$(7)$(8)

In addition to the property and casualty segment’s other income and expenses, net from ongoing operations discussed above, the Neon exited lines incurred net income of $1 million in other income and expenses, net during the second quarter of 2020.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s DiscussionHolding Company, Other and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Annuity SegmentUnallocated — Results of Operations
AFG’s annuity operations incurred anet GAAP pretax loss outside of $17its property and casualty insurance segment (excluding realized gains and losses) totaled $69 million in the second quarter of 2021 compared to $43 million in the second quarter of 2020, compared toan increase of $26 million (60%). AFG’s net core pretax earningsloss outside of $71its property and casualty insurance segment (excluding realized gains and losses) totaled $58 million in the second quarter of 2019, a change of $88 million (124%) due primarily2021 compared to the losses from partnerships and similar investments and the unfavorable impact of significantly lower than anticipated interest rates in the second quarter of 2020, partially offset by the positive impact of strong stock market performance in the 2020 quarter.

The following table details AFG’s GAAP and core earnings (loss) before income taxes from its annuity operations for the three months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019 (dollars in millions):
Three months ended June 30,
20202019% Change
Revenues:
Net investment income$384  $451  (15 %)
Other income:
Guaranteed withdrawal benefit fees17  17  — %
Policy charges and other miscellaneous income (a)13  13  — %
Total revenues414  481  (14 %)
Costs and Expenses:
Annuity benefits (a)(b)274  275  — %
Acquisition expenses (a)62  67  (7 %)
Other expenses36  35  %
Total costs and expenses372  377  (1 %)
Core earnings before income taxes42  104  (60 %)
Pretax non-core earnings (losses) (a)(59) (33) 79 %
GAAP earnings (loss) before income taxes$(17) $71  (124 %)
(a)As discussed under “Results of Operations — General,” beginning prospectively with the second quarter of 2019, unlocking, the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs, and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs over or under the cost of the equity index options purchased to mitigate the risk in the index-based component of those FIAs are considered non-core earnings (losses). For the second quarter of 2020 and 2019, annuity benefits exclude the $157 million and $67 million unfavorable impact, respectively, of these items and acquisition expenses exclude the related $98 million and $34 million favorable impact, respectively, on the amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs.
(b)Details of the components of annuity benefits are provided below.

Annuity core earnings before income taxes were $42$43 million in the second quarter of 2020, compared to $104an increase of $15 million in the second quarter of 2019, a decrease of $62 million (60%(35%), reflecting losses from partnerships and similar investments in the 2020 quarter and the impact of lower interest rates, partially offset by growth in the business, higher than expected persistency, lower than expected expenses related to guaranteed withdrawal benefits, strong stock market performance and a reduction in the cost of funds as a percentage of average annuity benefits accumulated. The table below highlights the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives and other impacts of the changes in the stock market and interest rates on annuity segment results (dollars in millions):
Three months ended June 30,
20202019% Change
Earnings before income taxes — before the impact of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of stock market performance and interest rates on FIAs$42  $104  (60 %)
Impact of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on FIAs over or under option costs:
Change in fair value of derivatives related to FIAs(213) (103) 107 %
Accretion of guaranteed minimum FIA benefits(106) (102) %
Other annuity benefits14  (8) (275 %)
Less cost of equity options148  146  %
Related impact on the amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs98  34  188 %
Earnings (loss) before income taxes$(17) $71  (124 %)
.
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued

Annuity benefits consisted of the following (dollars in millions):
Three months ended June 30,
20202019Total
CoreNon-coreTotalCoreNon-coreTotal% Change
Interest credited — fixed$103  $—  $103  $98  $—  $98  %
Accretion of guaranteed minimum FIA benefits—  106  106  —  102  102  %
Interest credited — fixed component of variable annuities —    —   — %
Cost of equity options148  (148) —  146  (146) —  — %
Other annuity benefits:
Amortization of sales inducements (1)   —   (75 %)
Change in guaranteed withdrawal benefit reserve:
Impact of change in the stock market and interest rates—  (24) (24) —  (4) (4) 500 %
Accretion of benefits and other17  —  17  20  —  20  (15 %)
Change in expected death and annuitization reserves and other —    —   (50 %)
Change in other benefit reserves — impact of changes in interest rates and the stock market—  11  11  —  12  12  (8 %)
Derivatives related to fixed-indexed annuities:
Embedded derivative mark-to-market—  601  601  —  251  251  139 %
Equity option mark-to-market—  (388) (388) —  (148) (148) 162 %
Impact of derivatives related to FIAs—  213  213  —  103  103  107 %
Total annuity benefits$274  $157  $431  $275  $67  $342  26 %

Because fluctuations in interest rates and the stock market, among other factors, can cause volatility in annuity benefits expense related to FIAs that can be inconsistent with the long-term economics of the FIA business, management believes that including the actual cost of the equity options purchased in the FIA business and excluding unlocking, the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs, and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs provides investors with a better view of the true cost of funds in the business and a more comparable measure compared to the cost of funds reported by its peers. The cost of the equity options included in AFG’s cost of funds is the net purchase price of the option contracts amortized on a straight-line basis over the life of the contracts, which is generally one year. The following table reconciles AFG’s non-GAAP cost of funds measure to total annuity benefits expense (in millions):
Three months ended June 30,
20202019
Interest credited — fixed$103  $98  
Include cost of equity options148  146  
Cost of funds251  244  
Interest credited — fixed component of variable annuities  
Other annuity benefits, excluding the impact of interest rates and the stock market on FIAs22  30  
274  275  
Changes in fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of the stock market and interest rates over or under option costs:
Impact of derivatives related to FIAs213  103  
Accretion of guaranteed minimum FIA benefits106  102  
Other annuity benefits — impact of the stock market and interest rates on FIAs(14)  
Less cost of equity options (included in cost of funds)(148) (146) 
Total annuity benefits expense$431  $342  

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Net Spread on Fixed Annuities (excludes variable annuity earnings)
The profitability of a fixed annuity business is largely dependent on the ability of a company to earn income on the assets supporting the business in excess of the amounts credited to policyholder accounts plus expenses incurred (earning a “spread”). Performance measures such as net interest spread and net spread earned are often presented by annuity businesses to help users of their financial statements better understand the company’s performance.

The table below (dollars in millions) details the components of these spreads for AFG’s fixed annuity operations (including fixed-indexed and variable-indexed annuities):
Three months ended June 30,
20202019% Change
Average fixed annuity investments (at amortized cost)$40,570  $37,907  %
Average fixed annuity benefits accumulated40,601  38,202  %
As % of fixed annuity benefits accumulated (except as noted):
Net investment income (as % of fixed annuity investments)3.77 %4.73 %
Cost of funds(2.47 %)(2.55 %)
Other annuity benefit expenses, net of guaranteed withdrawal benefit fees (*)(0.06 %)(0.13 %)
Net interest spread1.24 %2.05 %
Policy charges and other miscellaneous income (*)0.11 %0.11 %
Acquisition expenses (*)(0.61 %)(0.68 %)
Other expenses(0.35 %)(0.37 %)
Net spread earned on fixed annuities excluding the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on FIAs0.39 %1.11 %
Changes in fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of the stock market and interest rates under (over) option costs(0.58 %)(0.35 %)
Net spread earned on fixed annuities(0.19 %)0.76 %
(*)Excluding the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on annuity benefits and the related impact on the amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs.

Annuity Net Investment Income
Net investment income for the second quarter of 2020 was $384 million compared to $451 million for the second quarter of 2019, a decrease of $67 million (15%), reflecting lower earnings from partnerships and similar investments, partially offset by growth in AFG’s annuity business. The overall yield earned on investments in AFG’s fixed annuity operations, calculated as net investment income divided by average investment balances (at amortized cost), decreased by 0.96 percentage points to 3.77% from 4.73% in the second quarter of 2020 compared to the second quarter of 2019. The decrease in the net investment yield between periods reflects the negative impact of lower earnings from partnerships and similar investments in the second quarter of 2020, lower short-term interest rates and the impact of the run-off of higher yielding investments. AFG’s annuity segment recorded $37 million in losses from partnerships and similar investments and AFG-managed CLOs in the second quarter of 2020 compared to $31 million in earnings in the second quarter of 2019, a change of $68 million (219%). The annualized yield earned on these partnerships and similar investments and AFG-managed CLOs was a negative yield of 11.3% in the second quarter of 2020 compared to a positive yield of 11.2% in the prior year period. Because the annuity segment’s partnerships and similar investments accounted for using the equity method are reported on a quarter lag, the second quarter 2020 returns from those investments reflect the financial results and valuations as of March 31, 2020, including the downturn in financial markets during the first quarter.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Annuity Cost of Funds
Cost of funds for the second quarter of 2020 was $251 million compared to $244 million for the second quarter of 2019, an increase of $7 million (3%). This increase reflects growth in the annuity business. The average cost of policyholder funds, calculated as cost of funds divided by average fixed annuity benefits accumulated, decreased 0.08 percentage points to 2.47% in the second quarter of 2020 from 2.55% in the second quarter of 2019 reflecting the impact of offering lower renewal crediting rates on option costs.

The following table provides details of AFG’s interest credited and other cost of funds (in millions):
Three months ended June 30,
20202019
Cost of equity options (FIAs)$148  $146  
Interest credited:
Traditional fixed annuities64  61  
Fixed component of fixed-indexed annuities26  23  
Immediate annuities  
Pension risk transfer products  
Federal Home Loan Bank advances  
Total cost of funds$251  $244  

Other Annuity Benefits, Net of Guaranteed Withdrawal Benefit Fees
Other annuity benefits, net of guaranteed withdrawal benefit fees excluding the impact of the stock market and interest rates, for the second quarter of 2020 were $5 million compared to $13 million for the second quarter of 2019, a decrease of $8 million (62%). As a percentage of average fixed annuity benefits accumulated, these net expenses decreased 0.07% to 0.06% from 0.13% in the second quarter of 2020 compared to the second quarter of 2019. In addition to interest credited to policyholders’ accounts and the change in fair value of derivatives related to fixed-indexed annuities, annuity benefits expense also includes the following expenses (in millions, net of guaranteed withdrawal benefit fees):
Three months ended June 30,
20202019
Other annuity benefits, excluding the impact of the stock market and interest rates on FIAs:
Amortization of sales inducements$ $ 
Change in guaranteed withdrawal benefit reserve17  20  
Change in other benefit reserves  
Other annuity benefits22  30  
Offset guaranteed withdrawal benefit fees(17) (17) 
Other annuity benefits excluding the impact of the stock market and interest rates, net 13  
Other annuity benefits — impact of the stock market and interest rates(14)  
Other annuity benefits, net$(9) $21  

As discussed under “Annuity Benefits Accumulated” in Note A — “Accounting Policies” to the financial statements, guaranteed withdrawal benefit reserves are accrued for and modified using assumptions similar to those used in establishing and amortizing deferred policy acquisition costs. In addition, the guaranteed withdrawal benefit reserve related to FIAs can be inversely impacted by the calculated FIA embedded derivative reserve as the value to policyholders of the guaranteed withdrawal benefits decreases when the benefit of stock market participation increases. As shown in the table above, changes in the stock market and interest rates decreased AFG’s guaranteed withdrawal benefit reserve by $14 million in the second quarter of 2020 compared to an increase of $8 million in the second quarter of 2019. This $22 million (275%) change was the primary driver of the $30 million overall change in other annuity benefits, net of guaranteed withdrawal fees in the second quarter of 2020 compared to the second quarter of 2019.

Annuity Net Interest Spread
AFG’s net interest spread decreased 0.81 percentage points to 1.24% from 2.05% in the second quarter of 2020 compared to the same period in 2019 due primarily to the lower earnings from partnerships and similar investments in the second quarter of 2020. Features included in current annuity product offerings allow AFG to achieve its desired profitability at a lower net interest spread than historical product offerings. As a result, AFG expects its net interest spread to narrow in the future.
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued

Annuity Policy Charges and Other Miscellaneous Income
Annuity policy charges and other miscellaneous income, which consist primarily of surrender charges, amortization of deferred upfront policy charges (unearned revenue) and equity index call option proceeds received at maturity that are not passed to policyholders through index credits due to surrenders, were $13 million for both the second quarter of 2020 and the second quarter of 2019. Annuity policy charges and other miscellaneous income as a percentage of average fixed annuity benefits accumulated were 0.11% in both the second quarter of 2020 and the second quarter of 2019.

Annuity Acquisition Expenses
The following table illustrates the acceleration/deceleration of the amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs (“DPAC”) resulting from changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs over or under option costs (in millions):
Three months ended June 30,
20202019
Annuity acquisition expenses before the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of the stock market and interest rates$62  $67  
Impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives and other impacts of the stock market and interest rates(98) (34) 
Annuity acquisition expenses$(36) $33  

Annuity acquisitions expenses before the acceleration/deceleration of the amortization resulting from changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs over or under option costs were $62 million for the second quarter of 2020 compared to $67 million for the second quarter of 2019, a decrease of $5 million (7%), reflecting higher than expected persistency and the positive impact of the significant increase in stock market performance on variable annuities in the second quarter of 2020.

The negative impact of significantly lower than anticipated interest rates in the second quarter of 2020 on the fair value of derivatives and other liabilities related to FIAs resulted in a partially offsetting deceleration of the amortization of DPAC. This deceleration of the amortization of DPAC in the second quarter of 2020 was partially offset by the positive impact of strong stock market performance in the 2020 period. The negative impact of lower than anticipated interest rates during the second quarter of 2019 on the fair value of derivatives and other liabilities related to FIAs resulted in a partially offsetting deceleration of the amortization of DPAC.

The table below illustrates the estimated impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to fixed-indexed annuities and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on FIAs on annuity acquisition expenses as a percentage of average fixed annuity benefits accumulated:
Three months ended June 30,
20202019
Before the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of the stock market and interest rates0.61 %0.68 %
Impact of changes in fair value of derivatives and other impacts of the stock market and interest rates(0.97 %)(0.36 %)
Annuity acquisition expenses as a % of fixed annuity benefits accumulated(0.36 %)0.32 %

Annuity Other Expenses
Annuity other expenses were $36 million for the second quarter of 2020 compared to $35 million for the second quarter of 2019, an increase of $1 million (3%). Annuity other expenses represent primarily general and administrative expenses, as well as selling and issuance expenses that are not deferred. As a percentage of average fixed annuity benefits accumulated, these expenses decreased 0.02 percentage points to 0.35% for the second quarter of 2020 from 0.37% in the second quarter of 2019 due primarily to growth in the annuity business.

Change in Fair Value of Derivatives Related to Fixed-Indexed (Including Variable-Indexed) Annuities and Other Impacts of Changes in the Stock Market and Interest Rates on FIAs
AFG’s fixed-indexed (including variable-indexed) annuities provide policyholders with a crediting rate tied, in part, to the performance of an existing stock market or other financial index. AFG attempts to mitigate the risk in the index-based component of these products through the purchase and sale of call and put options on the appropriate index. AFG’s
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
strategy is designed so that the net change in the fair value of the call option assets and put option liabilities will generally offset the economic change in the net liability from the index participation. Both the index-based component of the annuities (an embedded derivative) and the related call and put options are considered derivatives that must be adjusted for changes in fair value through earnings each period. The fair values of these derivatives are impacted by actual and expected stock market performance and interest rates as well as other factors. For a list of other factors impacting the fair value of the embedded derivative component of AFG’s annuity benefits accumulated, see Note D — “Fair Value Measurements” to the financial statements. Fluctuations in certain of these factors, such as changes in interest rates and the performance of the stock market, are not economic in nature for the current reporting period, but rather impact the timing of reported results.

As discussed above under “Other Annuity Benefits, Net of Guaranteed Withdrawal Benefit Fees” and “Annuity Acquisition Expenses,” the periodic accounting for DPAC and guaranteed withdrawal benefits related to FIAs is also impacted by changes in the stock market and interest rates. These impacts may be temporary in nature and not necessarily indicative of the long-term performance of the FIA business. The table below highlights the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and the other impacts of the stock market and interest rates over or under the cost of the equity index options (discussed above) on earnings before income taxes for the annuity segment (dollars in millions):
Three months ended June 30,
20202019% Change
Change in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs$(213) $(103) 107 %
Accretion of guaranteed minimum FIA benefits(106) (102) %
Other annuity benefits14  (8) (275 %)
Less cost of equity options148  146  %
Related impact on the amortization of DPAC98  34  188 %
Impact on annuity segment earnings before income taxes$(59) $(33) 79 %

During the second quarter of 2020, the negative impact of significantly lower than anticipated interest rates, partially offset by the positive impact of strong stock market performance, reduced earnings before income taxes for the annuity segment by $59 million compared to the $33 million impact of significantly lower than anticipated interest rates, partially offset by the favorable impact of positive stock market performance on annuity earnings before income taxes for the second quarter of 2019, an increase of $26 million (79%). As a percentage of average fixed annuity benefits accumulated, the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs over or under the cost of the equity index options purchased to mitigate the risk in the indexed-based component of those FIAs was a net expense of 0.58% in the second quarter of 2020 compared to 0.35% in the second quarter of 2019.

The following table provides analysis of the primary factors impacting the change in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and the other impacts of the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs over or under the cost of the equity index options discussed above. Each factor is presented net of the estimated related impact on amortization of DPAC (dollars in millions).
Three months ended June 30,
20202019% Change
Changes in the stock market, including volatility$38  $ 443 %
Changes in interest rates higher (lower) than expected(100) (38) 163 %
Other (2) (250 %)
Impact on annuity segment earnings before income taxes$(59) $(33) 79 %

Annuity Net Spread Earned on Fixed Annuities
AFG’s net spread earned on fixed annuities excluding the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates over or under option costs decreased 0.72 percentage points to 0.39% in the second quarter of 2020 from 1.11% in the second quarter of 2019 due primarily to the 0.81 percentage points decrease in AFG’s net interest spread discussed above. AFG’s overall net spread earned on fixed annuities changed 0.95 percentage points to a net loss of 0.19% in the second quarter of 2020 from net earnings of 0.76% in the second quarter of 2019 due to the decrease in AFG’s net interest spread, the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives and other impacts of the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs discussed above.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Annuity Benefits Accumulated
Annuity premiums received and benefit payments are recorded as increases or decreases in annuity benefits accumulated rather than as revenue and expense. Increases in this liability for interest credited and other benefits are charged to expense and decreases for surrender and other policy charges are credited to other income.

For certain products, annuity benefits accumulated also includes reserves for accrued persistency and premium bonuses, excess benefits expected to be paid on future deaths and annuitizations (“EDAR”) and guaranteed withdrawal benefits. Annuity benefits accumulated also includes amounts advanced from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati. The following table is a progression of AFG’s annuity benefits accumulated liability for the three months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019 (in millions):
Three months ended June 30,
20202019
Beginning fixed annuity reserves$40,260  $37,724  
Fixed annuity premiums (receipts)682  1,343  
Federal Home Loan Bank advances and repayments(40) —  
Surrenders, benefits and other withdrawals(768) (862) 
Interest and other annuity benefit expenses:
Cost of funds251  244  
Embedded derivative mark-to-market601  251  
Change in other benefit reserves(44) (20) 
Ending fixed annuity reserves$40,942  $38,680  
Reconciliation to annuity benefits accumulated per balance sheet:
Ending fixed annuity reserves (from above)$40,942  $38,680  
Impact of unrealized investment related gains285  192  
Fixed component of variable annuities165  172  
Annuity benefits accumulated per balance sheet$41,392  $39,044  

Annuity benefits accumulated includes a liability of $680 million at June 30, 2020 and $491 million at June 30, 2019 for guaranteed withdrawal benefits on annuities with features that allow the policyholder to take fixed periodic lifetime benefit payments that could exceed account value. As discussed above under “Other Annuity Benefits, Net of Guaranteed Withdrawal Benefit Fees” and “Annuity Acquisition Expenses,” the periodic accounting for DPAC and guaranteed withdrawal benefits related to FIAs is also impacted by changes in the stock market and interest rates.

Statutory Annuity Premiums
AFG’s annuity operations generated gross statutory premiums of $687 million in the second quarter of 2020 compared to $1.35 billion in the second quarter of 2019, a decrease of $662 million (49%). The following table summarizes AFG’s annuity sales (dollars in millions):
Three months ended June 30,
20202019% Change
Financial institutions single premium annuities — indexed$258  $429  (40 %)
Financial institutions single premium annuities — fixed98  313  (69 %)
Retail single premium annuities — indexed138  274  (50 %)
Retail single premium annuities — fixed31  36  (14 %)
Broker dealer single premium annuities — indexed100  189  (47 %)
Broker dealer single premium annuities — fixed  (75 %)
Pension risk transfer23  50  (54 %)
Education market — fixed and indexed annuities32  44  (27 %)
Total fixed annuity premiums682  1,343  (49 %)
Variable annuities  (17 %)
Total gross fixed annuity premiums687  1,349  (49 %)
Ceded premiums(78) —  — %
Total net annuity premiums$609  $1,349  (55 %)

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Management attributes the 49% decrease in total gross fixed annuity premiums in the second quarter of 2020 compared to the second quarter of 2019 to the lower market interest rate environment. In response to the continued drop in market interest rates during 2019 and 2020, AFG lowered crediting rates on several products, which has slowed annuity sales compared to 2019 levels. In addition, many of the restrictions from the COVID-19 pandemic impact the ability of agents to conduct business in the same manner as usual. As a result, management expects annuity premiums to be negatively impacted during the remainder of 2020.

Annuity Earnings before Income Taxes Reconciliation
The following table reconciles the net spread earned on AFG’s fixed annuities to overall annuity pretax earnings for the three months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019 (in millions):
Three months ended June 30,
20202019
Earnings (loss) on fixed annuity benefits accumulated$(19) $73  
Earnings impact of investments in excess of fixed annuity benefits accumulated (*)—  (3) 
Variable annuity earnings  
Earnings (loss) before income taxes$(17) $71  
(*)Net investment income (as a % of investments) of 3.77% and 4.73% for the three months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, multiplied by the difference between average fixed annuity investments (at amortized cost) and average fixed annuity benefits accumulated in each period.

Holding Company, Other and Unallocated — Results of Operations
AFG’s net pretax loss outside of its property and casualty insurance and annuity segments (excluding realized gains and losses) totaled $43 million in the second quarter of 2020 compared to $42 million in the second quarter of 2019, an increase of $1 million (2%).

The following table details AFG’s GAAP and core loss before income taxes from operations outside of its property and casualty insurance and annuity segmentssegment for the three months ended June 30, 20202021 and 20192020 (dollars in millions):
Three months ended June 30,Three months ended June 30,
20202019% Change20212020% Change
Revenues:Revenues:Revenues:
Life, accident and health net earned premiums$ $ — %
Net investment incomeNet investment income14  10  40 %Net investment income$$(33 %)
Other income — P&C feesOther income — P&C fees16  20  (20 %)Other income — P&C fees18 16 13 %
Reclassify annuity segment option gains(5) (3) 67 %
Other incomeOther income  — %Other income— %
Total revenuesTotal revenues36  38  (5 %)Total revenues29 30 (3 %)
Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:
Property and casualty insurance — commissions and other underwriting expensesProperty and casualty insurance — commissions and other underwriting expenses  (38 %)Property and casualty insurance — commissions and other underwriting expenses20 %
Annuity — annuity benefits(5) (3) 67 %
Life, accident and health benefits  13 %
Life, accident and health acquisition expenses —  — %
Other expense — expenses associated with P&C feesOther expense — expenses associated with P&C fees11  12  (8 %)Other expense — expenses associated with P&C fees12 11 %
Other expenses35  38  (8 %)
Other expenses (*)Other expenses (*)46 34 35 %
Costs and expenses, excluding interest charges on borrowed moneyCosts and expenses, excluding interest charges on borrowed money56  63  (11 %)Costs and expenses, excluding interest charges on borrowed money64 50 28 %
Loss before income taxes, excluding realized gains and losses and interest charges on borrowed moneyLoss before income taxes, excluding realized gains and losses and interest charges on borrowed money(20) (25) (20 %)Loss before income taxes, excluding realized gains and losses and interest charges on borrowed money(35)(20)75 %
Interest charges on borrowed moneyInterest charges on borrowed money23  17  35 %Interest charges on borrowed money23 23 — %
Core loss before income taxes, excluding realized gains and lossesCore loss before income taxes, excluding realized gains and losses(58)(43)35 %
Loss before income taxes, excluding realized gains and losses$(43) $(42) %
Pretax non-core loss on pension settlementPretax non-core loss on pension settlement(11)— — %
GAAP loss from continuing operations before income taxes, excluding realized gains and lossesGAAP loss from continuing operations before income taxes, excluding realized gains and losses$(69)$(43)60 %

(*)
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis$11 million related to the settlement of Financial Condition and Resultspension liabilities of Operations — Continued
Holding Company and Other — Life, Accident and Health Premiums, Benefits and Acquisition Expenses
AFG’s run-off long-term care and life insurance operations recorded net earned premiums of $5 million and related benefits and acquisition expenses of $10 milliona small former manufacturing operation in the second quarter of 2020 compared to net earned premiums of $5 million and related benefits and acquisition expenses of $8 million in the second quarter of 2019. The $1 million (13%) increase in life, accident and health benefits reflects higher claims in the run-off life insurance business.2021.

Holding Company and Other — Net Investment Income
AFG recorded net investment income on investments held outside of its property and casualty insurance and annuity segmentssegment of $14$6 million in the second quarter of 2021 compared to $9 million in the second quarter of 2020, compared to $10a decrease of $3 million in the second quarter of 2019, an increase of $4 million (40%(33%). The parent company holds a small portfolio of securities that are carried at fair value through net investment income. These securities increased in value by $3 million in the second quarter of 2021 compared to $7 million in the second quarter of 2020 compared to an increase in value of $3 million in the second quarter of 2019.2020.

Holding Company and Other — P&C Fees and Related Expenses
Summit, a workers’ compensation insurance subsidiary, collects fees from a small group of unaffiliated insurers for providing underwriting, policy administration and claims services. In addition, certain of AFG’s property and casualty insurance businesses collect fees from customers for ancillary services such as workplace safety programs and premium financing. In the second quarter of 2020,2021, AFG collected $16$18 million in fees for these services compared to $20$16 million in the second quarter of 2019.2020. Management views this fee income, net of the $12 million in the second quarter of 2021 and the $11 million in the second quarter of 2020, and $12 million the second quarter of 2019, in expenses incurred to generate such fees, as a reduction in the cost of underwriting its property and casualty insurance policies. Consistent with internal management reporting, these fees and the related expenses are netted and recorded as a reduction of commissions and other underwriting expenses in AFG’s segmented results.

Holding Company and Other — Annuity Segment Option Gains
As discussed under “Annuity Segment — Results of Operations,” AFG purchases and sells equity index options to mitigate the risk in the index-based component of its FIAs. In evaluating the performance of the annuity business, management views the cost of the equity options as a better measurement of the true expenses of the Annuity segment as compared to the GAAP accounting for these options as derivatives because any proceeds at expiration from the options generally are passed to policyholders through index credits. On occasion, policyholders surrender their annuity prior to receiving the index credit, which results in any option exercise proceeds being retained by AFG. For internal management reporting, AFG views these “option gains” as miscellaneous (other) income rather than as a component of annuity benefits expense. Consistent with internal management reporting, these option gains are reclassified from annuity benefits to other income in AFG’s segmented results. In the second quarter of 2020 and 2019, AFG had $5 million and $3 million, respectively, in such option gains. 

Holding Company and Other — Other Income
Other income in the table above includes $4 million in both the second quarter of 20202021 and the second quarter of 2019,2020, in management fees paid to AFG by the AFG-managed CLOs (AFG’s consolidated managed investment entities). The management fees are eliminated in consolidation — see the other income line in the Consolidate MIEs column under “Results of Operations — Segmented Statement of Earnings.” Excluding amounts eliminated in consolidation, AFG recorded other income outside of its property and casualty insurance and annuity segmentssegment of $2$1 million in both the second quarter of 20202021 and the second quarter of 2019.2020.

Holding Company and Other — Other Expenses
AFG’s holding companies and other operations outside of its property and casualty insurance and annuity segments recorded other expenses of $35 million in the second quarter of 2020 compared to $38 million in the second quarter of 2019, a decrease of $3 million (8%). This decrease reflects lower expenses associated with certain incentive compensation plans.
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Holding Company and Other — Other Expenses
AFG’s holding companies and other operations outside of its property and casualty insurance segment recorded other expenses of $46 million in the second quarter of 2021 compared to $34 million in the second quarter of 2020, an increase of $12 million (35%), reflecting higher holding company expenses related to employee benefit plans that are tied to stock market performance and higher expenses associated with certain incentive compensation plans.

Holding Company and Other — Interest Charges on Borrowed Money
AFG’s holding companies and other operations outside of its property and casualty insurance and annuity segmentssegment recorded interest expense of $23 million in both the second quarter of 2020 compared to $17 million2021 and in the second quarter of 2019, an increase of $6 million (35%).2020. The following table details the principal amount of AFG’s long-term debt balances as of June 30, 20202021 compared to June 30, 20192020 (dollars in millions):
June 30,
2020
June 30,
2019
June 30,
2021
June 30,
2020
Direct obligations of AFG:Direct obligations of AFG:Direct obligations of AFG:
4.50% Senior Notes due June 20474.50% Senior Notes due June 2047$590  $590  4.50% Senior Notes due June 2047$590 $590 
3.50% Senior Notes due August 20263.50% Senior Notes due August 2026425  425  3.50% Senior Notes due August 2026425 425 
5.25% Senior Notes due April 20305.25% Senior Notes due April 2030300  —  5.25% Senior Notes due April 2030300 300 
5.125% Subordinated Debentures due December 20595.125% Subordinated Debentures due December 2059200  —  5.125% Subordinated Debentures due December 2059200 200 
4.50% Subordinated Debentures due September 20604.50% Subordinated Debentures due September 2060200 — 
6% Subordinated Debentures due November 20556% Subordinated Debentures due November 2055150  150  6% Subordinated Debentures due November 2055— 150 
5.625% Subordinated Debentures due June 20605.625% Subordinated Debentures due June 2060150  —  5.625% Subordinated Debentures due June 2060150 150 
5.875% Subordinated Debentures due March 20595.875% Subordinated Debentures due March 2059125  125  5.875% Subordinated Debentures due March 2059125 125 
6-1/4% Subordinated Debentures due September 2054—  150  
OtherOther  Other
Total principal amount of Holding Company DebtTotal principal amount of Holding Company Debt$1,943  $1,443  Total principal amount of Holding Company Debt$1,993 $1,943 
Weighted Average Interest RateWeighted Average Interest Rate4.8 %4.7 %Weighted Average Interest Rate4.6 %4.8 %

The increase in interestInterest expense was $23 million for both the second quarter of 2021 and the second quarter of 2020 as compared to the second quarter of 2019and reflects the following financial transactions completed by AFG between March 31, 20192020 and June 30, 2020:
Issued $200 million of 5.125% Subordinated Debentures in December 2019
Redeemed $150 million of 6-1/4% Subordinated Debentures in December 20192021:
Issued $300 million of 5.25% Senior Notes in April 2020
Issued $150 million of 5.625% Subordinated Debentures in May 2020
Issued $200 million of 4.50% Subordinated Debentures in September 2020
Redeemed $150 million of 6% Subordinated Debentures in November 2020

Consolidated Holding Company and Other — Loss on Pension Settlement
In the second quarter of 2021, AFG settled pension liabilities related to a small former manufacturing operation resulting in a pretax non-core loss of $11 million.

Realized Gains (Losses) on Securities
AFG’s consolidated realized gains (losses) on securities which are not allocatedwere net gains of $43 million in the second quarter of 2021 compared to segments, were $204$108 million in the second quarter of 2020, compared to $56a decrease of $65 million in the second quarter of 2019, an increase of $148 million (264%(60%). Realized gains (losses) on securities consisted of the following (in millions):
Three months ended June 30,
20202019
Realized gains before impairments:
Disposals$—  $ 
Change in the fair value of equity securities202  44  
Change in the fair value of derivatives  
Adjustments to annuity deferred policy acquisition costs and related items(2) —  
203  58  
Change in allowance for impairments:
Securities (3) 
Adjustments to annuity deferred policy acquisition costs and related items—   
 (2) 
Realized gains (losses) on securities$204  $56  
Three months ended June 30,
20212020
Realized gains (losses) before impairments:
Disposals$$
Change in the fair value of equity securities42 107 
Change in the fair value of derivatives— — 
43 108 
Change in allowance for impairments on securities— — 
Realized gains (losses) on securities$43 $108 

The $202$42 million net realized gain from the change in the fair value of equity securities in the second quarter of 2021 includes gains of $16 million on investments in energy and natural gas companies, $9 million on investments in banks and
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
financing companies, $7 million on investments in healthcare companies and $6 million on investments in media companies. The $107 million net realized gain from the change in the fair value of equity securities in the second quarter of 2020 includes gains of $63$32 million on investments in banks and financing companies, $34$18 million on investments in media companies, $21$10 million on investments in natural gas, $8 million on investments in insurance companies, $10$5 million on real estate investment trusts and $4 million on investments in energy companiescompanies.

Realized Gain on Subsidiary
In the second quarter of 2021, AFG recognized a pretax gain on sale of subsidiary of $4 million related to contingent consideration received on the sale of Neon. See “Results of Operations — General” for the discussion of the December 2019 decision to exit the Lloyd’s of London insurance market.

Consolidated Income Taxes on Continuing Operations
AFG’s consolidated provision for income taxes on continuing operations was $48 million for the second quarter of 2021 compared to $37 million for the second quarter of 2020, an increase of $11 million (30%). See NoteK — “Income Taxes” to the financial statements for an analysis of items affecting AFG’s effective tax rate on continuing operations.

Consolidated Noncontrolling Interests in Continuing Operations
AFG’s consolidated net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests was a net loss of $10 million for the second quarter of 2020, reflecting losses at Neon, which was sold in December 2020.

Real Estate Entities Acquired from the Annuity Operations
Beginning with the first quarter of 2021, the results of the annuity businesses to be sold are reported as discontinued operations, in accordance with GAAP, which included adjusting prior period results to reflect these operations as discontinued. Prior to the completion of the sale, AFG’s property and $13casualty insurance operations acquired approximately $480 million onin real-estate related partnerships and AFG parent acquired approximately $100 million of directly owned real estate investment trusts. from those operations. GAAP pretax earnings from continuing operations includes the earnings from these entities and certain other expenses that will be retained from the annuity operations.

The $44retained real estate entities contributed $22 million in GAAP pretax earnings in the second quarter of 2021 compared to $7 million in the second quarter of 2020, an increase of $15 million (214%). This increase reflects higher earnings from the real-estate related partnerships in the second quarter of 2021 compared to the second quarter of 2020.

Discontinued Annuity Operations
AFG’s discontinued annuity operations contributed $83 million in GAAP pretax earnings (excluding the gain on the sale of the annuity operations) in the second quarter of 2021 compared to $78 million in the second quarter of 2020, an increase of $5 million (6%) reflecting the following:
significantly higher earnings from partnerships and similar investments,
the negative impact from the run-off of higher yielding investments and lower short-term interest rates, and
lower net realized gain from the change in the fair value of equitygains on securities in the second quarter of 2019 includes gains2021 compared to the second quarter of $18 million on investments in banks and financing companies, $13 million from investments in communications companies and $10 million on investments in asset management companies.2020.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
The $1 million reduction of previously recognized expected credit lossesfollowing table details AFG’s earnings before and after income taxes and the gain on the sale from its discontinued annuity operations for the three months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020 (dollars in the second quarter of 2020 includes $2 million in income related to corporate bonds and other fixed maturities and $1 million in expense related to structured securities.millions):

Consolidated Income Taxes
Three months ended June 30,
2021 (*)2020% Change
Pretax annuity earnings historically reported as core operating earnings:
Pretax annuity earnings before items below$44 $87 (49 %)
Earnings (loss) on partnerships and similar investments63 (46)(237 %)
Total pretax annuity earnings historically reported as core operating earnings107 41 161 %
Pretax amounts previously reported outside of annuity core earnings:
Impact of reinsurance, derivatives related to fixed indexed annuities (“FIAs”) and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on FIAs over or under option costs(55)(59)(7 %)
Realized gains (losses) on securities31 96 (68 %)
Run-off life and long-term care— — — %
Total pretax amounts previously reported outside of annuity core earnings(24)37 (165 %)
GAAP pretax earnings (loss) from discontinued annuity operations, excluding the gain on sale of discontinued annuity operations83 78 %
Provision (credit) for income taxes18 14 29 %
GAAP net earnings (loss) from discontinued annuity operations, excluding the gain on sale of discontinued annuity operations65 64 %
Gain on sale of discontinued annuity operations, net of tax697 — — %
GAAP net earnings (loss) from discontinued annuity operations$762 $64 1,091 %
AFG’s consolidated provision for income taxes was $51 million for(*)Results through the second quarterMay 31, 2021 effective date of 2020 compared to $50 million for the second quarter of 2019, an increase of $1 million (2%). See NoteL — “Income Taxes” to the financial statements for an analysis of items affecting AFG’s effective tax rate.sale.

Consolidated Noncontrolling Interests
64
AFG’s consolidated net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests was a net loss of $10 million for the second quarter of 2020 compared to $1 million for the second quarter of 2019. Both periods reflect losses at Neon, AFG’s United Kingdom-based Lloyd’s insurer.
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS — SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 20202021 AND 20192020

Segmented Statement of Earnings
Subsequent to the agreement to sell the Annuity subsidiaries, AFG reports its businesscontinuing operations as threetwo segments: (i) Property and casualty insurance (“P&C”), and (ii) Annuity and (iii) Other, which includes run-off long-term care and life, holding company costs and income and expenses related to the managed investment entities (“MIEs”).

AFG’s net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders, determined in accordance with GAAP, include certain items that may not be indicative of its ongoing core operations. The following tables for the six months ended June 30, 20202021 and 20192020 identify such items by segment and reconcile net earnings attributable to shareholders to core net operating earnings, a non-GAAP financial measure that AFG believes is a useful tool for investors and analysts in analyzing ongoing operating trends (in millions):
OtherOther
P&CAnnuityConsol. MIEsHolding Co., other and unallocatedTotalNon-core reclassNeon exited lines (c)GAAP TotalP&CAnnuityConsol. MIEsHolding Co., other and unallocatedTotalNon-core reclassGAAP Total
Six months ended June 30, 2020
Six months ended June 30, 2021Six months ended June 30, 2021
Revenues:Revenues:Revenues:
Property and casualty insurance net earned premiumsProperty and casualty insurance net earned premiums$2,261  $—  $—  $—  $2,261  $—  $132  $2,393  Property and casualty insurance net earned premiums$2,423 $— $— $— $2,423 $— $2,423 
Net investment incomeNet investment income171  806  34   1,018  —  (6) 1,012  Net investment income302 51 (12)11 352 — 352 
Realized gains (losses) on securities—  —  —  —  —  (347) —  (347) 
Income (loss) of MIEs:
Realized gains (losses) on:Realized gains (losses) on:
SecuritiesSecurities— — — — — 120 120 
SubsidiarySubsidiary— — — — — 
Income of MIEs:Income of MIEs:
Investment incomeInvestment income—  —  108  —  108  —  —  108  Investment income— — 90 — 90 — 90 
Gain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilitiesGain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities—  —  (48) —  (48) —  —  (48) Gain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities— — — — 
Other incomeOther income 65  (8) 43  108  —  —  108  Other income— (8)46 43 — 43 
Total revenuesTotal revenues2,440  871  86  50  3,447  (347) 126  3,226  Total revenues2,730 51 78 57 2,916 124 3,040 
Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:
Property and casualty insurance:Property and casualty insurance:Property and casualty insurance:
Losses and loss adjustment expensesLosses and loss adjustment expenses1,372  —  —  —  1,372  —  106  1,478  Losses and loss adjustment expenses1,381 — — — 1,381 — 1,381 
Commissions and other underwriting expensesCommissions and other underwriting expenses749  —  —  10  759  —  70  829  Commissions and other underwriting expenses756 — — 14 770 — 770 
Annuity benefits—  561  —  (13) 548  154  —  702  
Annuity and supplemental insurance acquisition expenses—  133  —   135  (57) —  78  
Interest charges on borrowed moneyInterest charges on borrowed money—  —  —  40  40  —  —  40  Interest charges on borrowed money— — — 47 47 — 47 
Expenses of MIEsExpenses of MIEs—  —  86  —  86  —  —  86  Expenses of MIEs— — 78 — 78 — 78 
Other expensesOther expenses22  68  —  91  181  —   183  Other expenses17 — 112 130 11 141 
Total costs and expensesTotal costs and expenses2,143  762  86  130  3,121  97  178  3,396  Total costs and expenses2,154 78 173 2,406 11 2,417 
Earnings (loss) before income taxes297  109  —  (80) 326  (444) (52) (170) 
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxesEarnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes576 50 — (116)510 113 623 
Provision (credit) for income taxesProvision (credit) for income taxes60  20  —  (20) 60  (93) —  (33) Provision (credit) for income taxes113 11 — (25)99 17 116 
Net earnings (loss), including noncontrolling interests237  89  —  (60) 266  (351) (52) (137) 
Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests—  —  —  —  —  —  (13) (13) 
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interestsNet earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interests463 39 — (91)411 96 507 
Less: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interestsLess: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests— — — — — — — 
Core Net Operating Earnings (Loss)Core Net Operating Earnings (Loss)237  89  —  (60) 266  Core Net Operating Earnings (Loss)463 39 — (91)411 
Non-core earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders (a):Non-core earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders (a):Non-core earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders (a):
Realized gains (losses) on securities, net of taxRealized gains (losses) on securities, net of tax—  —  —  (274) (274) 274  —  —  Realized gains (losses) on securities, net of tax— — — 95 95 (95)— 
Annuity non-core earnings (losses), net of tax (b)—  (77) —  —  (77) 77  —  —  
Neon exited lines (c)(39) —  —  —  (39) —  39  —  
Discontinued operations, net of taxDiscontinued operations, net of tax— 914 — — 914 — 914 
Neon exited lines (b)Neon exited lines (b)— — — (3)— 
Other, net of taxOther, net of tax— — — (2)(2)— 
Net Earnings (Loss) Attributable to ShareholdersNet Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders$198  $12  $—  $(334) $(124) $—  $—  $(124) Net Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders$466 $953 $— $$1,421 $— $1,421 
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
OtherOther
P&CAnnuityConsol. MIEsHolding Co., other and unallocatedTotalNon-core reclassGAAP TotalP&CAnnuityConsol. MIEsHolding Co., other and unallocatedTotalNon-core reclassNeon exited lines (b)GAAP Total
Six months ended June 30, 2019
Six months ended June 30, 2020Six months ended June 30, 2020
Revenues:Revenues:Revenues:
Property and casualty insurance net earned premiumsProperty and casualty insurance net earned premiums$2,373  $—  $—  $—  $2,373  $—  $2,373  Property and casualty insurance net earned premiums$2,261 $— $— $— $2,261 $— $132 $2,393 
Net investment incomeNet investment income228  886  (16) 24  1,122  —  1,122  Net investment income171 19 11 (3)198 — (6)192 
Realized gains (losses) on securitiesRealized gains (losses) on securities—  —  —  —  —  240  240  Realized gains (losses) on securities— — — — — (220)— (220)
Income (loss) of MIEs:
Income of MIEs:Income of MIEs:
Investment incomeInvestment income—  —  139  —  139  —  139  Investment income— — 108 — 108 — — 108 
Gain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilitiesGain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities—  —  (2) —  (2) —  (2) Gain (loss) on change in fair value of assets/liabilities— — (16)— (16)— — (16)
Other incomeOther income 58  (7) 56  112  —  112  Other income— (8)43 43 — — 43 
Total revenuesTotal revenues2,606  944  114  80  3,744  240  3,984  Total revenues2,440 19 95 40 2,594 (220)126 2,500 
Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:
Property and casualty insurance:Property and casualty insurance:Property and casualty insurance:
Losses and loss adjustment expensesLosses and loss adjustment expenses1,415  —  —  —  1,415  —  1,415  Losses and loss adjustment expenses1,372 — — — 1,372 — 106 1,478 
Commissions and other underwriting expensesCommissions and other underwriting expenses812  —  —  13  825  —  825  Commissions and other underwriting expenses749 — — 10 759 — 70 829 
Annuity benefits—  587  —  (4) 583  67  650  
Annuity and supplemental insurance acquisition expenses—  93  —   95  (34) 61  
Interest charges on borrowed moneyInterest charges on borrowed money—  —  —  33  33  —  33  Interest charges on borrowed money— — — 40 40 — — 40 
Expenses of MIEsExpenses of MIEs—  —  114  —  114  —  114  Expenses of MIEs— — 95 — 95 — — 95 
Other expensesOther expenses23  70  —  121  214  —  214  Other expenses22 12 — 67 101 — 103 
Total costs and expensesTotal costs and expenses2,250  750  114  165  3,279  33  3,312  Total costs and expenses2,143 12 95 117 2,367 — 178 2,545 
Earnings (loss) before income taxes356  194  —  (85) 465  207  672  
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxesEarnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes297 — (77)227 (220)(52)(45)
Provision (credit) for income taxesProvision (credit) for income taxes72  39  —  (18) 93  44  137  Provision (credit) for income taxes60 — (19)42 (46)— (4)
Net earnings (loss), including noncontrolling interests284  155  —  (67) 372  163  535  
Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests(4) —  —  —  (4) —  (4) 
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interestsNet earnings (loss) from continuing operations, including noncontrolling interests237 — (58)185 (174)(52)(41)
Less: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interestsLess: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests— — — — — — (13)(13)
Core Net Operating Earnings (Loss)Core Net Operating Earnings (Loss)288  155  —  (67) 376  Core Net Operating Earnings (Loss)237 — (58)185 
Non-core earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders (a):Non-core earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders (a):Non-core earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders (a):
Realized gains (losses) on securities, net of taxRealized gains (losses) on securities, net of tax—  —  —  190  190  (190) —  Realized gains (losses) on securities, net of tax— — — (174)(174)174 — — 
Annuity non-core earnings (losses), net of tax (b)—  (27) —  —  (27) 27  —  
Discontinued operations, net of taxDiscontinued operations, net of tax— (94)— (2)(96)— — (96)
Neon exited lines (b)Neon exited lines (b)(39)— — — (39)— 39 — 
Net Earnings (Loss) Attributable to ShareholdersNet Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders$288  $128  $—  $123  $539  $—  $539  Net Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders$198 $(88)$— $(234)$(124)$— $— $(124)
(a)See the reconciliation of core earnings to GAAP net earnings under “Results of Operations — General” for details on the tax and noncontrolling interest impacts of these reconciling items.
(b)As discussed under Results of Operations — General beginning prospectively with the second quarter of 2019, unlocking, the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs, and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs over or under the cost of the equity index options purchased to mitigate the risk in the index-based component of those FIAs are considered non-core earnings (losses).
(c)As discussed under “Results of Operations — General,” beginning with the first quarter of 2020, the Neon run-off operations are considered property and casualty insurance non-core earnings (losses).

Property and Casualty Insurance Segment — Results of Operations
AFG’s property and casualty insurance operations contributed $245$580 million in GAAP pretax earnings in the first six months of 20202021 compared to $356$245 million in the first six months of 2019, a decrease2020, an increase of $111$335 million (31%(137%). Property and casualty core pretax earnings were $576 million in the first six months of 2021 compared to $297 million in the first six months of 2020, compared to $356an increase of $279 million (94%). The increase in GAAP pretax earnings reflects higher core pretax earnings and the impact of losses in the Neon exited lines in the first six months of 2019, a decrease of $59 million (17%).2020. The decreaseincrease in GAAP and core pretax earnings reflects lower net investment incomehigher core underwriting profit in the first six months of 20202021 compared to the same period in 2019 due primarily to the impactfirst six months of financial market disruption on earnings (losses)2020 and significantly higher net investment income. Improved results from partnershipsalternative investments (partnerships and similar investments and AFG-managed CLOs.CLOs) were partially offset by lower other net investment income, due primarily to lower short-term interest rates.

The following table details AFG’s GAAP and core earnings before income taxes from its property and casualty insurance operations for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019 (dollars in millions):
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Six months ended June 30,
20202019% Change
Gross written premiums$3,065  $3,199  (4 %)
Reinsurance premiums ceded(777) (788) (1 %)
Net written premiums2,288  2,411  (5 %)
Change in unearned premiums(27) (38) (29 %)
Net earned premiums2,261  2,373  (5 %)
Loss and loss adjustment expenses1,372  1,415  (3 %)
Commissions and other underwriting expenses749  812  (8 %)
Core underwriting gain140  146  (4 %)
Net investment income171  228  (25 %)
Other income and expenses, net(14) (18) (22 %)
Core earnings before income taxes297  356  (17 %)
Pretax non-core Neon exited lines (*)(52) —  — %
GAAP earnings before income taxes and noncontrolling interests$245  $356  (31 %)
(*)   In December 2019, AFG initiated actions to exit the Lloyd’s of London insurance market, which included placing its Lloyd’s subsidiaries including its Lloyd’s Managing Agency, Neon Underwriting Ltd. (“Neon”), into run-off. As discussed under “Results of Operations — General,” following the December 2019 decision to exit the Lloyd’s of London insurance market, the results from the Neon exited lines are being treated as non-core earnings (losses) prospectively beginning in 2020. Each line item in the table above has been adjusted to remove the impact from the Neon run-off operations in 2020. The following table details the impact of the Neon exited lines to each component of earnings (loss) before income taxes in the property and casualty insurance operations for the six months ended June 30, 2020 (in millions):
Six months ended June 30, 2020
Excluding Neon
exited lines
Neon
exited lines
Total
Gross written premiums$3,065  $70  $3,135  
Reinsurance premiums ceded(777) (63) (840) 
Net written premiums2,288   2,295  
Change in unearned premiums(27) 125  98  
Net earned premiums2,261  132  2,393  
Loss and loss adjustment expenses1,372  106  1,478  
Commissions and other underwriting expenses749  70  819  
Underwriting gain (loss)140  (44) 96  
Net investment income171  (6) 165  
Other income and expenses, net(14) (2) (16) 
Earnings (loss) before income taxes$297  $(52) $245  
Six months ended June 30,
20202019Change
Combined Ratios:
Specialty lines
Loss and LAE ratio60.5 %59.6 %0.9 %
Underwriting expense ratio33.2 %34.2 %(1.0 %)
Combined ratio93.7 %93.8 %(0.1 %)
Aggregate — including exited lines
Loss and LAE ratio61.8 %59.7 %2.1 %
Underwriting expense ratio34.2 %34.2 %— %
Combined ratio96.0 %93.9 %2.1 %
The following table details AFG’s GAAP and core earnings before income taxes from its property and casualty insurance operations for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020 (dollars in millions):
Six months ended June 30,
20212020% Change
Gross written premiums$3,553 $3,065 16 %
Reinsurance premiums ceded(979)(777)26 %
Net written premiums2,574 2,288 13 %
Change in unearned premiums(151)(27)459 %
Net earned premiums2,423 2,261 %
Loss and loss adjustment expenses1,381 1,372 %
Commissions and other underwriting expenses756 749 %
Core underwriting gain286 140 104 %
Net investment income302 171 77 %
Other income and expenses, net(12)(14)(14 %)
Core earnings before income taxes576 297 94 %
Pretax non-core Neon exited lines (*)(52)(108 %)
GAAP earnings before income taxes and noncontrolling interests$580 $245 137 %
(*)   In December 2019, AFG initiated actions to exit the Lloyd’s of London insurance market, which included placing its Lloyd’s subsidiaries including its Lloyd’s Managing Agency, Neon Underwriting Ltd. (“Neon”), into run-off. As discussed under “Results of Operations — General,” following the December 2019 decision to exit the Lloyd’s of London insurance market, the results from the Neon exited lines are treated as non-core earnings (losses). Each line item in the table above has been adjusted to remove the impact from the Neon run-off operations in 2020. The following table details the impact of the Neon exited lines to each component of earnings (loss) before income taxes in the property and casualty insurance operations for the six months ended June 30, 2020 (in millions):
Six months ended June 30, 2020
Excluding Neon
exited lines
Neon
exited lines
Total
Gross written premiums$3,065 $70 $3,135 
Reinsurance premiums ceded(777)(63)(840)
Net written premiums2,288 2,295 
Change in unearned premiums(27)125 98 
Net earned premiums2,261 132 2,393 
Loss and loss adjustment expenses1,372 106 1,478 
Commissions and other underwriting expenses749 70 819 
Underwriting gain (loss)140 (44)96 
Net investment income171 (6)165 
Other income and expenses, net(14)(2)(16)
Earnings (loss) before income taxes and noncontrolling interests$297 $(52)$245 
Six months ended June 30,
20212020Change
Combined Ratios:
Specialty lines
Loss and LAE ratio57.0 %60.5 %(3.5 %)
Underwriting expense ratio31.2 %33.2 %(2.0 %)
Combined ratio88.2 %93.7 %(5.5 %)
Aggregate — including exited lines
Loss and LAE ratio57.0 %61.8 %(4.8 %)
Underwriting expense ratio31.2 %34.2 %(3.0 %)
Combined ratio88.2 %96.0 %(7.8 %)

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
AFG reports the underwriting performance of its Specialty property and casualty insurance business in the following sub-segments: (i) Property and transportation, (ii) Specialty casualty and (iii) Specialty financial.
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued

Gross Written Premiums
Gross written premiums (“GWP”) for AFG’s property and casualty insurance segment were $3.55 billion for the first six months of 2021 compared to $3.14 billion for the first six months of 2020, compared to $3.20 billion for the first six monthsan increase of 2019, a decrease of $64$418 million (2%(13%). Detail of AFG’s property and casualty gross written premiums is shown below (dollars in millions):
Six months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
2020201920212020
GWP%GWP%% ChangeGWP%GWP%% Change
Property and transportationProperty and transportation$1,105  35 %$1,018  32 %%Property and transportation$1,371 38 %$1,105 35 %24 %
Specialty casualtySpecialty casualty1,601  51 %1,808  57 %(11 %)Specialty casualty1,801 51 %1,601 51 %12 %
Specialty financialSpecialty financial359  12 %373  11 %(4 %)Specialty financial381 11 %359 12 %%
Total specialtyTotal specialty3,065  98 %3,199  100 %(4 %)Total specialty3,553 100 %3,065 98 %16 %
Neon exited linesNeon exited lines70  %—  — %— %Neon exited lines— — %70 %(100 %)
AggregateAggregate$3,135  100 %$3,199  100 %(2 %)Aggregate$3,553 100 %$3,135 100 %13 %

Reinsurance Premiums Ceded
Reinsurance premiums ceded (“Ceded”) for AFG’s property and casualty insurance segment were 28% of gross written premiums for the first six months of 2021 compared to 27% of gross written premiums for the first six months of 2020, compared to 25% of gross written premiums for the first six months of 2019, an increase of 21 percentage points.point. Detail of AFG’s property and casualty reinsurance premiums ceded is shown below (dollars in millions):
Six months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
20202019Change in20212020Change in
Ceded% of GWPCeded% of GWP% of GWPCeded% of GWPCeded% of GWP% of GWP
Property and transportationProperty and transportation$(293) 27 %$(252) 25 %%Property and transportation$(404)29 %$(293)27 %%
Specialty casualtySpecialty casualty(504) 31 %(520) 29 %%Specialty casualty(621)34 %(504)31 %%
Specialty financialSpecialty financial(71) 20 %(79) 21 %(1 %)Specialty financial(61)16 %(71)20 %(4 %)
Other specialtyOther specialty91  63  Other specialty107 91 
Total specialtyTotal specialty(777) 25 %(788) 25 %— %Total specialty(979)28 %(777)25 %%
Neon exited linesNeon exited lines(63) 90 %—  — %90 %Neon exited lines— — %(63)90 %(90 %)
AggregateAggregate$(840) 27 %$(788) 25 %%Aggregate$(979)28 %$(840)27 %%

Net Written Premiums
Net written premiums (“NWP”) for AFG’s property and casualty insurance segment were $2.57 billion for the first six months of 2021 compared to $2.30 billion for the first six months of 2020, compared to $2.41 billion for the first six monthsan increase of 2019, a decrease of $116$279 million (5%(12%). Detail of AFG’s property and casualty net written premiums is shown below (dollars in millions):
Six months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
2020201920212020
NWP%NWP%% ChangeNWP%NWP%% Change
Property and transportationProperty and transportation$812  35 %$766  32 %%Property and transportation$967 38 %$812 35 %19 %
Specialty casualtySpecialty casualty1,097  48 %1,288  53 %(15 %)Specialty casualty1,180 46 %1,097 48 %%
Specialty financialSpecialty financial288  13 %294  12 %(2 %)Specialty financial320 12 %288 13 %11 %
Other specialtyOther specialty91  %63  %44 %Other specialty107 %91 %18 %
Total specialtyTotal specialty2,288  100 %2,411  100 %(5 %)Total specialty2,574 100 %2,288 100 %13 %
Neon exited linesNeon exited lines — %—  — %— %Neon exited lines— — %— %— %
AggregateAggregate$2,295  100 %$2,411  100 %(5 %)Aggregate$2,574 100 %$2,295 100 %12 %

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Net Earned Premiums
Net earned premiums (“NEP”) for AFG’s property and casualty insurance segment were $2.42 billion for the first six months of 2021 compared to $2.39 billion for the first six months of 2020, compared to $2.37 billion for the first six months of 2019, an increase of $20$30 million (1%). Detail of AFG’s property and casualty net earned premiums is shown below (dollars in millions):
Six months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
2020201920212020
NEP%NEP%% ChangeNEP%NEP%% Change
Property and transportationProperty and transportation$776  32 %$740  31 %%Property and transportation$847 35 %$776 32 %%
Specialty casualtySpecialty casualty1,103  46 %1,263  53 %(13 %)Specialty casualty1,159 48 %1,103 46 %%
Specialty financialSpecialty financial300  13 %297  13 %%Specialty financial314 13 %300 13 %%
Other specialtyOther specialty82  %73  %12 %Other specialty103 %82 %26 %
Total specialtyTotal specialty2,261  94 %2,373  100 %(5 %)Total specialty2,423 100 %2,261 94 %%
Neon exited linesNeon exited lines132  %—  — %— %Neon exited lines— — %132 %(100 %)
AggregateAggregate$2,393  100 %$2,373  100 %%Aggregate$2,423 100 %$2,393 100 %%

The $64$418 million (2%(13%) decreaseincrease in gross written premiums for the first six months of 20202021 compared to the first six months of 20192020 reflects a decrease in the Specialty casualty and Specialty financial sub-segments, partially offset by an increase in each of the Specialty property and transportation sub-segment .casualty sub-segments due primarily to higher renewal rates and increased exposures. Overall average renewal rates increased approximately 8%10% in the first six months of 2020.2021. Excluding the workers’ compensation business, renewal pricing increased approximately 12%13%.

Property and transportation Gross written premiums increased $87$266 million (9%(24%) in the first six months of 2020 when2021 compared to the first six months of 2019, which was impacted by delayed acreage reporting from insureds2020 due primarily to higher premiums in the transportation businesses, as a result of excess moisturenew accounts, combined with strong renewals and late planting of cornincreased exposures in the alternative risk transfer business and soybean crops. Excludinghigher premiums in the crop insurance gross written premiums for the first six months of 2020 increased by 5% in this group when compared to the first six months of 2019. Decreases in premiums due to return of premiums and reduced exposuresbusiness as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic were more than offset by new business opportunitieshigher commodity futures pricing and timing differences in the transportation, property and inland marine and ocean marine businesses.writing of premiums. Average renewal rates increased approximately 7% for this group in the first six months of 2020.2021. Reinsurance premiums ceded as a percentage of gross written premiums increased 2 percentage points in the first six months of 20202021 compared to the first six months of 2019,2020 reflecting growth in the crop and certain ocean marine business,insurance operations, which cede a larger percentage of premiums than the other businesses in the Specialty propertyProperty and transportation sub-segment.sub-segment and the impact of reinstatement premiums in the first six months of 2021 related to winter storms in Texas and a large property loss.

Specialty casualty Gross written premiums decreased $207increased $200 million (11%(12%) in the first six months of 20202021 compared to the first six months of 2019 due primarily2020. Significant renewal rate increases and new business opportunities contributed to the run-off of Neon. Excluding the $318 million in gross writtenhigher premiums from the Neon exited lines in the first six months of 2019, gross written premiumsexcess liability businesses. Higher renewal rates and increased 7% in the first six months of 2020 comparedexposures contributed to the first six months of 2019. This increase reflectspremium growth in the excess and surplus lines business. The executive liability and excess liabilitymergers and acquisitions businesses primarilyalso contributed meaningfully to the result of significant renewal rateyear-over-year growth. These increases new business opportunities and higher retentions on renewal business. This growth waswere partially offset by lower year-over-year premiums due to reduced exposures in the workers’ compensation businesses, as awhich were primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic.lower renewal rates and decreased exposure bases. Average renewal rates increased approximately 10%13% for this group in the first six months of 2020.2021. Excluding rate decreases in the workers’ compensation businesses,business, renewal rates for this group increased approximately 19%21%. Reinsurance premiums ceded as a percentage of gross written premiums increased 23 percentage points in the first six months of 20202021 compared to the first six months of 2019,2020 reflecting growth in the excess liability, mergers and surplusacquisitions and excess liabilityenvironmental businesses, which cede a larger percentage of premiums than the other businesses in the Specialty casualty sub-segment, partially offset by the impact of the Neon exited lines.sub-segment.

Specialty financial Gross written premiums decreased $14increased $22 million (4%(6%) in the first six months of 20202021 compared to the first six months of 20192020 due primarily to lower premiums fromrenewal rate increases and new business opportunities within the impact of various state regulations regarding policy cancellationslender services, surety and the placement of forced coverage in the financial institutions business, partially offset by higher premiums in the fidelity business.businesses. Average renewal rates increased approximately 7% for this group increased approximately 6% in the first six months of 2020.2021. Reinsurance premiums ceded as a percentage of gross written premiums decreased 14 percentage pointpoints for the first six months of 20202021 compared to the first six months of 2019,2020 reflecting lower cessions in the financial institutions business due to reduced premiums from collateral protection insurance that is 100% reinsured and lower cessions in the innovative markets business.

Other specialty The amounts shown as reinsurance premiums ceded represent business assumed by AFG’s internal reinsurance program from the operations that make up AFG’s other Specialty property and casualty insurance sub-segments. Reinsurance premiums assumed increased $28$16 million (44%(18%) in the first six months of 20202021 compared to the first six months of 2020, reflecting an increase in premiums retained, primarily from businesses in the Specialty casualty sub-segment.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
first six months of 2019, reflecting an increase in premiums retained, primarily from businesses in the Specialty casualty sub-segment.

Combined Ratio
The table below (dollars in millions) details the components of the combined ratio and underwriting profit for AFG’s property and casualty insurance segment:
Six months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
20202019Change2020201920212020Change20212020
Property and transportationProperty and transportationProperty and transportation
Loss and LAE ratioLoss and LAE ratio61.4 %65.4 %(4.0 %)Loss and LAE ratio57.1 %61.4 %(4.3 %)
Underwriting expense ratioUnderwriting expense ratio30.9 %28.8 %2.1 %Underwriting expense ratio29.0 %30.9 %(1.9 %)
Combined ratioCombined ratio92.3 %94.2 %(1.9 %)Combined ratio86.1 %92.3 %(6.2 %)
Underwriting profitUnderwriting profit$60  $43  Underwriting profit$118 $60 
Specialty casualtySpecialty casualtySpecialty casualty
Loss and LAE ratioLoss and LAE ratio64.1 %60.8 %3.3 %Loss and LAE ratio62.5 %64.1 %(1.6 %)
Underwriting expense ratioUnderwriting expense ratio28.7 %32.6 %(3.9 %)Underwriting expense ratio26.5 %28.7 %(2.2 %)
Combined ratioCombined ratio92.8 %93.4 %(0.6 %)Combined ratio89.0 %92.8 %(3.8 %)
Underwriting profitUnderwriting profit$79  $83  Underwriting profit$127 $79 
Specialty financialSpecialty financialSpecialty financial
Loss and LAE ratioLoss and LAE ratio41.2 %35.3 %5.9 %Loss and LAE ratio33.5 %41.2 %(7.7 %)
Underwriting expense ratioUnderwriting expense ratio53.2 %53.3 %(0.1 %)Underwriting expense ratio51.9 %53.2 %(1.3 %)
Combined ratioCombined ratio94.4 %88.6 %5.8 %Combined ratio85.4 %94.4 %(9.0 %)
Underwriting profitUnderwriting profit$17  $34  Underwriting profit$46 $17 
Total SpecialtyTotal SpecialtyTotal Specialty
Loss and LAE ratioLoss and LAE ratio60.5 %59.6 %0.9 %Loss and LAE ratio57.0 %60.5 %(3.5 %)
Underwriting expense ratioUnderwriting expense ratio33.2 %34.2 %(1.0 %)Underwriting expense ratio31.2 %33.2 %(2.0 %)
Combined ratioCombined ratio93.7 %93.8 %(0.1 %)Combined ratio88.2 %93.7 %(5.5 %)
Underwriting profitUnderwriting profit$143  $148  Underwriting profit$287 $143 
Aggregate — including exited linesAggregate — including exited linesAggregate — including exited lines
Loss and LAE ratioLoss and LAE ratio61.8 %59.7 %2.1 %Loss and LAE ratio57.0 %61.8 %(4.8 %)
Underwriting expense ratioUnderwriting expense ratio34.2 %34.2 %— %Underwriting expense ratio31.2 %34.2 %(3.0 %)
Combined ratioCombined ratio96.0 %93.9 %2.1 %Combined ratio88.2 %96.0 %(7.8 %)
Underwriting profitUnderwriting profit$96  $146  Underwriting profit$286 $96 

The Specialty property and casualty insurance operations generated an underwriting profit of $287 million for the first six months of 2021 compared to $143 million for the first six months of 2020, compared to $148an increase of $144 million for the first six months of 2019, a decrease of $5 million (3%(101%). The lowerhigher underwriting profit in the first six months of 20202021 reflects lowerhigher underwriting profits in each of the Specialty property and casualty and Specialty financial sub-segments, partially offset by higher underwriting profit in the Property and transportation sub-segment.insurance sub-segments. Underwriting results for the Specialty property and casualty insurance operations include $11 million in COVID-19 related losses (0.5 points on the combined ratio) in the first six months of 2021 and $95 million in COVID-19 related losses (4.2 points) in the first six months of 2020. Catastrophe losses were $30 million (1.3 points on the combined ratio) and related net reinstatement premiums were $12 million in the first six months of 2021 compared to catastrophe losses of $35 million (1.5 points) in the first six months of 2020.

Property and transportation Underwriting profit for this group was $118 million for the first six months of 2021 compared to $60 million for the first six months of 2020, compared to $43an increase of $58 million for(97%). This increase reflects higher underwriting profit in the transportation, property and inland marine and crop businesses. Catastrophe losses were $20 million (2.4 points on the combined ratio), primarily the result of winter storms in Texas, and related net reinstatement premiums were $9 million in the first six months of 2019, an increase2021 compared to catastrophe losses of $17$23 million (40%), This increase reflects higher favorable prior year reserve development(3.0 points) in the transportation businesses and higher underwriting profits at the Singapore branch, partially offset by lower underwriting profit in the crop business.first six months of 2020. COVID-19 related losses for this group were $6 million (0.7 points on the combined ratio)points) in the first six months of 2020. Catastrophe losses were $23 million (3.0 points on the combined ratio) in the first six months of 2020 compared to $17 million (2.3 points) in the first six months of 2019.

Specialty casualty Underwriting profit for this group was $127 million for the first six months of 2021 compared to $79 million for the first six months of 2020, compared to $83an increase of $48 million for(61%). This increase reflects higher underwriting profitability in the excess and surplus lines and excess liability businesses, partially offset by lower favorable prior year reserve development in the workers’ compensation business in the first six months of 2019, a decrease2021 compared to the first six months of $4 million (5%).2020. COVID-19 related losses were $59$7 million (5.3(0.6 points on the combined ratio) in the first six months of 2021 compared to $59 million (5.3 points) in the first six months of 2020, primarily in the workers’ compensation and executive liability businesses. TheseCatastrophe losses in addition to lower year-over-year underwriting profitability inwere $3 million (0.3 points on the alternative marketscombined ratio) and public sector businesses were partially offset by higher favorable prior year reserve development of $31 million in the firstrelated reinstatement
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
six months of 2020 compared to the first six months of 2019, primarily in the workers’ compensation and executive liability businesses, higher profitability in the excess and surplus and excess liability businesses, and the impact of $14premiums were $1 million of underwriting losses at Neon in the first six months of 2019.2021 compared to catastrophe losses of $6 million (0.5 points) in the first six months of 2020.

Specialty financial Underwriting profit for this group was $46 million for the first six months of 2021 compared to $17 million for the first six months of 2020, compared to $34an increase of $29 million for(171%). This increase reflects higher year-over-year underwriting profitability in the first six months of 2019, a decrease of $17 million (50%).trade credit and financial institutions businesses. COVID-19 related losses were $30$4 million (10.2(1.4 points on the combined ratio) in the first six months of 20202021 compared to $30 million (10.2 points), primarily related to trade credit insurance. Lower underwriting profitabilityCatastrophe losses were $6 million (2.0 points on the combined ratio) and related net reinstatement premiums were $2 million in the trade credit, surety and fidelity businesses was partially offset by higher underwriting profitfirst six months of 2021 compared to catastrophe losses of $6 million (2.0 points) in the financial institutions business.first six months of 2020.

Other specialty This group reported an underwriting loss of $13$4 million for the first six months of 20202021 compared to $12$13 million in the first six months of 2019, an increase2020, a decrease of $1$9 million (8%(69%). This increasedecrease reflects higherlower losses in the business assumed by AFG’s internal reinsurance program from the operations that make up AFG’s other Specialty sub-segments in the first six months of 20202021 compared to the first six months of 2019.2020.

Aggregate Aggregate underwriting results for AFG’s property and casualty insurance segment includes an underwriting loss of $44 million at Neon in the second quarterfirst six months of 2020, due primarily to losses related to the COVID-19 pandemic. AFG also recorded adverse prior year reserve development of $3$1 million and $2$3 million in the second quarterfirst six months of 20202021 and 2019,2020, respectively, related to business outside of the Specialty group that AFG no longer writes.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses
AFG’s overall loss and LAE ratio was 57.0% for the first six months of 2021 compared to 61.8% for the first six months of 2020, compared to 59.7% for the first six monthsa decrease of 2019, an increase of 2.14.8 percentage points. The components of AFG’s property and casualty losses and LAE amounts and ratio are detailed below (dollars in millions):
Six months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
AmountRatioChange inAmountRatioChange in
2020201920202019Ratio2021202020212020Ratio
Property and transportationProperty and transportationProperty and transportation
Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe lossesCurrent year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$499  $499  64.4 %67.5 %(3.1 %)Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$547 $499 64.5 %64.4 %0.1 %
Prior accident years developmentPrior accident years development(52) (32) (6.7 %)(4.4 %)(2.3 %)Prior accident years development(83)(52)(9.8 %)(6.7 %)(3.1 %)
COVID-19 related losses —  0.7 %— %0.7 %
Current year COVID-19 related lossesCurrent year COVID-19 related losses— — %0.7 %(0.7 %)
Current year catastrophe lossesCurrent year catastrophe losses23  17  3.0 %2.3 %0.7 %Current year catastrophe losses20 23 2.4 %3.0 %(0.6 %)
Property and transportation losses and LAE and ratioProperty and transportation losses and LAE and ratio$476  $484  61.4 %65.4 %(4.0 %)Property and transportation losses and LAE and ratio$484 $476 57.1 %61.4 %(4.3 %)
Specialty casualtySpecialty casualtySpecialty casualty
Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe lossesCurrent year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$717  $810  65.0 %64.2 %0.8 %Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$743 $717 64.1 %65.0 %(0.9 %)
Prior accident years developmentPrior accident years development(75) (44) (6.7 %)(3.5 %)(3.2 %)Prior accident years development(29)(75)(2.5 %)(6.7 %)4.2 %
COVID-19 related losses59  —  5.3 %— %5.3 %
Current year COVID-19 related lossesCurrent year COVID-19 related losses59 0.6 %5.3 %(4.7 %)
Current year catastrophe lossesCurrent year catastrophe losses  0.5 %0.1 %0.4 %Current year catastrophe losses0.3 %0.5 %(0.2 %)
Specialty casualty losses and LAE and ratioSpecialty casualty losses and LAE and ratio$707  $768  64.1 %60.8 %3.3 %Specialty casualty losses and LAE and ratio$724 $707 62.5 %64.1 %(1.6 %)
Specialty financialSpecialty financialSpecialty financial
Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe lossesCurrent year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$101  $115  33.5 %38.8 %(5.3 %)Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$115 $101 36.4 %33.5 %2.9 %
Prior accident years developmentPrior accident years development(13) (15) (4.5 %)(5.1 %)0.6 %Prior accident years development(20)(13)(6.3 %)(4.5 %)(1.8 %)
COVID-19 related losses30  —  10.2 %— %10.2 %
Current year COVID-19 related lossesCurrent year COVID-19 related losses30 1.4 %10.2 %(8.8 %)
Current year catastrophe lossesCurrent year catastrophe losses  2.0 %1.6 %0.4 %Current year catastrophe losses2.0 %2.0 %— %
Specialty financial losses and LAE and ratioSpecialty financial losses and LAE and ratio$124  $105  41.2 %35.3 %5.9 %Specialty financial losses and LAE and ratio$105 $124 33.5 %41.2 %(7.7 %)
Total SpecialtyTotal SpecialtyTotal Specialty
Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe lossesCurrent year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$1,372  $1,477  60.6 %62.3 %(1.7 %)Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$1,466 $1,372 60.5 %60.6 %(0.1 %)
Prior accident years developmentPrior accident years development(133) (88) (5.8 %)(3.7 %)(2.1 %)Prior accident years development(127)(133)(5.3 %)(5.8 %)0.5 %
COVID-19 related losses95  —  4.2 %— %4.2 %
Current year COVID-19 related lossesCurrent year COVID-19 related losses11 95 0.5 %4.2 %(3.7 %)
Current year catastrophe lossesCurrent year catastrophe losses35  24  1.5 %1.0 %0.5 %Current year catastrophe losses30 35 1.3 %1.5 %(0.2 %)
Total Specialty losses and LAE and ratioTotal Specialty losses and LAE and ratio$1,369  $1,413  60.5 %59.6 %0.9 %Total Specialty losses and LAE and ratio$1,380 $1,369 57.0 %60.5 %(3.5 %)
Aggregate — including exited linesAggregate — including exited linesAggregate — including exited lines
Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe lossesCurrent year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$1,447  $1,477  60.5 %62.3 %(1.8 %)Current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses$1,466 $1,447 60.5 %60.5 %— %
Prior accident years developmentPrior accident years development(119) (86) (5.0 %)(3.6 %)(1.4 %)Prior accident years development(126)(119)(5.3 %)(5.0 %)(0.3 %)
COVID-19 related losses115  —  4.8 %— %4.8 %
Current year COVID-19 related lossesCurrent year COVID-19 related losses11 115 0.5 %4.8 %(4.3 %)
Current year catastrophe lossesCurrent year catastrophe losses35  24  1.5 %1.0 %0.5 %Current year catastrophe losses30 35 1.3 %1.5 %(0.2 %)
Aggregate losses and LAE and ratioAggregate losses and LAE and ratio$1,478  $1,415  61.8 %59.7 %2.1 %Aggregate losses and LAE and ratio$1,381 $1,478 57.0 %61.8 %(4.8 %)

Current accident year losses and LAE, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses
The current accident year loss and LAE ratio, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses for AFG’s Specialty property and casualty insurance operations was 60.5% for the first six months of 2021 compared to 60.6% for the first six months of 2020, compared to 62.3% for the first six monthsa decrease of 2019, an improvement of 1.70.1 percentage points.

Property and transportation   The 3.1 percentage point improvement in the loss and LAE ratio for the current year, excluding COVID-19 and catastrophe losses reflects a decrease in the loss and LAE ratio at National Interstate, due primarily to rate increases and lower claim frequency in the first six months of 2020, and lower loss and LAE ratios in the Singapore branch and equine mortality business in the first six months of 2020 compared to the first six months of 2019, partially offset by an increase in the loss and LAE ratio of the aviation business in the first six months of 2020 compared to the first six months of 2019.

Specialty casualty  The 0.80.1 percentage point increase in the loss and LAE ratio for the current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses reflects growth in the impactcrop operations, which has a higher loss and LAE ratio than many of the Neon exited linesbusinesses in the property and transportation segment and a higher loss and LAE ratio in the equine business due to higher claim severity in the first six months of 2019, which have2021 compared to the first six months of 2020, partially offset by a lower loss and LAE ratio of the aviation business.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
lower loss and LAE ratio than many of the other businesses in the Specialty casualty group. Excluding the impact of the Neon exited lines, the loss and LAE ratio for the current year, excluding catastrophe losses decreased 0.4 percentage points in the first six months of 2020 compared to the first six months of 2019.

Specialty financial   The 5.30.9 percentage point improvementdecrease in the loss and LAE ratio for the current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses reflects a decrease in the loss and LAE ratios of the excess and surplus businesses, partially offset by an increase in the loss and LAE ratio of the executive liability business.

Specialty financialThe 2.9 percentage point increase in the loss and LAE ratio for the current year, excluding COVID-19 related and catastrophe losses reflects an increase in the loss and LAE ratio of the financial institutions business in the first six months of 2020 compared to the first six months of 2019.and trade credit businesses.

Net prior year reserve development
AFG’s Specialty property and casualty insurance operations recorded net favorable reserve development related to prior accident years of $127 million in the first six months of 2021 compared to $133 million in the first six months of 2020, compared to $88a decrease of $6 million in the first six months of 2019, an increase of $45 million (51%(5%).

Property and transportation Net favorable reserve development of $83 million in the first six months of 2021 reflects lower than anticipated claim frequency and severity in the transportation businesses, lower than expected losses in the crop business and lower than expected claim severity in the property and inland marine business, partially offset by higher than expected claim frequency and severity in the equine business. Net favorable reserve development of $52 million in the first six months of 2020 reflects lower than expected claim frequency and severity in the agricultural businesses and lower than anticipated claim frequency and severity in the transportation businesses.

Specialty casualty Net favorable reserve development of $32$29 million in the first six months of 20192021 reflects lower than expected losses in the crop business and lower than expectedanticipated claim frequency and severity in the transportationworkers’ compensation businesses, partially offset by higher than anticipated claim severity in the general liability, targeted markets and professional liability businesses.

Specialty casualty Net favorable reserve development of $75 million in the first six months of 2020 reflects lower than anticipated claim frequency and severity in the workers’ compensation businesses and lower than anticipated claim frequency in the executive liability business, partially offset by higher than expected claim frequency and severity in the excess and surplus businesses. Net favorable reserve development of $44 million in the first six months of 2019 reflects lower than anticipated claim severity in the workers’ compensation businesses, partially offset by higher than expected claim severity in the excess and surplus lines businesses and higher than expected losses at Neon.

Specialty financial Net favorable reserve development of $20 million in the first six months of 2021 reflects lower than anticipated claim frequency in the surety business and lower than expected claim frequency and severity in the financial institutions business. Net favorable reserve development of $13 million in the first six months of 2020 reflects lower than anticipated claim frequency in the trade credit and surety businesses. Net favorable reserve development of $15 million in the first six months of 2019 reflects lower than expected claim frequency and severity in the surety business and lower than expected claim severity in the fidelity business.

Other specialty In addition to the development discussed above, total Specialty prior year reserve development includes net adverse reserve development of $5 million in the first six months of 2021 and $7 million in the first six months of 2020, compared to $3 million in the first six months of 2019. Thereflecting net adverse reserve development reflects adverse development of $10 million and $6 million in the first six months of 2020 and the first six months of 2019, respectively, associated with AFG’s internal reinsurance program. Both periods includeprogram, partially offset by the amortization of the deferred gaingains on the retroactive reinsurance transactions entered into in connection with the sale of businesses in 1998 and 2001.

Aggregate Aggregate net prior accident years reserve development for AFG’s property and casualty insurance segment includes net adverse reserve development of $11 million from the Neon exited lines in the first six months of 2020 from the Neon exited lines and net adverse reserve development of $3$1 million in the first six months of 2021 and $2$3 million in the first six months of 2020 and the first six months of 2019, respectively, related to business outside the Specialty group that AFG no longer writes.

Covid-19COVID-19 related losses
Underwriting results for AFG’s Specialty property and casualty insurance operations recorded $11 million in reserve charges related to COVID-19 in the first six months of 2021 primarily related to the workers’ compensation and trade credit businesses, and released approximately $10 million of accident year 2020 reserves based on loss experience. Underwriting results for the first six months of 2020 includedinclude $95 million in COVID-19of reserve charges related losses.to COVID-19. Given the uncertainties surrounding the ultimate number orand scope of claims relating to the pandemic, these charges, approximately 90%66% of which establish reserves for claims that have beenthe $96 million in COVID-19 related losses are held as incurred but not reported represent the Company’s current best estimate of losses from the pandemic and related economic disruption incurred throughreserves at June 30, 2020. Approximately 70% of AFG’s COVID-19 related losses were reported in the workers’ compensation, executive liability and trade credit businesses, with the remainder spread across numerous other businesses.2021.

In addition, COVID-19 related losses were the primary driver of the underwriting loss recorded in the Neon exited lines for the first six months of 2020.

Catastrophe losses
Catastrophe losses of $30 million in the first six months of 2021 resulted primarily from storms in in multiple regions of the United States, including the winter storms in Texas. Catastrophe losses of $35 million in the first six months of 2020
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Catastrophe losses
Catastrophe losses of $35 million in the first six months of 2020 resulted primarily from storms and tornadoes in multiple regions of the United States and included $4 million related to civil unrest. Catastrophe losses of $24 million in the first six months of 2019 resulted primarily from storms and tornadoes in multiple regions of the United States.

Commissions and Other Underwriting Expenses
AFG’s property and casualty commissions and other underwriting expenses (“U/W Exp”) were $819$756 million in the first six months of 20202021 compared to $812$819 million for the first six months of 2019, an increase2020, a decrease of $7$63 million (1%(8%). AFG’s underwriting expense ratio was 31.2% for the first six months of 2021 compared to 34.2% for both the first six months of 2020, and the first six monthsa decrease of 2019.3.0 percentage points. Detail of AFG’s property and casualty commissions and other underwriting expenses and underwriting expense ratios is shown below (dollars in millions):
Six months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
20202019Change in20212020Change in
U/W Exp% of NEPU/W Exp% of NEP% of NEPU/W Exp% of NEPU/W Exp% of NEP% of NEP
Property and transportationProperty and transportation$240  30.9 %$213  28.8 %2.1 %Property and transportation$245 29.0 %$240 30.9 %(1.9 %)
Specialty casualtySpecialty casualty317  28.7 %412  32.6 %(3.9 %)Specialty casualty308 26.5 %317 28.7 %(2.2 %)
Specialty financialSpecialty financial159  53.2 %158  53.3 %(0.1 %)Specialty financial163 51.9 %159 53.2 %(1.3 %)
Other specialtyOther specialty33  40.4 %29  39.1 %1.3 %Other specialty40 39.0 %33 40.4 %(1.4 %)
Total SpecialtyTotal Specialty749  33.2 %812  34.2 %(1.0 %)Total Specialty756 31.2 %749 33.2 %(2.0 %)
Neon exited linesNeon exited lines70  —  Neon exited lines— 70 
AggregateAggregate$819  34.2 %$812  34.2 %— %Aggregate$756 31.2 %$819 34.2 %(3.0 %)

Property and transportation   Commissions and other underwriting expenses as a percentage of net earned premiums increased 2.1decreased 1.9 percentage points in the first six months of 20202021 compared to the first six months of 2019,2020 reflecting lowerhigher profitability-based ceding commissions received from reinsurers in the crop business in the first six months of 2020 compared to the first six months of 2019, partially offset byand the impact of higher premiums on the ratio in the property and inland marine business.transportation businesses in the first six months of 2021 compared to the first six months of 2020.

Specialty casualty   Commissions and other underwriting expenses as a percentage of net earned premiums decreased 3.92.2 percentage points in the first six months of 20202021 compared to the first six months of 2019, due to the run-off2020 reflecting higher ceding commissions received from reinsurers as a result of Neon. Neon has a higher expense ratio than many of the other businessesgrowth in the Specialty casualty sub-segment. Excluding the Neon exited lines, the underwriting expense ratio decreased 1.3 percentage points in the first six months of 2020 compared to the first six months of 2019 reflectingexcess liability and excess and surplus businesses and the impact of higher premiums on the ratio in the excess and surplus business.first six months of 2021 compared to the first six months of 2020.

Specialty financial   Commissions and other underwriting expenses as a percentage of net earned premiums is comparabledecreased 1.3 percentage points in the first six months of 2020 and2021 compared to the first six months of 2019.2020 reflecting the impact of higher premiums on the ratio in the first six months of 2021 compared to the first six months of 2020.

Property and Casualty Net Investment Income
Excluding the Neon exited lines, netNet investment income in AFG’s property and casualty insurance operations was $171$302 million in the first six months of 20202021 compared to $228$171 million (excluding the Neon exited lines) in the first six months of 2019, a decrease2020, an increase of $57$131 million (25%(77%). The average invested assets and overall yield earned on investments held by AFG’s property and casualty insurance operations are provided below (dollars in millions):
Six months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
20202019Change% Change20212020Change% Change
Net investment income$171  $228  $(57) (25 %)
Net investment income:Net investment income:
Net investment income excluding alternative investmentsNet investment income excluding alternative investments$162 $181 $(19)(10 %)
Alternative investmentsAlternative investments140 (10)150 (1,500 %)
Total net investment incomeTotal net investment income$302 $171 $131 77 %
Average invested assets (at amortized cost)Average invested assets (at amortized cost)$11,509  $11,084  $425  %Average invested assets (at amortized cost)$12,539 $11,509 $1,030 %
Yield (net investment income as a % of average invested assets)Yield (net investment income as a % of average invested assets)2.97 %4.11 %(1.14 %)Yield (net investment income as a % of average invested assets)4.82 %2.97 %1.85 %
Tax equivalent yield (*)Tax equivalent yield (*)3.10 %4.29 %(1.19 %)Tax equivalent yield (*)4.96 %3.10 %1.86 %
(*)Adjusts the yield on equity securities and tax-exempt bonds to the fully taxable equivalent yield.

The property and casualty insurance segment’s decrease in net investment income for the first six months of 2020 compared to the first six months of 2019 reflects losses from partnerships and similar investments and AFG-managed
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
CLOsThe property and casualty insurance segment’s increase in net investment income for the first six months of 2021 compared to the first six months of 2020 as a result of the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on financial markets,reflects significantly higher earnings from alternative investments (partnerships and similar investments and AFG-managed CLOs), partially offset by the impacteffect of growth in the propertylower fixed maturity yields, lower short-term interest rates and casualty insurance segment.lower dividend income. The property and casualty insurance segment’s overall yield on investments (net investment income as a percentage of average invested assets) was 4.82% for the first six months of 2021 compared to 2.97% for the first six months of 2020, compared to 4.11% for the first six monthsan increase of 2019, a decrease of 1.141.85 percentage points. AFG’s property and casualty insurance operations recorded $10 million in losses from partnerships and similarThe annualized return earned on alternative investments and AFG-managed CLOswas 26.3% in the first six months of 2020 compared to $31 million in earnings in the first six months of 2019, a $41 million (132%) decrease in earnings. The annualized yield earned on these partnerships and similar investments and AFG-managed CLOs was a negative yield of 2.3% in the first six months of 20202021 compared to a positive yieldnegative return of 9.1%2.3% in the prior year period.

In addition to the property and casualty segment’s net investment income from ongoing operations discussed above, the Neon exited lines reported a $6 million loss in the first six months of 2020 in net investment income, primarily from changes in the fair value of equity securities.

Property and Casualty Other Income and Expenses, Net
Other income and expenses, net for AFG’s property and casualty insurance operations was a net expense of $12 million for the first six months of 2021 compared to $14 million for the first six months of 2020, compared to $18 million for the first six months of 2019, a decrease of $4$2 million (22%(14%). The table below details the items included in other income and expenses, net for AFG’s property and casualty insurance operations (in millions):
Six months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
2020201920212020
Other incomeOther income$ $ Other income$$
Other expensesOther expensesOther expenses
Amortization of intangiblesAmortization of intangibles  Amortization of intangibles
OtherOther16  17  Other13 16 
Total other expenseTotal other expense22  23  Total other expense17 22 
Other income and expenses, netOther income and expenses, net$(14) $(18) Other income and expenses, net$(12)$(14)

In addition to the property and casualty segment’s other income and expenses, net from ongoing operations discussed above, the Neon exited lines incurred a net expense of $2 million in other income and expenses, net during the first six months of 2020.

Annuity SegmentHolding Company, Other and Unallocated — Results of Operations
AFG’s annuity operations contributed $12net GAAP pretax loss outside of its property and casualty insurance segment (excluding realized gains and losses) totaled $127 million in GAAP pretax earningsthe first six months of 2021 compared to $77 million in the first six months of 2020, compared to $161an increase of $50 million (65%). AFG’s net core pretax loss outside of its property and casualty insurance segment (excluding realized gains and losses) totaled $116 million in the first six months of 2019, a decrease of $1492021 compared to $77 million (93%) due primarily to losses from partnerships and similar investments and AFG-managed CLOs. The decrease in the financial markets during the first six months of 2020 had a negative impact on liabilities for annuities with guaranteed withdrawal benefits and on the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs in the first six months of 2020, compared to the favorable impactan increase of strong stock market performance in the 2019 period.$39 million (51%).

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
The following table details AFG’s GAAP and core earnings before income taxes from its annuity operations for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019 (dollars in millions):
Six months ended June 30,
20202019% Change
Revenues:
Net investment income$806  $886  (9 %)
Other income:
Guaranteed withdrawal benefit fees34  33  %
Policy charges and other miscellaneous income (a)31  25  24 %
Total revenues871  944  (8 %)
Costs and Expenses:
Annuity benefits (a)(b)561  587  (4 %)
Acquisition expenses (a)133  93  43 %
Other expenses68  70  (3 %)
Total costs and expenses762  750  %
Core earnings before income taxes109  194  (44 %)
Pretax non-core losses (a)(97) (33) 194 %
GAAP earnings before income taxes$12  $161  (93 %)
(a)As discussed under “Results of Operations — General,” beginning prospectively with the second quarter of 2019, unlocking, the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs, and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs over or under the cost of the equity index options purchased to mitigate the risk in the index-based component of those FIAs are considered non-core earnings (losses). For the first six months of 2020 and 2019, annuity benefits exclude the $154 million and $67 million unfavorable impact, respectively, of these items and acquisition expenses exclude the $57 million and $34 million favorable impact, respectively, on the amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs.
(b)Details of the components of annuity benefits are provided below.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Annuity core earnings before income taxes were $109 million in the first six months of 2020 compared to $194 million in the first six months of 2019, a decrease of $85 million (44%). As discussed under “Results of Operations — General,” beginning with the second quarter of 2019, unlocking, changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs, and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs over or under the cost of the equity index options purchased to mitigate the risk in the index-based component of those FIAs are considered non-core earnings (losses). For the first six months of 2020, the annuity segment’s core earnings before income taxes includes $97 million in pretax losses related to these items. Since annuity core earnings for the first quarter of 2019 and prior periods were not adjusted, the annuity segment’s core earnings before income taxes for the first six months of 2019 includes the $11 million negative impact from these items in first quarter of 2019. Excluding the $11 million unfavorable impact in the first quarter of 2019, annuity core net operating earnings for the first six months of 2020 decreased $96 million compared to the first six months of 2019 reflecting the losses from partnerships and similar investments and AFG-managed CLOs and the impact of lower short-term interest rates in the first six months of 2020, partially offset by growth in the business, higher than expected persistency and a reduction in the cost of funds as a percentage of average annuity benefits accumulated. The table below highlights the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives and other impacts of the changes in the stock market and interest rates on annuity segment results (dollars in millions):
Six months ended June 30,
20202019% Change
Earnings before income taxes — before the impact of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of stock market performance and interest rates on FIAs$109  $205  (47 %)
Impact of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on FIAs over or under option costs:
Change in fair value of derivatives related to FIAs(200) (198) %
Accretion of guaranteed minimum FIA benefits(211) (201) %
Other annuity benefits(41) —  — %
Less cost of equity options298  287  %
Related impact on the amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs57  68  (16 %)
Earnings before income taxes$12  $161  (93 %)

Annuity benefits consisted of the following (dollars in millions):
Six months ended June 30,
20202019Total
CoreNon-coreTotalCoreNon-coreTotal% Change
Interest credited — fixed$206  $—  $206  $193  $—  $193  %
Accretion of guaranteed minimum FIA benefits—  211  211  99  102  201  %
Interest credited — fixed component of variable annuities —    —   — %
Cost of equity options298  (298) —  146  (146) —  — %
Other annuity benefits:
Amortization of sales inducements —    —   (50 %)
Change in guaranteed withdrawal benefit reserve:
Impact of change in the stock market and interest rates—  20  20  (1) (4) (5) (500 %)
Accretion of benefits and other42  —  42  39  —  39  %
Change in expected death and annuitization reserves and other —   13  —  13  (31 %)
Change in other benefit reserves — impact of changes in interest rates and the stock market—  21  21  (7) 12   320 %
Derivatives related to fixed-indexed annuities:
Embedded derivative mark-to-market—  (46) (46) 462  251  713  (106 %)
Equity option mark-to-market—  246  246  (367) (148) (515) (148 %)
Impact of derivatives related to FIAs—  200  200  95  103  198  %
Total annuity benefits$561  $154  $715  $587  $67  $654  %

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Because fluctuations in interest rates and the stock market, among other factors, can cause volatility in annuity benefits expense related to FIAs that can be inconsistent with the long-term economics of the FIA business, management believes that including the actual cost of the equity options purchased in the FIA business and excluding unlocking, the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs, and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs provides investors with a better view of the true cost of funds in the business and a more comparable measure compared to the cost of funds reported by its peers. The cost of the equity options included in AFG’s cost of funds is the net purchase price of the option contracts amortized on a straight-line basis over the life of the contracts, which is generally one year. The following table reconciles AFG’s non-GAAP cost of funds measure to total annuity benefits expense (in millions):
Six months ended June 30,
20202019
Interest credited — fixed$206  $193  
Include cost of equity options298  287  
Cost of funds504  480  
Interest credited — fixed component of variable annuities  
Other annuity benefits, excluding the impact of interest rates and the stock market on FIAs55  60  
561  542  
Changes in fair value of derivatives related to FIAs, and other impacts of the stock market and interest rates over or under option costs:
Impact of derivatives related to FIAs200  198  
Accretion of guaranteed minimum FIA benefits211  201  
Other annuity benefits — impact of the stock market and interest rates on FIAs41  —  
Less cost of equity options (included in cost of funds)(298) (287) 
Total annuity benefits expense$715  $654  

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Net Spread on Fixed Annuities (excludes variable annuity earnings)
The table below (dollars in millions) details the components of the spreads for AFG’s fixed annuity operations (including fixed-indexed and variable-indexed annuities):
Six months ended June 30,
20202019% Change
Average fixed annuity investments (at amortized cost)$40,322  $37,449  %
Average fixed annuity benefits accumulated40,370  37,640  %
As % of fixed annuity benefits accumulated (except as noted):
Net investment income (as % of fixed annuity investments)3.98 %4.71 %
Cost of funds(2.50 %)(2.55 %)
Other annuity benefit expenses, net of guaranteed withdrawal benefit fees (*)(0.10 %)(0.13 %)
Net interest spread1.38 %2.03 %
Policy charges and other miscellaneous income (*)0.13 %0.10 %
Acquisition expenses (*)(0.64 %)(0.66 %)
Other expenses(0.33 %)(0.37 %)
Net spread earned on fixed annuities excluding the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs, and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on FIAs0.54 %1.10 %
Changes in fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of the stock market and interest rates under (over) option costs:
Included in core— %(0.06 %)
Annuity non-core earnings (losses)(0.48 %)(0.18 %)
Net spread earned on fixed annuities0.06 %0.86 %
(*)Excluding the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on annuity benefits and the related impact on the amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs.

Annuity Net Investment Income
Net investment income for the first six months of 2020 was $806 million compared to $886 million for the first six months of 2019, a decrease of $80 million (9%). This decrease reflects losses from partnerships and similar investments and AFG-managed CLOs, partially offset by growth in AFG’s annuity business. The overall yield earned on investments in AFG’s fixed annuity operations, calculated as net investment income divided by average investment balances (at amortized cost), decreased by 0.73 percentage points to 3.98% from 4.71% for the first six months of 2020 compared to the first six months of 2019. The decrease in the net investment yield between periods reflects the negative impact of lower earnings from partnerships and similar investments and AFG-managed CLOs in the first six months of 2020, along with the impact of the run-off of higher yielding investments and lower short-term interest rates. AFG’s annuity segment recorded $43 million in losses from partnerships and similar investments and AFG-managed CLOs in the first six months of 2020 compared to $60 million in earnings in the first six months of 2019, a change of $103 million (172%). The annualized yield earned on these partnerships and similar investments and AFG-managed CLOs was a negative yield of 6.7% in the first six months of 2020 compared to a positive yield of 11.1% in the prior year period.

Annuity Cost of Funds
Cost of funds for the first six months of 2020 was $504 million compared to $480 million for the first six months of 2019, an increase of $24 million (5%). This increase reflects growth in the annuity business. The average cost of policyholder funds, calculated as cost of funds divided by average fixed annuity benefits accumulated, decreased 0.05 percentage points to 2.50% from 2.55% in the first six months of 2020 compared to the first six months of 2019 reflecting the impact of offering lower renewal crediting rates on option costs.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
The following table provides details of AFG’s interest credited and other cost of funds (in millions):
Six months ended June 30,
20202019
Cost of equity options (FIAs)$298  $287  
Interest credited:
Traditional fixed annuities127  120  
Fixed component of fixed-indexed annuities51  45  
Immediate annuities12  12  
Pension risk transfer products  
Federal Home Loan Bank advances 14  
Total cost of funds$504  $480  

Other Annuity Benefits, Net of Guaranteed Withdrawal Benefit Fees
Other annuity benefits, net of guaranteed withdrawal benefit fees excluding the impact of the stock market and interest rates for the first six months of 2020 were $21 million compared to $27 million for the first six months of 2019, a decrease of $6 million (22%). As a percentage of average fixed annuity benefits accumulated, these net expenses decreased 0.03 percentage points to 0.10% from 0.13% in the first six months of 2020 compared to the first six months of 2019. In addition to interest credited to policyholders’ accounts and the change in fair value of derivatives related to fixed-indexed annuities, annuity benefits expense also includes the following expenses (in millions, net of guaranteed withdrawal benefit fees):
Six months ended June 30,
20202019
Other annuity benefits, excluding the impact of the stock market and interest rates on FIAs:
Amortization of sales inducements$ $ 
Change in guaranteed withdrawal benefit reserve42  39  
Change in other benefit reserves 13  
Other annuity benefits55  60  
Offset guaranteed withdrawal benefit fees(34) (33) 
Other annuity benefits excluding the impact of the stock market and interest rates, net21  27  
Other annuity benefits — impact of the stock market and interest rates41  —  
Other annuity benefits, net$62  $27  

As discussed under “Annuity Benefits Accumulated” in Note A — “Accounting Policies” to the financial statements, guaranteed withdrawal benefit reserves are accrued for and modified using assumptions similar to those used in establishing and amortizing deferred policy acquisition costs. In addition, the guaranteed withdrawal benefit reserve related to FIAs can be inversely impacted by the calculated FIA embedded derivative reserve as the value to policyholders of the guaranteed withdrawal benefits decreases when the benefit of stock market participation increases. As shown in the table above, changes in the stock market and interest rates increased AFG’s guaranteed withdrawal benefit reserve by $41 million in the first six months of 2020. This $41 million increase compared to the 2019 period was the primary driver of the $35 million (130%) overall increase in other annuity benefits, net of guaranteed withdrawal fees in the first six months of 2020 compared to the first six months of 2019.

Annuity Net Interest Spread
AFG’s net interest spread decreased 0.65 percentage points to 1.38% from 2.03% in the first six months of 2020 compared to the same period in 2019 due primarily to the negative impact of losses from partnerships and similar investments and AFG-managed CLOs in the first six months of 2020. Features included in current annuity product offerings allow AFG to achieve its desired profitability at a lower net interest spread than historical product offerings. As a result, AFG expects its net interest spread to narrow in the future.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Annuity Policy Charges and Other Miscellaneous Income
Annuity policy charges and other miscellaneous income, which consist primarily of surrender charges, amortization of deferred upfront policy charges (unearned revenue) and equity index call option proceeds received at maturity that are not passed to policyholders through index credits due to surrenders, were $31 million in the first six months of 2020 compared to $25 million in the first six months of 2019, an increase of $6 million (24%), reflecting higher gains on equity index options in excess of policyholder index credits in the first six months of 2020 compared to the first six months of 2019. Annuity policy charges and other miscellaneous income as a percentage of average fixed annuity benefits accumulated increased 0.03 percentage points to 0.13% from 0.10% in the first six months of 2020 compared to the first six months of 2019, reflecting the higher gains on equity index call options.

Annuity Acquisition Expenses
The following table illustrates the acceleration/deceleration of the amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs (“DPAC”) resulting from changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs over or under option costs (in millions):
Six months ended June 30,
20202019
Annuity acquisition expenses before the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of the stock market and interest rates$133  $127  
Impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives and other impacts of the stock market and interest rates:
Included in core—  (34) 
Annuity non-core earnings (losses)(57) (34) 
Annuity acquisition expenses$76  $59  

Annuity acquisitions expenses before the acceleration/deceleration of the amortization resulting from changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs over or under option costs were $133 million for the first six months of 2020 compared to $127 million for the first six months of 2019, an increase of $6 million (5%).

The negative impact of significantly lower than anticipated interest rates in both the first six months of 2020 and the first six months of 2019 on the fair value of derivatives and other liabilities related to FIAs resulted in a partially offsetting deceleration of the amortization of DPAC. The offsetting deceleration of the amortization of DPAC in the 2019 period was partially offset by the positive impact of strong stock market performance on the fair value of derivatives and other liabilities related to FIAs.

The table below illustrates the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to fixed-indexed annuities and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on FIAs on annuity acquisition expenses as a percentage of average fixed annuity benefits accumulated:
Six months ended June 30,
20202019
Before the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of the stock market and interest rates0.64 %0.66 %
Impact of changes in fair value of derivatives and other impacts of the stock market and interest rates(0.28 %)(0.36 %)
Annuity acquisition expenses as a % of fixed annuity benefits accumulated0.36 %0.30 %

Annuity Other Expenses
Annuity other expenses were $68 million for the first six months of 2020 compared to $70 million for the first six months of 2019, a decrease of $2 million (3%). Annuity other expenses represent primarily general and administrative expenses, as well as selling and issuance expenses that are not deferred. As a percentage of average fixed annuity benefits accumulated, these expenses decreased 0.04 percentage points to 0.33% from 0.37% for the first six months of 2020 compared to the first six months of 2019 due primarily to growth in the annuity business.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Change in Fair Value of Derivatives Related to Fixed-Indexed (Including Variable-Indexed) Annuities and Other Impacts of Changes in the Stock Market and Interest Rates on FIAs
AFG’s fixed-indexed (including variable-indexed) annuities provide policyholders with a crediting rate tied, in part, to the performance of an existing stock market or other financial index. AFG attempts to mitigate the risk in the index-based component of these products through the purchase and sale of call and put options on the appropriate index. AFG’s strategy is designed so that the net change in the fair value of the call option assets and put option liabilities will generally offset the economic change in the net liability from the index participation. Both the index-based component of the annuities (an embedded derivative) and the related call and put options are considered derivatives that must be adjusted for changes in fair value through earnings each period. The fair values of these derivatives are impacted by actual and expected stock market performance and interest rates as well as other factors. For a list of other factors impacting the fair value of the embedded derivative component of AFG’s annuity benefits accumulated, see Note D — “Fair Value Measurements” to the financial statements. Fluctuations in certain of these factors, such as changes in interest rates and the performance of the stock market, are not economic in nature for the current reporting period, but rather impact the timing of reported results.

As discussed above under “Other Annuity Benefits, Net of Guaranteed Withdrawal Benefit Fees” and “Annuity Acquisition Expenses,” the periodic accounting for DPAC and guaranteed withdrawal benefits related to FIAs is also impacted by changes in the stock market and interest rates. These impacts may be temporary in nature and not necessarily indicative of the long-term performance of the FIA business. The table below highlights the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and the other impacts of the stock market and interest rates over or under the cost of the equity index options (discussed above) on earnings before income taxes for the annuity segment (dollars in millions):
Six months ended June 30,
20202019% Change
Change in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs$(200) $(198) %
Accretion of guaranteed minimum FIA benefits(211) (201) %
Other annuity benefits(41) —  — %
Less cost of equity options298  287  %
Related impact on the amortization of DPAC57  68  (16 %)
Impact on annuity segment earnings before income taxes$(97) $(44) 120 %

During the first six months of 2020, the negative impact of significantly lower than anticipated interest rates and the decrease in stock market performance reduced the annuity segments’ earnings before income taxes by $97 million compared to the $44 million negative impact of interest rates and the stock market on annuity earnings before income taxes for the first six months of 2019, an increase of $53 million (120%). In the first six months of 2019, the negative impact of significantly lower than anticipated interest rates was partially offset by the positive impact of strong stock market performance. As a percentage of average fixed annuity benefits accumulated, the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs over or under the cost of the equity index options purchased to mitigate the risk in the indexed-based component of those FIAs was a net expense of 0.48% in the first six months of 2020 compared to 0.24% in the first six months of 2019.

The following table provides analysis of the primary factors impacting the change in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and the other impacts of the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs over or under the cost of the equity index options discussed above. Each factor is presented net of the estimated related impact on amortization of DPAC (dollars in millions).
Six months ended June 30,
20202019% Change
Change in the stock market, including volatility$(26) $40  (165 %)
Changes in interest rates higher (lower) than expected(71) (83) (14 %)
Other—  (1) (100 %)
Impact on annuity segment earnings before income taxes$(97) $(44) 120 %

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Annuity Net Spread Earned on Fixed Annuities
AFG’s net spread earned on fixed annuities excluding the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates over or under option costs decreased 0.56 percentage points to 0.54% in the first six months of 2020 from 1.10% in the first six months of 2019 due primarily to the 0.65 percentage point decrease in AFG’s net interest spread discussed above. AFG’s overall net spread earned on fixed annuities decreased 0.80 percentage points to 0.06% in the first six months of 2020 from 0.86% in the first six months of 2019 due to the decrease in AFG’s net interest spread, the impact of changes in the fair value of derivatives and other impacts of the stock market and interest rates on the accounting for FIAs discussed above.

Annuity Benefits Accumulated
Annuity premiums received and benefit payments are recorded as increases or decreases in annuity benefits accumulated rather than as revenue and expense. Increases in this liability for interest credited and other benefits are charged to expense and decreases for surrender and other policy charges are credited to other income.

For certain products, annuity benefits accumulated also includes reserves for accrued persistency and premium bonuses, excess benefits expected to be paid on future deaths and annuitizations (“EDAR”) and guaranteed withdrawal benefits. Annuity benefits accumulated also includes amounts advanced from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati. The following table is a progression of AFG’s annuity benefits accumulated liability for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019 (in millions):
Six months ended June 30,
20202019
Beginning fixed annuity reserves$40,018  $36,431  
Fixed annuity premiums (receipts)1,887  2,733  
Federal Home Loan Bank advances, net160  —  
Surrenders, benefits and other withdrawals(1,562) (1,623) 
Interest and other annuity benefit expenses:
Cost of funds504  480  
Embedded derivative mark-to-market(46) 713  
Change in other benefit reserves(19) (54) 
Ending fixed annuity reserves$40,942  $38,680  
Reconciliation to annuity benefits accumulated per balance sheet:
Ending fixed annuity reserves (from above)$40,942  $38,680  
Impact of unrealized investment gains285  192  
Fixed component of variable annuities165  172  
Annuity benefits accumulated per balance sheet$41,392  $39,044  

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Statutory Annuity Premiums
AFG’s annuity operations generated gross statutory premiums of $1.90 billion in the first six months of 2020 compared to $2.74 billion in the first six months of 2019, a decrease of $847 million (31%). The following table summarizes AFG’s annuity sales (dollars in millions):
Six months ended June 30,
20202019% Change
Financial institutions single premium annuities — indexed$682  $853  (20 %)
Financial institutions single premium annuities — fixed385  657  (41 %)
Retail single premium annuities — indexed310  575  (46 %)
Retail single premium annuities — fixed56  65  (14 %)
Broker dealer single premium annuities — indexed238  416  (43 %)
Broker dealer single premium annuities — fixed19  14  36 %
Pension risk transfer126  60  110 %
Education market — fixed and indexed annuities71  93  (24 %)
Total fixed annuity premiums1,887  2,733  (31 %)
Variable annuities10  11  (9 %)
Total gross fixed annuity premiums1,897  2,744  (31 %)
Ceded premiums(78) —  — %
Total net annuity premiums$1,819  $2,744  (34 %)

Management attributes the 31% decrease in gross fixed annuity premiums in the first six months of 2020 compared to the first six months of 2019 to the lower market interest rate environment. In response to the continued drop in market interest rates during 2019 and 2020, AFG lowered crediting rates on several products, which has slowed annuity sales compared to 2019 levels. In addition, many of the restrictions from the COVID-19 pandemic impact the ability of agents to conduct business in the same manner as usual. As a result, management expects annuity premiums to be negatively impacted during the remainder of 2020.

Annuity Earnings before Income Taxes Reconciliation
The following table reconciles the net spread earned on AFG’s fixed annuities to overall annuity pretax earnings for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019 (in millions):
Six months ended June 30,
20202019
Earnings on fixed annuity benefits accumulated$12  $162  
Earnings impact of investments in excess of fixed annuity benefits accumulated (*)(1) (4) 
Variable annuity earnings  
Earnings before income taxes$12  $161  
(*)Net investment income (as a % of investments) of 3.98% and 4.71% for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, multiplied by the difference between average fixed annuity investments (at amortized cost) and average fixed annuity benefits accumulated in each period.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Holding Company, Other and Unallocated — Results of Operations
AFG’s net pretax loss outside of its property and casualty insurance and annuity segments (excluding realized gains and losses) totaled $80 million in the first six months of 2020 compared to $85 million in the first six months of 2019, a decrease of $5 million (6%).

The following table details AFG’s loss before income taxes from operations outside of its property and casualty insurance and annuity segmentssegment for the six months ended June 30, 20202021 and 20192020 (dollars in millions):
Six months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
20202019% Change20212020% Change
Revenues:Revenues:Revenues:
Life, accident and health net earned premiums$10  $11  (9 %)
Net investment incomeNet investment income 24  (71 %)Net investment income$11 $(3)(467 %)
Other income — P&C feesOther income — P&C fees33  35  (6 %)Other income — P&C fees37 33 12 %
Reclassify annuity segment option gains(13) (4) 225 %
Other incomeOther income13  14  (7 %)Other income10 (10 %)
Total revenuesTotal revenues50  80  (38 %)Total revenues57 40 43 %
Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:Costs and Expenses:
Property and casualty insurance — commissions and other underwriting expensesProperty and casualty insurance — commissions and other underwriting expenses10  13  (23 %)Property and casualty insurance — commissions and other underwriting expenses14 10 40 %
Annuity - annuity benefits(13) (4) 225 %
Life, accident and health benefits19  17  12 %
Life, accident and health acquisition expenses  — %
Other expense — expenses associated with P&C feesOther expense — expenses associated with P&C fees23  22  %Other expense — expenses associated with P&C fees23 23 — %
Other expenses49  82  (40 %)
Other expenses (*)Other expenses (*)89 44 102 %
Costs and expenses, excluding interest charges on borrowed moneyCosts and expenses, excluding interest charges on borrowed money90  132  (32 %)Costs and expenses, excluding interest charges on borrowed money126 77 64 %
Loss before income taxes, excluding realized gains and losses and interest charges on borrowed moneyLoss before income taxes, excluding realized gains and losses and interest charges on borrowed money(40) (52) (23 %)Loss before income taxes, excluding realized gains and losses and interest charges on borrowed money(69)(37)86 %
Interest charges on borrowed moneyInterest charges on borrowed money40  33  21 %Interest charges on borrowed money47 40 18 %
Core loss from continuing operations before income taxes, excluding realized gains and lossesCore loss from continuing operations before income taxes, excluding realized gains and losses(116)(77)51 %
Loss before income taxes, excluding realized gains and losses$(80) $(85) (6 %)
Pretax non-core loss on pension settlementPretax non-core loss on pension settlement(11)— — %
GAAP loss from continuing operations before income taxes, excluding realized gains and lossesGAAP loss from continuing operations before income taxes, excluding realized gains and losses$(127)$(77)65 %

(*)
Holding Company and Other — Life, Accident and Health Premiums, Benefits and Acquisition Expenses
AFG’s run-off long-term care and life insurance operations recorded net earned premiums of $10 million and related benefits and acquisition expenses of $21 million in the first six months of 2020 compared to net earned premiumsExcludes a pretax non-core loss of $11 million and related benefits and acquisition expensesto the settlement of $19 millionpension liabilities of a small former manufacturing operation in the first six monthssecond quarter of 2019. The $2 million (12%) increase in life, accident and health benefits reflects higher claims in the run-off life insurance business.2021.

Holding Company and Other — Net Investment Income
AFG recorded net investment income on investments held outside of its property and casualty insurance and annuity segmentssegment of $7$11 million in the first six months of 2021 compared to a net investment loss of $3 million in the first six months of 2020, compared to $24a change of $14 million in the first six months of 2019, a decrease of $17 million (71%(467%). The parent company holds a small portfolio of securities that are carried at fair value through net investment income. These securities decreasedincreased in value by $6 million in the first six months of 20202021 compared to an increasea decrease in value of $9$6 million in the first six months of 2019.2020.

Holding Company and Other — P&C Fees and Related Expenses
Summit, a workers’ compensation insurance subsidiary, collects fees from a small group of unaffiliated insurers for providing underwriting, policy administration and claims services. In addition, certain of AFG’s property and casualty insurance businesses collect fees from customers for ancillary services such as workplace safety programs and premium financing. In the first six months of 2020,2021, AFG collected $33$37 million in fees for these services compared to $35$33 million in the first six months of 2019.2020. Management views this fee income, net of the $23 million in both the first six months of 2021 and the first six months of 2020, and $22 million the first six months of 2019, in expenses incurred to generate such fees, as a reduction in the cost of underwriting its property and casualty insurance policies. Consistent with internal management reporting, these fees and the related expenses are netted and recorded as a reduction of commissions and other underwriting expenses in AFG’s segmented results.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Holding Company and Other — Annuity Segment Option Gains
As discussed under “Annuity Segment — Results of Operations,” AFG purchases and sells equity index options to mitigate the risk in the index-based component of its FIAs. In evaluating the performance of the annuity business, management views the cost of the equity options as a better measurement of the true expenses of the Annuity segment as compared to the GAAP accounting for these options as derivatives because any proceeds at expiration from the options generally are passed to policyholders through index credits. On occasion, policyholders surrender their annuity prior to receiving the index credit, which results in any option exercise proceeds being retained by AFG. For internal management reporting, AFG views these “option gains” as miscellaneous (other) income rather than as a component of annuity benefits expense. Consistent with internal management reporting, these option gains are reclassified from annuity benefits to other income in AFG’s segmented results. In the first six months of 2020 and 2019, AFG had $13 million and $4 million, respectively, in such option gains.

Holding Company and Other — Other Income
Other income in the table above includes $8 million and $7 million in both the first six months of 20202021 and 2019, respectively,the first six months of 2020, in management fees paid to AFG by the AFG-managed CLOs (AFG’s consolidated managed investment entities). The management fees are eliminated in consolidation — see the other income line in the Consolidate MIEs column under “Results of Operations — Segmented Statement of Earnings.” Excluding amounts eliminated in consolidation, AFG recorded other income outside of its property and casualty insurance and annuity operationssegment of $5$1 million in the first six months of 20202021 compared to $7$2 million the first six months of 2019.

Holding Company and Other — Other Expenses
AFG’s holding companies and other operations outside of its property and casualty insurance and annuity segments recorded other expenses of $49 million in the first six months of 2020 compared to $82 million the first six months of 2019, a decrease of $33 million (40%). This decrease reflects lower holding company expenses related to employee benefit plans that are tied to stock market performance and lower expenses associated with certain incentive compensation plans in the first six months of 2020 compared to the first six months of 2019 and a $3 million charitable donation in the first six months of 2019.

Holding Company and Other — Interest Charges on Borrowed Money
AFG’s holding companies and other operations outside of its property and casualty insurance and annuity segments recorded interest expense of $40 million in the first six months of 2020 compared to $33 million in the first six months of 2019, an increase of $7 million (21%).

The increase in interest expense for the first six months of 2020 as compared to the first six months of 2019 reflects the following financial transactions completed by AFG between January 1, 2019 and June 30, 2020:
Issued $125 million of 5.875% Subordinated Debentures in March 2019
Issued $200 million of 5.125% Subordinated Debentures in December 2019
Redeemed $150 million of 6-1/4% Subordinated Debentures in December 2019
Issued $300 million of 5.25% Senior Notes in April 2020
Issued $150 million of 5.625% Subordinated Debentures in May 20202020.

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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
Consolidated Realized Gains (Losses) on SecuritiesHolding Company and Other — Other Expenses
AFG’s consolidated realized gains (losses)holding companies and other operations outside of its property and casualty insurance segment recorded other expenses of $89 million in the first six months of 2021 compared to $44 million the first six months of 2020, an increase of $45 million (102%) reflecting higher holding company expenses related to employee benefit plans that are tied to stock market performance and higher expenses associated with certain incentive compensation plans.

Holding Company and Other — Interest Charges on securities, which are not allocatedBorrowed Money
AFG’s holding companies and other operations outside of its property and casualty insurance segment recorded interest expense of $47 million in the first six months of 2021 compared to segments, were net losses of $347$40 million in the first six months of 2020, an increase of $7 million (18%), reflecting higher average indebtedness.

The increase in interest expense for the first six months of 2021 as compared to the first six months of 2020 reflects the following financial transactions completed by AFG between January 1, 2020 and June 30, 2021:
Issued $300 million of 5.25% Senior Notes in April 2020
Issued $150 million of 5.625% Subordinated Debentures in May 2020
Issued $200 million of 4.50% Subordinated Debentures in September 2020
Redeemed $150 million of 6% Subordinated Debentures in November 2020

Holding Company and Other — Loss on Pension Settlement
In the second quarter of 2021, AFG settled pension liabilities related to a small former manufacturing operation resulting in a pretax non-core loss of $11 million.

Realized Gains (Losses) on Securities
AFG’s realized gains (losses) on securities were net gains of $240$120 million in the first six months of 2019,2021 compared to net losses of $220 million in the first six months of 2020, a change of $587$340 million (245%(155%). Realized gains (losses) on securities consisted of the following (in millions):
Six months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,
2020201920212020
Realized gains (losses) before impairments:Realized gains (losses) before impairments:Realized gains (losses) before impairments:
DisposalsDisposals$29  $ Disposals$$
Change in the fair value of equity securitiesChange in the fair value of equity securities(333) 226  Change in the fair value of equity securities119 (211)
Change in the fair value of derivativesChange in the fair value of derivatives 12  Change in the fair value of derivatives(2)
Adjustments to annuity deferred policy acquisition costs and related items(5)  
(302) 244  
Change in allowance for impairments:
Securities(60) (6) 
Adjustments to annuity deferred policy acquisition costs and related items15   
(45) (4) 119 (206)
Change in allowance for impairments on securitiesChange in allowance for impairments on securities(14)
Realized gains (losses) on securitiesRealized gains (losses) on securities$(347) $240  Realized gains (losses) on securities$120 $(220)

The $333$119 million net realized gain from the change in the fair value of equity securities in the first six months of 2021 includes gains of $31 million on investments in energy and natural gas companies, $24 million on investments in healthcare companies, $19 million on investments in banks and financing companies and $19 million on investments in media companies. The $211 million net realized loss from the change in the fair value of equity securities in the first six months of 2020 includes losses of $76$58 million on investments in banks and financing companies, $76$44 million onfrom investments in media companies, $62$26 million on investments in natural gas companies, $36$21 million on real estate investment trusts, $14 million on investments in energy companies and $29 million on real estate investment trusts. The $226 million net realized gain from the change in the fair value of equity securities in the first six months of 2019 includes gains of $70 million on investments in banks and financing companies, $35 million from investments in media companies, $23 million on investments in asset management companies and $17$10 million on insurance companies.

The $60Realized Gain on Subsidiary
In the second quarter of 2021, AFG recognized a pretax gain on sale of subsidiary of $4 million of impairment allowance expense in the first six months of 2020 include $38 million in charges related to structured securities and $22 million in charges relatedcontingent consideration received on the sale of Neon. See “Results of Operations — General” for the discussion of the December 2019 decision to corporate bonds and other fixed maturities.exit the Lloyd’s of London insurance market.

Consolidated Income Taxes on Continuing Operations
AFG’s consolidated provision (credit) for income taxes on continuing operations was a provision of $116 million for the first six months of 2021 compared to a credit of $33$4 million for the first six months of 2020, compared to a provision of $137 million for the first six months of 2019, a change of $170$120 million (124%(3,000%). See Note LK — “Income Taxes” to the financial statements for an analysis of items affecting AFG’s effective tax rate.

Consolidated Noncontrolling Interests
AFG’s consolidated net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests was a net loss of $13 million for the first six months of 2020 compared to $4 million for the first six months of 2019, an increase of $9 million (225%). Both periods reflect losses at Neon, AFG’s United Kingdom-based Lloyd’s insurer.

RECENTLY ADOPTED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

See Note A — “Accounting Policies — Credit Lossesrate on Financial Instruments” to the financial statements for a discussion of accounting guidance adopted on January 1, 2020, which provides a new credit loss model for determining credit-related impairments for financial instruments measured at amortized cost (mortgage loans, premiums receivable and reinsurance recoverables) and requires an entity to estimate the credit losses expected over the life of an exposure or pool of exposures.

continuing operations.
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AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 10-Q
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Continued
ACCOUNTING STANDARDS TO BE ADOPTED
Consolidated Noncontrolling Interests in Continuing Operations
AFG’s consolidated net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests was a net loss $13 million for the first six months of 2020 reflecting losses at Neon, which was sold in December 2020.

In August 2018,
Real Estate Entities Acquired from the FASB issued ASU 2018-12, Financial Services – Insurance: Targeted ImprovementsAnnuity Operations
Beginning with the first quarter of 2021, the results of the annuity businesses to be sold are reported as discontinued operations, in accordance with GAAP, which included adjusting prior period results to reflect these operations as discontinued. Prior to the Accountingcompletion of the sale, AFG’s property and casualty insurance operations acquired approximately $480 million in real-estate related partnerships and AFG parent acquired approximately $100 million of directly owned real estate from those operations. GAAP pretax earnings from continuing operations includes the earnings from these entities and certain other expenses that will be retained from the annuity operations.

The retained real estate entities contributed $51 million in GAAP pretax earnings in the first six months of 2021 compared to $19 million in the first six months of 2020, an increase of $32 million (168%). This increase reflects higher earnings from the real-estate related partnerships in the first six months of 2021 compared to the first six months of 2020.

Discontinued Annuity Operations
AFG’s discontinued annuity operations contributed $324 million in GAAP pretax earnings (excluding the gain on the sale of the annuity operations) in the first six months of 2021 compared to a pretax net loss of $125 million in the first six months of 2020, a change of $449 million (359%) reflecting the following:
net realized gains on securities in the first six months of 2021 compared to net realized losses in the first six months of 2020,
significantly higher earnings from partnerships and similar investments,
the negative impact from the run-off of higher yielding investments and lower short-term interest rates,
the positive impact of strong stock market performance in the first six months of 2021 compared to the unfavorable impact of the decline in stock market performance in the first six months of 2020,
the negative impact of lower than expected interest rates in both the first six months of 2021 and the first six months of 2020 on the accounting for Long-Duration Contractsfixed indexed annuities (“FIAs”), and
, which changes the assumptions used to measure the liability for future policy benefits for traditional and limited pay contracts (e.g. life, accident and health benefits) from being locked in at inception to being updated at least annually and standardizes the liability discount rate to be used and updated each reporting period, requires the measurementnegative impact of market risk benefits associated with deposit contracts (e.g. annuities) to be recorded at fair value, simplifies the amortization of the deferred policy acquisition costsloss related to a constant level basis over the expected lifeannuity block reinsurance transaction entered into in the fourth quarter of 2020 and other reinsurance impacts in the related contracts and requires enhanced disclosures. AFG will be required to adopt this guidance effective January 1, 2022. In July 2020, the Financial Accounting Standards Board voted to expose a proposal to delay the effective date for public companies by one year. AFG cannot estimate the impact that the updated guidance will have on its resultsfirst six months of operations, financial position or liquidity until the updated guidance is closer to adoption.2021.

The following table details AFG’s earnings (loss) before and after income taxes and the gain on the sale from its discontinued annuity operations for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020 (dollars in millions):

Six months ended June 30,
2021 (*)2020% Change
Pretax annuity earnings historically reported as core operating earnings:
Pretax annuity earnings before items below$106 $166 (36 %)
Earnings on partnerships and similar investments139 (64)(317 %)
Total pretax annuity earnings historically reported as core operating earnings245 102 140 %
Pretax amounts previously reported outside of annuity core earnings:
Impact of reinsurance, derivatives related to FIAs and other impacts of changes in the stock market and interest rates on FIAs over or under option costs(33)(97)(66 %)
Realized gains (losses) on securities112 (127)(188 %)
Run-off life and long-term care— (3)(100 %)
Total pretax amounts previously reported outside of annuity core earnings79 (227)(135 %)
GAAP pretax earnings (loss) from discontinued annuity operations, excluding the gain on the sale of the discontinued annuity operations324 (125)(359 %)
Provision (credit) for income taxes66 (29)(328 %)
GAAP net earnings (loss) from discontinued annuity operations, excluding the sale of the discontinued annuity operations258 (96)(369 %)
Gain on sale of discontinued annuity operations, net of tax656 — — %
GAAP net earnings (loss) from discontinued annuity operations$914 $(96)(1,052 %)
(*)Results through the May 31, 2021 effective date of the sale.
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ITEM 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk

As of June 30, 2020,2021, there were no material changes to the information provided in Item 7A — Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk of AFG’s 20192020 Form 10-K.

ITEM 4. Controls and Procedures

AFG’s management, with participation of its Co-Chief Executive Officers and its Interim PrincipalChief Financial Officer, has evaluated AFG’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, AFG’s Co-CEOs and interim principal financial and accounting officerCFO concluded that the controls and procedures are effective. There have been no changes in AFG’s internal control over financial reporting during the second fiscal quarter of 20202021 that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, AFG’s internal control over financial reporting.

In the ordinary course of business, AFG and its subsidiaries routinely enhance their information systems by either upgrading current systems or implementing new systems. There has been no change in AFG’s business processes and procedures during the second fiscal quarter of 20202021 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, AFG’s internal control over financial reporting.

PART II
OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1A. Risk Factors
For a discussion of AFG’s potential risks or uncertainties, please see “Part I — Item 1A — Risk Factors” and “Part II — Item 7 — Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in AFG’s 2019 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC, and “Part I — Item 2 — Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, in each case as updated by AFG’s periodic filings with the SEC. Other than as described below, there have been no material changes to the risk factors disclosed in Part I — Item 1A of the Company’s 2019 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
The impact of COVID-19 and related risks could materially affect AFG’s results of operations, financial position and liquidity.
The global COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in, and is expected to continue to result in, significant disruptions in economic activity and financial markets. COVID-19 has directly and indirectly adversely affected AFG and will likely continue to do so for an uncertain period of time. The cumulative effects of COVID-19 on AFG cannot be predicted at this time, but could include (or continue to include), without limitation:
Continued volatility and further disruption in financial markets which could result in additional significant declines in the fair value of AFG’s investments and could lead to investment losses due to creditor defaults and bankruptcies;
Continued low or declining interest rates which could reduce future investment results;
Continued negative impact on premium volumes and annuity sales due to the impact of COVID-19 on general economic activity;
Negative impact on the global economy or the economies of particular countries or regions, including travel, trade, tourism, the health system, food supply, consumption and overall economic output;
Reduced cash flows from policyholders delaying premium payments and increased surrenders and annuitizations of in-force annuities;
Increased claims, including annuity and life insurance death claims, losses, litigation and related expenses;
Legislative, regulatory, and judicial actions in response to COVID-19, including, but not limited to: actions prohibiting AFG from canceling insurance policies in accordance with policy terms; requiring AFG to cover losses when its policies specifically excluded coverage or did not provide coverage; ordering AFG to provide premium refunds; granting extended grace periods for payment of premiums; and providing for extended periods of time to pay past due premiums; and
Policyholder losses from COVID-19-related claims could be greater than AFG’s reserves for those losses.

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AFG’s results of operations could be adversely impacted by catastrophes, both natural and man-made, pandemics or severe weather conditions or climate change.
Catastrophes can be caused by unpredictable natural events such as hurricanes, windstorms, severe storms, tornadoes, floods, hailstorms, severe winter weather, earthquakes, explosions and fire, and by other events, such as terrorist attacks, as well as pandemics and other similar outbreaks in many parts of the world, including the recent outbreak of COVID-19. These events may have a material adverse effect on AFG’s workforce and business operations as well as the workforce and operations of AFG’s customers and independent agents. Some of the assets in AFG’s investment portfolio may be adversely affected by declines in the financial markets, changes in interest rates, reduced liquidity and economic activity caused by large-scale catastrophes, pandemics, terrorist attacks or similar events which could have a material adverse effect on AFG’s revenue, liquidity and operating results.

While not considered a catastrophe by insurance industry standards, droughts can have a significant adverse impact on AFG’s crop insurance results. In addition, extreme weather events that are linked to rising temperatures, changing global weather patterns and fluctuating rain, snow and sea levels (climate change) could result in increased occurrence and severity of catastrophes. The extent of gross losses for AFG’s insurance operations from a catastrophe event is a function of both the total amount of insured exposure in the area affected by the event and the severity of the event, potentially mitigated by any reinsurance coverage purchased by AFG’s insurance subsidiaries. In addition, certain catastrophes could result in both property and non-property claims from the same event. A severe catastrophe or a series of catastrophes could result in losses exceeding AFG’s reinsurance protection and may have a material adverse impact on its results of operations or financial condition.

ITEM 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities   AFG repurchased shares of its Common Stock during 20202021 as follows:
Total
Number
of Shares
Purchased
Average
Price Paid
Per Share
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs
Maximum Number
of Shares
that May
Yet be Purchased
Under the Plans
or Programs (*)
Total
Number
of Shares
Purchased
Average
Price Paid
Per Share
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs
Maximum Number
of Shares
that May
Yet be Purchased
Under the Plans
or Programs (b)
First quarterFirst quarter826,283  $74.28  826,283  4,173,717  First quarter1,757,702 $108.98 1,757,702 3,710,904 
Second quarter:Second quarter:Second quarter:
AprilApril—  —  —  4,173,717  April94,273 $115.07 94,273 3,616,631 
MayMay85,000  $62.77  85,000  4,088,717  May447,048 128.39 447,048 8,169,583 
JuneJune1,109,236  63.78  1,109,236  2,979,481  June375,199 121.99 375,199 7,794,384 
TotalTotal2,020,519  $68.04  2,020,519  Total2,674,222 $114.26 (a)2,674,222  
(*)(a)In June 2021, AFG paid a special dividend of $14.00 per share of its Common Stock. The average price paid per share adjusted for the special dividend was $102.23 for the six months ended June 2021.
(b)Represents the remaining shares that may be repurchased until December 31, 2025 under the Plans authorized by AFG’s Board of Directors in February 2016October 2020 and February 2019.May 2021. In May 2021, AFG’s Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of five million additional shares.

In addition, AFG acquired 95,85476,984 shares of its Common Stock (at an average of $110.80$106.58 per share) in the first quarter of 2020, 4212021, 274 shares of its Common Stock (at $114.09 per share) in April 2021, 13,418 shares (at an average of $62.22$132.45 per share) in May 20202021 and 119688 shares (at $62.38$123.18 per share) in June 20202021 in connection with its stock incentive plans.

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ITEM 6. Exhibits
 
NumberExhibit Description
101.INSXBRL Instance Document - the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document.
101.SCHInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.
101.CALInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.
101.DEFInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.
101.LABInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.
101.PREInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.
104Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101).


Signature
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.
American Financial Group, Inc.
August 6, 20202021By: /s/ Brian S. Hertzman
 Brian S. Hertzman
 Senior Vice President and ControllerChief Financial Officer
(interim principal financial and accounting officer)
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