Table of Contents

 

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

xQUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the period ended June 30, 2008

 

For the period ended March 31, 2009

OR

 

oTRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the transition period from         to         

Commission file number 1-8993

 

WHITE MOUNTAINS INSURANCE GROUP, LTD.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Bermuda

 

94-2708455

(State or other jurisdiction of

 

(I.R.S. Employer

incorporation or organization)

 

Identification No.)

80 South Main Street,

 

 

Hanover, New Hampshire

 

03755-2053

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

(Zip Code)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:  (603) 640-2200

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months, (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

 

Yes   x   No   o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months.

Yes   x   No   o

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,”filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer x

Accelerated filer o

Non-accelerated filer o

Smaller reporting company o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).Yes.

Yes   o   No   x

 

As of July 31, 2008, 10,494,873April 30, 2009, 8,856,586 common shares with a par value of $1.00 per share were outstanding (which includes 53,20092,620 restricted common shares that were not vested at such date).

 

 

 



Table of Contents

 

WHITE MOUNTAINS INSURANCE GROUP, LTD.

 

Table of Contents

 

 

 

Page No.

PART I.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.

Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Consolidated Balance Sheets, March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008

1

 

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss,
Three Months Ended March 31, 2009 and 2008

2

Item 1.

FinancialConsolidated Statements (Unaudited)of Common Shareholders’ Equity,
Three Months Ended March 31, 2009 and 2008

3

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets,

 

 

June 30,Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows,
Three Months Ended March 31, 2009 and 2008 and December 31, 2007

3

4

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive (Loss) Income,

Three and Six Months Ended June 30, 2008 and 2007

4

Consolidated Statements of Common Shareholders’ Equity,

Six Months Ended June 30, 2008 and 2007

5

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows,

Six Months Ended June 30, 2008 and 2007

6

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

7

5

 

 

 

Item 2.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial

Condition and Results of Operations

34

29

Results of Operations - Three Months Ended March 31, 2009 and 2008

29

 

 

 

 

Results of Operations - ThreeLiquidity and Six Months EndedCapital Resources

 

40

 

June 30, 2008 and 2007

34

 

 

 

 

Non-GAAP Financial MeasuresFair Value Considerations

51

46

 

 

 

 

Liquidity and Capital ResourcesNon-GAAP Financial Measures

52

49

 

 

 

 

Critical Accounting Estimates

58

50

 

 

 

 

Forward-Looking Statements

59

50

 

 

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

59

50

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

60

51

PART II.

OTHER INFORMATION

60

51

Items 1 through 6.

60

51

SIGNATURES

 

63

52

 

2



Table of Contents

 

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION.

 

Item 1. Financial Statements

 

WHITE MOUNTAINS INSURANCE GROUP, LTD.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

 

June 30,

 

December 31,

 

 

March 31,

 

December 31,

 

(Millions, except share and per share amounts)

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

Unaudited

 

 

 

 

Unaudited

 

 

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed maturity investments, at fair value (amortized cost: $6,709.0 and $7,193.0)

 

$

6,846.4

 

$

7,371.5

 

Common equity securities, at fair value (cost: $1,431.6 and $1,298.8)

 

1,620.6

 

1,550.7

 

Fixed maturity investments, at fair value (amortized cost: $5,712.3 and $5,631.6)

 

$

5,630.5

 

$

5,480.5

 

Common equity securities, at fair value (cost: $323.0 and $558.4)

 

318.8

 

552.7

 

Short-term investments, at amortized cost (which approximates fair value)

 

1,988.0

 

1,327.3

 

 

2,148.4

 

2,244.5

 

Other investments (cost: $545.1 and $539.2)

 

666.5

 

603.3

 

Convertible fixed maturity investments, at fair value (cost: $425.2 and $482.1)

 

414.6

 

490.6

 

Trust account investments, at amortized cost (fair value $ – and $307.0)

 

 

305.6

 

Other long-term investments (cost: $421.2 and $431.2)

 

395.1

 

416.2

 

Convertible fixed maturity investments, at fair value (cost: $284.9 and $327.3)

 

265.0

 

308.8

 

Securities lending investment assets - OneBeacon (cost: $50.8 and $0)

 

46.9

 

 

Total investments

 

11,536.1

 

11,649.0

 

 

8,804.7

 

9,002.7

 

Cash (restricted: $18.8 and $8.5)

 

198.3

 

171.3

 

Cash (restricted: $130.7 and $225.7)

 

448.8

 

409.6

 

Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses

 

1,622.2

 

1,702.9

 

 

1,329.2

 

1,358.8

 

Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses - Berkshire Hathaway Inc.

 

1,705.4

 

1,765.0

 

 

1,655.5

 

1,691.6

 

Reinsurance recoverable on paid losses

 

41.2

 

59.5

 

 

66.9

 

47.3

 

Insurance and reinsurance premiums receivable

 

953.3

 

877.0

 

 

982.6

 

835.7

 

Securities lending collateral

 

474.9

 

661.6

 

Securities lending collateral - OneBeacon

 

 

100.7

 

Securities lending collateral - WMRe America

 

105.8

 

119.3

 

Funds held by ceding companies

 

221.0

 

231.1

 

 

145.6

 

163.3

 

Investments in unconsolidated affiliates

 

289.0

 

406.3

 

 

99.7

 

116.9

 

Deferred acquisition costs

 

338.4

 

326.0

 

 

327.7

 

323.0

 

Deferred tax asset

 

324.1

 

236.6

 

 

658.1

 

724.0

 

Ceded unearned premiums

 

158.8

 

123.1

 

 

165.7

 

111.3

 

Accrued investment income

 

78.0

 

83.2

 

 

64.5

 

67.4

 

Accounts receivable on unsettled investment sales

 

36.5

 

201.1

 

 

25.6

 

78.2

 

Other assets

 

726.6

 

611.9

 

 

760.1

 

746.0

 

Total assets

 

$

18,703.8

 

$

19,105.6

 

 

$

15,640.5

 

$

15,895.8

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss and loss adjustment expense reserves

 

$

7,946.4

 

$

8,062.1

 

 

$

7,260.1

 

$

7,400.1

 

Unearned insurance and reinsurance premiums

 

1,760.3

 

1,605.2

 

 

1,732.3

 

1,597.4

 

Debt

 

1,520.6

 

1,192.9

 

 

1,349.2

 

1,362.0

 

Securities lending payable

 

476.3

 

661.6

 

Securities lending payable - OneBeacon

 

48.6

 

107.7

 

Securities lending payable - WMRe America

 

112.8

 

127.1

 

Deferred tax liability

 

453.8

 

353.2

 

 

289.5

 

306.0

 

Incentive compensation payable

 

142.9

 

224.2

 

 

71.7

 

154.3

 

Funds held under reinsurance treaties

 

76.0

 

103.0

 

 

76.6

 

79.1

 

Ceded reinsurance payable

 

88.4

 

124.8

 

 

162.6

 

101.3

 

Accounts payable on unsettled investment purchases

 

72.8

 

46.4

 

 

23.5

 

7.5

 

Other liabilities

 

820.3

 

873.1

 

 

1,031.3

 

1,140.8

 

Preferred stock subject to mandatory redemption:

 

 

 

 

 

Held by Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (redemption value $ – and $300.0)

 

 

278.3

 

Total liabilities

 

13,357.8

 

13,524.8

 

 

12,158.2

 

12,383.3

 

Minority interest - OneBeacon, Ltd.

 

400.0

 

517.2

 

Minority interest - WMRe Group Preference Shares

 

250.0

 

250.0

 

Minority interest - consolidated limited partnerships

 

98.7

 

100.2

 

Total minority interest

 

748.7

 

867.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common shareholders’ equity

 

 

 

 

 

Common shares at $1 par value per share - authorized 50,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 10,552,376 and 10,553,572 shares

 

10.6

 

10.5

 

Shareholders’ equity and noncontrolling interests

 

 

 

 

 

White Mountains’ shareholders’ equity

 

 

 

 

 

White Mountains common shares at $1 par value per share - authorized 50,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 8,854,086 and 8,808,843 shares

 

8.9

 

8.8

 

Paid-in surplus

 

1,691.1

 

1,680.7

 

 

1,422.8

 

1,419.4

 

Retained earnings

 

2,802.2

 

2,718.5

 

 

1,776.3

 

1,751.9

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income, after-tax:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net unrealized gains on investments

 

 

208.9

 

Equity in unrealized losses from investments in unconsolidated affiliates

 

(66.4

)

(1.9

)

 

(219.6

)

(198.4

)

Net unrealized foreign currency translation gains

 

162.3

 

99.3

 

Net unrealized foreign currency translation losses

 

(101.7

)

(61.5

)

Other

 

(2.5

)

(2.6

)

 

(20.5

)

(21.4

)

Total common shareholders’ equity

 

4,597.3

 

4,713.4

 

Total liabilities, minority interest and common shareholders’ equity

 

$

18,703.8

 

$

19,105.6

 

Total White Mountains shareholders’ equity

 

2,866.2

 

2,898.8

 

Noncontrolling interests

 

 

 

 

 

Noncontrolling interest - OneBeacon Ltd.

 

287.0

 

283.5

 

Noncontrolling interest - WMRe Preference Shares

 

250.0

 

250.0

 

Noncontrolling interest - consolidated limited partnerships and A.W.G Dewar

 

79.1

 

80.2

 

Total noncontrolling interests

 

616.1

 

613.7

 

Total equity

 

3,482.3

 

3,512.5

 

Total liabilities and equity

 

$

15,640.5

 

$

15,895.8

 

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

31



Table of Contents

 

WHITE MOUNTAINS INSURANCE GROUP, LTD.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME

Unaudited

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

June 30,

 

June 30,

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

(Millions, except per share amounts)

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earned insurance and reinsurance premiums

 

$

921.7

 

$

960.7

 

$

1,850.8

 

$

1,898.7

 

 

$

911.4

 

$

929.1

 

Net investment income

 

111.7

 

126.7

 

228.5

 

244.7

 

 

61.1

 

116.8

 

Net realized investment (losses) gains

 

(4.9

)

89.1

 

(17.9

)

163.0

 

Net unrealized investment losses

 

(54.2

)

 

(159.2

)

 

Net realized and unrealized investment losses

 

(23.3

)

(118.0

)

Other revenue

 

64.9

 

34.1

 

74.9

 

70.3

 

 

17.3

 

10.0

 

Total revenues

 

1,039.2

 

1,210.6

 

1,977.1

 

2,376.7

 

 

966.5

 

937.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss and loss adjustment expenses

 

632.7

 

592.1

 

1,271.4

 

1,205.4

 

 

543.2

 

638.7

 

Insurance and reinsurance acquisition expenses

 

178.8

 

203.6

 

365.5

 

396.2

 

 

182.2

 

186.7

 

Other underwriting expenses

 

127.4

 

136.2

 

244.2

 

273.9

 

 

115.4

 

116.8

 

General and administrative expenses

 

57.8

 

62.4

 

116.0

 

115.3

 

 

55.9

 

56.7

 

Accretion of fair value adjustment to loss and loss adjustment expense reserves

 

4.1

 

5.5

 

8.3

 

10.6

 

 

2.5

 

4.2

 

Interest expense on debt

 

21.7

 

18.3

 

41.1

 

35.1

 

 

18.9

 

19.4

 

Interest expense - dividends on preferred stock subject to mandatory redemption

 

4.7

 

7.5

 

11.8

 

15.1

 

 

 

7.1

 

Interest expense - accretion on preferred stock subject to mandatory redemption

 

11.1

 

8.8

 

21.6

 

17.0

 

 

 

10.5

 

Total expenses

 

1,038.3

 

1,034.4

 

2,079.9

 

2,068.6

 

 

918.1

 

1,040.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pre-tax (loss) income

 

.9

 

176.2

 

(102.8

)

308.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income tax benefit (provision)

 

3.4

 

(55.8

)

36.3

 

(87.0

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Loss) income before equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates, extraordinary item, and minority interest

 

4.3

 

120.4

 

(66.5

)

221.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pre-tax income (loss)

 

48.4

 

(102.2

)

Income tax (expense) benefit

 

(12.3

)

32.5

 

Income (loss) before equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates, and extraordinary item

 

36.1

 

(69.7

)

Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates

 

6.0

 

8.6

 

6.4

 

19.1

 

 

.9

 

.4

 

Excess of fair value of acquired assets over cost

 

 

 

4.2

 

 

 

 

4.2

 

Minority interest

 

(19.5

)

(26.4

)

(10.1

)

(45.4

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net (loss) income

 

(9.2

)

102.6

 

(66.0

)

194.8

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change in net unrealized gains and losses for investments held

 

 

8.5

 

 

73.6

 

Net income (loss) before noncontrolling interests

 

37.0

 

(65.1

)

Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest

 

(6.7

)

8.3

 

Net income (loss) attributable to White Mountains common shareholders

 

30.3

 

(56.8

)

Comprehensive loss, net of tax:

 

 

 

 

 

Change in equity in net unrealized losses from investments in unconsolidated affiliates

 

(40.5

)

(39.9

)

(61.0

)

(33.4

)

 

(18.2

)

(20.5

)

Change in foreign currency translation and other

 

(6.6

)

17.9

 

50.2

 

14.1

 

 

(39.0

)

56.5

 

Recognition of net unrealized losses for investments sold

 

 

(39.3

)

 

(90.2

)

Comprehensive net loss before noncontrolling interests

 

(26.9

)

(20.8

)

Comprehensive net (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interests

 

(.3

)

.3

 

Comprehensive net loss attributable to White Mountains shareholders

 

$

(27.2

)

$

(20.5

)

Earnings (loss) per share attributable to White Mountains common shareholders

 

 

 

 

 

Basic earnings (loss) per share

 

$

3.44

 

$

(5.38

)

Diluted earnings (loss) per share

 

3.44

 

(5.38

)

Dividends declared and paid per White Mountains common share

 

$

1.00

 

$

2.00

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comprehensive net (loss) income

 

$

(56.3

)

$

49.8

 

$

(76.8

)

$

158.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic (loss) earnings per share

 

$

(.87

)

$

9.51

 

$

(6.27

)

$

18.07

 

Diluted (loss) earnings per share

 

(.87

)

9.49

 

(6.27

)

18.03

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dividends declared and paid per common share

 

$

2.00

 

$

2.00

 

$

4.00

 

$

4.00

 

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

42



Table of Contents

 

WHITE MOUNTAINS INSURANCE GROUP, LTD.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMMON SHAREHOLDERS’CHANGES IN EQUITY

Unaudited

 

 

 

 

 

Common

 

 

 

Accum. other

 

 

 

Common

 

shares and

 

 

 

comprehensive

 

 

 

Shareholders’

 

paid-in

 

Retained

 

income,

 

(Millions)

 

equity

 

surplus

 

earnings

 

after-tax

 

Balances at January 1, 2008

 

$

4,713.4

 

$

1,691.2

 

$

2,718.5

 

$

303.7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cumulative effect adjustment - FAS 157

 

(.3

)

 

(.3

)

 

Cumulative effect adjustment - FAS 159

 

 

 

199.6

 

(199.6

)

Net loss

 

(66.0

)

 

(66.0

)

 

Other comprehensive loss, after-tax

 

(10.7

)

 

 

(10.7

)

Dividends declared on common shares

 

(42.3

)

 

(42.3

)

 

Issuances of common shares

 

8.4

 

8.4

 

 

 

Repurchases and retirements of common shares

 

(11.3

)

(4.0

)

(7.3

)

 

Amortization of restricted share and option awards

 

6.1

 

6.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balances at June 30, 2008

 

$

4,597.3

 

$

1,701.7

 

$

2,802.2

 

$

93.4

 

 

 

White Mountains Common Shareholders’ Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common

 

 

 

Accum. other

 

 

 

 

 

Common

 

shares and

 

 

 

comprehensive

 

Non-

 

 

 

shareholders’

 

paid-in

 

Retained

 

income,

 

controlling

 

(Millions)

 

equity

 

surplus

 

earnings

 

after-tax

 

interest

 

Balances at January 1, 2009

 

$

2,898.8

 

$

1,428.2

 

$

1,751.9

 

$

(281.3

)

$

613.7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cumulative effect adjustment - Symetra FAS 115-2

 

 

 

3.0

 

(3.0

)

 

Net income

 

30.3

 

 

30.3

 

 

6.7

 

Other comprehensive loss, after-tax

 

(57.5

)

 

 

(57.5

)

.3

 

Dividends declared on common shares

 

(8.9

)

 

(8.9

)

 

 

Dividends/distributions to noncontrolling interests

 

 

 

 

 

(7.3

)

Contributions from noncontrolling interests

 

 

 

 

 

2.7

 

Amortization of restricted share and option awards

 

3.5

 

3.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balances at March 31, 2009

 

$

2,866.2

 

$

1,431.7

 

$

1,776.3

 

$

(341.8

)

$

616.1

 

 

 

White Mountains Common Shareholders’ Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common

 

 

 

Accum. other

 

 

 

 

Common

 

 

 

Accum. other

 

 

 

 

Common

 

shares and

 

 

 

comprehensive

 

 

Common

 

shares and

 

 

 

comprehensive

 

Non-

 

 

Shareholders’

 

paid-in

 

Retained

 

income,

 

 

shareholders’

 

paid-in

 

Retained

 

income,

 

controlling

 

(Millions)

 

equity

 

surplus

 

earnings

 

after-tax

 

 

equity

 

surplus

 

earnings

 

after-tax

 

interest

 

Balances at January 1, 2007

 

$

4,455.3

 

$

1,727.5

 

$

2,496.0

 

$

231.8

 

Balances at January 1, 2008

 

$

4,713.4

 

$

1,691.2

 

$

2,718.5

 

$

303.7

 

$

888.7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cumulative effect adjustment - taxes (FIN 48)

 

.2

 

 

.2

 

 

Net income

 

194.8

 

 

194.8

 

 

Other comprehensive loss, after-tax

 

(35.9

)

 

 

(35.9

)

Cumulative effect adjustment - FAS 157

 

(.3

)

 

(.3

)

 

 

Cumulative effect adjustment - FAS 159

 

 

 

199.6

 

(199.6

)

 

Net loss

 

(56.8

)

 

(56.8

)

 

(8.3

)

Other comprehensive gain, after-tax

 

36.3

 

 

 

36.3

 

(.3

)

Dividends declared on common shares

 

(43.5

)

 

(43.5

)

 

 

(21.2

)

 

(21.2

)

 

 

Dividends/distributions to noncontrolling interests

 

 

 

 

 

(57.0

)

Issuances of common shares

 

1.8

 

1.8

 

 

 

 

8.2

 

8.2

 

 

 

 

Contributions from noncontrolling interests

 

 

 

 

 

1.0

 

Repurchases and retirements of common shares

 

(2.5

)

(2.5

)

 

 

 

(3.3

)

(1.1

)

(2.2

)

 

(48.8

)

Amortization of restricted share and option awards

 

5.1

 

5.1

 

 

 

 

2.9

 

2.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balances at June 30, 2007

 

$

4,575.3

 

$

1,731.9

 

$

2,647.5

 

$

195.9

 

Balances at March 31, 2008

 

$

4,679.2

 

$

1,701.2

 

$

2,837.6

 

$

140.4

 

$

775.3

 

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

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Table of Contents

 

WHITE MOUNTAINS INSURANCE GROUP, LTD.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

Unaudited

 

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

June 30,

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

(Millions)

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Cash flows from operations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net (loss) income

 

$

(66.0

)

$

194.8

 

Charges (credits) to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash used for operations:

 

 

 

 

 

Net realized investment losses (gains)

 

17.9

 

(163.0

)

Net unrealized investment losses

 

159.2

 

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

30.3

 

$

(56.8

)

Charges (credits) to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash used for operations:

 

 

 

 

 

Net realized and unrealized investment losses

 

23.3

 

118.0

 

Excess of fair value of acquired assets over cost

 

(4.2

)

 

 

 

(4.2

)

Minority interest

 

10.1

 

45.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

Noncontrolling interest

 

6.7

 

(8.3

)

Other operating items:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net change in loss and loss adjustment expense reserves

 

(200.8

)

(412.9

)

 

(92.1

)

(116.3

)

Net change in reinsurance recoverable on paid and unpaid losses

 

170.3

 

424.6

 

 

39.7

 

76.7

 

Net change in unearned insurance and reinsurance premiums

 

119.1

 

149.7

 

 

149.8

 

109.2

 

Net change in funds held by ceding companies

 

25.5

 

85.6

 

 

6.0

 

16.1

 

Net change in deferred acquisition costs

 

(5.3

)

(31.3

)

 

(7.7

)

7.7

 

Net change in ceded unearned premiums

 

(30.8

)

(42.6

)

 

(56.5

)

(43.3

)

Net change in funds held under reinsurance treaties

 

(27.6

)

(31.0

)

 

(2.1

)

(4.6

)

Net change in insurance and reinsurance premiums receivable

 

(58.3

)

(92.2

)

 

(154.1

)

(79.2

)

Net change in other assets and liabilities, net

 

(169.7

)

(195.6

)

 

24.2

 

(41.9

)

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash used for operations

 

(60.6

)

(68.5

)

 

(32.5

)

(26.9

)

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net change in short-term investments

 

(631.3

)

191.9

 

 

89.8

 

(1,019.6

)

Sales of fixed maturity and convertible fixed maturity investments

 

2,268.2

 

3,047.1

 

 

834.0

 

1,527.2

 

Maturities, calls and paydowns of fixed maturity and convertible fixed maturity investments

 

985.9

 

546.5

 

 

249.5

 

359.4

 

Maturities of trust account investments

 

305.6

 

33.8

 

 

 

3.4

 

Sales of common equity securities

 

249.3

 

268.0

 

 

192.6

 

138.4

 

Sales of other investments

 

37.2

 

85.0

 

Distributions of other long-term investments

 

10.3

 

34.9

 

Sales of consolidated and unconsolidated affiliates, net of cash sold

 

4.2

 

 

 

 

4.2

 

Sale of shares of OneBeacon Ltd.

 

 

16.7

 

Purchases of other investments

 

(46.2

)

(22.6

)

Purchases of other long-term investments

 

(5.7

)

(40.4

)

Purchases of common equity securities

 

(359.9

)

(392.1

)

 

(17.6

)

(162.1

)

Purchases of fixed maturity and convertible fixed maturity investments

 

(2,552.8

)

(3,800.9

)

 

(1,226.3

)

(1,144.9

)

Purchases of consolidated and unconsolidated affiliates, net of cash acquired

 

(172.6

)

(51.6

)

 

 

(182.0

)

Net change in fixed maturity investments held for collateral under OneBeacon’s securities lending program

 

(44.7

)

 

Net change in short-term investments held for collateral under OneBeacon’s securities lending program

 

(2.2

)

 

Net change in unsettled investment purchases and sales

 

191.0

 

(50.4

)

 

68.6

 

225.8

 

Net acquisitions of property and equipment

 

(6.5

)

(12.7

)

 

(2.7

)

(3.3

)

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash provided from (used for) investing activities

 

272.1

 

(141.3

)

 

145.6

 

(259.0

)

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Issuance of White Mountains Re Group, Ltd. Preference Shares, net of issuance costs

 

 

246.6

 

Issuance of debt

 

475.0

 

394.4

 

 

 

475.0

 

Repayment of debt

 

(177.0

)

(322.0

)

 

(2.0

)

(2.0

)

Redemption of mandatorily redeemable preferred stock

 

(300.0

)

(20.0

)

Interest rate swap agreements

 

 

(2.4

)

Repurchase of debt

 

(8.1

)

 

Cash dividends paid to the Company’s common shareholders

 

(42.3

)

(43.5

)

 

(8.9

)

(21.2

)

Cash dividends paid to OneBeacon Ltd.’s minority common shareholders

 

(59.7

)

(11.8

)

Cash dividends paid to preferred shareholders

 

(11.8

)

(15.1

)

Cash dividends paid on White Mountains Re Group, Ltd. Preference Shares

 

(9.4

)

(1.9

)

Cash dividends paid to OneBeacon Ltd.’s noncontrolling common shareholders

 

(4.9

)

(54.7

)

Net change in OneBeacon’s securities lending payable

 

46.9

 

 

OneBeacon Ltd. common shares repurchased and retired

 

(62.2

)

 

 

 

(52.8

)

Common shares repurchased

 

(11.3

)

(2.5

)

 

 

(3.3

)

Proceeds from option exercises

 

.1

 

1.8

 

 

 

.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash (used for) provided from financing activities

 

(198.6

)

223.6

 

Net cash provided from financing activities

 

23.0

 

341.1

 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

 

3.8

 

.1

 

 

(1.9

)

3.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net increase in cash during the period

 

16.7

 

13.9

 

 

134.2

 

58.3

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash balances at beginning of period (excludes restricted cash balances of $8.5 and $0)

 

162.8

 

159.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash balances at end of period (excludes restricted cash balances of $18.8 and $0)

 

$

179.5

 

$

172.9

 

Cash balances at beginning of period (excludes restricted cash balances of $225.7 and $0)

 

183.9

 

171.3

 

Cash balances at end of period (excludes restricted cash balances of $130.7 and $42.4)

 

$

318.1

 

$

229.6

 

Supplemental cash flows information:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest paid

 

$

(38.6

)

$

(29.0

)

 

$

(14.8

)

$

(14.0

)

Net payments to national governments

 

$

(59.2

)

$

(71.4

)

Net receipts from (payments to) national governments

 

$

20.6

 

$

(21.5

)

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

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Table of Contents

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)

 

Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

Basis of presentation

 

These interim consolidated financial statements include the accounts of White Mountains Insurance Group, Ltd. (the “Company” or the “Registrant”) and its subsidiaries (collectively, with the Company, “White Mountains”) and have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”). The Company is an exempted Bermuda limited liability company whose principal businesses are conducted through its property and casualty insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries and affiliates. The Company’s headquarters is located at Bank of Butterfield Building, 42 Reid14 Wesley Street, Hamilton, Bermuda HM 12,11, its principal executive office is located at 80 South Main Street, Hanover, New Hampshire 03755-2053 and its registered office is located at Clarendon House, 2 Church Street, Hamilton, Bermuda HM 11.  White Mountains’ reportable segments are OneBeacon, White Mountains Re, Esurance and Other Operations.  Significant transactions among White Mountains’ segments have been eliminated in this report.

 

The OneBeacon segment consists of OneBeacon Insurance Group, Ltd. (“OneBeacon Ltd.”), an exempted Bermuda limited liability company that owns a family of U.S.-based property and casualty insurance companies (collectively “OneBeacon”), most of which operate in a multi-companymulticompany pool. OneBeacon offers a wide range of specialty, personalcommercial and commercialpersonal products and services sold primarily through select independent agents and brokers. OneBeacon was acquired by White Mountains in 2001 (the “OneBeacon Acquisition”). During the fourth quarter of 2006, White Mountains sold 27.6 million, or 27.6%, of OneBeacon Ltd.’s common shares in an initial public offering (the “OneBeacon Offering”). At June 30,March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, White Mountains owned 75.1%75.5% of OneBeacon Ltd.’s outstanding common shares.

 

The White Mountains Re segment consists of White Mountains Re Ltd., an exempted Bermuda limited liability company, and its subsidiaries (collectively, “White Mountains Re”).  White Mountains Re offers reinsurance capacity for property, casualty, accident & health, agriculture, aviation and space and certain other exposures on a worldwide basis through its subsidiaries, White Mountains Reinsurance Company of America (“WMRe America”), which was formerly known as Folksamerica Reinsurance Company, Sirius International Insurance Corporation (“WMRe Sirius”), and White Mountains Re Bermuda Ltd. (“WMRe Bermuda”), which was formerly known as Fund American Reinsurance Company, Ltd..  White Mountains Re also provides reinsurance advisory services, specializing primarily in property and other short-tailed lines of reinsurance, through White Mountains Re Underwriting Services Ltd. (“WMRUS”).  White Mountains Re also includes Scandinavian Reinsurance Company, Ltd. (“ScanScandinavian Re”) and Commercial Casualty Insurance Company (“CCIC”), both of which areis in run off.off, and the consolidated results of the Tuckerman Capital II, LP fund (“Tuckerman Fund II”), which was transferred to White Mountains Re from Other Operations, effective June 30, 2008.

 

The Esurance segment consists of Esurance Holdings, Inc., its subsidiaries and Answer Financial Inc. (“AFI” and, collectively, “Esurance”).  Esurance sells personal auto insurance directly to customers online and through select online agents.  During the first quarter of 2008,AFI, which White Mountains acquired 42% of the outstanding debt and equity of AFI, an onlineduring 2008, is a personal insurance agency for $30.2 million. White Mountains also contributed an additional $2.6 million to AFI during the first quarter of 2008that sells insurance online and accounted for its investment in AFI under the equity method.  On April 1, 2008, White Mountains increased its ownership share to 68.9%.  As a result, effective April 1, 2008, White Mountains accounts for its investment in AFI as a consolidated subsidiary (see Note 2).call centers.

 

White Mountains’ Other Operations segment consists of the Company and its intermediate holding companies, its wholly-owned investment management subsidiary, White Mountains Advisors LLC (“WM Advisors”), its weather risk management business (“Galileo”), and its variable annuity reinsurance business, White Mountains Life Reinsurance (Bermuda) Ltd. (“WM Life Re”). The Other Operations segment also includes White Mountains’ investments in Lightyear Delos Acquisition Corporation (“Delos”), as well ascommon shares and warrants to purchase common shares of Symetra Financial Corporation (“Symetra”) and the consolidated results of the Tuckerman Capital, LP fund (“Tuckerman Fund I”) and Tuckerman Fund II until its transfer to White Mountains Re, effective June 30, 2008 and various other entities not included in other segments. Prior to October 31, 2008, the Other Operations segment also included the International American Group, Inc. (the “International American Group”) and various other entities not, which included in other segments. The International American Group includes American Centennial Insurance Company (“American Centennial”) and British Insurance Company of Cayman (“BICC”British Insurance Company”),) both of which arewere in run-off.  The Other Operations segment also includesOn October 31, 2008, in a transaction with Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. (“Berkshire”), White Mountains’ investmentsMountains exchanged its ownership interests in common sharesCommercial Casualty Insurance Company (previously a subsidiary of White Mountains Re) and warrants to purchasethe International American Group, and $707.9 million in cash, for 1,634,921 common shares of Symetra Financial Corporation (“Symetra”), Delos and the consolidated results of Tuckerman Capital, LP and Tuckerman Capital II, LP funds (“Tuckerman Funds”White Mountains held by Berkshire (the “Berkshire Exchange”).

 

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Table of Contents

 

All significant intercompany transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. These interim financial statements include all adjustments considered necessary by management to fairly present the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of White Mountains andthat are of a normal recurring nature. These interim financial statements may not be indicative of financial results for the full year and should be read in conjunction with the Company’s 20072008 Annual Report on Form 10-K. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.  Certain amounts in the prior period financial statements have been reclassified to conform with the current presentation. Refer to the Company’s 20072008 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a complete discussion regarding White Mountains’ significant accounting policies.

 

Minority InterestNoncontrolling Interests

MinorityNoncontrolling interests consist of the ownership interests of noncontrolling shareholdersparties in consolidated subsidiaries, and are presented separately as a component of equity on the balance sheet. The portion of comprehensive income attributable to minority interests is presented net of related income taxes in the statement of operations and comprehensive income. The change in unrealized investment gains (losses) prior to the January 1, 2008 adoption of FAS 159, foreign currency translation and the change in the fair value of the interest rate swap to hedge OneBeacon’s exposure to variability in the interest rate on its mortgage note are presented in accumulated other comprehensive income net of minority interest. 

The percentage of the noncontrolling shareholders’ ownership interestinterests in OneBeacon Ltd. at June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 and December 31, 20072008 was 24.9% and 27.1%24.5%.

 

On May 24, 2007, White Mountains Re Group, Ltd. (“WMRe Group”), an intermediate holding company of White Mountains Re, issued 250,000 non-cumulative perpetual preference shares with a $1,000 per share liquidation preference (the WMRe“WMRe Preference Shares”). Proceeds of $245.7 million, net of $4.3 million of issuance costs and commissions, were received from the issuance.  The WMRe Preference Shares and dividends thereon are included in minority interestnoncontrolling interests on the balance sheet and as minority interest expense on the statement of operations and comprehensive income, respectively.

At June 30, 2008, the Company owned 68.9% of AFI, while the noncontrolling shareholders of AFI held 31.1% of its common equity shares and a $29.6 million Secured Senior Note from AFI (see Note 6). On July 30, 2008, White Mountains acquired the remaining equity and debt interests in AFI from the minority owner (see Note 15).sheet.

 

Recently Adopted Changes in Accounting Principles

Business Combinations and Noncontrolling Interests

On January 1, 2009, White Mountains adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“FAS”) No. 141 (Revised 2007), Business Combinations — A Replacement of FASB Statement No. 141 (“FAS 141R”) and FAS No. 160, Noncontrolling Interests-an amendment to ARB 51 (“FAS 160”).

FAS 141R requires an acquiring company to recognize the fair value of all assets acquired and liabilities assumed at their fair values at the acquisition date, with certain exceptions. This represents a basic change in approach from the cost allocation method originally described in FAS 141, Business Combinations (“FAS 141”). In addition, FAS 141R changes the accounting for “step” acquisitions since it requires recognition of all assets acquired and liabilities assumed, regardless of the acquirer’s percentage of ownership in the acquired company. This means that the acquirer will measure and recognize all of the assets, liabilities and goodwill, not just the acquirer’s share. Changes subsequent to the acquisition date in the amount of deferred tax valuation allowances and income tax uncertainties arising from a business combination are generally recognized in income; previously under FAS No. 109, Accounting for Income Taxes (“FAS 109”), such changes were recognized through goodwill. FAS 141R applies prospectively to business combinations effective January 1, 2009. There was no effect on White Mountains’ financial position, results of operations or cash flows upon adoption.

FAS 160 requires all companies to account for noncontrolling interests (formerly referred to as “minority interests”)  in subsidiaries as equity, clearly identified and presented separately from White Mountains’ equity. Once a controlling interest has been acquired, any subsequent acquisitions or dispositions of noncontrolling interests that do not result in a change of control are accounted for as equity transactions. Assets and liabilities acquired are measured at fair value only once, at the original acquisition date, (i.e., the date at which the acquirer gained control). The recognition and measurement requirements of FAS 160 are applicable prospectively upon adoption; the presentation and disclosure requirements must be retrospectively applied. Accordingly, upon adoption of FAS 160, White Mountains has changed the presentation of its financial statements for prior periods to conform to the required presentation, as follows:  noncontrolling interests are now presented on the balance sheets within equity, separate from White Mountains’ shareholders’ equity; the portion of net income, extraordinary items and comprehensive income attributable to White Mountains’ common shareholders and the noncontrolling interests are presented separately on the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income; and the consolidated statements of shareholders’ equity includes a reconciliation of the noncontrolling interests at the beginning and end of each reporting period.

Derivatives Disclosures

On January 1, 2009, White Mountains adopted FAS No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - an amendment of FAS 133 (“FAS 161”). FAS 161 requires companies that use derivatives to provide expanded qualitative and quantitative information about their use of derivative instruments, including the objectives and strategies for using derivatives, details of credit-risk related contingent features, the amounts of derivatives used, where they have been reported in the financial statements and the effect of such instruments on a company’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows. The adoption of FAS 161 had no effect on White Mountains’ financial position or results of operations.

6



Table of Contents

Participating Securities Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions

On January 1, 2009, White Mountains adopted FASB Staff Position (“FSP”) EITF 03-6-1, Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Transactions are Participating Securities. FSP EITF 03-6-1 addresses whether instruments granted in share-based payment transactions should be considered participating securities prior to vesting. FSP EITF 03-6-1 requires that such instruments that hold unforfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents, regardless of whether paid or unpaid, should be considered participating securities and accordingly should be included in the calculation of earnings per share under the two-class method instead of the treasury stock method. White Mountains issues restricted stock under employee incentive compensation plans that contain dividend participation features and that are considered participating securities. Since adoption, White Mountains has used the two-class method to calculate earnings per share. In accordance with the adoption provisions of FSP EITF 03-6-1 all prior period earnings per share data has been adjusted retroactively to conform to the provisions of FSP EITF 03-6-1.

 

Fair Value Measurements

On January 1, 2008, the CompanyWhite Mountains adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”)FAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements (“FAS 157”). FAS 157 provides a revised definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands financial statement disclosure requirements for fair value information. Under FAS 157, fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sellfor an asset sold or paid to transferfor a liability transferred, in each case, in an orderly transaction between market participants (an exit price). The Statement establishes a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between inputs based on market data from independent sources (“observable inputs”) and a reporting entity’s internal assumptions based upon the best information available when external market data is limited or unavailable (“unobservable inputs”). The fair value hierarchy in FAS 157 prioritizes fair value measurements into three levels based on the nature of the inputs. Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities have the highest priority (“Level 1”), followed by.  The second priority level are prices determined based on observable inputs including prices for similar but not identical assets or liabilities (“Level 2”) and followed by.  The lowest priority are prices based on assumptions that include significant unobservable inputs having the lowest priority (“Level 3”).

White Mountains uses brokers and outside pricing services to assist in determining fair values. For investments in active markets, White Mountains uses the quoted market prices provided by the outside pricing service to determine fair value. The outside pricing services used by White Mountains have indicated that they will only provide prices where observable inputs are available.  In circumstances where quoted prices are unavailable, White Mountains utilizes fair value estimates based upon other observable inputs including matrix pricing, benchmark interest rates, market comparables and other relevant inputs.

White Mountains’ process to validate the market prices obtained from outside pricing sources includes, but is not limited to, periodic evaluation of model pricing methodologies and monthly analytical reviews of certain prices. White Mountains also periodically performs back-testing of selected sales activity to determine whether there are any significant differences between the market price used to value the security prior to sale and the actual sale price.

Other long-term investments, which comprise limited partnerships, hedge funds and private equity interests for which the FAS 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities, fair value option has been elected are carried at fair value based upon White Mountains’ proportionate interest in the underlying partnership’s or fund’s net asset value, which is deemed to approximate fair value. In circumstances where the partnership net asset value is deemed to differ from fair value due to illiquidity or other factors, net asset value is adjusted accordingly.

Where appropriate, assets and liabilities measured at fair value have been adjusted for the effect of counterparty credit risk.

 

Fair Value Option

On January 1, 2008, the CompanyWhite Mountains adopted SFASFAS No.159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (“FAS 159”). FAS 159 allows companies to make an election on an individual instrument basis to report financial assets and liabilities at fair value. The election must be made at the inception of a transaction and may not be reversed. The election may also be made for existing financial assets and liabilities at the time of adoption. White Mountains has made the fair value election for its portfolio of available for sale (“AFS”) securities, which were reclassified to trading upon adoption, its investments in convertible bonds, its investments in investment partnerships and for its assumed variable annuity Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit (“GMDB”) liabilities.

 

8



Table of Contents

Upon adoption, of FAS 159, the Company’s portfolio of AFS securities were reclassifiedWhite Mountains recorded an adjustment as trading. Realized and unrealized investment gains and losses on trading securities are reported, pre-tax in revenues. Prior to adoption, unrealized investment gains and losses on AFS securities were reported net, after-tax, as a separate component of shareholders’ equity. Changes in net unrealized investment gains and losses on AFS securities, net of the effect of adjustment for minority interest and after-tax, were reported as a component of other comprehensive income.

White Mountains’ investments in limited partnerships comprises investments in hedge funds, private equity funds and other investment limited partnerships. Prior to January 1, 2008 changes in White Mountains’ interests in limited partnerships accounted for under the equity method were included in net realized investment gains and changes in interests in limited partnerships not accounted for under the equity method were reported, after-tax, as a component of other comprehensive income.  Effective January 1, 2008, the Company has made the fair value election for most of its limited partnership investments in hedge funds and private equity funds. For the limited partnership investments for which the Company has made the fair value election, changes in fair value are reported in revenues on a pre-tax basis. For those investment limited partnerships for which the Company has not made the fair value election, the Company continues to account for its interests under the equity method.

Upon adoption, the Company recorded an adjustment to increase opening retained earnings and decrease accumulated other comprehensive income by $199.6 million to reclassify net unrealized gains and net unrealized foreign currency translation gains related to AFS securities and investments in limited partnerships.

 

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Table of Contents

In addition, White Mountains recorded an adjustment to decrease opening retained earnings and increase other liabilities by $0.3 million for the change in the GMDB liabilities arising from measurement at fair value. The CompanyWhite Mountains believes that making the election for its portfolio of investment securities and investments in hedge funds and private equity funds will resultresults in reporting its investment results on a basis consistent with one of its operating principles, namely to manage investments for total return. With respect to the variable annuity GMDB guarantees, making the election will resultresults in recognition of changes in fair value on the same basis used by the CompanyWhite Mountains to economically hedge its variable annuity guarantee liabilities.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

Business CombinationsOther-Than-Temporary Impairments

In December 2007,On April 9, 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards BoardFASB issued FSP FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2, Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments, which amends the guidance for other-than temporary impairments for debt securities classified as held-to-maturity (“FASB”HTM”) issued SFAS No. 141 (Revised 2007), Business Combinationsor available-for-sale (“FAS 141R”). FAS 141R is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. White Mountains is in the process of evaluating the potential effect of adoption. FAS 141R requires an acquiring company to recognize the fair value of all assets acquired and liabilities assumed at their fair values at the acquisition date, with certain exceptions. This represents a basic change in approach from the cost allocation method originally described in SFAS No. 141, Business Combinations (“FAS 141”AFS”). In addition,FSP FAS 141R changes115-2 and FAS 124-2 requires that, when evaluating whether an impairment of a debt security is other than temporary, the accounting for step acquisitions sincereporting entity is to assess whether it requires recognition of all assets acquired and liabilities assumed, regardless ofhas the acquirer’s percentage of ownership inintent the acquired company. This means thatsell the acquirer will measure and recognize all of the assets, liabilities and goodwill, not just the acquirer’s share.  Assets and liabilities arising from contractual contingencies are to be recognized at the acquisition date, at fair value. Non-contractual contingencies are to be recognized whensecurity or if it is more likely than not that they meetit will be required to sell the security before the recovery of its amortized cost basis. If the present value of cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost of the security, a credit loss is deemed to exist and the security is considered to be impaired. The portion of the impairment loss related to a credit loss is to be recognized in earnings. The portion of the impairment loss related to factors other than credit loss is recognized as an unrealized loss.  FSP FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2 is effective for interim financial reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, but may be adopted early.

White Mountains plans to adopt the FSP FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2 for the quarter ending June 30, 2009. White Mountains accounts for its investments in debt securities under FAS 159 and, accordingly, all changes in the fair value of its debt securities are recognized in earnings regardless of whether such changes in fair value represent a temporary or other than temporary decline in value. As a result, adoption of the FSP FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2 would not have any affect on White Mountains’ method of accounting for its portfolio of investment securities. However, White Mountains’ investment in Symetra is accounted for under the equity method. Symetra adopted the FSP for the quarter ended March 31, 2009. Upon adoption of the FSP FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2, Symetra recognized a cumulative effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings with a corresponding adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income. Accordingly, for the quarter ended March 31, 2009, White Mountains recorded a $3.0 million cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings and other comprehensive income, which represents its portion of the cumulative effect adjustment recorded by Symetra.

Determining Fair Values in an Inactive Market and Distressed Transactions

On April 9, 2009, the FASB Concepts Statement No. 6,issued FSP FAS 157-4, ElementsDetermining Fair Value When the Volume and Level of Financial Statements,Activity for the Asset or Liability Have Significantly Decreased and Identifying Transactions That Are Not Orderly criteria(“FSP 157-4”). FSP 157-4 outlines factors to be considered by a reporting entity in determining whether a market for an asset or liability. Acquisition related costs, such as legal fees and due diligence costs would be expensed and wouldliability is active. These factors include few recent transactions, price quotations that are not be recognized as partbased on current information or which vary substantially over time or among market makers, a significant increase in implied liquidity risk premiums, yields or performance indicators, a wide bid-ask spread, a significant decline or absence of goodwill. Changesa market for new issuances or limited information released publicly. In circumstances where the reporting entity concludes that there has been a significant decrease in the amountvolume of deferred taxes arising frommarket activity for an asset or liability as compared to normal market activity, transactions or quoted prices may not reflect fair value. In such circumstances, FSP 157-4 requires analysis of the transactions or quoted prices and, where appropriate, adjustment to estimate fair value in accordance with FAS 157. In addition, FSP 157-4 would expand interim disclosures to require a business combination aredescription of the inputs and valuation techniques used to be recognized in either incomeestimate fair value and a discussion of changes during the period. FSP 157-4 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, with early adoption permitted. White Mountains plans to adopt FSP 157-4 for the interim period ending June 30, 2009. Adoption of FSP 157-4 is not expected to have a material effect on White Mountains’ financial position or through a change in contributed capital, depending on the circumstances. Previously under SFAS No. 109 Accounting For Income Taxes (“FAS 109”), such changes were recognized through goodwill. The classificationresults of insurance and reinsurance contracts are re-evaluated at the acquisition date only if their terms were changed in connection with the acquisition.operations.

 

Non-controlling interestsInterim Fair Value Disclosures

In December 2007,On April 9, 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160,FSP FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1, Noncontrolling Interests-an amendment to ARB 51Interim Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments (“which requires disclosures about fair value of financial instruments within the scope of FAS 160”).107 for interim reporting periods. FSP FAS 160107-1 and APB 28-1 is effective for fiscal years beginninginterim reporting periods ending after DecemberJune 15, 2008.2009 with early adoption permitted. White Mountains plans to adopt FSP FAS 160 requires all companies to account107-1 and APB 28-1 for minority interests in subsidiaries as equity, clearly identified and presented separately from parent company equity. Once a controlling interest has been acquired, any subsequent acquisitions or dispositions of noncontrolling interest that do not result in a change of control are to be accounted for as equity transactions. Assets and liabilities acquired are measured at fair value only once; at the original acquisition date, i.e., the date at which the acquirer gained control.Upon adoption, the Company would be required to reflect the ownership interests in its consolidated subsidiaries within equity.interim reporting period ending June 30, 2009.

 

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Note 2. Significant Transactions and Agreements

Berkshire Exchange

During the first quarter of 2008, White Mountains entered into an exchange agreement with Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (“Berkshire”) to transfer certain run-off businesses and a substantial amount of cash to Berkshire in exchange for substantially all of the common shares of White Mountains owned by Berkshire (the “Berkshire Exchange”).

Under the terms of the agreement, Berkshire would exchange all or substantially all of its 16.3% stake in White Mountains (1,724,200 common shares) for 100% of a White Mountains subsidiary, which will hold CCIC, International American Group, and $751 million in cash, subject to adjustment.

In anticipation of the Berkshire Exchange, White Mountains drew the $475 million available on its revolving credit facility (the “WTM Bank Facility”) to provide the necessary funds at the holding company level required for the transaction.  In April 2008, the Company repaid $175 million of the borrowings on the WTM Bank Facility (see Note 6).

Helicon

On January 7, 2008, White Mountains Re acquired Helicon Re Holdings, Ltd. for approximately $150.2 million, which resulted in the recognition of an extraordinary gain of $4.2 million. Helicon Re Holdings, Ltd. is the parent of Helicon Reinsurance Company, Ltd. (“Helicon”), which in 2006 and 2007 provided quota share retrocessional coverage to White Mountains Re.

Answer Financial

During the first quarter of 2008, White Mountains acquired 42% of the outstanding debt and equity of AFI, an online personal insurance agency, for $30.2 million. White Mountains also contributed an additional $2.6 million to AFI during the first quarter of 2008 and accounted for its investment in AFI under the equity method.  On April 1, 2008, AFI emerged from a pre-packaged bankruptcy reorganization.  In the reorganization, the debt held by White Mountains was exchanged for additional shares of common equity, thus increasing White Mountains’ ownership share to 68.9%.  Effective April 1, 2008, White Mountains accounts for its investment in AFI as a consolidated subsidiary. On July 30, 2008, White Mountains acquired the remaining equity and debt interests in AFI from the minority owner (see Note 15).

In connection with the restructuring, which was accounted for as an acquisition under the purchase method of accounting, White Mountains recorded the identifiable assets and liabilities of AFI at their fair values as of April 1, 2008. Significant assets and liabilities acquired included cash of $9.4 million, debt of $29.6 million (see Note 6), accrued liabilities of $7.5 million and a deferred tax asset of $64.2 million, which was offset by a full valuation allowance prior to purchase accounting adjustments.  After allocating the purchase price to identifiable tangible assets and liabilities, White Mountains also recorded adjustments to allocate the remaining acquisition cost, consisting of a $53.2 million intangible asset related to the value of business in force at the acquisition date, an adjustment to property and equipment of $4.0 million to reflect the fair value of AFI’s information technology infrastructure, and a related deferred tax liability of $20.0 million.  Upon recording the deferred tax liability, the valuation allowance was reduced by $20.0 million resulting in a valuation allowance of $44.2 million and a deferred tax asset of $20.0 million.  The intangible asset associated with the acquired business in force will be amortized over an 8-year period, consistent with the expected term of the related business in force.  For the three months ended June 30, 2008, White Mountains recognized $4.4 million of amortization expense related to the intangible asset associated with the acquired business in force.  The purchase adjustment related to the information technology infrastructure will be amortized over a 3-year period, consistent with the Company’s amortization period for similar assets.  For the three months ended June 30, 2008, White Mountains recognized $0.3 million of amortization expense related to AFI’s information technology infrastructure.

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Note 3.2.  Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves

 

The following table summarizes the loss and loss adjustment expense (“LAE”) reserve activities of White Mountains’ insurance subsidiaries for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 and 2007:2008:

 

 

Three Months Ended
June 30,

 

Six Months Ended
June 30,

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

Millions

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Gross beginning balance

 

$

8,038.0

 

$

8,636.0

 

$

8,062.1

 

$

8,777.2

 

 

$

7,400.1

 

$

8,062.1

 

Less beginning reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses

 

(3,375.3

)

(3,873.7

)

(3,467.9

)

(4,015.7

)

 

(3,050.4

)

(3,467.9

)

Net loss and LAE reserves

 

4,662.7

 

4,762.3

 

4,594.2

 

4,761.5

 

 

4,349.7

 

4,594.2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss and LAE reserves acquired - Helicon

 

 

 

13.7

 

 

 

 

13.7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss and LAE incurred relating to:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current year losses

 

583.4

 

627.8

 

1,201.7

 

1,257.9

 

 

563.9

 

618.3

 

Prior year losses

 

49.3

 

(35.7

)

69.7

 

(52.5

)

 

(20.7

)

20.4

 

Total incurred losses and LAE

 

632.7

 

592.1

 

1,271.4

 

1,205.4

 

 

543.2

 

638.7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accretion of fair value adjustment to loss and LAE reserves

 

4.1

 

5.5

 

8.3

 

10.6

 

 

2.5

 

4.2

 

Foreign currency translation adjustment to loss and LAE reserves

 

(1.5

)

3.5

 

24.4

 

7.2

 

 

(6.7

)

25.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss and LAE paid relating to:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current year losses

 

(269.9

)

(238.8

)

(418.9

)

(381.3

)

 

(141.8

)

(149.0

)

Prior year losses

 

(409.3

)

(453.1

)

(874.3

)

(931.9

)

 

(471.5

)

(465.0

)

Total loss and LAE payments

 

(679.2

)

(691.9

)

(1,293.2

)

(1,313.2

)

 

(613.3

)

(614.0

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net ending balance

 

4,618.8

 

4,671.5

 

4,618.8

 

4,671.5

 

 

4,275.4

 

4,662.7

 

Plus ending reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses

 

3,327.6

 

3,693.2

 

3,327.6

 

3,693.2

 

 

2,984.7

 

3,375.3

 

Gross ending balance

 

$

7,946.4

 

$

8,364.7

 

$

7,946.4

 

$

8,364.7

 

 

$

7,260.1

 

$

8,038.0

 

 

Loss and LAE incurred relating to prior year losses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008March 31, 2009

During the three months ended March 31, 2009, White Mountains experienced $49.3 million and $69.7$20.7 million of net adversefavorable loss reserve development on prior accident year loss reserves during the threedevelopment.  OneBeacon and six months ended June 30, 2008.

For the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, White Mountains Re had net adversefavorable loss reserve development of $50.7$14.8 million and $83.7 million.  The net adverse loss reserve development in the second quarter primarily resulted from a comprehensive loss reserve review as described below.  The net adverse loss reserve development for the six months ended June 30, 2008, also includes a first quarter $40.5$5.9 million, charge related to construction defect (“CD”) claims from accident years 2001 and prior, offset by net favorable development from recent accident years.respectively.

 

Management commenced a comprehensive loss reserve review (the “Reserve Review”) in the second quarter of 2008, primarily as a result of the $40.5 million adverse loss reserve development recorded in the first quarter of 2008 referred to above. The Reserve Review was conducted by management, including internal underwriting, claims and actuarial personnel, with assistance from external consultants.  The Reserve Review included all of WMRe America’s non-asbestos and environmental (“A&E”) casualty loss reserves as well as certain lines of business at WMRe Sirius.  The Reserve Review resulted in $140.0 million of additional adversefavorable loss reserve development at WMRe America, partially offset by $85.0 million of favorable loss development at WMRe Sirius during the second quarter of 2008. The adverse loss reserve development at WMRe AmericaOneBeacon was predominantly attributableprimarily due to its casualty reinsurance book written in the 1996-2002 underwriting years, whereas the favorable reserve development at WMRe Sirius was predominantly attributable to its property reinsurance book.

For the three months ended June 30, 2008, OneBeacon had net adverse loss reserve development of $0.4 million.  For the six months ended June 30, 2008, OneBeacon had net favorable development of $12.2 million that primarilylower than expected severity on non-catastrophe losses related to professional liability in specialty lines and package businesscommercial multi-peril in commercial lines, partially offset by adverse loss reserve development primarily related to New York personal injury protection litigation at AutoOne Insurance (“AutoOne”). The favorable loss reserve development at AutoOne in personalWhite Mountains Re was primarily related to short-tailed lines and in run-off.

For the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, Esurance did not experience any net development on prior year losses.

For the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, the Other Operations segment had $1.8 million of net favorable development for both periods.

11



at Table of ContentsWMRe Sirius.

 

Loss and LAE incurred relating to prior year losses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007March 31, 2008

During the three months ended March 31, 2008, White Mountains experienced $35.7$20.4 million of adverse loss reserve development.  White Mountains Re had adverse loss reserve development of $33.0 million, which was offset by $12.6 million of favorable loss reserve development at OneBeacon.

The net adverse loss reserve development at White Mountains Re of $33.0 million included $40.5 million of adverse development related to construction defect claims from accident years 2003 and $52.5prior.  These losses were offset by $7.5 million of net favorable development on priorprimarily from recent accident yearyears.  The construction defect claims represent building contractors’ loss reserves during the three and six months ended June 30, 2007. For the three months ended June 30, 2007, OneBeacon,exposures from reinsurance programs that were underwritten by White Mountains Re America during the 1995 through 2001 underwriting years, primarily from California and Other Operations had netits neighboring states. The adverse development was recognized following the receipt of significantly late reported claims. The favorable loss reserve development of $12.7 million, $18.1 millionat OneBeacon was primarily due to lower than expected severity on non-catastrophe losses and $10.7 million, respectively, offset by $5.8 million of adversefavorable loss reserve development on a prior accident year losses at Esurance.  For the six months ended June 30, 2007, OneBeacon, White Mountains Re, and Other Operations had netcatastrophe. The favorable development of $24.7 million, $25.5 million and $10.7 million, respectively, offset by $8.4 million of adversenon-catastrophe loss reserve development on prior year losses at Esurance.  Net favorable development at White Mountains Rewas primarily related to prior underwriting years on property lines. OneBeacon experienced net favorable development in 2007 that was primarily due tocommercial lines and professional liability in specialty lines, property liability in commercial lines and automobile liability in personal lines.  Esurance has experienced net adverse loss reserve development in 2007 as reserves were increased for bodily injury claims from prior accident years. The Other Operations segment experienced $10.7 million

9



Table of favorable development during the second quarter of 2007, primarily due to the settlement of a large claim at BICC.Contents

Fair value adjustment to loss and LAE reserves

In connection with purchase accounting for the acquisitions of OneBeacon, WMRe Sirius and Stockbridge Insurance Company, White Mountains was required to adjust loss and LAE reserves and the related reinsurance recoverables to fair value on their respective acquired balance sheets.  The net reduction to loss and LAE reserves is being recognized through an income statement charge ratably with and over the period the claims are settled. Accordingly, White Mountains recognized $4.1 million and $8.3$2.5 million of such charges for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, and $5.5 million and $10.6$4.2 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007.March 31, 2008.  As of June 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, the outstanding pre-tax unaccretedun-accreted adjustment was $50.3$39.2 million.

 

Note 4.3. Third Party Reinsurance

 

In the normal course of business, White Mountains’ insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries may seek to limit losses that may arise from catastrophes or other events by reinsuring with third party reinsurers. White Mountains remains liable for reinsured risks reinsured in the event that the reinsurer does not honor its obligations under reinsurance contracts.

 

OneBeacon

At June 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, OneBeacon had $22.1$19.8 million of reinsurance recoverables on paid losses and $2,785.0$2,642.4 million (gross of $213.1$201.5 million in purchase accounting adjustments) that will become recoverable if claims are paid in accordance with current reserve estimates. The collectibilitycollectability of balances due from OneBeacon’s reinsurers is critical to OneBeacon’s financial strength because reinsurance contracts do not relieve OneBeacon of its primary obligation to its policyholders. OneBeacon is selective with its reinsurers, placing reinsurance with only those reinsurers having a strong financial condition. OneBeacon monitors the financial strength of its reinsurers on an ongoing basis. As a result, uncollectibleUncollectible amounts have historically not been significant. The following table provides a listing of OneBeacon’s top reinsurers, excluding industry pools and associations, based upon recoverable amounts, the percentage of total paid and unpaid reinsurance recoverables and the reinsurer’s A.M. Best Company, Inc. (“A.M. Best”) rating.

 

Top Reinsurers (Millions)

 

Balance at
June 30, 2008

 

% of Total

 

A.M. Best
Rating (1)

 

Subsidiaries of Berkshire (NICO and GRC) (2)

 

$

2,016.7

 

71.8

%

 

A++

 

Tokio Marine and Nichido Fire (3)

 

56.3

 

2.0

%

 

A++

 

Munich Re America (formerly America Reinsurance Company)

 

45.8

 

1.6

%

 

A+

 

QBE Insurance Corporation

 

36.1

 

1.3

%

 

A

 

Swiss Re

 

27.3

 

1.0

%

 

A+

 

Top Reinsurers (Millions)

 

Balance at
March 31, 2009

 

% of Total

 

A.M. Best
Rating(1)

 

Subsidiaries of Berkshire (NICO and GRC)(2)

 

$

1,928.5

 

72

%

A++

 

Tokio Marine and Nichido Fire(3)

 

55.2

 

2

%

A++

 

QBE Insurance Corporation

 

45.3

 

2

%

A

 

Munich Re America

 

41.2

 

2

%

A+

 

Swiss Re Group

 

22.9

 

1

%

A

 

 


(1)          A.M. Best ratings as detailed above are: “A++” (Superior, which is the highest of fifteen ratings), “A+” (Superior, which is the second highest of fifteen ratings), and “A” (Excellent, which is the third highest of fifteen ratings).

(2)          Includes $404$320.2 of Third Party Recoverables, which NICO would pay under the terms of the NICO Cover (as defined below) if they are unable to collect from third party reinsurers. OneBeacon also has an additional $296.1$264.7 of Third Party Recoverables from various reinsurers, the majority of which are rated “A” or better by A.M. Best.

(3)          Excludes $46.4$41.1 of reinsurance recoverables from various reinsurers that are guaranteed by Tokio Marine and Nichido Fire under the terms of a 100% quota share reinsurance agreement between Houston General Insurance Company and Tokio Marine and Nichido Fire.

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Table of Contents

 

In connection with the OneBeacon Acquisition, the seller caused OneBeacon to purchase two reinsurance contracts: a full risk-transfer cover from National Indemnity Company (“NICO”) for up to $2.5 billion in old A&E claims and certain other exposures (the “NICO Cover”) and an adverse loss reserve development cover (the “GRC Cover”) from General Reinsurance Corporation (“GRC”) for up to $570.0 million, comprised of $400.0 million of adverse loss reserve development on losses occurring in years 2000 and prior in addition toand $170.0 million of reserves ceded as of the date of the OneBeacon Acquisition. The NICO Cover and GRC Cover, which were contingent on and occurred contemporaneously with the OneBeacon Acquisition, were put in place in lieu of a seller guarantee of loss and LAE reserves and are therefore accounted for as a seller guarantee under GAAP in accordance with Emerging Issues Task Force Technical Matter Document No. D-54 (“EITF Topic D-54”). NICO and GRC are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Berkshire.

 

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Table of Contents

Under the terms of the NICO Cover, NICO receives the economic benefit of reinsurance recoverables (“Third Party Recoverables”) from certain of OneBeacon’s third party reinsurers in existence at the time the NICO Cover was executed. As a result, the Third Party Recoverables serve to protect the $2.5 billion limit of NICO coverage for the benefit of OneBeacon. White Mountains estimates that on an incurred basis, net of Third Party Recoverables, as of June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 it has used approximately $2.1$2.2 billion of the coverage provided by NICO.  Through June 30, 2008 $1.0March 31, 2009, $1.1 billion of these incurred losses have been paid by NICO. Since entering into the NICO Cover, $41.6$44.7 million of the $2.1$2.2 billion of utilized coverage from NICO related to uncollectible Third Party Recoverables. To the extent that actual experience differs from White Mountains’ estimate of ultimate A&E losses and Third Party Recoverables, future losses could utilize some or all of the protection remaining under the NICO Cover.

 

Pursuant to the GRC Cover, OneBeacon is not entitled to recover losses to the full contract limit if such losses are reimbursed by GRC more quickly than anticipated at the time the contract was signed. OneBeacon intends to only seek reimbursement from GRC only for claims which result in payment patterns similar to those supporting its recoverables recorded pursuant to the GRC Cover. The economic cost of not submitting certain other eligible claims to GRC is primarily the investment spread between the rate credited by GRC and the rate achieved by OneBeacon on its own investments. This cost, if any, is expected to be small.nominal.

 

Effective July 1, 2008, OneBeacon renewed its property catastrophe reinsurance program through June 30, 2009.  The program provides coverage for all OneBeacon property business including automobile physical damage, as well as acts of terrorism unless committed on behalf of a foreign interest (or utilizing nuclear, biological, chemical or radiological devices).  Under the program, the first $150 million of losses resulting from a single catastrophe are retained by OneBeacon and $650 million of the next $700 million of losses resulting from the catastrophe are reinsured.  Any loss above $850 million would be retained by OneBeacon. In the event of a catastrophe, OneBeacon’s property catastrophe reinsurance program is reinstated for the remainder of the original contract term by paying a reinstatement premium that is based on the percentage of coverage reinstated and the original property catastrophe coverage premium.

 

OneBeacon entered into a 30% quota share agreement with a group of reinsurers that runs from January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2009. During the first quarter of 2009, OneBeacon ceded $13.6 million of written premiums from its Northeast homeowners business written through OneBeacon Insurance Company and its subsidiary companies, along with Adirondack Insurance and New Jersey Skylands Insurance Association in New York and New Jersey, respectively.

White Mountains Re

At June 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, White Mountains Re had $16.4$46.3 million of reinsurance recoverables on paid losses and $726.5$541.3 million of reinsurance that will become recoverable if claims are paid in accordance with current reserve estimates. Because reinsurance contracts do not relieve White Mountains Re of its obligation to its ceding companies, the collectibilitycollectability of balances due from its reinsurers is critical to White Mountains Re’s financial strength. White Mountains Re monitors the financial strength of its reinsurers on an ongoing basis. The following table provides a listing of White Mountains Re’s top reinsurers based upon recoverable amounts, the percentage of total paid and unpaid reinsurance recoverables and the reinsurers’ A.M. Best ratings.

 

Top Reinsurers (Millions)

 

Balance at
June 30, 2008

 

% of Total

 

A.M. Best
Rating (2)

 

% Collateralized

 

 

Balance at
March 31, 2009

 

% of Total

 

A.M. Best
Rating (2)

 

% Collateralized

 

OlympusI (1)(3)

 

$

147.0

 

20

%

 

NR-4

 

100

%

Imagine (1)

 

146.5

 

20

%

 

A-

 

100

%

Imagine Re (1)

 

$

146.7

 

25

%

NR-5

 

100

%

Olympus (1)(3)

 

107.3

 

18

%

NR-5

 

100

%

London Life (1)

 

70.8

 

12

%

A

 

100

%

General Re

 

91.6

 

12

%

 

A++

 

1

%

 

46.5

 

8

%

A++

 

4

%

London Life (1)

 

70.8

 

10

%

 

A

 

100

%

St. Paul Travelers Group

 

56.7

 

8

%

 

A+

 

3

%

Swiss Re Group

 

44.2

 

8

%

A

 

6

%

 


(1)          Non-U.S. insurance entities. Balances are fully collateralized through funds held, letters of credit or trust agreements.

(2)          A.M. Best ratings as detailed above are: “NR-4”“NR-5” (Not rated per company request)formally followed), “A++” (Superior, which is the highest of fifteen ratings), “A+” ( Superior, which is the second highest of fifteen ratings),and “A” (Excellent, which is the third highest of fifteen ratings), and “A-” (Excellent, which is the fourth highest of fifteen ratings).

(3)          Gross of $90.0$50.0 due to Olympus Reinsurance Company Ltd. (“Olympus”) under an indemnity agreement with WMRe America.

 

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Note 5.4.  Investment Securities

 

White Mountains’ invested assets comprise securities and other long-term investments held for general investment purposes.  Until May 31, 2008, OneBeacon also held securities in a segregated trust account established in connection with the OneBeacon Offering to economically defease the $300.0 million mandatorily redeemable preferred stock held by Berkshire (the “Berkshire Preferred Stock”).  The Berkshire Preferred Stock was redeemed in May 2008 using the proceeds from the segregated trust account.

White Mountains’ portfolio of fixed maturity investments and common equity securities held for general investment purposes wereare classified as AFS for the year ended December 31, 2007. Effective January 1, 2008, the portfolio of fixed maturity investments and common equity securities held for general investment purposes were reclassified as trading. AFS and tradingTrading securities are reported at fair value as of the balance sheet date as determined by quoted market prices when available.  Prior to January 1, 2008, changes in net unrealized investment gains and losses on AFS securities, net of the effect of adjustment for minority interest and after-tax, were reported as a component of other comprehensive income.  Realized and unrealized investment gains and losses on trading securities are reported pre-tax in revenues. See Recently Adopted Changes in Accounting Principles section of Note 1 for further discussion.

Prior to January 1, 2008, the Company accounted for its convertible bonds in accordance with FAS 155, “Accounting for Certain Hybrid Instruments, an amendment to Statements No. 133 and 140” (“FAS 155”). Convertible bonds were recorded at fair value which changes therein recorded as realized investment gains or losses. On January 1, 2008, White Mountains has elected the fair value option under FAS 159 for its investment in convertible bonds, which continue to be recorded at fair value. Upon adoption of FAS 159, changes in fair value are recorded in revenues through unrealized investment gains (losses).

 

White Mountains has invested in mortgage backedmortgage-backed and asset-backed securities which are carried at fair value within fixed maturity investments.  Fair valuesWhite Mountains’ investments in asset-backed securities are based on quoted market prices when available.generally valued using matrix and other pricing models. Key inputs in a typical valuation are benchmark yields, benchmark securities, reported trades, issuer spreads, bids, offers, credit ratings and prepayment speeds. Income on mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities is recognized using an effective yield based on anticipated prepayments and the estimated economic life of the securities. When actual prepayments differ significantly from anticipated prepayments, the estimated economic life is recalculated and the remaining unamortized premium or discount is amortized prospectively over the remaining economic life.

The portfolio of fixed maturity At March 31, 2009, the market for White Mountains’ investments that were held in the segregated trust account were classified as held to maturity asasset-backed securities remained active and accordingly, White Mountains haddid not adjust the ability and intent to holdfair value estimates for the investments until maturity. Securities classified as held to maturity are recorded at amortized cost.effect of illiquidity.

 

Realized gains and losses resulting from sales of investment securities are accounted for using the weighted average method.  Premiums and discounts on all fixed maturity investments are accreted to income over the anticipated life of the investment.  Short-term investments consist of money market funds, certificates of deposit and other securities which mature or become available for use within one year.  Short-term investments are carried at amortized cost, which approximated fair value as of June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2007. Short-term investments held in the segregated trust account were included in the total of investments held in trust.2008.

 

Other long-term investments comprise White Mountains’ investments in limited partnerships, hedge fundfunds and private equity interests.

 

Pre-tax netWhite Mountains is currently exploring options for exiting its securities lending programs. White Mountains participated in securities lending programs through both OneBeacon and White Mountains Re as a mechanism for generating additional investment incomeincome.  Under the security lending arrangements, certain securities White Mountains owns are loaned to other institutions for short periods of time through a lending agent.  The security lending counterparty is required to provide collateral for the loaned securities, which is then invested by the lending agent.  The collateral is normally required at a rate of 102% of the fair value of the loaned securities. For OneBeacon’s program prior to February 2009 and for White Mountains Re’s program, the collateral is fully controlled by the lending agent and may not be sold or re-pledged.  The fair value of the securities lending collateral is recorded as both an asset and a liability, however, other than in the event of a default by the borrower, the collateral is not available to White Mountains and will be remitted to the borrower by the lending agent upon return of the loaned securities. Because of these restrictions, White Mountains considers White Mountains Re’s securities lending activities and OneBeacon’s securities lending activities prior to February 2009 to be non-cash transactions. In the event of a shortfall in the collateral amount required to be returned to the security lending counterparty (e.g., as a result of investment losses), White Mountains is obligated to make up any deficiency.  The value that can be loaned under White Mountains’ securities lending programs cannot exceed approximately $170 million.

In February 2009, OneBeacon amended the terms of its securities lending program to give it more control over the investment of borrowers’ collateral and to segregate the assets supporting that collateral from a collective investment vehicle managed by the lending agent into a separate account. Pursuant to the amendment, (i) the guidelines for the investment of any new cash collateral, as well as the reinvestment of cash, were narrowed to permit investment in only cash equivalent securities, (ii) OneBeacon has the authority to direct the lending agent to both sell specific collateral securities in its separate account and to not sell certain collateral securities which the lending agent proposes to sell, and (iii) OneBeacon and the lending agent agreed to manage the securities lending program toward an orderly wind-down, which OneBeacon believes will be completed over an approximately 1 to 2 year period.

As a result of this change, OneBeacon’s securities lending program is now recorded so that assets in the separate account are included within White Mountains’ investment securities.  The separate account is comprised of $44.7 million of fixed maturity investments and $2.2 million of short-term investments.  Accordingly, purchases and sales of invested assets held in the separate account as well as changes in the payable to the borrower for the return of collateral are reflected in the investing and financing sections of the cash flow statement commencing with the quarter ended March 31, 2009.

At March 31, 2009, there was an $8.7 million collateral shortfall ($1.7 million at OneBeacon and $7.0 million at WMRe America) for the securities lending programs.  White Mountains has recorded unrealized gains of $4.0 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008 and 2007 consistedMarch 31, 2009 for the net impact of the following:securities lending programs.

 

 

 

Three Months Ended
June 30,

 

Six Months Ended
June 30,

 

Millions

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

Investment income:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed maturity investments

 

$

89.9

 

$

103.9

 

$

187.0

 

$

200.2

 

Short-term investments

 

12.6

 

18.3

 

24.9

 

36.2

 

Common equity securities

 

9.2

 

6.5

 

18.3

 

11.5

 

Other

 

2.1

 

.1

 

2.1

 

1.2

 

Convertible fixed maturity investments

 

2.1

 

2.5

 

3.8

 

3.6

 

Total investment income

 

115.9

 

131.3

 

236.1

 

252.7

 

Less investment expenses

 

(4.2

)

(4.6

)

(7.6

)

(8.0

)

Net investment income, pre-tax

 

$

111.7

 

$

126.7

 

$

228.5

 

$

244.7

 

1412



Table of Contents

 

Pre-tax realizednet investment (losses) gainsincome for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008 consisted of the following:

 

 

Three Months Ended June 30,

 

Six Months Ended June 30,

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

Millions

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Investment income:

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed maturity investments

 

$

(17.9

)

$

(3.1

)

$

(30.5

)

$

5.2

 

 

$

57.4

 

$

97.1

 

Short-term investments

 

2.8

 

12.3

 

Common equity securities

 

15.4

 

46.2

 

18.8

 

94.2

 

 

1.8

 

9.1

 

Other investments

 

3.9

 

42.1

 

(3.8

)

59.8

 

Convertible fixed maturity investments

 

(6.3

)

3.9

 

(2.4

)

3.8

 

 

1.9

 

1.7

 

Net realized investment (losses) gains, pre-tax

 

$

(4.9

)

$

89.1

 

$

(17.9

)

$

163.0

 

Total investment income

 

63.9

 

120.2

 

Less investment expenses

 

(2.8

)

(3.4

)

Net investment income, pre-tax

 

$

61.1

 

$

116.8

 

Net realized and unrealized investment losses

White Mountains recognized $(23.3) million and $(118.0) million on net realized and unrealized investment losses for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.

Net realized investment losses

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

Millions

 

2009

 

2008

 

Fixed maturity investments

 

$

(32.7

)

$

(12.6

)

Short-term investments

 

.1

 

 

Common equity securities

 

(51.1

)

3.4

 

Other long-term investments

 

(3.4

)

(7.7

)

Convertible fixed maturity investments

 

.8

 

3.9

 

Net realized investment losses pre-tax

 

$

(86.3

)

$

(13.0

)

 

For the three and six months ended June 30, 2008 the CompanyMarch 31, 2009, White Mountains recognized $(0.6) million and $(9.0)$58.6 million of after - taxafter-tax realized losses.  During the three and six months ended June 30, 2007 the CompanyMarch 31, 2008, White Mountains recognized after - taxafter-tax realized gainslosses of $62.9 million and $111.8$8.4 million.

 

Net unrealized investment gains (losses)

The Company recognizes declines in fair value deemed to be other-than-temporary impairments as realized losses.  During the three and six months ended June 30, 2008 the Company recognized realized losses of $46.7 million and $68.8 million for declines in fair value deemed to be other than temporary.  For the three and six months ended June 30, 2007, no such charges were taken. Effective January 1, 2008, upon adoption of FAS 159, for all investment securities for which the fair value election has been made, allfollowing table summarizes changes in the carrying value of investments measured at fair value are included in revenues.value:

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31, 2009

 

Three Months Ended
March 31, 2008

 

Millions

 

Net
unrealized
gains
(losses)

 

Net
foreign
exchange
gains

 

Total
changes in
fair value
reflected in
earnings

 

Net
unrealized
gains
(losses)

 

Net
foreign
exchange
gains
(losses)

 

Total
changes in
fair value
reflected in
earnings

 

Fixed maturities

 

$

64.1

 

$

3.0

 

$

67.1

 

$

3.8

 

$

2.2

 

$

6.0

 

Common equity securities

 

(1.6

)

3.0

 

1.4

 

(82.1

)

(.7

)

(82.8

)

Short-term investments

 

(.2

)

.2

 

 

.3

 

1.2

 

1.5

 

Convertible fixed maturities

 

(1.4

)

 

(1.4

)

(16.5

)

 

(16.5

)

Other long-term investments

 

(6.5

)

2.4

 

(4.1

)

(13.2

)

 

(13.2

)

Net unrealized investment gains (losses)

 

$

54.4

 

$

8.6

 

$

63.0

 

$

(107.7

)

$

2.7

 

$

(105.0

)

 

White Mountains’ ending netMountains recognized after-tax unrealized investment gains (losses) of $39.3 million and losses on its investment portfolio$(76.2) million for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and its investments in unconsolidated affiliates at June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007 were as follows:2008.

 

 

 

June 30,

 

December 31,

 

Millions

 

2008

 

2007

 

Investment securities, available for sale:

 

 

 

 

 

Gross unrealized investment gains

 

$

 

$

396.8

 

Gross unrealized investment losses

 

 

(85.7

)

Net unrealized gains from investment securities

 

 

311.1

 

Net unrealized losses from investments in unconsolidated affiliates

 

(66.4

)

(1.9

)

Total net unrealized investment (losses) gains, before tax

 

(66.4

)

309.2

 

Deferred income taxes on net unrealized gains

 

 

(99.0

)

Minority interest

 

 

(3.2

)

Total net unrealized investment (losses) gains, after-tax

 

$

(66.4

)

$

207.0

 

13



Table of Contents

 

The cost or amortized cost, gross unrealized investment gains and losses, and carrying values of White Mountains’ fixed maturity investments as of June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2007,2008, were as follows:follows

 

 

June 30, 2008

 

 

March 31, 2009

 

Millions

 

Cost or
amortized
cost

 

Gross
unrealized
gains

 

Gross
unrealized
losses

 

Net foreign
currency
gains

 

Carrying
value

 

 

Cost or
amortized
cost

 

Gross
unrealized
gains

 

Gross
unrealized
losses

 

Net foreign
currency
gains(losses)

 

Carrying
value

 

U.S. Government obligations

 

$

882.0

 

$

29.3

 

$

(1.6

)

$

 

$

909.7

 

 

$

655.2

 

$

29.4

 

$

(.3

)

$

5.0

 

$

689.3

 

Debt securities issued by industrial corporations

 

2,049.4

 

12.9

 

(47.9

)

52.8

 

2,067.2

 

 

2,392.1

 

35.3

 

(119.8

)

(4.3

)

2,303.3

 

Municipal obligations

 

11.4

 

.4

 

 

 

11.8

 

 

7.4

 

.4

 

 

 

7.8

 

Mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities

 

2,829.9

 

21.6

 

(19.3

)

2.7

 

2,834.9

 

 

1,863.1

 

19.6

 

(102.9

)

21.2

 

1,801.0

 

Foreign government obligations

 

829.9

 

1.6

 

(11.0

)

105.4

 

925.9

 

 

768.9

 

27.7

 

(1.4

)

25.0

 

820.2

 

Preferred stocks

 

106.4

 

.7

 

(18.5

)

8.3

 

96.9

 

 

74.2

 

.2

 

(20.8

)

 

53.6

 

Total fixed maturity investments(1)

 

$

6,709.0

 

$

66.5

 

$

(98.3

)

$

169.2

 

$

6,846.4

 

 

$

5,760.9

 

$

112.6

 

$

(245.2

)

$

46.9

 

$

5,675.2

 

 

15



Table(1)Total fixed maturity investments includes $44.7 of Contentsinvestments included as part of Securities lending investment assets - OneBeacon

 

 

December 31, 2007

 

 

December 31, 2008

 

Millions

 

Cost or
amortized
cost

 

Gross
unrealized
gains

 

Gross
unrealized
losses

 

Net foreign
currency
gains

 

Carrying
value

 

 

Cost or
amortized
cost

 

Gross
unrealized
gains

 

Gross
unrealized
losses

 

Net foreign
currency
gains(losses)

 

Carrying
value

 

U.S. Government obligations

 

$

1,250.9

 

$

30.5

 

$

(1.7

)

$

 

$

1,279.7

 

 

$

785.4

 

$

24.4

 

$

(14.4

)

$

3.5

 

$

798.9

 

Debt securities issued by industrial corporations

 

2,095.8

 

30.7

 

(31.1

)

35.3

 

2,130.7

 

 

1,746.9

 

25.0

 

(112.2

)

(12.4

)

1,647.3

 

Municipal obligations

 

11.9

 

.5

 

 

 

12.4

 

 

7.4

 

.3

 

(.1

)

 

7.6

 

Mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities

 

2,882.6

 

21.4

 

(7.3

)

1.9

 

2,898.6

 

 

2,321.1

 

21.2

 

(138.4

)

37.3

 

2,241.2

 

Foreign government obligations

 

792.3

 

2.6

 

(5.2

)

86.6

 

876.3

 

 

696.6

 

28.3

 

(8.0

)

14.2

 

731.1

 

Preferred stocks

 

159.5

 

8.2

 

(2.3

)

8.4

 

173.8

 

 

74.2

 

.1

 

(19.9

)

 

54.4

 

Total fixed maturity investments

 

$

7,193.0

 

$

93.9

 

$

(47.6

)

$

132.2

 

$

7,371.5

 

 

$

5,631.6

 

$

99.3

 

$

(293.0

)

$

42.6

 

$

5,480.5

 

 

The cost or amortized cost, gross unrealized investment gains and losses, and carrying values of White Mountains’ common equity securities, convertible fixed maturities, and other long-term investments as of June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2007,2008, were as follows:

 

 

June 30, 2008

 

 

March 31, 2009

 

Millions

 

Cost or
amortized
cost

 

Gross
unrealized
gains

 

Gross
unrealized
losses

 

Net foreign
currency
gains

 

Carrying
value

 

 

Cost or
amortized
cost

 

Gross
unrealized
gains

 

Gross
unrealized
losses

 

Net foreign
currency
gains

 

Carrying
value

 

Common equity securities

 

$

1,431.6

 

$

249.6

 

$

(84.9

)

$

24.3

 

$

1,620.6

 

 

$

323.0

 

$

12.4

 

$

(40.8

)

$

24.2

 

$

318.8

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Convertible fixed maturities

 

$

425.2

 

$

2.3

 

$

(12.9

)

 

$

414.6

 

 

$

284.9

 

$

3.1

 

$

(23.0

)

$

 

$

265.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other investments

 

$

545.1

 

$

137.5

 

$

(20.4

)

$

4.3

 

$

666.5

 

Other long-term investments

 

$

421.2

 

$

42.5

 

$

(77.0

)

$

8.4

 

$

395.1

 

 

 

December 31, 2007(2)

 

 

December 31, 2008

 

Millions

 

Cost or
amortized
cost

 

Gross
unrealized
gains

 

Gross
unrealized
losses

 

Net foreign
currency
gains
(losses)

 

Carrying
value

 

 

Cost or
amortized
cost

 

Gross
unrealized
gains

 

Gross
unrealized
losses

 

Net foreign
currency
gains

 

Carrying
value

 

Common equity securities

 

$

1,298.8

 

$

269.9

 

$

(34.8

)

$

16.8

 

$

1,550.7

 

 

$

558.4

 

$

18.0

 

$

(44.9

)

$

21.2

 

$

552.7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other investments (1)

 

$

539.2

 

$

68.1

 

$

(3.3

)

$

(.7

)

$

603.3

 

Convertible fixed maturities

 

$

327.3

 

$

3.2

 

$

(21.7

)

$

 

$

308.8

 

Other long-term investments

 

$

431.2

 

$

44.2

 

$

(65.2

)

$

6.0

 

$

416.2

 

 

14



(1)Prior to the adoptionTable of FAS 159, equity changes in White Mountains’ interest in limited partnerships accounted for using the equity method were reported as realized gains (losses) through earnings and a corresponding increase (decrease) in the cost of the investment.  Effective with the adoption of FAS 159 on January 1, 2008, White Mountains now reports equity changes in limited partnership interests through net unrealized investment gains (losses) in earnings. Consequently, on January 1, 2008, White Mountains reduced the cost and increased the gross unrealized gains of its investments in limited partnerships by $48.8.Contents

(2)Prior to the adoption of FAS 159, changes in the fair value of convertible fixed maturities were included in realized gains and losses.

Fair value measurements at June 30, 2008March 31, 2009

 

The CompanyWhite Mountains adopted FAS 157 on January 1, 2008. FAS 157 established a hierarchy of fair value measurements based upon the nature of the inputs as follows:

 

Level 1 Valuations based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets;

 

Level 2 Valuations based on observable inputs that do not meet the criteria for Level 1, including quoted prices in inactive markets and quoted prices in active markets for similar, but not identical instruments;

 

Level 3 Valuations based on unobservable inputs.

 

16



Table of Contents

White Mountains uses observable inputs for the vast majority of its investment portfolio. Fair value measurements for securities for which quoted prices are unavailable are estimated based upon reference to observable inputs such as benchmark interest rates, matrix pricing, market comparables, broker quotes and other relevant inputs. In circumstances where quoted prices or observable inputs are adjusted to reflect management’s best estimate of fair value, such fair value measurements are considered a lower level measurement in the FAS 157 fair value hierarchy. Other long-term investments, which comprises limited partnerships, hedge fund and private equity interests for which the SFASFAS 159 fair value option has been elected are carried at fair value based upon White Mountains’ proportionate interest in the underlying partnership’s or fund’s net asset value, which is deemed to approximate fair value. In circumstances where the partnership net asset value is deemed to differ from fair value due to illiquidity or other factors, net asset value is adjusted accordingly.  At March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, White Mountains did not adjust the net asset values used to determine fair value because an active secondary market for such investments existed.

 

The following tabletables summarizes White Mountains’ fair value measurements for investments at June 30,March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, by level:

 

 

June 30, 2008

 

 

March 31, 2009

 

Millions

 

Fair value

 

Level 1 Inputs

 

Level 2 Inputs

 

Level 3 Inputs

 

 

Fair value

 

Level 1 Inputs

 

Level 2 Inputs

 

Level 3 Inputs

 

Fixed maturities

 

$

6,846.4

 

$

857.7

 

$

5,835.5

 

$

153.2

 

 

$

5,675.2

 

$

572.1

 

$

4,932.5

 

$

170.6

 

Common equity securities

 

1,620.6

 

1,336.0

 

152.2

 

132.4

 

 

318.8

 

173.0

 

36.5

 

109.3

 

Convertible fixed maturity investments

 

414.6

 

 

414.6

 

 

 

265.0

 

 

264.3

 

.7

 

Short-term investments

 

1,988.0

 

1,988.0

 

 

 

 

2,150.6

 

2,150.6

 

 

 

Other investments (1)

 

653.2

 

 

 

653.2

 

Other long-term investments (1)

 

381.4

 

 

 

381.4

 

Total investments

 

$

11,522.8

 

$

4,181.7

 

$

6,402.3

 

$

938.8

 

 

$

8,791.0

 

$

2,895.7

 

$

5,233.3

 

$

662.0

 

 


(1)          The fair value of other long-term investments excludes carrying value of $13.3$13.7 associated with other investment limited partnerships accounted for using the equity method.

 

As

 

 

December 31, 2008

 

Millions

 

Fair value

 

Level 1 Inputs

 

Level 2 Inputs

 

Level 3 Inputs

 

Fixed maturities

 

$

5,480.5

 

$

689.4

 

$

4,634.7

 

$

156.4

 

Common equity securities

 

552.7

 

399.2

 

40.2

 

113.3

 

Convertible fixed maturity investments

 

308.8

 

 

308.8

 

 

Short-term investments

 

2,244.5

 

2,244.5

 

 

 

Other long-term investments (1)

 

402.4

 

 

 

402.4

 

Total investments

 

$

8,988.9

 

$

3,333.1

 

$

4,983.7

 

$

672.1

 


(1)The fair value of June 30, 2008,other long-term investments excludes carrying value of $13.8 associated with other investment limited partnerships accounted for using the equity method.

In addition to the investment portfolio described above, White Mountains has consolidated $69.7$38.0 million and $41.8 million of liabilities recorded at fair value in accordance with FAS 157 and included in other liabilities as of March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008.  These liabilities relate to securities that have been sold short sale investment securities dueby limited partnerships that White Mountains invests in and is required to White Mountains’ consolidationconsolidate under GAAP.  All of certain limited partnership investments under FIN 46.  These investmentsthe liabilities included have been deemed to have a Level 1 designation and are included in other liabilities.designation.

15



Table of Contents

 

The following table summarizes the changes in White Mountains’ Level 3 fair value measurements for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008:March 31, 2009:

 

Millions

 

Fixed
Maturities

 

Common
equity
securities

 

Convertible
fixed
maturities

 

Other
investments

 

Total

 

 

Fixed
Maturities

 

Common
equity
securities

 

Convertible
fixed
maturities

 

Other
investments

 

Total

 

Balance at January 1, 2008

 

$

297.9

 

$

308.6

 

$

23.2

 

$

596.4

 

$

1,226.1

 

Balance at January 1, 2009

 

$

156.4

 

$

113.3

 

$

 

$

402.4

 

$

672.1

 

Total realized and unrealized losses

 

(3.9

)

(2.1

)

 

(16.0

)

(22.0

)

 

(3.6

)

(3.6

)

 

(44.3

)

(51.5

)

Purchases

 

16.0

 

8.5

 

2.8

 

35.7

 

63.0

 

 

16.4

 

 

.7

 

45.5

 

62.6

 

Sales

 

(88.4

)

(23.3

)

(23.2

)

(35.0

)

(169.9

)

 

(17.1

)

(.4

)

 

(22.2

)

(39.7

)

Transfers in

 

 

 

 

52.4

 

52.4

 

 

57.9

 

 

 

 

57.9

 

Transfers out

 

(34.9

)

(158.3

)

 

 

(193.2

)

 

(39.4

)

 

 

 

(39.4

)

Balance at March 31, 2008

 

$

186.7

 

$

133.4

 

$

2.8

 

$

633.5

 

$

956.4

 

Total realized and unrealized (losses) gains

 

(18.0

)

(1.3

)

 

17.1

 

(2.2

)

Purchases

 

62.9

 

1.2

 

 

4.6

 

68.7

 

Sales

 

(2.6

)

(.8

)

 

(2.0

)

(5.4

)

Transfers in

 

5.2

 

 

 

 

5.2

 

Transfers out

 

(81.0

)

(.1

)

(2.8

)

 

(83.9

)

Balance at June 30, 2008

 

$

153.2

 

$

132.4

 

$

 

$

653.2

 

$

938.8

 

Balance at March 31, 2009

 

$

170.6

 

$

109.3

 

$

.7

 

$

381.4

 

$

662.0

 

 

17



Table of Contents

Transfers into Level 3 measurements for fixed maturities relate primarily to securities recently acquired as of the quarter end for which observable inputs were unavailable. Such securities were manually priced using a combination of market inputs such as benchmark interest rates, market comparables and/or broker quotes. Transfers into Level 3 measurements for common equity securities related to securities for which pricing information did not represent current market inputs at the quarter end. This was deemed to render the fair value measurements as based upon unobservable inputs and were accordingly classified within Level 3. When observable pricing inputs subsequently became available, the fair value measurements for these fixed maturity and common equity securities were reclassified to Levels 1 and/or 2 and are reflected in transfers out of Level 3 measurements for the quarter ended June 30, 2008. Transfers into Level 3 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2008 for otherfixed maturity investments relate to securities that were manually priced in the Company’s investmentprior period but have been priced using observable inputs in Pentelia which was previously accounted for under the equity method (see Note 12).  When the Company’s investment fell below the threshold for equity method accounting, the Company began accounting for the investment as a FAS 115 security, classified as trading.current period.

 

The following table summarizes the amount of total gains (losses) included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains (losses) for Level 3 assets for the three and six months ended June 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008:

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

Millions

 

Three Months
Ended June 30,
2008

 

Six Months
Ended June 30,
2008

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Fixed maturities

 

$

 (17.3

)

$

 (21.2

)

 

$

9.9

 

$

(3.9

)

Common equity securities

 

(1.3

)

(4.1

)

 

(2.7

)

(2.8

)

Convertible fixed maturities

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other investments

 

15.8

 

(2.0

)

Other long-term investments

 

(13.7

)

(17.8

)

Total change in unrealized losses - Level 3 assets

 

$

(2.8

)

$

(27.3

)

 

$

(6.5

)

$

(24.5

)

 

Changes in fair value for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008

The following table summarizes changes in the carrying value of investments measured at fair value:

 

 

Three Months Ended June 30, 2008

 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2008

 

Millions

 

Net
unrealized
gains
(losses)

 

Net
foreign
exchange
gains

 

Total
changes in
fair value
reflected in
earnings

 

Net
unrealized
gains
(losses)

 

Net
foreign
exchange
gains
(losses)

 

Total changes
in
fair value
reflected in
earnings

 

Fixed maturities

 

$

(81.8

)

$

1.0

 

$

(80.8

)

$

(78.0

)

$

3.2

 

$

(74.8

)

Common equity securities

 

12.5

 

.1

 

12.6

 

(69.6

)

(.6

)

(70.2

)

Short-term investments

 

(.3

)

.3

 

 

 

1.5

 

1.5

 

Convertible fixed maturities

 

(2.6

)

 

(2.6

)

(19.1

)

 

(19.1

)

Other investments

 

16.6

 

 

16.6

 

3.4

 

 

3.4

 

Net unrealized investment (losses) gains

 

$

(55.6

)

$

1.4

 

$

(54.2

)

$

(163.3

)

$

4.1

 

$

(159.2

)

The Company recognized after-tax unrealized losses of $(118.7) million and $(42.5) million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008.

18



Table of Contents

Note 6.5.  Debt

 

Refer to the Company’s 2008 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a fuller discussion regarding White Mountains’ debt obligations as of December 31, 2008. White Mountains’ debt outstanding as of June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 and December 31, 20072008 consisted of the following:

 

Millions

 

June 30,
2008

 

December 31,
2007

 

 

March 31,
2009

 

December 31,
2008

 

OBH Senior Notes, at face value(1)

 

$

700.0

 

$

700.0

 

 

$

665.3

 

$

676.0

 

Unamortized original issue discount

 

(1.0

)

(1.1

)

 

(.8

)

(.9

)

OBH Senior Notes, carrying value

 

699.0

 

698.9

 

 

664.5

 

675.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WMRe Senior Notes, at face value

 

400.0

 

400.0

 

 

400.0

 

400.0

 

Unamortized original issue discount

 

(1.0

)

(1.1

)

 

(1.0

)

(1.0

)

WMRe Senior Notes, carrying value

 

399.0

 

398.9

 

 

399.0

 

399.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WTM Bank Facility

 

300.0

 

 

 

200.0

 

200.0

 

OBH Bank Facility

 

 

 

Mortgage Note

 

40.8

 

40.8

 

 

40.6

 

40.8

 

Sierra Note

 

36.2

 

36.3

 

Sierra Note (2)

 

31.1

 

31.1

 

Atlantic Specialty Note

 

16.0

 

18.0

 

 

14.0

 

16.0

 

AFI Note

 

29.6

 

 

Total debt

 

$

1,520.6

 

$

1,192.9

 

 

$

1,349.2

 

$

1,362.0

 

 

Bank Facilities


The WTM Bank Facility is a $475 million revolving credit facility that matures in June 2012. (1)During the first quarter of 2008, in anticipation2009, OneBeacon repurchased $10.6 face value of the Berkshire Exchange, White Mountains drew the full $475 million available under the WTM Bank Facility (see Note 2) at an effective interest rate of 3.1%. In April 2008, the Company repaid $175 million of the borrowings.  Outstanding borrowings under the WTM Bank Facility at June 30, 2008 have an effective interest rate of 3.2%. White Mountains recorded $2.6 million and $3.2 million in interest expense on this borrowing for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008.

OneBeacon, through its wholly-owned subsidiaryoutstanding OneBeacon U.S. Holdings, Inc. (“OBH”), formerly Fund American Companies, Inc., has Senior Notes for $8.1, which resulted in a $75 million revolving credit facility that matures in November 2011 (the “OBH Bank Facility”), which was undrawn as$2.5 gain on extinguishment of June 30, 2008.

The WTM Bank Facility and the OBH Bank Facility contain various affirmative, negative and financial covenants which White Mountains considers to be customary for such borrowings and include maintaining certain minimum net worth and maximum debt to capitalization standards.  Failure to meet one or more of these covenants could result in an event of default, which ultimately could eliminate availability under these facilities and result in acceleration of principal repayment on any amounts outstanding.  At June 30, 2008, White Mountains was in compliance with all of the covenants under the WTM Bank Facility and the OBH Bank Facility, and anticipates it will continue to remain in compliance with these covenants for the foreseeable future.

AFI Notedebt.

At June 30, 2008, the noncontrolling shareholders of AFI held a $29.6 million Senior Secured Note (“the AFI Note”).On July 30, 2008, White Mountains repaid this note(2)Fully indemnified by Berkshire in connection with its acquisition of the remaining debt and equity interests of AFI from the minority owner (see Note 15).Berkshire Exchange

 

1916



Table of Contents

Note 7.6.  Income Taxes

 

The Company is domiciled in Bermuda and has subsidiaries domiciled in the United States and several other countries.  The majority of White Mountains’ worldwide operations are taxed in the United States.  Income earned or losses incurred by non-U.S. companies will generally be subject to an overall effective tax rate lower than that imposed by the United States.

 

White Mountains’ income tax provisionexpense (benefit) for the second quarter ofthree months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008 represented an effective tax rate of (35.3)25.4% and (31.8)%, while.  For the effective tax rate in the second quarter of 2007 was 28.2%.three months ended March 31, 2009, White Mountains’ effective tax rates wereare different from the U.S. statutory rate of 35% primarily due to income generated in jurisdictions other than the United States.  For the three months ended March 31, 2008, White Mountains’ effective tax rates are different from the U.S. statutory rate of 35% primarily due to income generated in jurisdictions other than the United States, the change in unrealized investment gains (losses) pursuant to FAS 159, withholding taxes, and non-deductible dividends and accretion on the Berkshire Preferred Stock.

 

In arriving at the effective tax rate for the quarterthree months ended June 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, White Mountains is treating the change in unrealized investment gains (losses) and realized investment gains (losses) as a discrete itemitems separate from the other components of pre-tax income (loss). Therefore, the benefit of these net lossesgains (losses) is calculated at the statutory rate applicable to the jurisdiction in which the lossesgains (losses) are recorded. The majority of investment assets incurring current period net lossesgains (losses) for the quarterthree months ended June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 are recorded in the U.S. and Sweden, and are taxed at the statutory raterates of 35% and 28%, respectively. White Mountains believes that the treatment for the change26.3%. The changes in unrealized investment gains (losses) and realized investment gains (losses) are treated as a discrete item is appropriate since a reliableitems due to the inability to reliably estimate these amounts for the full year cannot be made.year.

 

On January 1, 2007, White Mountains adoptedrecords a valuation allowance against deferred tax assets if it becomes more likely than not that all or a portion of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. Changes in valuation allowances from period to period are included in the income tax expense in the period of change. In determining whether or not a valuation allowance, or change therein, is warranted, White Mountains considers factors such as prior earnings history, expected future earnings, carry-back and carry-forward periods and strategies that if executed would result in the realization of a deferred tax asset. As of March 31, 2009, the net U.S. deferred tax assets were approximately $497.0 million. During the next twelve months, it is possible that certain planning strategies will no longer be sufficient to utilize the entire deferred tax asset, which could result in material changes to White Mountains’ deferred tax assets and tax provision.  Utilization of the deferred tax asset is dependent on future profitability and generation of net capital gains.

Under FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes (“FIN 48”). FIN 48 prescribes when the benefit of a given tax position should be recognized and how it should be measured.  In connection with the adoption of FIN 48, White Mountains has recognized a $.2 million decrease in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits, primarily as a result of reductions in its estimates of accrued interest.  The effect of adoption has been recorded as an adjustment to opening retained earnings.

Under FIN 48,, White Mountains classifies all interest and penalties on unrecognized tax benefits as part of income tax expense.  With few exceptions, White Mountains is no longer subject to U.S. federal, state or non-U.S. income tax examinations for years before 2003.

 

In the second quarter of 2006, the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) commenced an examination of certain of White Mountains’ U.S. subsidiaries’ income tax returns for 2003 through 2004.2004 for certain U.S. subsidiaries of OneBeacon, White Mountains Re and Esurance. On June 30, 2008,January 22, 2009, the Company received Form 4549-A (Income Tax Examination Changes) from the IRS relating to the examination of tax years 2003 and 2004.  The IRS is asserting that subsidiaries of the Company owe an additional $90.0$65.7 million of tax.  The estimated total assessment, including interest, withholding tax and utilization of tax credits is $174.0$132.3 million.  The Company disagrees with the adjustments proposed by the IRS and intends tois vigorously defenddefending its position.  The timing of the resolution of these issues is uncertain,uncertain; however, it is reasonably possible that the resolution could occur within the next 12 months.  An estimate of the range of potential outcomes cannot be made at this time.  The CompanyWhite Mountains does not expect the resolution of this examination to result in a material change to its financial position.

 

20In October 2008, the IRS commenced an examination of certain of White Mountains’ U.S. subsidiaries’ income tax returns for 2005 through 2006.  As of March 31, 2009, the IRS has not proposed any significant adjustments to taxable income as a result of the 2005 through 2006 audit.  However, White Mountains does not expect to receive any adjustments that would result in a material change to its financial position.

17



Table of Contents

 

Note 8.7.  Weather Contracts

 

For the three and six months ended June 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008, Galileo recognized $2.7 million and $6.7$4.0 million of net gains on its weather and weather contingent derivatives portfolio.  For the three and six months ended June 30, 2007, Galileo recognized $0.9 million of net losses and $0.1 million of net gains on its weather derivatives portfolio.  As of June 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008, and 2007, Galileo had unamortized deferred gains of $4.9$4.0 million and $0.2$4.6 million.

 

The fair values of Galileo’s risk management products are subject to change in the near-term and reflect management’s best estimate based on various factors including, but not limited to, realized and forecasted weather conditions, changes in interest or foreign currency exchange rates and other market factors. Estimating the fair value of derivative instruments that do not have quoted market prices requires management’s judgment in determining amounts that could reasonably be expected to be received from or paid to a third party to settle the contracts. Such amounts could be materially different from the amounts that might be realized in an actual transaction to settle the contract with a third party. Because of the significance of the unobservable inputs used to estimate the fair value of Galileo’s weather risk contracts, the fair value measurements of the contracts are deemed to be Level 3 measurements in the FAS 157 fair value hierarchy.

 

Galileo’s weather risk management contracts are summarized in the following table:

 

 

Six Months Ended June 30,

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

Millions

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Net liability for weather derivative contracts as of January 1 (1)

 

$

17.9

 

$

12.1

 

 

$

13.1

 

$

17.9

 

Net consideration received during the period for new contracts

 

10.5

 

.4

 

Net payments made on contracts settled during the period

 

(7.4

)

(11.0

)

Net consideration (paid) received during the period for new contracts

 

(.2

)

8.4

 

Net receipts (payments) on contracts settled during the period

 

.3

 

(7.8

)

Net decrease in fair value on settled and unsettled contracts

 

(6.7

)

(.1

)

 

(2.7

)

(4.0

)

Net liability for weather derivative contracts as of June 30 (2)

 

$

14.3

 

$

1.4

 

Net liability for weather derivative contracts as of March 31 (2)

 

$

10.5

 

$

14.5

 

 


(1)Includes unamortized deferred gains of $2.9$5.1 and $4.7$2.9 as of January 1, 20082009 and 2007.2008.

(2)Includes unamortized deferred gains of $4.9$4.0 and $0.2$4.6 as of June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 and 2007.2008.

 

The following table summarizes the maturity of contracts outstanding as of June 30, 2008:March 31, 2009:

 

Millions

 

< 1 Year

 

1-3 Years

 

3-5 Years

 

> 5 Years

 

Total

 

 

< 1 Year

 

1-3 Years

 

3-5 Years

 

> 5 Years

 

Total

 

Net asset for contracts actively quoted

 

$

(.3

)

$

 

$

 

$

 

$

(.3

)

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

Net liability for contracts using internal pricing models

 

5.3

 

9.3

 

 

 

14.6

 

 

5.8

 

4.7

 

 

 

10.5

 

Total net liability for weather contracts outstanding

 

$

5.0

 

$

9.3

 

$

 

$

 

$

14.3

(1)

 

$

5.8

 

$

4.7

 

$

 

$

 

$

10.5

(1)


(1)Amount includes $4.9Includes $4.0 in unamortized deferred gains.

18



Table of Contents

 

Note 9.NOTE 8. Variable Annuity Reinsurance

 

White Mountains has entered into agreements to reinsure death and living benefit guarantees associated with certain variable annuities in Japan through its wholly owned subsidiary, WM Life Re.Japan. At March 31, 2009, the total guarantee value was approximately ¥ 244 billion (approximately $2.5 billion at exchange rates on that date). The accounting for benefit guarantees differs depending on whether or notcollective account values of the underlying variable annuities were approximately 81% of the guarantee is classified as a derivative or an insurance liability.

At June 30, 2008 and Decembervalue at March 31, 2007, the liability recorded for the variable annuity benefit guarantees that is included in other liabilities, was $47.7 million and $12.7 million, of which $2.6 million and $0.4 million were life insurance liabilities.

At June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, the fair value of WM Life Re’s derivative contracts was $72.4 million and $43.7 million, which are included in other assets. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2008 WM Life Re had (losses) gains  from its derivative contracts of $(40.7) million and $15.0 million. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2007 WM Life Re had (losses) from its derivative contracts of $(12.8) million and $(16.0) million.

21



Table of Contents

At June 30, 2008, WM Life Re had $16.3 million of cash deposited as collateral with counterparties. In addition, at June 30, 2008, derivative financial instruments with a fair value of $60.8 million were subject to restrictions over liquidation of the instruments and distribution of proceeds under collateral agreements with counterparties. At December 31, 2007, WM Life Re had $8.5 million of cash and $5.0 million of securities deposited as collateral with counterparties.

2009. The following table summarizes the pre-tax operating results of WM Life Re for the three and six months ended June 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008:

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

Millions

 

2009

 

2008

 

Fees, included in other revenues

 

$

6.8

 

$

6.6

 

Change in fair value of variable annuity liability, included in other revenues

 

31.0

 

(78.3

)

Change in fair value of derivatives and foreign exchange on related excess margin accounts, included in other revenues (1)

 

(70.1

)

56.5

 

Other investment income and (losses) gains

 

(.9

)

 

Total revenues

 

(33.2

)

(15.2

)

Change in fair value of variable annuity death benefit liabilities, included in other expenses

 

3.8

 

(4.7

)

Death benefit claims paid, included in other expenses

 

(.5

)

 

General and administrative expenses

 

(1.6

)

(1.0

)

Pre-tax loss

 

$

(31.5

)

$

(20.9

)


Millions

 

Three Months
Ended June 30,
2008

 

Six Months
Ended June 30,
2008

 

Fees, included in other revenues

 

$

6.4

 

$

13.0

 

Change in fair value of variable annuity liability, included in other revenues

 

45.5

 

(32.8

)

Change in fair value of derivatives, included in other revenues

 

(40.7

)

15.0

 

Other investment income and gains(losses)

 

(1.0

)

 

Total revenues

 

10.2

 

(4.8

)

Change in fair value of variable annuity liabilities, included in other expenses

 

2.8

 

(1.9

)

General & administrative expenses

 

(1.4

)

(2.6

)

Pre-tax income (loss)

 

$

11.6

 

$

(9.3

)

(1)The exposure on foreign currency denominated excess margin account deposits is economically hedged with derivative instruments. The change in fair value of the derivative instruments as well as the foreign currency gains/losses are both reported in Other Revenues. The foreign currency (loss) gain on excess margin account deposits was $(17.0) and $0.7 at March 31, 2009 and 2008.

 

All of the Company’sWhite Mountains’ variable annuity reinsurance liabilities ($47.7432.3 million) were classified as Level 3 measurements at June 30, 2008.

March 31, 2009. The following table summarizes the changes in the Company’sWhite Mountains’ variable annuity reinsurance guarantee liabilities and derivative instruments for the threequarter ended March 31, 2009:

Millions

 

(Guarantee
Liabilities)
Level 3

 

Derivative
Instruments
Level 3 (1)

 

Derivative
Instruments
Level 2 (2)

 

Derivative
Instruments
Level 1 (3)

 

Net Derivative
Assets
(Guarantee
Liabilities)

 

Balance at January 1, 2009

 

$

(467.1

)

$

198.3

 

$

5.0

 

$

(24.9

)

$

(288.7

)

Purchases

 

 

8.8

 

 

 

8.8

 

Realized and unrealized gains (losses)

 

34.8

 

(15.7

)

(6.4

)

(31.0

)

(18.3

)

Transfers in (out)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales/settlements

 

 

 

 

11.6

 

11.6

 

Balance at March 31, 2009

 

$

(432.3

)

$

191.4

 

$

(1.4

)

$

(44.3

)

$

(286.6

)


(1)Comprises OTC instruments.

(2)Comprises interest rate swaps. Fair value measurement based upon bid/ask pricing quotes for similar instruments that are actively traded.

(3)Comprises exchange traded equity index, foreign currency and six monthsinterest rate futures. Fair value measurements based upon quoted prices for identical instruments that are actively traded.

The following summarizes realized and unrealized derivative gains (losses) recognized in other revenues for the quarter ended June 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008: and carrying value at March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, by type of instrument:

Millions

 

(Liabilities)
Level 3

 

Derivative
Instruments
Level 3

 

Derivative
Instruments
Level 1

 

Net Assets
(Liabilities)

 

Balance at January 1, 2008

 

$

(12.7

)

$

38.9

 

$

4.8

 

$

31.0

 

Cumulative effect adjustment - FAS 157

 

(.3

)

 

 

(.3

)

Purchases

 

 

10.9

 

 

10.9

 

Realized and unrealized gains (losses)

 

(83.0

)

23.1

 

32.6

 

(27.3

)

Transfers in (out)

 

 

 

 

 

Sales/settlements

 

 

 

(30.0

)

(30.0

)

Balance at March 31, 2008

 

$

(96.0

)

$

72.9

 

$

7.4

 

$

(15.7

)

Purchases

 

 

1.8

 

 

1.8

 

Realized and unrealized gains (losses)

 

48.3

 

(13.9

)

(26.8

)

7.6

 

Transfers in (out)

 

 

 

 

 

Sales/settlements

 

 

 

31.0

 

31.0

 

Balance at June 30, 2008

 

$

(47.7

)

 

$

60.8

 

 

$

11.6

 

 

$

24.7

 

 

 

 

 

Gains (losses) recognized

 

Carrying value

 

Type of Instrument (Millions)

 

2009

 

2008

 

2009

 

2008

 

Fixed income/Interest rate

 

$

(11.5

)

$

2.7

 

$

(3.2

)

$

(4.3

)

Foreign exchange

 

(72.3

)

19.1

 

37.4

 

60.2

 

Equity

 

30.7

 

34.0

 

111.5

 

122.5

 

Total

 

$

(53.1

)

$

55.8

 

$

145.7

 

$

178.4

 

22

19



Table of Contents

 

WM Life Re enters into both over-the-counter (“OTC”) and exchange traded derivative contracts to economically hedge the liability from the variable annuity benefit guarantee.  In the case of OTC derivatives, WM Life Re has exposure to credit risk for amounts that are uncollateralized by counterparties. WM Life Re’s internal risk management guidelines establish net counterparty exposure thresholds that take into account over-the-counter counterparties’ credit ratings. WM Life Re has entered into master netting agreements with certain of its counterparties whereby the collateral provided (held) is calculated on a net basis. The net collateral held under this arrangement was $7.3 million at March 31, 2009.

The following summarizes collateral provided to WM Life Re from counterparties:

Millions

 

March 31, 2009

 

December 31, 2008

 

Short term investments

 

$

11.0

 

$

10.6

 

Fixed maturity securities

 

7.3

 

53.7

 

Total

 

$

18.3

 

$

64.3

 

Collateral held by or provided by WM Life Re in the form of fixed maturity securities comprise U.S. Treasury securities, which are recorded at fair value. Collateral in the form of short-term investments consists of money-market instruments, carried at amortized cost which approximates fair value.

The following summarizes the fair value, collateral held and net exposure on OTC derivative instruments recorded within other assets:

Millions

 

March 31, 2009

 

December 31, 2008

 

Fair value of OTC derivative instruments

 

$

197.2

 

$

209.1

 

Collateral held

 

(18.3

)

(64.3

)

Net exposure on fair value of OTC instruments

 

$

178.9

 

$

144.8

 

The following table summarizes uncollateralized amounts due under WM Life Re’s OTC derivative contracts as of March 31, 2009:

Counterparty (Millions)

 

Uncollateralized balance
as of March 31, 2009

 

S&P Rating(1)

 

Bank of America (3)

 

$

51.5

 

A+

 

Barclays

 

44.2

 

A+

 

Citigroup (3)

 

44.2

 

A

 

Other

 

39.0

 

(2)

 

Total

 

$

178.9

 

 

 


(1)“AA+” is the second highest of twenty-one creditworthiness ratings, “A+” is the fifth highest of twenty-one creditworthiness ratings, A is the sixth highest of twenty-one creditworthiness ratings.

(2)The ratings of the counterparties included in “Other” were A (46%), A+ (34%) and AA+ (20%).

(3)Collateral provided (held) calculated under master netting arrangement.

The OTC derivative contracts are subject to restrictions on liquidation of the instruments and distribution of proceeds under collateral agreements.  In addition to the OTC contracts, WM Life Re held cash and short-term investments posted as collateral to its reinsurance counterparties as follows:

Millions

 

March 31, 2009

 

December 31, 2008

 

Cash

 

$

255.2

 

$

225.7

 

Short-term investments

 

40.8

 

30.3

 

Total

 

$

296.0

 

$

256.0

 

20



Table of Contents

Note 10.9. Earnings (Loss) Earnings Per Share

 

Basic earnings (loss) earnings per share amounts are based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding excludingincluding unvested restricted common shares (“Restricted Shares”).which are considered participating securities.  Diluted earnings (loss) earnings per share amounts are based on the weighted average number of common shares including unvested restricted shares and the net effect of potentially dilutive common shares outstanding, based on the treasury stock method.outstanding.  The following table outlines the Company’s computation of earnings (loss) earnings per share for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 and 2007:2008:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended
June 30,

 

Six Months Ended
June 30,

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

Basic (loss) earnings per share numerators (in millions):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Loss) income before extraordinary item

 

$

(9.2

)

$

102.6

 

$

(70.2

)

$

194.8

 

Extraordinary item - excess of fair value of acquired net assets over cost

 

 

 

4.2

 

 

Net (loss) income

 

$

(9.2

)

$

102.6

 

$

(66.0

)

$

194.8

 

Diluted (loss) earnings per share numerators (in millions):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Loss) income before extraordinary item

 

$

(9.2

)

$

102.6

 

$

(70.2

)

$

194.8

 

Extraordinary item - excess of fair value of acquired net assets over cost

 

 

 

4.2

 

 

Net (loss) income

 

$

(9.2

)

$

102.6

 

$

(66.0

)

$

194.8

 

Basic (loss) earnings per share denominators (in thousands):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average common shares outstanding during the period

 

10,569

 

10,837

 

10,566

 

10,830

 

Average unvested Restricted Shares (1)

 

(53

)

(54

)

(52

)

(50

)

Basic (loss) earnings per share denominator

 

10,516

 

10,783

 

10,514

 

10,780

 

Diluted (loss) earnings per share denominator (in thousands):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average common shares outstanding during the period

 

10,569

 

10,837

 

10,566

 

10,830

 

Average unvested Restricted Shares (1)

 

(52

)

(49

)

(52

)

(48

)

Average outstanding dilutive options to acquire common shares (2)

 

 

14

 

 

17

 

Diluted (loss) earnings per share denominator

 

10,517

 

10,802

 

10,514

 

10,799

 

Basic (loss) earnings per share (in dollars):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Loss) income before extraordinary item

 

$

(.87

)

$

9.51

 

$

(6.68

)

$

18.07

 

Extraordinary item - excess of fair value of acquired assets over cost

 

 

 

.41

 

 

Net (loss) income

 

$

(.87

)

$

9.51

 

$

(6.27

)

$

18.07

 

Diluted (loss) earnings per share (in dollars)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Loss) income before extraordinary item

 

$

(.87

)

$

9.49

 

$

(6.68

)

$

18.03

 

Extraordinary item - excess of fair value of acquired assets over cost

 

 

 

.41

 

 

Net (loss) income

 

$

(.87

)

$

9.49

 

$

(6.27

)

$

18.03

 

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Basic earnings (loss) per share numerators (in millions):

 

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) before extraordinary item

 

$

30.3

 

$

(61.0

)

Extraordinary item - excess of fair value of acquired net assets over cost

 

 

4.2

 

Net income (loss)

 

30.3

 

(56.8

)

Dividends declared and paid

 

(8.9

)

(21.2

)

Undistributed earnings (loss)

 

$

21.4

 

$

(78.0

)

Diluted earnings (loss) per share numerators (in millions):

 

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) before extraordinary item

 

$

30.3

 

$

(61.0

)

Extraordinary item - excess of fair value of acquired net assets over cost

 

 

4.2

 

Net income (loss)

 

30.3

 

(56.8

)

Dividends declared and paid

 

(8.9

)

(21.2

)

Undistributed earnings (loss)

 

$

21.4

 

$

(78.0

)

Basic earnings (loss) per share denominators (in thousands):

 

 

 

 

 

Average common shares outstanding during the period

 

8,766

 

10,562

 

Average unvested restricted shares (1)

 

59

 

50

 

Basic earnings (loss) per share denominator

 

8,825

 

10,612

 

Diluted earnings (loss) per share denominator (in thousands):

 

 

 

 

 

Average common shares outstanding during the period

 

8,766

 

10,562

 

Average unvested restricted shares (1)

 

59

 

50

 

Average outstanding dilutive options to acquire common shares (2)

 

1

 

 

Diluted earnings (loss) per share denominator

 

8,826

 

10,612

 

Basic earnings (loss) per share (in dollars):

 

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) before extraordinary item

 

$

3.44

 

$

(5.78

)

Extraordinary item - excess of fair value of acquired assets over cost

 

 

.40

 

Net income (loss)

 

3.44

 

(5.38

)

Dividends declared and paid

 

(1.00

)

(2.00

)

Undistributed earnings (loss)

 

$

2.44

 

$

(7.38

)

Diluted earnings (loss) per share (in dollars)

 

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) before extraordinary item

 

$

3.44

 

$

(5.78

)

Extraordinary item - excess of fair value of acquired assets over cost

 

 

.40

 

Net income (loss)

 

3.44

 

(5.38

)

Dividends declared and paid

 

(1.00

)

(2.00

)

Undistributed earnings (loss)

 

$

2.44

 

$

(7.38

)

 


(1)   Restricted Sharesshares outstanding vest either in equal annual installments, upon a stated date or upon the occurrence of a specified event (see Note 1412). In accordance with SFAS No. 123 (Revised 2004) Share-Based Payment (“FAS 123(R)”) the diluted (loss) earnings per share denominator is reduced by the number of Restricted Shares that represent the unamortized compensation cost at June 30, 2008 and 2007. Such amounts are computed using the treasury stock method.

(2)   The diluted lossearnings per share denominator for the three and six months ended June 30,March 31, 2009 includes 6,000 common shares issuable upon exercise of incentive options at an average stock price of $179.02 per common share. The diluted (loss) per share denominator for the three months ended March 31, 2008 does not include common shares issuable upon exercise of incentive options as they are anti-dilutive to the calculation. The diluted earnings per share denominator for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007 includes 19,875 and 23,100 common shares issuable upon exercise of incentive options at an average strike price of $161.68 and $160.51 per common share. The non-qualified options were not included in the diluted (loss) earnings per share denominator as their inclusion would be anti-dilutive for the periods presentedcalculation (see Note 1412).

 

2321



Table of Contents

 

Note 11.10. Segment Information

 

White Mountains has determined that its reportable segments are OneBeacon, White Mountains Re, Esurance and Other Operations. White Mountains has made its segment determination based on consideration of the following criteria: (i) the nature of the business activities of each of the Company’s subsidiaries and affiliates; (ii) the manner in which the Company’s subsidiaries and affiliates are organized; (iii) the existence of primary managers responsible for specific subsidiaries and affiliates; and (iv) the organization of information provided to the Board of Directors. Significant intercompany transactions among White Mountains’ segments have been eliminated herein. Financial information for White Mountains’ segments follows:

 

Millions

 

OneBeacon

 

White
Mountains Re

 

Esurance

 

Other
Operations

 

Total

 

 

OneBeacon

 

White
Mountains Re

 

Esurance

 

Other
Operations

 

Total

 

Three months ended June 30, 2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Three months ended March 31, 2009

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earned insurance and reinsurance premiums

 

$

463.8

 

$

246.9

 

$

211.0

 

$

 

$

921.7

 

 

$

487.8

 

$

227.4

 

$

196.2

 

$

 

$

911.4

 

Net investment income

 

44.6

 

47.4

 

8.5

 

11.2

 

111.7

 

 

21.9

 

29.4

 

6.1

 

3.7

 

61.1

 

Net realized investment (losses) gains

 

(1.7

)

3.1

 

(.4

)

(5.9

)

(4.9

)

Net unrealized losses on investments

 

(.9

)

(41.6

)

(4.8

)

(6.9

)

(54.2

)

Net realized and unrealized investment gains (losses)

 

(5.9

)

(20.1

)

3.7

 

(1.0

)

(23.3

)

Other revenue - foreign currency translation gain

 

 

5.4

 

 

 

5.4

 

Other revenue

 

2.6

 

7.5

 

12.7

 

42.1

 

64.9

 

 

9.4

 

11.0

 

13.9

 

(22.4

)

11.9

 

Total revenues

 

508.4

 

263.3

 

227.0

 

40.5

 

1,039.2

 

 

513.2

 

253.1

 

219.9

 

(19.7

)

966.5

 

Losses and LAE

 

274.4

 

201.5

 

158.7

 

(1.9

)

632.7

 

 

288.0

 

109.9

 

145.3

 

 

543.2

 

Insurance and reinsurance acquisition expenses

 

84.3

 

51.2

 

43.3

 

 

178.8

 

 

95.9

 

47.4

 

38.9

 

 

182.2

 

Other underwriting expenses

 

79.2

 

29.0

 

18.6

 

.6

 

127.4

 

 

72.7

 

24.2

 

18.5

 

 

115.4

 

General and administrative expenses

 

5.9

 

3.9

 

10.1

 

33.2

 

53.1

 

 

5.5

 

18.7

 

9.2

 

17.2

 

50.6

 

Amortization of AFI purchase accounting adjustments

 

 

 

4.7

 

 

4.7

 

 

 

 

5.3

 

 

5.3

 

Accretion of fair value adjustment to loss and LAE reserves

 

3.0

 

1.1

 

 

 

4.1

 

 

1.4

 

1.1

 

 

 

2.5

 

Interest expense on debt

 

11.4

 

7.0

 

.4

 

2.9

 

21.7

 

 

10.9

 

6.6

 

 

1.4

 

18.9

 

Interest expense - dividends on preferred stock

 

4.7

 

 

 

 

4.7

 

Interest expense - accretion on preferred stock

 

11.1

 

 

 

 

11.1

 

Total expenses

 

474.0

 

293.7

 

235.8

 

34.8

 

1,038.3

 

 

474.4

 

207.9

 

217.2

 

18.6

 

918.1

 

Pre-tax income (loss)

 

$

34.4

 

$

(30.4

)

$

(8.8

)

$

5.7

 

$

.9

 

 

$

38.8

 

$

45.2

 

$

2.7

 

$

(38.3

)

$

48.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Millions

 

OneBeacon

 

White
Mountains Re

 

Esurance

 

Other
Operations

 

Total

 

 

OneBeacon

 

White
Mountains Re

 

Esurance

 

Other
Operations

 

Total

 

Three months ended June 30, 2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Three months ended March 31, 2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earned insurance and reinsurance premiums

 

$

465.0

 

$

306.8

 

$

188.9

 

$

 

$

960.7

 

 

$

455.3

 

$

266.8

 

$

207.0

 

$

 

$

929.1

 

Net investment income

 

54.6

 

53.0

 

7.4

 

11.7

 

126.7

 

 

50.1

 

50.5

 

7.9

 

8.3

 

116.8

 

Net realized investment gains

 

57.1

 

22.2

 

1.5

 

8.3

 

89.1

 

Net realized and unrealized investment losses

 

(55.4

)

(52.5

)

(7.1

)

(3.0

)

(118.0

)

Other revenue — foreign currency translation loss

 

 

(13.1

)

 

 

(13.1

)

Other revenue

 

2.4

 

(1.9

)

3.1

 

30.5

 

34.1

 

 

3.6

 

.2

 

3.1

 

16.2

 

23.1

 

Total revenues

 

579.1

 

380.1

 

200.9

 

50.5

 

1,210.6

 

 

453.6

 

251.9

 

210.9

 

21.5

 

937.9

 

Losses and LAE

 

283.1

 

172.8

 

147.1

 

(10.9

)

592.1

 

 

300.9

 

168.2

 

168.4

 

1.2

 

638.7

 

Insurance and reinsurance acquisition expenses

 

78.3

 

75.0

 

50.3

 

 

203.6

 

 

84.7

 

55.6

 

46.4

 

 

186.7

 

Other underwriting expenses

 

89.6

 

29.9

 

15.9

 

.8

 

136.2

 

 

70.1

 

27.0

 

19.0

 

.7

 

116.8

 

General and administrative expenses

 

2.7

 

9.6

 

.1

 

50.0

 

62.4

 

 

2.9

 

5.1

 

.6

 

48.1

 

56.7

 

Accretion of fair value adjustment to loss and LAE reserves

 

4.0

 

1.5

 

 

 

5.5

 

 

3.0

 

1.2

 

 

 

4.2

 

Interest expense on debt

 

11.3

 

6.8

 

 

.2

 

18.3

 

 

11.5

 

6.9

 

 

1.0

 

19.4

 

Interest expense - dividends on preferred stock

 

7.5

 

 

 

 

7.5

 

 

7.1

 

 

 

 

7.1

 

Interest expense - accretion on preferred stock

 

8.8

 

 

 

 

8.8

 

 

10.5

 

 

 

 

10.5

 

Total expenses

 

485.3

 

295.6

 

213.4

 

40.1

 

1,034.4

 

 

490.7

 

264.0

 

234.4

 

51.0

 

1,040.1

 

Pre-tax income (loss)

 

$

93.8

 

$

84.5

 

$

(12.5

)

$

10.4

 

$

176.2

 

Pre-tax loss

 

$

(37.1

)

$

(12.1

)

$

(23.5

)

$

(29.5

)

$

(102.2

)

 

2422



Table of Contents

Millions

 

OneBeacon

 

White
Mountains Re

 

Esurance

 

Other
Operations

 

Total

 

Six months ended June 30, 2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earned insurance and reinsurance premiums

 

$

919.1

 

$

513.7

 

$

418.0

 

$

 

$

1,850.8

 

Net investment income

 

94.7

 

97.9

 

16.4

 

19.5

 

228.5

 

Net realized investment gains (losses)

 

2.0

 

(9.1

)

(1.9

)

(8.9

(17.9

)

Net unrealized losses on investments

 

(60.0

)

(81.9

)

(10.4

)

(6.9

)

(159.2

)

Other revenue

 

6.2

 

(5.4

)

15.8

 

58.3

 

74.9

 

Total revenues

 

962.0

 

515.2

 

437.9

 

62.0

 

1,977.1

 

Losses and LAE

 

575.3

 

369.7

 

327.1

 

(.7

)

1,271.4

 

Insurance and reinsurance acquisition expenses

 

169.0

 

106.8

 

89.7

 

 

365.5

 

Other underwriting expenses

 

149.3

 

56.0

 

37.6

 

1.3

 

244.2

 

General and administrative expenses

 

10.3

 

9.0

 

10.7

 

81.3

 

111.3

 

Amortization of AFI purchase accounting adjustments

 

 

 

4.7

 

 

4.7

 

Accretion of fair value adjustment to loss and LAE reserves

 

6.0

 

2.3

 

 

 

8.3

 

Interest expense on debt

 

22.9

 

13.9

 

.4

 

3.9

 

41.1

 

Interest expense - dividends on preferred stock

 

11.8

 

 

 

 

11.8

 

Interest expense - accretion on preferred stock

 

21.6

 

 

 

 

21.6

 

Total expenses

 

966.2

 

557.7

 

470.2

 

85.8

 

2,079.9

 

Pre-tax loss

 

$

(4.2

)

$

(42.5

)

$

(32.3

)

$

(23.8

)

$

(102.8

)

Millions

 

OneBeacon

 

White
Mountains Re

 

Esurance

 

Other
Operations

 

Total

 

Six months ended June 30, 2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earned insurance and reinsurance premiums

 

$

933.9

 

$

605.1

 

$

359.7

 

$

 

$

1,898.7

 

Net investment income

 

105.2

 

101.1

 

13.6

 

24.8

 

244.7

 

Net realized investment gains

 

112.0

 

42.1

 

2.5

 

6.4

 

163.0

 

Other revenue

 

5.5

 

(5.5

)

6.1

 

64.2

 

70.3

 

Total revenues

 

1,156.6

 

742.8

 

381.9

 

95.4

 

2,376.7

 

Losses and LAE

 

571.3

 

367.4

 

277.4

 

(10.7

)

1,205.4

 

Insurance and reinsurance acquisition expenses

 

156.6

 

144.6

 

95.0

 

 

396.2

 

Other underwriting expenses

 

180.5

 

61.2

 

30.6

 

1.6

 

273.9

 

General and administrative expenses

 

5.1

 

16.2

 

.2

 

93.8

 

115.3

 

Accretion of fair value adjustment to loss and LAE reserves

 

8.0

 

2.6

 

 

 

10.6

 

Interest expense on debt

 

22.7

 

8.0

 

 

4.4

 

35.1

 

Interest expense - dividends on preferred stock

 

15.1

 

 

 

 

15.1

 

Interest expense - accretion on preferred stock

 

17.0

 

 

 

 

17.0

 

Total expenses

 

976.3

 

600.0

 

403.2

 

89.1

 

2,068.6

 

Pre-tax income (loss)

 

$

180.3

 

$

142.8

 

$

(21.3

)

$

6.3

 

$

308.1

 

25



Table of Contents

 

Note 12.11. Investments in Unconsolidated Affiliates

 

White Mountains’ investments in unconsolidated affiliates represent investments in other companies in which White Mountains has a significant voting and economic interest but does not control the entity.

 

Symetra

At June 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, White Mountains owned 24% of the common shares of Symetra Financial Corporation (“Symetra”) on a fully converted basis, consisting of 17.4 million common shares and warrants to acquire an additional 9.5 million common shares. White Mountains accounts for its investment in common shares of Symetra using the equity method of accounting and accounts for its Symetra warrants under FAS No. 133,Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, recording the warrants at fair value with changes in fair value recognized through the income statement as a realized investment gain or loss. Symetra’s warrants are not publicly traded. Accordingly, the fair value measurement of the warrants is based on unobservable inputs and is classified as a Level 3 measurement.

For the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, the value of the Company’s investment in Symetra warrants decreased by $7.0 million and $11.3 million. The decrease in both periods was due to a decline in the valuation of stocks in the life insurance sector during the period.

 

The following table summarizes amounts recorded by White Mountains relating to its investment in Symetra:

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

Common

 

 

 

 

 

Common

 

 

 

 

 

Millions

 

Common
Shares

 

Warrants

 

Total

 

Common
Shares

 

Warrants

 

Total

 

 

Shares

 

Warrants

 

Total

 

Shares

 

Warrants

 

Total

 

Carrying value of investment in Symetra as of January 1

 

$

241.3

 

$

77.3

 

$

318.6

 

$

249.3

 

$

54.0

 

$

303.3

 

 

$

54.0

 

$

27.3

 

$

81.3

 

$

241.3

 

$

77.3

 

$

318.6

 

Equity in earnings of Symetra (1)

 

.7

 

 

.7

 

10.3

 

 

10.3

 

 

1.3

 

 

1.3

 

.7

 

 

.7

 

Net unrealized gains from Symetra’s equity portfolio and other

 

 

 

 

.5

 

 

.5

 

Net unrealized (losses) gains from Symetra’s fixed maturity portfolio

 

(20.7

)

 

(20.7

)

5.9

 

 

5.9

 

(Decrease) Increase in value of warrants

 

 

(4.3

)

(4.3

)

 

3.7

 

3.7

 

Net unrealized losses from Symetra’s fixed maturity portfolio

 

(18.0

)

 

(18.0

)

(20.7

)

 

(20.7

)

Increase (Decrease) in value of warrants

 

 

.4

 

.4

 

 

(4.3

)

(4.3

)

Carrying value of investment in Symetra as of March 31 (2)

 

$

221.3

 

$

73.0

 

$

294.3

 

$

266.0

 

$

57.7

 

$

323.7

 

 

$

37.3

 

$

27.7

 

$

65.0

 

$

221.3

 

$

73.0

 

$

294.3

 

Equity in earnings of Symetra (1)

 

5.3

 

 

5.3

 

8.3

 

 

8.3

 

Net unrealized gains (losses) from Symetra’s equity portfolio and other

 

 

 

 

.1

 

 

.1

 

Net unrealized losses from Symetra’s fixed maturity portfolio

 

(39.0

)

 

(39.0

)

(40.2

)

 

(40.2

)

(Decrease) Increase in value of warrants

 

 

(7.0

)

(7.0

)

 

4.6

 

4.6

 

Carrying value of investment in Symetra as of June 30 (3)

 

$

187.6

 

$

66.0

 

$

253.6

 

$

234.2

 

$

62.3

 

$

296.5

 

 


(1)        Equity in earnings is net of tax of $0.

(2)        Includes White Mountains’ equity in net unrealized gains and (losses)losses from Symetra’s fixed maturity portfolio of $(26.3) and $1.8$218.3 as of March 31, 20082009 and 2007.

(3)     Includes White Mountains’ equity in net unrealized gains and (losses) from Symetra’s fixed maturity portfolio of $(65.3) and $(38.5)$26.3 as of June 30, 2008 and 2007.March 31, 2008.

 

Pentelia

In April 2007, White Mountains invested $50 million in common equity of Pentelia Limited (“PIL”). White Mountains has determined that PIL is a variable interest entity but that White Mountains is not the primary beneficiary. At December 31, 2007, the investment was accounted for as an equity method investment. During the first quarter of 2008, PIL raised additional equity capital. Subsequent to the capital raise, White Mountains investment in PIL was reduced from 17% to approximately 13%. Accordingly, White Mountains’ investment in PIL is now accounted for under FAS 115 and classified as a trading security. Changes in the fair value of White Mountains’ investment in PIL are recognized in the net change in unrealized investment losses.

White Mountains also obtainedacquired a 33% equity interest in Pentelia Capital Management (“PCM”) for $1.6 million in April 2007. This investment is accounted for under the equity method.  As of June 30, 2008, White Mountains’ investment in PCM as of March 31, 2009 was $1.5$1.6 million.

26



Table of Contents

 

Delos

White Mountains owns approximately 18% of Lightyear Delos Acquisition Corporation (“Delos”) and accounts for its investment in Delos under the equity method. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, White Mountains recorded $0.5 million and $0.3$(0.6) million of after-taxpre-tax equity in earnings and $(0.5) million and $0.3$(0.3) million of after-taxpre-tax equity in unrealized investment gainslosses from its investment in Delos. White Mountains’ investment in Delos at June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 totaled $33.8$33.1 million.

 

AFIAnswer Financial

In January 2008, White Mountains acquired 42% of the outstanding debt and equity of AFI. In conjunction with this transaction, AFI completed a restructuring. During the first quarter of 2008, White Mountains contributed an additional $2.5 million to AFI.  White Mountains accounted for its investment in AFI under the equity method.method at March 31, 2008.  For the three months ended March 31, 2008, White Mountains recorded $(.1)$0.1 million of after-tax equity in earnings from its investment in AFI.  As of April 1, 2008, White Mountains’ ownership in AFI increased to 68.9%.  As a result, White Mountains now accounts for its investment in AFI as a consolidated subsidiary (see Note 2).subsidiary.  On July 30, 2008, White Mountains acquired the remaining equity and debt interests in AFI from the minority owner (see Note 15).owner.

 

23



Note 13. Retirement and Postretirement Plans

OneBeacon sponsors qualified and non-qualified, non-contributory, defined benefit pension plans covering substantially all employees who were employed asTable of December 31, 2001 and remain actively employed with OneBeacon. Current plans include a OneBeacon qualified pension plan (the “Qualified Plan”) and a OneBeacon non-qualified pension plan (the “Non-qualified Plan” and, collectively, the “Plans”). OneBeacon’s Plans were frozen and curtailed in the fourth quarter of 2002.Contents

The components of net periodic benefit costs for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008 and 2007 were as follows:

 

 

Pension Benefits

 

 

 

Three Months Ended June 30,

 

Six Months Ended June 30,

 

Millions

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

Service cost

 

$

.2

 

$

.6

 

$

.4

 

$

1.1

 

Interest cost

 

1.7

 

6.6

 

3.4

 

13.2

 

Expected return on plan assets

 

(2.1

)

(6.7

)

(4.2

)

(13.5

)

Amortization of unrecognized loss

 

.1

 

.1

 

.2

 

.2

 

Net periodic benefit (income) cost

 

$

(.1

)

$

.6

 

$

(.2

)

$

1.0

 

OneBeacon does not expect to make a contribution to its Qualified Plan in 2008. OneBeacon anticipates contributing $2.8 million to the Non-qualified Plan, for which OneBeacon has assets held in rabbi trusts. As of June 30, 2008, $1.5 million in contributions have been made to the Non-qualified Plan.

 

Note 14.12. Employee Share-Based Incentive Compensation Plans

 

White Mountains’ Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “WTM Incentive Plan”) provides for grantinggrants of various types of share-based and non share-based incentive awards to key employees and service providers of the Company and certain of its subsidiaries. White Mountains’ share-based compensation expenseincentive awards consists primarily of performance share expense. shares, restricted shares and stock options.

Share-Based Compensation Based on White Mountains Common Shares

WTM Performance Shares

Performance shares are conditional grants of a specified maximum number of common shares or an equivalent amount of cash.  In general,Performance share awards vest, subject to the attainment of performance goals, at the end of a three-year period and are valued based on the market value of common shares at the time awards are paid.

The OneBeacon Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “OneBeacon Incentive Plan”) provides for granting to key employees of OneBeacon Ltd., and certain of its subsidiaries, various types of share-based incentive awards, including performance shares. Prior to February 2007, OneBeacon granted White Mountains performance shares. In February 2007, all of OneBeacon’s White Mountains performance shares outstanding were replaced with an equivalent value of OneBeacon performance shares from the OneBeacon Incentive Plan. The value of a OneBeacon performance share is based upon the market value of a OneBeacon Ltd. common share.

27



Table of Contents

Share-Based Compensation Based on White Mountains Common Shares

WTM Performance Shares

The following table summarizes performance share activity for the three and six months ended June 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008 and 2007 for WTM performance shares granted under the WTM Incentive Plan and phantom WTM performance shares granted under subsidiary plans (“WTM Phantom Share Plans”):

 

 

Three Months Ended June 30,

 

Six Months Ended June 30,

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

Target

 

 

 

Target

 

 

 

Target

 

 

 

Target

 

 

 

 

Performance

 

 

 

Performance

 

 

 

Performance

 

 

 

Performance

 

 

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

 

Shares

 

Accrued

 

Shares

 

Accrued

 

Shares

 

Accrued

 

Shares

 

Accrued

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Millions, except share amounts

 

Outstanding

 

Expense

 

Outstanding

 

Expense

 

Outstanding

 

Expense

 

Outstanding

 

Expense

 

 

Target
Performance
Shares
Outstanding

 

Accrued
Expense

 

Target
Performance
Shares
Outstanding

 

Accrued
Expense

 

Beginning of period

 

162,996

 

$

40.1

 

144,772

 

$

43.7

 

146,742

 

$

47.3

 

185,363

 

$

102.4

 

 

164,179

 

$

4.4

 

146,742

 

$

47.3

 

Payments and deferrals (1)

 

 

 

 

 

(43,608

)

(15.5

)

(63,300

)

(56.0

)

 

(51,960

)

 

(43,608

)

(15.5

)

New awards

 

833

 

 

1,953

 

 

61,998

 

 

53,931

 

 

 

66,373

 

 

61,165

 

 

Forfeitures and cancellations

 

(186

)

(.1

(462

)

(.1

)

(1,489

)

(.1

)

(16,921

)

(4.3

)

 

(3,451

)

(.2

)

(1,303

)

 

Transfers out (2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(12,810

)

(4.4

)

Expense recognized

 

 

(3.5

)

 

13.5

 

 

4.8

 

 

19.4

 

 

 

(3.2

)

 

8.3

 

Ending June 30,

 

163,643

 

$

 36.5

 

146,263

 

$

57.1

 

163,643

 

$

 36.5

 

146,263

 

$

57.1

 

Ending March 31,

 

175,141

 

$

1.0

 

162,996

 

$

40.1

 

 


(1)There were no payments made in 2009 for the 2006-2008 performance cycle.  WTM performance share payments in 2008 for the 2005-2007 performance cycle ranged from 64% to 101% of target. WTM performance share payments in 2007 for the 2004-2006 performance cycle ranged from 145% to 186% of target. Amounts include deposits of payout amounts into White Mountains’ deferred compensation plan.plan at the election of participants.

 

(2)     In February 2007, the WTM performance shares of OneBeacon employees were replaced with an equivalent value of OneBeacon performance shares issued under the OneBeacon Incentive Plan.

If 100% of the outstanding WTM performance shares had been vested on June 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, the total additional compensation cost to be recognized would have been $34.9$10.2 million, based on current accrual factors (common share price and payout assumptions).

 

For the 2005-2007 performance cycle, the Company issued common shares for 1,700 performance shares earned and all other performance shares earned were settled in cash or by deferral into certain non-qualified deferred compensation plans of the Company or its subsidiaries. For the 2004-2006 performance cycle, all performance shares earned were settled in cash or by deferral into certain non-qualified deferred compensation plans of the Company or its subsidiaries.

 

Performance shares granted under the WTM Incentive Plan

The following table summarizes performance shares outstanding and accrued expense for performance shares awarded under the Incentive Plan at June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 for each performance cycle:

 

Millions, except share amounts

 

Target WTM
Performance
Shares
Outstanding

 

Accrued
Expense

 

 

Target
Performance
Shares
Outstanding

 

Accrued
Expense

 

Performance cycle:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2006 - 2008

 

49,918

 

$

22.2

 

2007 - 2009

 

46,811

 

8.6

 

2008 - 2010

 

53,772

 

4.1

 

2007 — 2009

 

45,311

 

$

 

2008 — 2010

 

52,102

 

 

2009 — 2011

 

57,530

 

.9

 

Sub-total

 

150,501

 

34.9

 

 

154,943

 

.9

 

Assumed forfeitures

 

(3,763

)

(.9

)

 

(3,874

)

 

Total at June 30, 2008

 

146,738

 

$

34.0

 

Total at March 31, 2009

 

151,069

 

$

.9

 

 

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Table of Contents

 

Phantom Performance Shares granted under WTM Phantom Share Plans

The following table summarizes phantom WTM performance shares outstanding and accrued expense for awards made under the WTM Phantom Share Plans at June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 for each performance cycle:

 

Millions, except share amounts

 

Target WTM
Phantom
Performance
Shares
Outstanding

 

Accrued
Expense

 

 

Target WTM
Phantom
Performance
Shares
Outstanding

 

Accrued
Expense

 

Performance cycle:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2006 - 2008

 

2,042

 

$

.9

 

2007 - 2009

 

7,081

 

1.1

 

2008 - 2010

 

8,215

 

.6

 

2007 — 2009

 

7,081

 

$

 

2008 — 2010

 

8,765

 

 

2009 — 2011

 

8,843

 

.1

 

Sub-total

 

17,338

 

2.6

 

 

24,689

 

.1

 

Assumed forfeitures

 

(433

)

(.1

)

 

(617

)

 

Total at June 30, 2008

 

16,905

 

$

2.5

 

Total at March 31, 2009

 

24,072

 

$

.1

 

Restricted Shares

At June 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008, and 2007, the Company had 90,120 and 53,200 and 54,000 unvested Restricted Sharesrestricted shares outstanding under the WTM Incentive Plan. The following outlines the unrecognized compensation cost associated with the outstanding Restricted Sharerestricted share awards made under the WTM Incentive Plan for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 and 2007:2008:

 

 

Three Months Ended June 30,

 

Six Months Ended June 30,

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Millions, except share amounts

 

Restricted
Shares

 

Unamortized
Grant Date
Fair Value

 

Restricted
Shares

 

Unamortized
Grant Date
Fair Value

 

Restricted
Shares

 

Unamortized
Grant Date
Fair Value

 

Restricted
Shares

 

Unamortized
Grant Date
Fair Value

 

 

Restricted
Shares

 

Unamortized
Grant Date
Fair Value

 

Restricted
Shares

 

Unamortized
Grant Date
Fair Value

 

Non-vested, beginning of period,

 

53,200

 

$

28.6

 

54,000

 

$

30.3

 

54,000

 

$

26.7

 

10,000

 

$

.3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-vested, beginning of period

 

53,200

 

$

24.2

 

54,000

 

$

26.7

 

Granted

 

 

 

 

 

6,200

 

3.1

 

54,000

 

31.0

 

 

45,320

 

9.2

 

6,200

 

3.1

 

Vested

 

 

 

 

 

(7,000

)

 

(10,000

)

 

 

(8,400

)

 

(7,000

)

 

Forfeited

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expense recognized

 

 

(1.5

)

 

(1.2

)

 

(2.7

)

 

(2.2

)

 

 

(1.9

)

 

(1.2

)

Non-vested at June 30,

 

53,200

 

$

27.1

 

54,000

 

$

29.1

 

53,200

 

$

27.1

 

54,000

 

$

29.1

 

Non-vested at March 31

 

90,120

 

$

31.5

 

53,200

 

$

28.6

 

During the first quarter of 2009, White Mountains issued 40,820 restricted shares that cliff vest on December 31, 2010 and 4,500 restricted shares that vest in equal installments at December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013.  If a recipient of the restricted shares that are scheduled to cliff vest on December 31, 2010 is terminated without cause after December 31, 2009 (as defined in the WTM LTIP), 50% of the restricted shares will vest.

 

During the first quarter of 2008, White Mountains awarded 4,200 Restricted Sharesrestricted shares that vest in equal annual installments over three years and 2,000 Restricted Sharesrestricted shares that cliff vest in February 2011 based on continuous service throughout the award period.

 

During the first quarter of 2007, White Mountains made the following grants of Restricted Sharesrestricted shares to the Company’s Chairman and CEO:CEO in connection with his hiring: (1) 35,000 Restricted Sharesrestricted shares that vest in equal annual installments over five years; (2) 15,000 Restricted Sharesrestricted shares that vest in the event of a change in control of the Company before January 20, 2012. During the first quarter of 2007, White Mountains also awarded 4,000 Restricted Sharesrestricted shares to other employees that cliff vest in February 2010 based on continuous service by the employee throughout the award period.

 

Of the unrecognized compensation cost at June 30, 2008, $18.5March 31, 2009, $22.9 million is expected to be recognized ratably over the remaining vesting periods and $8.6 million would be recognized in the event of a change in control before January 20, 2012. Upon vesting, all restrictions initially placed upon the Restricted Sharesrestricted shares lapse.

 

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Table of Contents

 

Non-Qualified Options

In January 2007, the Company issued 200,000 seven-year Non-Qualified Options to the Company’s Chairman and CEO that vest in equal annual installments over five years and that have an initial exercise price of $650 per common share that escalates at an annual rate of 5% less the annual regular dividend rate (the “Escalator”). The fair value of the Non-Qualified Options at the grant date was estimated using a closed-form option model using an expected volatility assumption of 29.7%, a risk-free interest rate assumption of 1.1% (or 4.7% less the Escalator), a forfeiture assumption of 0%, an expected dividend rate assumption of 1.4% and a term assumption of seven years. The fair value of the Non-Qualified Options was $27.2 million at the grant date and willis required to be recognized ratably over the five year vesting period. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2008 the CompanyMarch 31, 2009 White Mountains recognized $1.4 million and $2.7 million of expense associated with its Non-Qualified Options. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2007, the CompanyMarch 31, 2008, White Mountains recognized $1.3 million and $2.4$1.4 million of expense associated with its Non-Qualified Options. At June 30, 2008, 40,000March 31, 2009, 80,000 Non-Qualified Options were exercisable at a strike price of $685.45.$710.01.

 

Incentive Options

At June 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008, and 2007, the Company had 8,7006,000 and 14,4008,700 Incentive Options outstanding which were granted to certain key employees on February 28, 2000 (the grant date) under the WTM Incentive Plan. The 81,000 Incentive Options originally granted were issued at an exercise price equal to the market price of the Company’s underlying common shares on February 27, 2000. The exercise price escalates by 6% per annum over the life of the Incentive Options. The Incentive Options vest ratably over a ten-year service period. Upon the adoption of FAS 123R, the grant date fair value of the awards as originally disclosed for FAS 123, adjusted for estimated future forfeitures, became the basis for recognition of compensation expense for the Incentive Options. The fair value of each Incentive Option award at the grant date was estimated using a closed-form option model using an expected volatility assumption of 18.5%, a risk-free interest rate assumption of 6.4% and an expected term of ten years.

 

The following table summarizes the Company’s Incentive Option activity for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 and 2007:2008:

 

 

Three Months Ended June 30,

 

Six Months Ended June 30,

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

Millions, except share and per share amounts

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Opening balance - outstanding Options

 

8,700

 

25,350

 

9,900

 

29,550

 

 

6,000

 

9,900

 

Forfeited

 

 

(2,700

)

(600

)

(5,400

)

 

 

(600

)

Exercised

 

 

(8,250

)

(600

)

(9,750

)

 

 

(600

)

Ending balance - outstanding Options

 

8,700

 

14,400

 

8,700

 

14,400

 

 

6,000

 

8,700

 

Outstanding Options - exercisable

 

2,700

 

1,800

 

2,700

 

1,800

 

 

3,000

 

2,700

 

Exercise price - outstanding Options at beginning of period

 

$

170.11

 

$

160.48

 

$

167.70

 

$

158.21

 

 

$

177.76

 

$

167.70

 

Value of Options exercised (1)

 

$

 

$

3.5

 

$

.2

 

$

4.1

 

 

 

$

.2

 

Exercise price - outstanding Options at June 30,

 

$

172.64

 

$

162.87

 

$

172.64

 

$

162.87

 

Exercise price - outstanding Options at March 31,

 

$

180.32

 

$

170.11

 

 


(1)     Amount is equal to the number of options exercised multiplied by amount the ending market value exceeds the strike price on the date of exercise.

 

The total in-the-money value of all outstanding Incentive Options and those Incentive Options currently exercisablewere not in-the-money at June 30, 2008 was $2.2 million and $0.7 million. The Incentive Options expire in February 2010.March 31, 2009.  White Mountains expects 3,000 Incentive Options to become exercisable in 20082009 and will issue common shares when the Incentive Options are exercised.  The Incentive Options expire in February 2010.

 

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Table of Contents

Share-Based Compensation Based on OneBeacon Ltd. Common Shares

 

The OneBeacon Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “OneBeacon Incentive Plan”) provides for grants of various types of share-based and non share-based incentive awards to key employees of OneBeacon Ltd. and certain of its subsidiaries.  OneBeacon’s share-based incentive awards consist of OneBeacon performance shares, stock options granted in connection with OneBeacon’s initial public offering and restricted stock units.

OneBeacon Performance Shares

OneBeacon performance shares are conditional grants of a specified maximum number of common shares or an equivalent amount of cash.  OneBeacon performance share awards vest, subject the attainment of performance goals, at the end of a three-year period and are valued based on the market value of OneBeacon common shares at the time awards are paid.  The following table summarizes performance share activity for the three and six months ended June 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008 and 2007 for OneBeacon performance shares granted under the OneBeacon Incentive Plan:

 

 

Three Months Ended June 30,

 

Six Months Ended June 30,

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Millions, except share amounts

 

Target
Performance
Shares
Outstanding

 

Accrued
Expense

 

Target
Performance
Shares
Outstanding

 

Accrued
Expense

 

Target
Performance
Shares
Outstanding

 

Accrued
Expense

 

Target
Performance
Shares
Outstanding

 

Accrued
Expense

 

 

Target
Performance
Shares
Outstanding

 

Accrued
Expense

 

Target
Performance
Shares
Outstanding

 

Accrued
Expense

 

Beginning of period

 

2,131,894

 

$

6.9

 

1,120,141

 

$

6.3

 

1,063,690

 

$

9.2

 

 

$

 

 

2,212,313

 

$

4.6

 

1,063,690

 

$

9.3

 

Payments and deferrals(1)

 

 

 

 

 

(122,859

)

(1.6

)

 

 

 

(137,400

)

 

(122,859

)

(1.7

)

New awards

 

69,958

 

 

23,674

 

 

1,397,100

 

 

908,460

 

 

 

364,982

 

 

1,327,142

 

 

Forfeitures and cancellations

 

(15,644

)

(.2

)

(15,978

)

(.1

)

(151,723

)

(.6

)

(68,820

)

(.3

)

 

(121,046

)

(.3

)

(136,079

)

(.4

)

Transfers from the WTM Incentive plan

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

288,197

 

4.4

 

Expense recognized

 

 

3.0

 

 

4.2

 

 

2.7

 

 

6.3

 

 

 

1.4

 

 

(.3

)

Ending June 30,

 

2,186,208

 

$

9.7

 

1,127,837

 

$

10.4

 

2,186,208

 

$

9.7

 

1,127,837

 

$

10.4

 

Ending March 31,

 

2,318,849

 

$

5.7

 

2,131,894

 

$

6.9

 

 


(1)OneBeacon performance share payments in 2009 for the 2007-2008 performance cycle were at 1.4% of target. OneBeacon performance share payments in 2008 for the 2007 performance cycle were at 62.9% of target. Amounts include deposits into OneBeacon’s deferred compensation plan.

(2)          In February 2007, the WTM performance shares of OneBeacon employees were replaced with an equivalent value of OneBeacon performance shares issued under the OneBeacon Incentive Plan.

 

If 100% of the outstanding OneBeacon performance shares had been vested on June 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, the total additional compensation cost to be recognized would have been $23.1$10.4 million, based on current accrual factors (common share price and payout assumptions).

 

The following table summarizes OneBeacon performance shares outstanding awarded under the OneBeacon Incentive Plan at June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 for each performance cycle:

 

Millions, except share amounts

 

Target
OneBeacon
Performance
Shares
Outstanding

 

Accrued
Expense

 

 

Target OneBeacon
Performance
Shares
Outstanding

 

Accrued
Expense

 

Performance cycle:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2006 - 2008

 

137,400

 

$

2.1

 

2007 - 2009

 

770,132

 

3.9

 

2008 - 2010

 

1,334,221

 

3.9

 

2007 — 2009

 

713,070

 

$

.3

 

2008 — 2010

 

1,300,255

 

5.2

 

2009 — 2011

 

364,982

 

.3

 

Sub-total

 

2,241,753

 

9.9

 

 

2,378,307

 

5.8

 

Assumed forfeitures

 

(55,545

)

(.2

)

 

(59,458

)

(.1

)

Total at June 30, 2008

 

2,186,208

 

$

9.7

 

Total at March 31, 2009

 

2,318,849

 

$

5.7

 

 

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Table of Contents

 

Non-Qualified Options

In November 2006, in connection with its initial public offering, OneBeacon Ltd. issued to its key employees 1,420,000 fixed-price Non-Qualified Options to acquire OneBeacon Ltd. common shares. The following tables summarize option activity for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 and 2007:2008:

 

 

Three Months Ended June 30,

 

Six Months Ended June 30,

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

Target

 

 

 

Target

 

 

 

Target

 

 

 

Target

 

 

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

 

Options

 

Accrued

 

Options

 

Accrued

 

Options

 

Accrued

 

Options

 

Accrued

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Millions, except share amounts

 

Outstanding

 

Expense

 

Outstanding

 

Expense

 

Outstanding

 

Expense

 

Outstanding

 

Expense

 

 

Target
Options
Outstanding

 

Accrued
Expense

 

Target
Options
Outstanding

 

Accrued
Expense

 

Beginning of period

 

1,258,091

 

$

1.7

 

1,349,000

 

$

.5

 

1,324,306

 

$

1.4

 

1,420,000

 

$

.2

 

 

1,237,872

 

$

2.5

 

1,324,306

 

$

1.4

 

New awards

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Forfeitures and cancellations

 

(20,219

)

 

 

 

(86,434

)

 

(71,000

)

 

 

(89,522

)

 

(66,215

)

 

Exercised

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expense recognized

 

 

.5

 

 

.3

 

 

.8

 

 

.6

 

 

 

.3

 

 

.3

 

Ending June 30,

 

1,237,872

 

$

2.2

 

1,349,000

 

$

.8

 

1,237,872

 

$

2.2

 

1,349,000

 

$

.8

 

Ending March 31,

 

1,148,350

 

$

2.8

 

1,258,091

 

$

1.7

 

 

The options vest in equal installments on each of the third, fourth and fifth anniversaries of their issuance and expire five and a half years from the date of issuance. The fair value of each option award at grant was estimated using a Black-Scholes option pricing model using an expected volatility assumption of 30%, a risk-free interest rate assumption of 4.6%, a forfeiture assumption of 5%, an expected dividend rate assumption of 3.4% and an expected term assumption of 5.5 years. The options originally had a per share exercise price of $30.00. On May 27, 2008, the OneBeacon Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors (the “Compensation“OB Compensation Committee”) amended the exercise price to $27.97 as a result of the $2.03 per share special dividend paid in the first quarter of 2008. The compensation expense associated with the options and the incremental fair value of the award modification is being recognized ratably over the remaining period.

 

Restricted Stock Units

The Non-Qualified Options granted by OneBeacon Ltd., in connection with its initial public offering, did not include a mechanism in the options to reflect the contribution to total return from the regular quarterly dividend. As a result, during the first quarter of 2008, OneBeacon granted 116,270 Restricted Stock Units (“RSUs”) to actively employed option holders. The RSUs vest one-third on each of November 9, 2009, 2010 and 2011 subject to, for each vesting tranche of units, the attainment of 4% growth in OneBeacon’s adjusted book value per share from January 1, 2008 through the end of the calendar year immediately following the applicable vesting date. Upon vesting, the RSUs will be mandatorily deferred into one of OneBeacon’s non-qualified deferred compensation plans and will be paid out in 2012 in cash or shares at the discretion of the OB Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors.Committee. The expense associated with the RSUs is being recognized over the vesting period. For the three and six months ended June 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008, OneBeacon recognized expense of$0.1 million and $0.2 million and $0.4 million.of expense.  As of March 31, 2009, 105,790 RSUs were outstanding.

 

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Table of Contents

Note 15. Subsequent Event

AFI

On July 30, 2008, White Mountains acquired the remaining equity and debt interests from the minority owner of AFI for approximately $46 million. As a result, the Company now owns 100% of AFI.

Settlement with Liberty Mutual Insurance Group

On July 24, 2008, OneBeacon and Liberty Mutual Insurance Group (“Liberty Mutual”) entered into a Confidential Settlement Agreement and Release (the “Settlement Agreement”) that resolves nearly four years of arbitration and litigation. The disputes concerned amounts which Liberty Mutual asserted were due to it under agreements with OneBeacon (the “Liberty Agreements”) for unallocated loss adjustment expenses and amounts which OneBeacon asserted were due to it related to claims administration and reinsurance. The Settlement Agreement represents a full and final resolution of the disputes related to the Liberty Agreements.

In connection with the Settlement Agreement, OneBeacon took a pre-tax charge in the amount of $9.2 million in the second quarter, representing a part of the cost of the settlement. OneBeacon made a cash payment to Liberty Mutual in the amount of $16.0 million on July 30, 2008. No further charges or payments will be made with respect to the disputed matters.

33



Table of Contents

 

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

 

The fllowingfollowing discussion contains “forward-looking statements”. White Mountains intends statements that are not historical in nature, which are hereby identified as forward-looking statements, to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. White Mountains cannot promise that its expectations in such forward-looking statements will turn out to be correct. White Mountains’ actual results could be materially different from and worse than its expectations. SeeFORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTSfor specific important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements.

The followingfollowing discussion also includes four non-GAAP financial measures - adjusted comprehensive net income, White Mountains’ adjusted book value per share, total adjusted capital and OneBeacon’s adjusted book value per share - that have been reconciled to their most comparable GAAP financial measures (see page 51)49). White Mountains believes these measures to be more relevant than comparable GAAP measures in evaluating White Mountains’ financial performance and condition.

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE THREE AND SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30,MARCH 31, 2009 AND 2008 AND 2007

 

Overview

White Mountains ended the secondfirst quarter of 20082009 with an adjusted book value per share of $444,$352, which was essentially flat for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, and an increase of 6% for the twelve months ended June 30,from December 31, 2008, including dividends. White Mountains reported an adjusted comprehensive net loss of $17 million for both the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, compared to adjusted comprehensive net income of $90 million and $193$9 million in the same periodsfirst quarter of 2007.2009 compared to break-even in the first quarter of 2008.

 

OneBeacon ended the first quarter of 2009 with a book value per share of $12.30, which was a 3% increase from December 31, 2008, including dividends.  OneBeacon reported a GAAP combined ratio of 94% and 97% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008first quarter of 2009 compared to 97%100% in both the three and six months ended June 30, 2007.first quarter of 2008. Both periods included 3 points of net favorable loss reserve development, while the first quarter of 2009 had less than one point of catastrophe losses compared to 4 points of catastrophe losses in the first quarter of 2008, primarily related to tornados in the Southeastern United States. White Mountains Re reported a GAAP combined ratio of 114% and 104%80% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008,first quarter 2009 compared to 90%94% for the first quarter 2008.  Both periods experienced relatively benign weather and 95%light catastrophe activity. The improved combined ratio in the three and six months ended June 30, 2007. These increases were primarily due to $55 millionfirst quarter of net adverse2009 was driven by 3 points of favorable loss reserve development recorded by White Mountains Re in the secondfirst quarter of 2008 resulting from a comprehensive review2009 compared to 12 points of itsadverse loss and LAE reserves (see Summarydevelopment in the first quarter of Operations by Segment below for further discussion) .2008.  Esurance reported a GAAP combined ratio of 105% and 109%103% in the three and six months ended June 30, 2008first quarter of 2009 compared to 113% and 112% in the threefirst quarter 2008. This improvement was due mainly to selective rate increases in late 2007 and six months ended June 30, 2007.early 2008, as well as lower claims frequency resulting from less driving by insureds as a result of the recessionary environment and due to lower acquisition expenses. Operating income at AFI improved to $2 million in the first quarter of 2009 compared to less than $1 million the fourth quarter of 2008. White Mountains’ GAAP pre-tax total return on invested assets was 0.4% and 0.9%-0.1% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008first quarter of 2009 compared to 1.6% and 3.5%0.3% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007.first quarter of 2008.  The total investment portfolio, excluding currency movements, managed a small positive return of 0.5%. Additionally, White Mountains’ results for the first quarter of 2009 included $40 million of unrealized foreign currency exchange losses reported as other comprehensive losses, resulting primarily from the strengthening of the U.S. dollar in comparison to the Swedish krona. This compares to $58 million of unrealized foreign currency exchange gains reported in the first quarter of 2008 resulting primarily from the weakening of the U.S. dollar in comparison to the Swedish krona.

 

Total net written premiums were down slightlydecreased to $943 million and $1,958$992 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008,first quarter of 2009 compared to $950 million and $2,001$1,016 million in the 2007 periods,comparable 2008 period, as increasesan increase at OneBeacon and Esurance werewas more than offset by decreases at White Mountains Re.Re and Esurance. OneBeacon’s net written premiums were $530increased 10% to $469 million for the quarter and $955 million forin the first six months, an increasequarter of 9% and 3% from the comparable periods of 2007. The increase for both periods was2009, driven primarily by premiums from its new collector car and boat business.business that was started in the second quarter of 2008. White Mountains Re’s net written premiums were $215decreased 14% to $309 million for the quarter and $575 million forin the first six monthsquarter of 2008, a decrease2009. A significant portion of 23% and 16% from the comparable periods of 2007. These decreases occurreddecline was in almost every line ofproperty catastrophe exposed business especially in casualty, and were primarily due to pricing, terms and conditions for certain accounts that no longer metwhere White Mountains Re’s underwriting guidelines.Re continues to reduce its net exposures. Esurance’s net written premiums increased by 6% and 9% for the second quarter and first six months of 2008,decreased 7% to $198$214 million and $428 million, respectively, when compared to the same periods in 2007. Esurance’s growth rate has slowed as it has reduced marketing expenditures and increased pricing over the first six monthsquarter of 2008.2009 as lower advertising spending and higher rates contributed to reduced new business sales volume.

 

3429



Table of Contents

 

Adjusted Book Value Per Share

White Mountains has changed its principal financial reporting measure from “fully diluted tangible book value per share” to “adjusted book value per share”. The difference between the two measures is that adjusted book value per share includes unamortized intangible assets, while fully diluted tangible book value per share does not. The Company determined adjusted book value per share to be a better financial reporting measure than fully diluted tangible book value per share principally because it includes the value of future commissions on acquired business in force from its 69% investment in AFI, which was first recorded as an intangible asset during the second quarter of 2008 and totaled $49 million as of June 30, 2008. Adjusted book value per share is a non-GAAP financial measure and has been presented retroactively for all periods herein. (See NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES on page 51).

The following table presents the Company’sWhite Mountains’ adjusted book value per share and reconciles this non-GAAP measure to the most comparable GAAP measure. (See NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES on page 49).

 

 

June 30,
2008

 

Mar. 31,
2008

 

Dec. 31,
2007

 

June 30,
2007

 

 

March 31,
2009

 

Dec. 31,
2008

 

March 31,
2008

 

Book value per share numerators (in millions):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common shareholders’ equity

 

$

4,597.3

 

$

4,679.2

 

$

4,713.4

 

$

4,575.3

 

Benefits to be received from share obligations under employee benefit plans

 

1.5

 

1.5

 

1.7

 

2.3

 

Remaining accretion of subsidiary preferred stock to face value (1)

 

 

(8.3

)

(15.8

)

(29.3

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

White Mountains common shareholders’ equity

 

$

2,866.2

 

$

2,898.8

 

$

4,679.2

 

Benefits to be received from share obligations under employee stock option plans (1)

 

 

1.1

 

1.5

 

Remaining accretion of subsidiary preferred stock to face value (2)

 

 

 

(8.3

)

Book value per share numerator

 

4,598.8

 

4,672.4

 

4,699.3

 

4,548.3

 

 

2,866.2

 

2,899.9

 

4,672.4

 

Equity in net unrealized losses from Symetra’s fixed maturity portfolio

 

65.3

 

26.3

 

5.6

 

38.5

 

 

218.3

 

197.3

 

26.3

 

Adjusted book value per share numerator

 

$

4,664.1

 

$

4,698.7

 

$

4,704.9

 

$

4,586.8

 

 

$

3,084.5

 

$

3,097.2

 

$

4,698.7

 

Book value per share denominators (in thousands of shares):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common shares outstanding

 

10,552.4

 

10,570.2

 

10,553.6

 

10,842.6

 

 

8,854.1

 

8,808.8

 

10,570.2

 

Share obligations under employee benefit plans

 

8.7

 

8.7

 

9.9

 

14.4

 

Share obligations under employee stock option plans (1)

 

 

6.0

 

8.7

 

Book value per share denominator

 

10,561.1

 

10,578.9

 

10,563.5

 

10,857.0

 

 

8,854.1

 

8,814.8

 

10,578.9

 

Unearned restricted shares

 

(47.8

)

(50.4

)

(46.5

)

(50.6

)

 

(83.4

)

(42.6

)

(50.4

)

Adjusted book value per share denominator

 

10,513.3

 

10,528.5

 

10,517.0

 

10,806.4

 

 

8,770.7

 

8,772.2

 

10,528.5

 

Book value per share

 

$

435.45

 

$

441.67

 

$

444.86

 

$

420.90

 

Adjusted book value per share

 

$

443.64

 

$

446.28

 

$

447.36

 

$

424.45

 

Book value per common share

 

$

323.71

 

$

328.97

 

$

441.67

 

Adjusted book value per common share

 

$

351.68

 

$

353.07

 

$

446.28

 

 


(1)        Assumes conversion of in-the-money stock options.

(2)Remaining adjustment of subsidiary preferred stock to face value, which is based on White Mountains’ ownership interest in OneBeacon Ltd. of 74.7%, 72.9% and 71.7% as of March 31, 2008, December 31, 2007 and June 30, 2007, respectively.2008.

 

35Noncontrolling Interests

During the first quarter of 2009, White Mountains adopted FAS No. 160.  As a result, White Mountains has changed the presentation of its financial statements for prior periods to conform to the required presentation, as follows:  noncontrolling interests (previously referred to as “minority interests”) are now presented on the balance sheets within equity, separate from White Mountains’ shareholders’ equity, and the portion of net income, extraordinary item and comprehensive income attributable to White Mountains’ common shareholders and the noncontrolling interests are presented separately on the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income.  The adoption of FAS 160 did not impact White Mountains’ adjusted book value per share.

30



Table of Contents

 

Review of Consolidated Results

 

White Mountains’ consolidated financial results for the three and six months ended June 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008 and June 30, 2007 follow:

 

 

Three Months Ended
June 30,

 

Six Months Ended
June 30,

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

Millions

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Gross written premiums

 

$

1,025.7

 

$

1,045.6

 

$

2,204.1

 

$

2,247.6

 

 

$

1,145.6

 

$

1,178.3

 

Net written premiums

 

$

942.6

 

$

949.9

 

$

1,958.2

 

$

2,001.4

 

 

$

992.3

 

$

1,015.6

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earned insurance and reinsurance premiums

 

$

921.7

 

$

960.7

 

$

1,850.8

 

$

1,898.7

 

 

$

911.4

 

$

929.1

 

Net investment income

 

111.7

 

126.7

 

228.5

 

244.7

 

 

61.1

 

116.8

 

Net realized investment (losses) gains

 

(4.9

)

89.1

 

(17.9

)

163.0

 

Net unrealized investment losses

 

(54.2

)

 

(159.2

)

 

Net realized and unrealized investment losses

 

(23.3

)

(118.0

)

Other revenue

 

64.9

 

34.1

 

74.9

 

70.3

 

 

17.3

 

10.0

 

Total revenues

 

1,039.2

 

1,210.6

 

1,977.1

 

2,376.7

 

 

966.5

 

937.9

 

Expenses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Losses and LAE

 

632.7

 

592.1

 

1,271.4

 

1,205.4

 

 

543.2

 

638.7

 

Insurance and reinsurance acquisition expenses

 

178.8

 

203.6

 

365.5

 

396.2

 

 

182.2

 

186.7

 

Other underwriting expenses

 

127.4

 

136.2

 

244.2

 

273.9

 

 

115.4

 

116.8

 

General and administrative expenses

 

57.8

 

62.4

 

116.0

 

115.3

 

 

50.6

 

56.7

 

Amortization of AFI purchase accounting adjustments

 

5.3

 

 

Accretion of fair value adjustment to loss and LAE reserves

 

4.1

 

5.5

 

8.3

 

10.6

 

 

2.5

 

4.2

 

Interest expense - debt

 

21.7

 

18.3

 

41.1

 

35.1

 

Interest expense — debt

 

18.9

 

19.4

 

Interest expense - dividends on preferred stock

 

4.7

 

7.5

 

11.8

 

15.1

 

 

 

7.1

 

Interest expense - accretion on preferred stock

 

11.1

 

8.8

 

21.6

 

17.0

 

 

 

10.5

 

Total expenses

 

1,038.3

 

1,034.4

 

2,079.9

 

2,068.6

 

 

918.1

 

1,040.1

 

Pre-tax income (loss)

 

$

.9

 

$

176.2

 

$

(102.8

)

$

308.1

 

 

$

48.4

 

$

(102.2

)

Income tax benefit (provision)

 

3.4

 

(55.8

)

36.3

 

(87.0

)

Income tax (expense) benefit

 

(12.3

)

32.5

 

Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates

 

6.0

 

8.6

 

6.4

 

19.1

 

 

.9

 

.4

 

Excess of fair value of acquired assets over cost

 

 

 

4.2

 

 

 

 

4.2

 

Minority interest

 

(19.5

)

(26.4

)

(10.1

)

(45.4

)

Net (loss) income

 

$

(9.2

)

$

102.6

 

$

(66.0

)

$

194.8

 

Other comprehensive loss

 

(47.1

)

(52.8

)

(10.8

)

(35.9

)

Comprehensive net (loss) income

 

$

(56.3

)

$

49.8

 

$

(76.8

)

$

158.9

 

Change in net unrealized (gains) losses from Symetra’s fixed maturity portfolio

 

39.0

 

40.3

 

59.7

 

34.4

 

Net income (loss) before noncontrolling interests

 

$

37.0

 

$

(65.1

)

Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest

 

(6.7

)

8.3

 

Net income (loss) attributable to White Mountains common shareholders

 

$

30.3

 

$

(56.8

)

Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax

 

(57.2

)

36.0

 

Comprehensive net loss

 

$

(26.9

)

$

(20.8

)

Comprehensive net (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interests

 

(.3

)

.3

 

Comprehensive net loss attributable to White Mountains common shareholders

 

$

(27.2

)

$

(20.5

)

Change in net unrealized losses from Symetra’s fixed maturity portfolio

 

18.0

 

20.7

 

Adjusted comprehensive net (loss) income

 

$

(17.3

)

$

90.1

 

$

(17.1

)

$

193.3

 

 

$

(9.2

)

$

.2

 

 

Consolidated Results –Three and Six—Three Months Ended June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 versus Three and Six Months Ended June 30, 2007March 31, 2008

 

White Mountains reported comprehensive net losses of $56 million and $77 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, comparedMountains’ total revenues increased 3% to comprehensive net income of $50 million and $159$967 million in the same periodsfirst quarter of 2007. Effective January 1,2009 compared to $938 million in the first quarter of 2008. Earned premiums were down 2% in the first quarter of 2009 compared to the first quarter of 2008, as increased earned premiums at OneBeacon were more than offset by decreases at White Mountains adopted FAS 159Re and electedEsurance. Net investment income decreased 48% to record$61 million in the changesfirst quarter of 2009 compared to $117 million in the first quarter of 2008, due to lower overall portfolio yields, shifts in portfolio mix to lower risk, lower yield investments and a decrease in the overall invested asset base following the Berkshire Exchange. White Mountains reported net realized and unrealized gains andinvestment losses from nearly all of its investment portfolio$23 million in net income. In prior periods, these changes have been includedthe first quarter of 2009 compared to $118 million of such losses in other comprehensive income. Accordingly, net income (loss) and pre-tax income (loss) for 2008 periods are not directly comparable to such measures for 2007 periods.the first quarter of 2008.

 

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White Mountains’ totalOther revenues decreased by 14% and 17%increased $7 million to $1,039 million and $1,977 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, compared to $1,211 million and $2,377$17 million in the 2007 periods. Earned premiums decreased by 4% and 3% during the secondfirst quarter and first six months of 2008 when2009 compared to the same periodsfirst quarter of 2008, due in 2007, as earned premium decreasespart to $5 million of foreign currency translation gains at OneBeacon and White Mountains Re were partially offset by increases at Esurance over both periods. Net investment income decreased by 12% and 7% duringin the secondfirst quarter and first six months of 2008 when2009 compared to the same periods in 2007. Net realized investment gains decreased by $94 million and $181 million during the second quarter and first six months of 2008 when compared to the same periods in 2007. White Mountains reported $54 million and $159$13 million of net unrealized losses through net income in the second quarter and first six months of 2008 as a result of the FAS 159 election, compared to $49 million and $24 million of net unrealized investmentforeign currency losses reported in the first quarter of 2008. In addition, other comprehensive incomerevenues in same periodsthe first quarter of 2007 (see Summary of Investment Results below). Other revenues increased $31 million to $652009 included $13 million in the second quarter of 2008 compared to the second quarter of 2007, due mainly to $12 million of revenuefee revenues from AFI, and $10 million of gains in WM Life Re reportedwhich White Mountains first consolidated in the second quarter of 2008. Other revenues increased $5also included $33 million to $75and $15 million in losses in the first six monthsquarters of 2009 and 2008, compared to the 2007 period, as the revenuerespectively, from AFI was offset by $5 million of losses in WM Life Re includeddue mainly to the net effect of the increase in other revenues for the first six monthsfair value of 2008.WM Life Re’s variable annuity liabilities exceeding the increase in the fair value of the related derivative contracts that economically hedge the liabilities (See Note 8).

 

White Mountains’ total expenses were essentially flat at $1,038 million and $2,080 million in the second quarter and first six months of 2008 when compareddecreased 12% to the 2007 periods. Loss and LAE increased by $41 million to $633 million in the second quarter of 2008 and increased $66 million to $1,271$918 million in the first six monthsquarter of 2008,2009 compared to $1,040 million in the first quarter of 2008. Losses and LAE expenses decreased $96 million, or 15%, due primarily to increasedlower catastrophe losses and adverse loss and LAE ratios at White Mountains Re. These increases were slightly offset by decreased insurancereserve development in the first quarter of 2009 as compared to the first quarter of 2008.  Insurance and reinsurance acquisition expenses and other underwriting expenses during both periods presented, due toin the overall decline in premium volume. General and administrative expenses decreased by 7% to $58 million andfirst quarter of 2009 were essentially flat at $116 millionon relatively level earned premiums.

White Mountains’ income tax expense (benefit) for the threefirst quarter of 2009 and six months ended June 30, 2008 compared to the 2007 periods. Increases in both the three and six-month periods due to $12 million in general expenses from AFI were primarily offset by decreases in incentive compensation costs.

Therepresented an effective tax rate forof 25.4% and (31.8)%.  For the second quarter of 2008 is not meaningful asthree months ended March 31, 2009, White Mountains had pre-tax income of less than
$1 million. The effective rate for the second quarter of 2007 was 32%. The income tax (benefit) provision related to pre-tax (loss) income for the first six months of 2008 and 2007 representedMountains’ effective tax rates are different from the U.S. statutory rate of 35% and 28%, respectively. Althoughprimarily due to income generated in jurisdictions other than the majorityUnited States.  For the three months ended March 31, 2008, White Mountains’ effective tax rates are different from the U.S. statutory rate of the Company’s worldwide operations are taxed35% primarily due to income generated in jurisdictions other than the United States, withholding taxes, non-deductible dividends and accretion on the Company is domiciled in Bermuda and has subsidiaries domiciled in several countries. Earnings or losses incurred by non-U.S. companies are generally subject to a lower effective tax rate than that imposed by the United States.

In the second quarter of 2006, the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) commenced an examination of certain of White Mountains’ U.S. subsidiaries’ income tax returns for 2003 through 2004. On June 30, 2008, the Company received Form 4549-A (Income Tax Examination Changes) from the IRS relating to the examination of tax years 2003 and 2004. The IRS is asserting that subsidiaries of the Company owe an additional $90 million of tax. The estimated total assessment, including interest, withholding tax and utilization of tax credits is $174 million. The Company disagrees with the adjustments proposed by the IRS and intends to vigorously defend its position. The timing of the resolution of these issues is uncertain, however it is reasonably possible that the resolution could occur within the next 12 months. An estimate of the range of potential outcomes cannot be made at this time. The Company does not expect the resolution of this examination to result in a material change to its financial position.Berkshire Preferred Stock.

 

I. Summary of Operations By Segment

 

White Mountains conducts its operations through four segments: (1) OneBeacon, (2) White Mountains Re, (3) Esurance and (4) Other Operations. White Mountains manages all of its investments through its wholly-owned subsidiary, WM Advisors, therefore, a discussion of White Mountains’ consolidated investment operations is included after the discussion of operations by segment. White Mountains’ segment information is presented in Note 1110 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

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Table of Contents

 

OneBeacon

 

Financial results for OneBeacon for the three and six months ended June 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008 and 2007 follow:

 

 

Three Months Ended
June 30,

 

Six Months Ended
June 30,

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

Millions

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Gross written premiums

 

$

585.7

 

$

545.9

 

$

1,086.0

 

$

1,040.2

 

 

$

531.1

 

$

500.3

 

Net written premiums

 

$

529.6

 

$

484.8

 

$

955.3

 

$

925.1

 

 

$

469.4

 

$

425.7

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earned insurance and reinsurance premiums

 

$

463.8

 

$

465.0

 

$

919.1

 

$

933.9

 

 

$

487.8

 

$

455.3

 

Net investment income

 

44.6

 

54.6

 

94.7

 

105.2

 

 

21.9

 

50.1

 

Net realized investment (losses) gains

 

(1.7

)

57.1

 

2.0

 

112.0

 

Net unrealized investment losses

 

(.9

)

 

(60.0

)

 

Net realized and unrealized investment losses

 

(5.9

)

(55.4

)

Other revenue

 

2.6

 

2.4

 

6.2

 

5.5

 

 

9.4

 

3.6

 

Total revenues

 

508.4

 

579.1

 

962.0

 

1,156.6

 

 

513.2

 

453.6

 

 

 

 

 

 

Losses and LAE

 

274.4

 

283.1

 

575.3

 

571.3

 

 

288.0

 

300.9

 

Insurance and reinsurance acquisition expenses

 

84.3

 

78.3

 

169.0

 

156.6

 

 

95.9

 

84.7

 

Other underwriting expenses

 

79.2

 

89.6

 

149.3

 

180.5

 

 

72.7

 

70.1

 

General and administrative expenses

 

5.9

 

2.7

 

10.3

 

5.1

 

 

5.5

 

2.9

 

Accretion of fair value adjustment to loss and LAE reserves

 

3.0

 

4.0

 

6.0

 

8.0

 

 

1.4

 

3.0

 

Interest expense on debt

 

11.4

 

11.3

 

22.9

 

22.7

 

 

10.9

 

11.5

 

Interest expense - dividends on preferred stock

 

4.7

 

7.5

 

11.8

 

15.1

 

 

 

7.1

 

Interest expense - accretion on preferred stock

 

11.1

 

8.8

 

21.6

 

17.0

 

 

 

10.5

 

Total expenses

 

474.0

 

485.3

 

966.2

 

976.3

 

 

474.4

 

490.7

 

Pre-tax income (loss)

 

$

34.4

 

$

93.8

 

$

(4.2

)

$

180.3

 

 

$

38.8

 

$

(37.1

)

32



Table of Contents

 

The following table presents OneBeacon’s adjusted book value per common share and reconciles this non-GAAP measure to book value per common share, the most comparable GAAP measure.

 

Millions, except per share amounts

 

June 30,
2008

 

March 31,
2008

 

Dec. 31,
2007

 

June 30,
2007

 

OneBeacon book value per share numerators:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OneBeacon common shareholders’ equity

 

$

1,609

(1)

$

1,613.0

 

$

1,906.5

 

$

1,861.3

 

Remaining accretion of subsidiary preferred stock to face value

 

 

(11.1

)

(21.6

)

(40.8

)

Adjusted OneBeacon common shareholders’ equity

 

1,609

(1)

1,601.9

 

1,884.9

 

1,820.5

 

OneBeacon Ltd. common shares outstanding (1)

 

95.5

 

96.0

 

98.5

 

100.0

 

OneBeacon book value per common share

 

$

16.85

 

$

16.80

 

$

19.36

 

$

18.61

 

OneBeacon adjusted book value per common share

 

$

16.85

 

$

16.69

 

$

19.14

 

$

18.21

 


(1)          Includes the impact of repurchases of common shares made through OneBeacon’s share repurchase program which commenced in the third quarter of 2007.

(Millions, except per share amounts)

 

March 31,
2009

 

Dec. 31,
2008

 

March 31,
2008

 

OneBeacon book value per share numerators:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OneBeacon common shareholders’ equity

 

$

1,169.3

 

$

1,155.1

 

$

1,613.0

 

Remaining accretion of subsidiary preferred stock to face value

 

 

 

(11.1

)

Adjusted OneBeacon common shareholders’ equity

 

1,169.3

 

1,155.1

 

1,601.9

 

OneBeacon Ltd. common shares outstanding

 

95.1

 

95.1

 

96.0

 

OneBeacon book value per common share

 

$

12.30

 

$

12.15

 

$

16.80

 

OneBeacon adjusted book value per common share

 

$

12.30

 

$

12.15

 

$

16.69

 

 

The following tables provide OneBeacon’s GAAP ratios, net written premiums and earned insurance premiums for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 and 2007:2008:

 

$ in millions

 

Three Months Ended June 30, 2008

 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2008

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2009

 

 

Specialty

 

Commercial

 

Personal

 

Total(1)

 

GAAP Ratios:

 

Specialty

 

Commercial

 

Personal

 

Total(1)

 

Specialty

 

Commercial

 

Personal

 

Total(1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss and LAE

 

49

%

54

%

65

%

59

%

53

%

63

%

65

%

63

%

 

32

%

58

%

89

%

59

%

Expense

 

37

%

36

%

33

%

35

%

34

%

37

%

32

%

34

%

 

39

%

37

%

28

%

35

%

Total Combined

 

86

%

90

%

98

%

94

%

87

%

100

%

97

%

97

%

 

71

%

95

%

117

%

94

%

Net written premiums

 

$

158.6

 

$

202.2

 

$

168.9

 

$

529.6

 

$

269.5

 

$

371.9

 

$

313.6

 

$

955.3

 

 

$

178.7

 

$

158.9

 

$

131.7

 

$

469.4

 

Earned premiums

 

$

119.4

 

$

182.7

 

$

161.7

 

$

463.8

 

$

229.8

 

$

363.7

 

$

325.3

 

$

919.1

 

 

$

162.7

 

$

174.8

 

$

150.2

 

$

487.8

 

 

38


 

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2008

 

 

 

Specialty

 

Commercial

 

Personal

 

Total(1)

 

GAAP Ratios:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss and LAE

 

55

%

72

%

65

%

66

%

Expense

 

32

%

38

%

31

%

34

%

Total Combined

 

87

%

110

%

96

%

100

%

Net written premiums

 

$

110.9

 

$

169.7

 

$

144.7

 

$

425.7

 

Earned premiums

 

$

110.4

 

$

181.0

 

$

163.6

 

$

455.3

 


Table of Contents

 

 

Three Months Ended June 30, 2007

 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2007

 

GAAP Ratios:

 

Specialty

 

Commercial

 

Personal

 

Total(1)

 

Specialty 

 

Commercial

 

Personal

 

Total(1)

 

Loss and LAE

 

57

%

57

%

63

%

61

%

57

%

56

%

64

%

61

%

Expense

 

31

%

38

%

36

%

36

%

31

%

38

%

37

%

36

%

Total Combined

 

88

%

95

%

99

%

97

%

88

%

94

%

101

%

97

%

Net written premiums

 

$

109.1

 

$

195.3

 

$

180.4

 

$

484.8

 

$

205.1

 

$

366.6

 

$

353.2

 

$

925.1

 

Earned premiums

 

$

107.4

 

$

177.1

 

$

180.5

 

$

465.0

 

$

213.8

 

$

349.7

 

$

370.3

 

$

933.9

 

 


(1) Includes results from run-off operations.

 

OneBeacon Results - Three Months Ended June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 versus Three Months Ended June 30, 2007March 31, 2008

 

Overview

OneBeacon ended the secondfirst quarter of 20082009 with ana book value per share of $12.30, a 3% increase for the three months ended March 31, 2009, and a 21% decrease from its adjusted book value per share of $16.85 reflecting a 2.2% increase for the second quarter ofat March 31, 2008, a 0.8% increase for the first six months of 2008 and an 8.3% increase for the twelve months ended June 30, 2008,in each case including dividends. OneBeacon’s GAAP combined ratio wasdecreased to 94% for the first quarter of 2009 from 100% for the first quarter of 2008. Both periods included 3 points of net favorable loss reserve development primarily in specialty lines and in commercial lines.  In the first quarter of 2009, favorable loss reserve development in specialty lines and in commercial lines was partially offset by adverse loss reserve development in personal lines, primarily related to personal injury protection litigation at AutoOne.  The first quarter of 2009 had less than one point of catastrophe losses, while the first quarter of 2008 included 4 points of catastrophe losses, primarily related to tornados in the Southeastern United States.

OneBeacon’s net written premiums increased 10% in the first quarter of 2009 to $469 million, compared to $426 million in the first quarter of 2008.  This increase was due to increased premiums in specialty lines, primarily from OneBeacon’s collector car and boat business that it began writing in the second quarter of 2008, compared to 97% forEntertainment Brokers International Insurance Services (“EBI”), which OneBeacon acquired in the second quarter of 2007. The decrease in OneBeacon’s combined ratio was driven by improved current accident year loss results, particularly in commercial lines and personal lines. For the secondthird quarter of 2008, net loss reserve development on prior accident year lossesand from OneBeacon Professional Partners (“OBPP”).   This increase was not significant, as favorable reserve development primarily related to professional liability in specialty lines and package business in commercial lines waspartially offset by non-catastrophe losses at AutoOnedecreases in personal lines, where $14 million of premiums were ceded under a new quota share treaty designed to reduce property catastrophe exposure from homeowners business written in the Northeast (see Personal lines discussion below), and in run-off. For the second quartercommercial lines.

33



Table of 2007, OneBeacon had favorable development on prior accident year losses of $13 million primarily related to automobile liability in traditional personal lines, property liability in commercial lines and professional liability and tuition reimbursement in specialty lines.Contents

 

Specialty lines. Net written premiums for specialty lines increased by 45%61% to $159$179 million in the secondfirst quarter of 20082009 from $109$111 million in the secondfirst quarter of 2007.2008. The increase was primarily due to $60$28 million in net written premiums in other specialty lines, including thefrom OneBeacon’s collector car and boat business that OneBeaconit began writing premium in the second quarter of 2008, compared2008. The increase was also due to $15 million in writings from EBI, which OneBeacon acquired in the secondthird quarter of 2007,2008, as well as a $14 million increase from OBPP and an $8$11 million increase in net written premium at OneBeacon Professional Partners (“OBPP”).from Specialty Accident and Health.

 

The specialty lines combined ratio for the secondfirst quarter of 20082009 decreased to 86%71% from 88%87% for the secondfirst quarter of 2007.2008. The loss and LAE ratio decreased 823 points to 49%,32% while the expense ratio increased 67 points to 37%39%. The decrease in the loss and LAE ratio was mainly due to a 6 point improvement in prior year reserve development. The second quarter of 2008 included 1117 points of favorable reserve development on prior accident year losses, which was primarily from professional liability coverage at OBPP, compared to 5 points of favorableloss reserve development in the secondfirst quarter of 2007. Current2009 related to lower than expected severity in professional liability, compared with 3 points of favorable loss reserve development in the first quarter of 2008, also primarily related to professional liability.  Further, the current accident year losses were 2loss and LAE ratio including catastrophes decreased 10 points lower in the second quarter of 2008as compared to the prior year period primarily due to lower catastrophe losses.better current accident year loss results across all specialty lines of business. The increase in the expense ratio was primarilymainly due to increased policy acquisition expenses from changes in mix of business within the specialty lines businesses and the mix of products offered within those businesses. OneBeacon’s collector car and boat business at OBPP, transition costs associated with the new management team at OBPP, as well as costs associated with growingand some of its other newer specialty lines businesses pay higher commissions than OneBeacon’s older specialty lines businesses.

Commercial lines.Net written premiums for commercial lines increased by 4%decreased 6% to $202$159 million in the secondfirst quarter of 20082009 from $195$170 million in the secondfirst quarter of 2007,2008. The decrease was primarily due to a $6$15 million increasedecrease in net written premiums in the small business division, principally driven by small business package products. Net written premiums in theOneBeacon’s traditional middle market division, were essentially flat duringreflecting the second quarter of 2008 compared to the 2007 period.more competitive marketplace, partially offset by increased writings at OneBeacon Specialty Property.

 

The commercial lines combined ratio for the secondfirst quarter of 20082009 decreased to 90%95% from 95% in110% for the secondfirst quarter of 2007.2008. The loss and LAE ratio decreased 314 points to 54%58%, primarilywhile the expense ratio decreased 1 point to 37%. The decrease in the loss and LAE ratio was due to lower catastrophe losses and increased favorable loss reserve development.  The first quarter of 2009 included 1 point of catastrophe losses compared to 8 points in the first quarter of 2008, which primarily related to tornados in the southeastern United States. The first quarter of 2009 included 10 points of favorable loss reserve development compared to 5 points in the first quarter of 2008. In addition, current accident year non- catastrophe largenon-catastrophe losses in the middle market divisiondecreased 3 points as compared to the secondfirst quarter of 2007. The expense ratio decreased 2 points2008, primarily related to 36%, due to a decrease in other underwriting expenses, mainly from lower information technology costs.than expected severity on commercial multi-peril non-catastrophe losses.

Personal lines. Net written premiums for personal lines decreased by 6%9% to $169$132 million in the secondfirst quarter of 2008, compared to $1802009 from $145 million in the secondfirst quarter of 2007.2008. In traditional personal lines, net written premiumspremium decreased 8% due to $101 million. In an effort to further reduce its property catastrophe exposure in the decision to cease writingNortheast, OneBeacon entered into a 30% quota share agreement with a group of reinsurers that runs from January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2009. During the first quarter of 2009, OneBeacon ceded approximately $14 million of written premiums from its Northeast homeowners business in Houston Generalwritten through OneBeacon Insurance Exchange (Houston General) in late 2007, lower business associatedCompany and its subsidiary companies, along with coastal restrictions at Adirondack Insurance Exchange (Adirondack), lower premium volume from the involuntary marketand New Jersey Skylands Insurance Association in MassachusettsNew York and the discontinuation of surplus lines business.New Jersey, respectively. Further, net written premiums at AutoOne continueddecreased 14% to experience reduced writings$31 million due to declines in New York’s assigned risk pool. With respect to the New York assigned risk pool, market trends indicate that assigned risk volumes are expected to further decline to approximately $130$133 million in 2009, which would be down from $150 million in 2008, from $179 million in 2007 and $253 million in 2006 and $383 million in 2005.2006. OneBeacon expects a reduction in AutoOne’s premium volume reflective of these trends.

39



Table of Contents

 

The personal lines combined ratio for the secondfirst quarter of 2008 decreased2009 increased to 98%117% from 99%96% for the secondfirst quarter of 2007.2008. The loss and LAE ratio increased 224 points to 65%89%, while the expense ratio decreased by 3 points to 33%. The increase in the loss and LAE ratio was mainly due to 5 points of adverse development on prior accident year losses in the second quarter of 2008 on personal automobile liability at AutoOne, partially offset by stronger current accident year loss results and lighter catastrophe activity in personal lines during the second quarter of 2008 than in the 2007 period. The decrease in the expense ratio was principally due to a decrease in other underwriting expenses resulting from actions taken in late 2007 to better align personal lines staffing with business needs.

Run-off. For the second quarter of 2008, run-off business generated an underwriting loss of $13 million, compared to an underwriting loss of $11 million in the second quarter of 2007. The second quarter of 2008 included $13 million of loss and LAE, driven primarily by $9 million of incurred unallocated loss adjustment expenses (“ULAE”) in connection with the Liberty Mutual settlement, while the second quarter of 2007 included $9 million of loss and LAE.

OneBeacon Results - Six Months Ended June 30, 2008 versus Six Months Ended June 30, 2007

OneBeacon’s GAAP combined ratio was 97% for both the first six months of 2008 and 2007. The loss and LAE ratio increased 2 points to 63%, while the expense ratio decreased 2 points to 34%28%. The increase in the loss and LAE ratio was primarily due to less favorable19 points of adverse loss reserve development on prior accident year losses.in the first quarter of 2009, primarily related to an increased level of litigation activity resulting in higher litigation-related expenses as well as higher claim settlement costs with respect to personal injury protection litigation at AutoOne. The first six monthsquarter of 2008 included $12 million1 point of favorable development on prior accident year losses due to lower than expected severity on non-catastrophe losses and favorable development on a prior accident year catastrophe. The favorable non-catastrophe development was primarily related to professional liability in specialty lines and package business in commercial lines, partially offset by adverse development at AutoOne in personal lines and in run-off. The first six months of 2007 included $25 million of favorableloss reserve development, primarily related to professional liability in specialty lines, property liability in commercial lines and automobile liability losses in traditional personal lines. The decrease in the expense ratio was driven by lower occupancy costs in the first six months of 2008. OneBeacon’s results for the first six months of 2007 included $9 million in expenses associated with actions taken to optimize long-term occupancy costs, including the move of OneBeacon’s U.S. headquarters.

Specialty lines. Net written premiums for specialty lines increased by 31% to $270 million in the first six months of 2008 from $205 million in the first six months of 2007. The increase was primarily due to a $54 million increase in other specialty lines net written premiums to $70 million, including the collector car and boat program business that OneBeacon began writing in the second quarter of 2008, continued growth in the Accident and Health and Government Risk businesses, and an $11 million increase in net written premiums at OBPP.

The specialty lines combined ratio for the first six months of 2008 decreased to 87% from 88% for the first six months of 2007. The loss and LAE ratio decreased 4 points to 53%, while the expense ratio increased 3 points to 34%. The decrease in the loss and LAE ratio was mainly due to lower current accident year non-catastrophe losses, driven by lower losses from the Agri run-off business. The first six months of 2008 included 7 points of favorable reserve development on prior accident year losses, which was primarily from professional liability coverage at OBPP, compared to 6 points of favorable reserve development on prior accident year losses the first six months of 2007. The increase in the expense ratio was primarily due to increased policy acquisition expenses from changes inas a result of the mix of business at OBPP, transition costs associated with the new management team at OBPP, as well as costs associated with growingquota share agreement for OneBeacon’s specialty lines businesses.Northeast homeowners business.

 

Commercial lines. Net written premiums for commercial lines increased by 1% to $372 million in the first six months of 2008 from $367 million in the first six months of 2007. The increase was due to a $12 million increase in net written premiums to $81 million in the small business division, principally driven by small business package products. Partially offsetting this increase was a $6 million decrease in net written premiums in the middle market division to $291 million, reflecting the more competitive market place.

The commercial lines combined ratio for the first six months of 2008 increased to 100% from 94% in the first six months of 2007. The loss and LAE ratio increased 7 points to 63%, while the expense ratio decreased 1 point to 37%. The increase in the loss and LAE ratio was primarily due to increases in both non-catastrophe and catastrophe losses. The first six months of 2008 included 5 points of current accident year catastrophe losses, including losses from tornados in the southeastern United States, compared to 1 point of current accident year catastrophe losses in the first six months of 2007. Additionally, current accident year non-catastrophe losses were 4 points higher as compared with the prior year period, due in part to winter weather in the northeastern United States. The expense ratio for the first six months of 2008 was essentially flat when compared to the first six months of 2007.

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Table of Contents

Personal lines. Net written premiums for personal lines decreased by 11% to $314 million in the first six months of 2008 from $353 million in the first six months of 2007. In traditional personal lines, net written premium decreased 12% due to the decision to cease writing business in Houston General in late 2007, lower business associated with coastal restrictions at Adirondack Insurance Exchange (Adirondack), lower premium volume from the involuntary market in Massachusetts and the discontinuation of surplus lines business. In January 2008, Houston General entered into a reinsurance agreement with Universal Holdings of North America (Universal) under which Houston General ceded $7 million of unearned premiums to Universal. Further, net written premiums at AutoOne decreased 10% due to a significant decline in the size of New York’s assigned risk pool, as described above.

The personal lines combined ratio for the first six months of 2008 decreased to 97% from 101% for the first six months of 2007. The loss and LAE ratio increased 1 point to 65%, while the expense ratio decreased 5 points to 32%. The increase in the loss and LAE ratio was primarily due to adverse development on prior accident years on personal automobile liability at AutoOne, partially offset by stronger current accident year results in traditional personal lines during the first six months of 2008 than in the comparable 2007 period. The decrease in the expense ratio was principally due to a decrease in other underwriting expenses resulting from actions taken in late 2007 to better align personal lines staffing with business needs.

Run-off. For the first six months of 2008, run-off business generated an underwriting loss of $16 million, which included $16 million of loss and LAE, driven primarily by $9 million of ULAE recorded in connection with the Liberty Mutual settlement, compared to an underwriting loss of $20 million in the first six months of 2007.

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White Mountains Re

 

Financial results and GAAP combined ratios for White Mountains Re for the three and six months ended June 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008 and 2007 follow:

 

 

Three Months Ended
June 30,

 

Six Months Ended
June 30,

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

($ in millions)

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

Millions

 

2009

 

2008

 

Gross written premiums

 

$

241.5

 

$

312.9

 

$

688.4

 

$

811.8

 

 

$

400.3

 

$

446.9

 

Net written premiums

 

$

215.3

  

$

279.4

 

$

574.9

 

$

683.0

 

 

$

309.3

 

$

359.6

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earned insurance and reinsurance premiums

 

$

246.9

 

$

306.8

 

$

513.7

 

$

605.1

 

 

$

227.4

 

$

266.8

 

Net investment income

 

47.4

 

53.0

 

97.9

 

101.1

 

 

29.4

 

50.5

 

Net realized investment gains (losses)

 

3.1

 

22.2

 

(9.1

)

42.1

 

Net unrealized investment losses

 

(41.6

)

 

(81.9

)

 

Other revenue (expense)

 

7.5

 

(1.9

)

(5.4

)

(5.5

)

Net realized and unrealized investment losses

 

(20.1

)

(52.5

)

Other revenue - foreign currency translation gains (losses)

 

5.4

 

(13.1

)

Other revenue -Tuckerman Fund II (1)

 

12.3

 

 

Other revenue

 

(1.3

)

.2

 

Total revenues

 

263.3

 

380.1

 

515.2

 

742.8

 

 

253.1

 

251.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

Losses and LAE

 

201.5

 

172.8

 

369.7

 

367.4

 

 

109.9

 

168.2

 

Insurance and reinsurance acquisition expenses

 

51.2

 

75.0

 

106.8

 

144.6

 

 

47.4

 

55.6

 

Other underwriting expenses

 

29.0

 

29.9

 

56.0

 

61.2

 

 

24.2

 

27.0

 

General and administrative expenses - Tuckerman Fund II (1)

 

11.5

 

 

General and administrative expenses

 

3.9

 

9.6

 

9.0

 

16.2

 

 

7.2

 

5.1

 

Accretion of fair value adjustment to losses and LAE reserves

 

1.1

 

1.5

 

2.3

 

2.6

 

 

1.1

 

1.2

 

Interest expense on debt

 

7.0

 

6.8

 

13.9

 

8.0

 

 

6.6

 

6.9

 

Total expenses

 

293.7

 

295.6

 

557.7

 

600.0

 

 

207.9

 

264.0

 

Pre-tax income (loss)

 

$

(30.4

)

$

84.5

 

$

(42.5

)

$

142.8

 

 

$

45.2

 

$

(12.1

)

 

 

 

 

 

GAAP ratios:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Losses and LAE

 

82

%

56

%

72

%

61

%

 

48

%

63

%

Expense

 

32

%

34

%

32

%

34

%

 

32

%

31

%

Total Combined

 

114

%

90

%

104

%

95

%

 

80

%

94

%


(1)

Tuckerman Fund II was transferred from Other Operations to White Mountains Re, effective June 30, 2008. Therefore the consolidated results of Tuckerman Fund II are included in the table above for the first quarter of 2009 and are included in the Other Operation segment in the first quarter of 2008.

 

White Mountains Re Results - Three Months Ended June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 versus Three Months Ended June 30, 2007March 31, 2008

 

White Mountains Re’s GAAP combined ratio increaseddecreased to 114%80% for secondthe first quarter of 2008,2009 from 90%94% for the secondfirst quarter of 2007. During2008. Both periods experienced relatively benign weather and light catastrophe activity. The improvement in the secondcombined ratio was primarily due to 3 points ($6 million) of favorable loss reserve development in the first quarter of 2008, the Company recognized $51 million2009 compared to 12 points ($33 million) of net adverse loss reserve development primarily resulting from a comprehensive loss reserve review as described below. This compares to $18 million of net favorable loss reserve development forin the same period in 2007. Pre-tax catastrophe losses recorded during the secondfirst quarter of 2008, were $24 million,which was primarily a result of construction defect claims from accident years 2003 and prior.  The first quarter of 2009 also included 5 points ($12 million) of catastrophe losses, net of reinsurance and reinstatement premiums, or 10 points on the combined ratio compared to $12 million3 points ($9 million) of pre-tax catastrophe losses, or 4 points on the combined ratio, for the prior period. Catastrophe losses in the second quarternet of 2008 were mainly from an earthquake in China, storms in Chinareinsurance and Germany, and Midwestern US floods. Prior period catastrophe losses were mainly from floods that occurred in the United Kingdom.

Management commenced a comprehensive loss reserve review (the “Reserve Review”) in the second quarter of 2008, primarily as a result of $41 million of adverse loss reserve development recordedreinstatement premiums, in the first quarter of 20082008.  The first quarter of 2009 catastrophe losses were primarily related to WMRe America’s construction defect (“CD”) exposed accountsEuropean windstorm Klaus, whereas the first quarter 2008 catastrophe losses were primarily related to European windstorm Emma.

White Mountains Re’s gross written premiums decreased 10% to $400 million in the first quarter 2009 from underwriting years 2001$447 million in the first quarter 2008. Net written premiums decreased 14% to $309 million in the first quarter 2009 from $360 million in the first quarter 2008. These declines were due mainly to reductions in global net property writings and prior. The Reserve Review was conducted by management, including internal underwriting, claims and actuarial personnel, with assistance from external consultants. The Reserve Review included all of WMRe America’s non-A&EU.S. casualty loss reserveswritings as well as the effect of foreign currency exchange due to the weakening of the Swedish krona against the U.S. dollar.  The decrease in global property business reflects White Mountains Re’s reduction in net peak zone property catastrophe exposures as part of its capital and risk management strategy.  The reduction in U.S. casualty business is due to pricing, terms and conditions for certain lines of business at WMRe Sirius. The Reserve Review resulted in $140 million of additional adverse loss reserve development at WMRe America, partially offset by $85 million of favorable loss development at WMRe Sirius during the second quarter of 2008. The adverse loss reserve development at WMRe America was predominantly attributable to its casualty reinsurance book written in the 1996-2002accounts that no longer meet White Mountains Re’s underwriting years, whereas the favorable reserve development at WMRe Sirius was mainly attributable to its property reinsurance book.guidelines, as well as higher ceding company retentions.

 

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White Mountains Re’s gross written premiums decreased by 23%other revenues consist primarily of $5 million of foreign currency translation gains recorded in the first quarter 2009 as compared to $242a loss of $13 million in the secondfirst quarter 2008, primarily the result of the weakening of the Swedish krona as discussed above.  In addition, White Mountains Re recorded $12 million of other revenues in the first quarter of 2008 compared2009 related to $313 million in the second quarterconsolidation of 2007, and net written premiums also decreased by 23%Tuckerman Fund II, which was transferred to $215 million inWhite Mountains Re from the second quarter of 2008 compared to $279 million in the comparable prior year period. These decreases were across most lines of business, and especially in North American casualty lines, and were primarily due to pricing, terms and conditions for certain accounts that no longer met Other Operations segment, effective June 30, 2008.

White Mountains Re’s underwriting guidelines. White Mountains Re has been experiencing significant price competition in the reinsurance market due to excess underwriting capacity. These market conditions, combined with few large catastrophic events during 2006 and 2007, have resulted in downward pressure on pricing, terms and conditions. Higher ceding company retentions have also reduced White Mountains Re’s premiums.

Insuranceinsurance and reinsurance acquisition expenses declined by 32%decreased 15% to $51$47 million in the secondfirst quarter of 2008 compared to $752009 from $56 million in the secondfirst quarter of 2007. This2008. The decrease is due toin-line with the overall decline in premium volume discussed above, as well as a recovery recognized by WMRe Sirius as a result of a favorable arbitration ruling in a commission dispute. General and administrative expenses declined by $6 million, or 59%, over the comparable prior year period. This decrease was due to one-time expenses incurred in 2007 in connection with the issuance of $250 million of preference shares in May 2007.

White Mountains Re Results - Six Months Ended June 30, 2008 versus Six Months Ended June 30, 2007above.

 

White Mountains Re’s GAAP combined ratio increasedother underwriting expenses decreased by $3 million, primarily due to 104% forforeign currency translation due to the first six months of 2008, from 95% for the first six months of 2007. During the first six months of 2008, White Mountains Re recognized $84 million of net adverse loss reserve development primarily as a resultweakening of the Reserve Review and the CD losses recognizedSwedish krona to U.S. dollar exchange rate as discussed above.  In addition, headcount has been reduced by 8% in the first quarter. This comparescomparison to $26 million of net favorable loss reserve development for the same period in 2007. The 2008 combined ratio included $33 million, or 6 points, of pre-tax catastrophe losses, net of reinsurance and reinstatement premiums, mainly due to European Windstorm Emma, an earthquake in China, storms in China and Germany, and Midwestern US floods. The combined ratio for first six months of 2007 included $60 million, or 10 points, of pre-tax catastrophe losses, net of reinsurance and reinstatement premiums, primarily from European windstorms Kyrill and Hanno and floods that impacted the United Kingdom during second quarter 2007.last year.

 

White Mountains Re’s gross written premiums decreased by 15%general and administrative expenses increased to $688$19 million in the first six months of 2008 compared to $812quarter 2009 from $5 million in the first six months of 2007, and net written premiums decreased by 16% to $575 million in the first six months ofquarter 2008, compared to $683 million in the first six months of 2007. These decreases were across most lines of business, and especially in North American casualty lines, and were primarily due to pricing, terms and conditions for certain accounts that no longer met White Mountains Re’s underwriting guidelines. White Mountains Re has been experiencing significant price competition in the reinsurance market due to excess underwriting capacity. These market conditions, combined with few large catastrophic events during 2006 and 2007, have resulted in downward pressure on pricing, terms and conditions. Higher ceding company retentions have also reduced White Mountains Re’s premiums.

Insurance and reinsurance acquisition$12 million of expenses declined by 26% to $107 million for the first six months of 2008 compared to $145 million for the first six months of 2007. This decrease is duerelated to the overall decline in premium volumeconsolidation of Tuckerman Fund II as discussed above, as well as a recovery recognized by WMRe Sirius as a result of a favorable arbitration ruling in a commission dispute. Other underwriting expenses decreased by $5 million due to reductions in compensation expense. General and administrative expenses declined by $7 million, or 44%, over the comparable prior year period. This decrease was due to one-time expenses incurred in 2007 in connection with the issuance of $250 million of preference shares in May 2007 and the $400 million of senior unsecured notes issued in March 2007.

For the six months ended June 30, 2008, White Mountains Re’s interest expense increased by $6 million to $14 million, primarily due to the interest on the $400 million of senior notes.

On January 7, 2008, White Mountains Re acquired Helicon Re Holdings, Ltd. for approximately $150 million, which resulted in the recognition of an extraordinary gain of $4 million. Helicon Re Holdings, Ltd. is the parent of Helicon, which in 2006 and 2007 provided quota share retrocessional coverage to White Mountains Re. White Mountains Re did not renew its quota share arrangements with Helicon and Olympus for 2008. Olympus continues to be responsible to pay losses on exposures that have been ceded to it and will continue to earn premiums related primarily to the run-off of underwriting year 2007.

43



Table of Contentsabove.

 

Esurance

 

Financial results and GAAP ratios for Esurance for the three and six months ended June 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008 and 2007 follow:

 

 

Three Months Ended
June 30,

 

Six Months Ended
June 30,

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

($ in millions)

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

Millions

 

2009

 

2008

 

Gross written premiums

 

$

198.5

 

$

186.8

 

$

429.7

 

$

395.6

 

 

$

214.2

 

$

231.2

 

Net written premiums

 

$

197.7

 

$

185.7

 

$

428.0

 

$

393.4

 

 

$

213.6

 

$

230.3

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earned insurance and reinsurance premiums

 

$

211.0

 

$

188.9

 

$

418.0

 

$

359.7

 

 

$

196.2

 

$

207.0

 

Net investment income

 

8.5

 

7.4

 

16.4

 

13.6

 

 

6.1

 

7.9

 

Net realized investment (losses) gains

 

(.4

)

1.5

 

(1.9

)

2.5

 

Net unrealized investment losses

 

(4.8

)

 

(10.4

)

 

Net realized and unrealized investment gains (losses)

 

3.7

 

(7.1

)

Other revenue

 

12.7

 

3.1

 

15.8

 

6.1

 

 

13.9

 

3.1

 

Total revenues

 

227.0

 

200.9

 

437.9

 

381.9

 

 

219.9

 

210.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

Losses and LAE

 

158.7

 

147.1

 

327.1

 

277.4

 

 

145.3

 

168.4

 

Insurance and reinsurance acquisition expenses

 

43.3

 

50.3

 

89.7

 

95.0

 

 

38.9

 

46.4

 

Other underwriting expenses

 

18.6

 

15.9

 

37.6

 

30.6

 

 

18.5

 

19.0

 

General and administrative expenses

 

10.1

 

.1

 

10.7

 

.2

 

 

9.2

 

.6

 

Amortization of AFI purchase accounting adjustments

 

4.7

 

 

4.7

 

 

 

5.3

 

 

Interest expense on debt

 

.4

 

 

.4

 

 

Total expenses

 

235.8

 

213.4

 

470.2

 

403.2

 

 

217.2

 

234.4

 

Pre-tax loss

 

$

(8.8

)

$

(12.5

)

$

(32.3

)

$

(21.3

)

Pre-tax income (loss)

 

$

2.7

 

$

(23.5

)

 

 

 

 

 

GAAP ratios:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Losses and LAE

 

75

%

78

%

78

%

77

%

 

74

%

81

%

Expense

 

30

%

35

%

31

%

35

%

 

29

%

32

%

Total Combined

 

105

%

113

%

109

%

112

%

 

103

%

113

%

 

Esurance Results - Three and Six Months Ended June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 versus Three and Six Months Ended June 30, 2007March 31, 2008

 

Esurance’s GAAP combined ratio of 105% and 109%decreased to 103% for the threefirst quarter of 2009 from 113% for the first quarter of 2008.  The improved results for 2009 were driven by better loss results and six months ended June 30, 2008 was 8lower acquisition costs.  The loss ratio decreased 7 points and 3 points lower, respectively, thanto 74% for the comparable periodsfirst quarter of 2009 from 81% in the prior year. The loss and LAE ratiofirst quarter of 2008. This was 75% and 78% for the second quarter and first six months of 2008 comparedlargely due to 78% and 77% for the comparable periods in 2007. Selectiveselective rate increases in late 2007 and early 2008, along with lower claims frequency offsetas rising severity costs in 2008. In addition,unemployment and reduced economic activity led to fewer cars on the current year results did not include any adverse loss reserve development, while the 2007 loss and LAE results included adverse loss reserve development of 4 points and 2 points for the quarter and six months, respectively.road.  The expense ratio decreased to 30% and 31% for the quarter and six months ending June 30, 2008, compared29% from 32%, primarily due to 35% for both of the comparable prior year periods. The decrease waslower acquisition expenses driven by reduceda reduction in advertising spending.

 

Total revenues were $227 million for the second quarter of 2008, a 13% increase from the second quarter of 2007, including
$12 million of revenue from AFI. Esurance’s net written premiums increased by 6% and 9% for the second quarter and first six months of 2008, to $198 million and $428 million, respectively, compared to the comparable prior year periods. Including nearly 280,000 customers at AFI, the Esurance segment now has approximately 780,000 policies in force. Excluding AFI, the Esurance in-force policy count increased 9% to 498,000 compared to the same period in 2007.

Esurance writes business in 28 states, which represent approximately 85% of the market for personal auto insurance premiums written in the United States during 2007. For the quarter ended June 30, 2008, Esurance’s largest states were California (with 24% of direct written premium), Florida (16%), New York (7%), Texas (5%) and Washington (5%). AFI sells policies in 50 states plus the District of Columbia. For the quarter ended June 30, 2008, AFI’s largest states were California (16% of policies in force), Texas (7%), Florida (6%), Pennsylvania (4%) and Georgia (4%).

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Table of Contents

 

Net written premium decreased 7% to $214 million in the first quarter of 2009 from $230 million during the first quarter of 2008. Lower advertising spending and higher rates contributed to reduced new business sales volume. Esurance experienced a slight increase in cancellations for non-payment of premium, as more customers are finding it difficult to pay their auto insurance bills. Total revenues for the segment were $220 million for the first quarter, similar to performance in the first quarter of 2008. Other revenues increased to $14 million in the first quarter of 2009 from $3 million in the first quarter of 2008, primarily due to the acquisition of AFI in the second quarter of 2008.  AFI had $13 million of commissions on new and renewal business in the first quarter of 2009. General and administrative expenses increased to $9 million during the quarter, primarily due to the addition of AFI’s operational expenses of $11 million.  As of March 31, 2009, the Esurance segment had 759,000 policies-in-force, including 289,000 policyholders at AFI.  The Esurance segment added approximately 14,000 policies-in-force (approximately 8,000 at Esurance and approximately 6,000 at AFI) during the first quarter, reversing the trend seen in 2008.

Esurance wrote business in 30 states during the first quarter of 2009, the largest of which were California (with 23% of direct written premium), Florida (14%), New York (8%), Texas (5%) and Pennsylvania (4%). AFI sells policies in all 50 states plus the District of Columbia. For the first quarter of 2009, AFI’s largest states were California (16% of policies-in-force), Texas (7%), Florida (7%), Pennsylvania (4%) and Georgia (4%).

Other Operations

 

Other Operations consists of the operations of the Company, the Company’s intermediate holding companies, White Mountains’ weather risk management and variable annuity reinsurance businesses, the consolidated results of the Tuckerman Funds,Fund I and Tuckerman Fund II (until its transfer to the White Mountains Re segment, effective June 30, 2008), the International American Group (until its disposition in October 2008), WM Advisors and White Mountains’ investments in common sharesunconsolidated affiliates. The Other Operations segment also includes the results of WM Life Re and warrantsGalileo. White Mountains continues to purchase common sharesexplore options to limit the cost of Symetra, Delosrunning off WM Life Re’s contracts and Montpelier Re (until its disposition in May 2007).has ceased writing new weather derivative contracts at Galileo.

 

A summary of White Mountains’ financial results from its Other Operations segment for the three and six months ended June 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008 and 2007 follows:

 

 

Three Months Ended
June 30,

 

Six Months Ended
June 30,

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

Millions

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Net investment income

 

$

11.2

 

$

11.7

 

$

19.5

 

$

24.8

 

 

$

3.7

 

$

8.3

 

Net realized investment (losses) gains

 

(5.9

)

8.3

 

(8.9

)

6.4

 

Net unrealized investment losses

 

(6.9

)

 

(6.9

)

 

Other revenue - Tuckerman Funds

 

25.5

 

24.7

 

49.9

 

46.3

 

Net realized and unrealized investment losses

 

(1.0

)

(3.0

)

Other revenue - Tuckerman Fund I and II (1)

 

6.2

 

24.4

 

Other revenue

 

16.6

 

5.8

 

8.4

 

17.9

 

 

(28.6

)

(8.2

)

Total revenues

 

40.5

 

50.5

 

62.0

 

95.4

 

 

(19.7

)

21.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

Losses and LAE

 

(1.9

)

(10.9

)

(.7

)

(10.7

)

 

 

1.2

 

Other underwriting expenses

 

.6

 

.8

 

1.3

 

1.6

 

 

 

.7

 

General and administrative expenses - Tuckerman Funds

 

22.6

 

21.1

 

47.2

 

43.9

 

General and administrative expenses - Tuckerman Fund I and II (1)

 

6.2

 

24.6

 

General and administrative expenses

 

10.6

 

28.9

 

34.1

 

49.9

 

 

11.0

 

23.5

 

Interest expense - debt

 

2.9

 

.2

 

3.9

 

4.4

 

 

1.4

 

1.0

 

Total expenses

 

34.8

 

40.1

 

85.8

 

89.1

 

 

18.6

 

51.0

 

Pre-tax income (loss)

 

$

5.7

 

$

10.4

 

$

(23.8

)

$

6.3

 

Pre-tax loss

 

$

(38.3

)

$

(29.5

)


(1)

Tuckerman Fund II was transferred from Other Operations to White Mountains Re, effective June 30, 2008. Therefore the consolidated results of Tuckerman Fund II are included in the table above through that date and are included in the White Mountains Re segment from July 1, 2008 forward. The consolidated results of Tuckerman Fund I are included in all periods presented above.

 

Other Operations Results - Three and Six Months Ended June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 versus Three and Six Months Ended June 30, 2007March 31, 2008

 

White Mountains’ Other Operations segment’s pre-tax income forloss in the secondfirst quarter of 20082009 was $6$38 million, compared to $10 million in the second quarter of 2007. For the first six months of 2008, pre-tax loss was $24 million compared to pre-tax income of $6 million for the first six months of 2007. For both 2008 periods, the value of the Company’s investment in Symetra warrants decreased due to a decline in the valuation of stocks in the life insurance sector during the period. For the second quarter of 2008, the value of Symetra warrants decreased by $7 million compared to an increase in value of $5 million in last year’s second quarter, while the value of Symetra warrants decreased by $11 million over the first six months of 2008 compared to an increase in value of $8$30 million in the first six monthsquarter of last year. The second2008.  WM Life Re reported $32 million in pre-tax losses in the first quarter of 2009 compared to $21 million of pre-tax losses in the first quarter of 2008 also included $12 million(See Note 8).  The losses in pre-tax income from WM Life Re primarily as a resultresulted from the effect of the mark-to-marketcontinuing volatile investment market conditions on the valuation of WM Life Re’s derivative assets and liabilities while the first six months of 2008 included $9 million of pre-tax losses from WM Life Re (see Note 9). In addition, the benefit to the Other Operations segment of lower incentive compensation charges for the second quarter and first six months of 2008 were offset by the impact of $11 million of favorable development recognized during the second quarter of 2007, primarily due to the settlement of a large claim at BICC.quarter.

 

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Table of Contents

 

II. Summary of Investment Results

Investment Philosophy

White Mountains’ investment philosophy is to maximize its after-tax total risk-adjusted return over the long term. Under this approach, each dollar of after-tax investment income and realized and unrealized gains and losses is valued equally. Preservation of capital is of the utmost importance. White Mountains’ investment portfolio mix as of June 30, 2008 consisted in large part of high-quality, fixed maturity investments and short-term investments, as well as equity investments and other investments, such as hedge funds, limited partnerships and private equities. White Mountains’ management believes that prudent levels of investments in common equity securities and other investments within its investment portfolio will enhance long-term after-tax total returns without significantly increasing the risk profile of the portfolio.

White Mountains’ overall fixed maturity investment strategy is to purchase securities that are attractively priced in relation to credit risks. White Mountains also actively manages the average duration of the portfolio, about 2.6 years including short-term investments and about 3.3 years excluding short-term investments at June 30, 2008, to seek the highest after-tax, risk-adjusted total returns.

WM Advisors has a sub-advisory agreement with Prospector Partners LLC (“Prospector”), a registered investment adviser, under which Prospector manages most of White Mountains’ publicly-traded common equity and convertible securities. Prospector’s equity investment strategy is to maximize absolute risk-adjusted total return through investments in a variety of equity and equity-related instruments, using a bottom-up, value discipline. Using a value orientation, Prospector invests in relatively concentrated positions in the United States and other developed markets.

 

Investment Returns

 

For purposes of discussing rates of return, all percentages are presented gross of management fees and trading expenses in order to produce a more relevant comparison to benchmark returns, while all dollar amounts are presented net of any management fees and trading expenses. A summary of White Mountains’ consolidated pre-tax investment results and gross investment returns versus typical benchmarks for the three and six months ended June 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008 follows:

Pre-tax investment results

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

Millions

 

2009

 

2008

 

Net investment income

 

$

61.1

 

$

116.8

 

Net realized and unrealized investment losses

 

(23.3

)

(118.0

)

Net unrealized foreign currency (losses) gains on investments

 

(51.5

)

30.8

 

Total GAAP pre-tax investment (losses) gains

 

$

(13.7

)

$

29.6

 

Gross investment returns and 2007 follows:benchmark returns

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

Six Months Ended

 

Pre-tax investment results

 

June 30,

 

June 30,

 

Millions

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

Net investment income

 

$

111.7

 

$

126.7

 

$

228.5

 

$

244.7

 

Net realized investment (losses) gains

 

(4.9

)

89.1

 

(17.9

)

163.0

 

Net unrealized investment losses (1)

 

(54.2

)

(49.3

)

(159.2

)

(24.0

)

Net unrealized foreign currency gains (losses) on investments

 

(19.3

)

12.4

 

49.5

 

6.4

 

Total GAAP pre-tax investment gains

 

$

33.3

 

$

178.9

 

$

100.9

 

$

390.1

 

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Fixed maturity investments

 

1.0

%

1.9

%

Short-term investments

 

.1

 

1.0

 

Total fixed maturities

 

.7

 

1.7

 

Barclay’s U.S. Intermediate Aggregate Index

 

.9

 

2.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Convertible securities

 

.5

 

-2.8

 

Common stocks

 

-12.0

 

-5.8

 

Other long-term investments

 

-3.8

 

-3.4

 

Total equities, convertible securities and other long-term investments

 

-5.9

 

-4.7

 

S&P 500 Index (total return)

 

-11.0

 

-9.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total consolidated portfolio

 

-.1

%

.3

%

 


(1) In 2008,White Mountains’ GAAP total return on invested assets for the first quarter of 2009 was -0.1% compared to 0.3% in the first quarter of 2008. The total investment portfolio, excluding currency movements, managed a small positive return of 0.5%. White Mountains has continued to avoid the large, permanent credit losses that have recently been reported net unrealizedby many financial institutions. The GAAP total return on fixed maturity investments, including mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities and short term investments, was 0.7% for the first quarter of 2009 compared to 1.7% in the first quarter of last year. The fixed income portfolio was up 1.5% in local currencies, compared to a Barclays U.S. Intermediate Aggregate return of 0.9%. White Mountains’ equity and convertible security portfolio return of -5.9% in the first quarter of 2009, which outperformed the S&P 500 return of -11.0%.  White Mountains continued to de-risk its portfolios during the quarter, selling approximately $310 million of equities and convertibles and $75 million of non-agency residential mortgage-backed securities.  Total equity exposure is now 11% of GAAP invested assets (8% excluding convertibles).  Net investment losses through net income aswas $61 million in the first quarter of 2009, down from $117 million.  The decline was primarily due to lower overall portfolio yields, shifts in portfolio mix to lower risk, lower yield investments and a result ofdecrease in the FAS 159 election. During 2007, net unrealized investment gains were reported through other comprehensive income.overall invested asset base following the Berkshire Exchange.

 

 

 

Three Months Ended 
June 30,

 

Six Months Ended 
June 30,

 

Gross investment returns versus benchmarks

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

Fixed maturity investments

 

(.5

)%

.6

%

1.6

%

2.1

%

Short-term investments

 

.6

%

1.4

%

1.5

%

2.9

%

Total fixed maturities

 

(.2

)%

.7

%

1.6

%

2.2

%

Lehman U.S. Aggregate Index

 

(1.0

)%

(.5

)%

1.1

%

1.0

%

Convertible fixed maturities

 

%

1.1

%

(2.4

)%

1.4

%

Common stock

 

3.0

%

4.5

%

(1.6

)%

8.2

%

Other investments

 

3.7

%

10.7

%

.3

%

15.9

%

Total equities

 

3.2

%

6.3

%

(1.1

)%

10.5

%

S&P 500 Index (total return)

 

(2.7

)%

6.3

%

(11.9

)%

7.0

%

Total consolidated portfolio

 

.4

%

1.6

%

.9

%

3.5

%

4638



Table of Contents

 

Mortgage-backed, Asset-backed Securities

White Mountains purchases commercial and residential mortgage-backed securities to maximize its fixed income portfolio’s risk adjusted returns and diversify the portfolio risk from primarily corporate credit risk to a mix of credit and cash flow risk. White Mountains is not an originator of residential mortgage loans and does not hold any residential mortgage-backed securities categorized as sub-prime as of March 31, 2009. In addition, White Mountains’ investments in hedge funds, limited partnerships and private equities contain negligible amounts of sub-prime mortgage-backed securities at March 31, 2009. White Mountains is not directly exposed to potential losses on sub-prime mortgage-backed securities, other than approximately $3 million of sub-prime mortgage-backed securities that are in the collateral account under its securities lending programs at March 31, 2009. White Mountains considers sub-prime mortgage-backed securities to be those that are issued from dedicated sub-prime shelf registrations, dedicated second-lien shelf registrations (i.e., White Mountains considers investments backed primarily by second-liens to be a sub-prime risk regardless of credit score or other metrics) or otherwise have underlying loan pools that exhibit weak credit characteristics.

There are also mortgage-backed securities that White Mountains categorizes as “non-prime” (also called “Alt A” or “A-”) that are backed by collateral that has overall credit quality between prime and sub-prime, based on a review of the characteristics of their underlying mortgage loan pools, such as credit scores and financial ratios. As of March 31, 2009, $24 million of White Mountains’ mortgage-backed securities holdings were classified as non-prime. All of these non-prime securities have the highest rating ascribed by Standard & Poors (“AAA”). White Mountains does not own any collateralized debt obligations, including residential mortgage-backed collateralized debt obligations.

The following table summarizes White Mountains’ asset-backed securities holdings at fair value as of March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008:

 

 

March 31,

 

December 31,

 

Millions

 

2009

 

2008

 

Mortgage-backed securities:

 

 

 

 

 

Agency (1)

 

 

 

 

 

GNMA

 

$

635.7

 

$

964.4

 

FNMA

 

93.1

 

114.7

 

FHLMC

 

232.4

 

232.9

 

Total Agency

 

961.2

 

1,312.0

 

Non-agency:

 

 

 

 

 

Residential

 

286.6

 

398.2

 

Commercial

 

454.7

 

435.0

 

Total Non-agency

 

741.3

 

833.2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total mortgage-backed securities

 

1,702.5

 

2,145.2

 

Other asset-backed securities:

 

 

 

 

 

Credit card

 

53.7

 

82.2

 

Auto

 

43.9

 

13.8

 

Other

 

.9

 

 

Total other asset-backed securities

 

98.5

 

96.0

 

Total asset-backed securities (2)

 

$

1,801.0

 

$

2,241.2

 


(1)

Represents publicly traded residential mortgage-backed securities which carry the full faith and credit guaranty of the U.S. government (i.e., GNMA) or are guaranteed by a government sponsored entity (e.g., FNMA, FHLMC).

(2)

Of White Mountains’ total asset-backed securities, approximately 95% and 99% as of March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively, have the highest rating ascribed by Moody’s (“Aaa”) or Standard & Poors (“AAA”).

Securities Lending

White Mountains is currently exploring options for exiting its securities lending programs. White Mountains participated in securities lending programs through both OneBeacon and White Mountains Re as a mechanism for generating additional investment income.  Under the security lending arrangements, certain securities White Mountains owns are loaned to other institutions for short periods of time through a lending agent.  The security lending counterparty is required to provide collateral for the loaned securities, which is then invested by the lending agent.  The collateral is normally required at a rate of 102% of the fair value of the loaned securities. For OneBeacon’s program prior to February 2009 and for White Mountains Re’s program, the collateral is fully controlled by the lending agent and may not be sold or re-pledged.

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Table of Contents

The fair value of the securities lending collateral is recorded as both an asset and a liability, however, other than in the event of a default by the borrower, the collateral is not available to White Mountains and will be remitted to the borrower by the lending agent upon return onof the loaned securities. Because of these restrictions, White Mountains considers White Mountains Re’s securities lending activities and OneBeacon’s security lending activities prior to February 2009 to be non-cash transactions. In the event of a shortfall in the collateral amount required to be returned to the security lending counterparty (e.g., as a result of investment losses), White Mountains is obligated to make up any deficiency.  The value that can be loaned under White Mountains’ securities lending programs cannot exceed approximately $170 million.

In February 2009, OneBeacon amended the terms of its securities lending program to give it more control over the investment of borrowers’ collateral and to segregate the assets supporting that collateral from a collective investment vehicle managed by the lending agent into a separate account. Pursuant to the amendment, (i) the guidelines for the investment of any new cash collateral, as well as the reinvestment of cash, were narrowed to permit investment in only cash equivalent securities, (ii) OneBeacon has the authority to direct the lending agent to both sell specific collateral securities in its separate account and to not sell certain collateral securities which the lending agent proposes to sell, and (iii) OneBeacon and the lending agent agreed to manage the securities lending program toward an orderly wind-down, which OneBeacon believes will be completed over an approximately 1 to 2 year period.

As a result of this change, OneBeacon’s securities lending program is now recorded so that assets in the separate account are included within its investment securities. Accordingly, purchases and sales of invested assets was 0.4%held in the secondseparate account as well as changes in the payable to the borrower for the return of collateral are reflected in the investing and financing sections of the cash flow statement commencing with the quarter ended March 31, 2009. White Mountains has recorded an asset of $151 million (including $45 million within fixed maturities) for the value of the collateral held and a liability of $161 million for the amount that is contractually due to the security lending counterparties upon the return of the loaned securities.

White Mountains has some exposure to troubled financial services companies in the investments purchased with the collateral received under its securities lending program. A portion of the collateral received for securities loaned out under the program was invested in formerly highly rated troubled financial services companies and in highly rated sub-prime mortgage-backed securities. Additionally, there are approximately $3 million of sub-prime mortgage-backed securities at White Mountains Re that are in the securities lending collateral accounts at March 31, 2009. At March 31, 2009, there was a $9 million collateral shortfall ($2 million at OneBeacon and $7 million at White Mountains Re) that relates primarily to these securities.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Operating Cash and Short-term Investments

Holding company level.  The primary sources of cash for the Company and certain of its intermediate holding companies are dividends and tax sharing payments received from its insurance and reinsurance operating subsidiaries, capital raising activities, net investment income and proceeds from sales and maturities of holding company investments. The primary uses of cash are repurchases of the Company’s and OneBeacon Ltd.’s common shares, payments on and repurchases/retirements of its debt obligations, dividend payments to holders of the Company’s common shares, to noncontrolling interest holders of OneBeacon Ltd.’s common shares and to holders of the WMRe Preference Shares, purchases of investments, payments made to tax authorities, contributions to operating subsidiaries and holding company operating expenses.

Operating subsidiary level.  The primary sources of cash for White Mountains’ insurance and reinsurance operating subsidiaries are premium collections, net investment income, capital raising activities and proceeds from sales and maturities of investments. The primary uses of cash are claim payments, policy acquisition costs, purchases of investments, payments on and repurchases/retirements of its debt obligations, dividend and tax sharing payments made to holding companies and operating expenses.

Both internal and external forces influence White Mountains’ financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Claim settlements, premium levels and investment returns may be impacted by changing rates of inflation and other economic conditions. In many cases, significant periods of time, ranging up to several years or more, may lapse between the occurrence of an insured loss, the reporting of the loss to White Mountains and the settlement of the liability for that loss. The exact timing of the payment of claims and benefits cannot be predicted with certainty. White Mountains’ insurance and reinsurance operating subsidiaries maintain portfolios of invested assets with varying maturities and a substantial amount of short-term investments to provide adequate liquidity for the payment of claims.

Management believes that White Mountains’ cash balances, cash flows from operations, routine sales and maturities of investments and the liquidity provided by the WTM Bank Facility are adequate to meet expected cash requirements for the foreseeable future on both a holding company and insurance and reinsurance operating subsidiary level.

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Table of Contents

Dividend Capacity

Under the insurance laws of the states and jurisdictions under which White Mountains’ insurance and reinsurance operating subsidiaries are domiciled, an insurer is restricted with respect to the timing and the amount of dividends it may pay without prior approval by regulatory authorities. Accordingly, there can be no assurance regarding the amount of such dividends that may be paid by such subsidiaries in the future. Following is a description of the dividend capacity of White Mountains’ insurance and reinsurance operating subsidiaries and certain of its intermediate holding companies:

OneBeacon:

Generally, OneBeacon’s regulated insurance operating subsidiaries have the ability to pay dividends during any 12-month period without the prior approval of regulatory authorities in an amount equal to the greater of prior year statutory net income or 10% of prior year end statutory surplus, subject to the availability of unassigned funds. Based upon December 31, 2008 statutory surplus of $1.4 billion, OneBeacon’s top tier regulated insurance operating subsidiaries have the ability to pay approximately $136 million of dividends during 2009 without prior approval of regulatory authorities, subject to the availability of unassigned funds. As of December 31, 2008, OneBeacon’s top tier regulated insurance operating subsidiaries had $0.9 billion of unassigned funds. During the first quarter of 2009, OneBeacon’s regulated insurance operating subsidiaries did not pay any dividends to their immediate parent.

During the first quarter of 2009, OneBeacon’s unregulated operating subsidiaries paid $3 million of dividends to their immediate parent.  At March 31, 2009, OneBeacon’s unregulated operating subsidiaries had approximately $19 million of unrestricted cash.

During the first quarter of 2009, OneBeacon Ltd. paid $20 million of regular quarterly dividends to its common shareholders. White Mountains received a total of $15 million of these dividends.

As of March 31, 2009, OneBeacon Ltd. and its intermediate holding companies had approximately $133 million of net unrestricted cash and fixed maturity investments outside of its regulated and unregulated insurance operating subsidiaries.

White Mountains Re:

WMRe America has the ability to pay dividends during any 12-month period without the prior approval of regulatory authorities in an amount equal to the lesser of net investment income, as defined by statute, or 10% of statutory surplus, in both cases as most recently reported to regulatory authorities, subject to the availability of earned surplus. Based upon December 31, 2008 statutory surplus of $709 million, WMRe America would have the ability to pay approximately $71 million of dividends during 2009 without prior approval of regulatory authorities, subject to the availability of earned surplus. As of March 31, 2009, WMRe America had negative earned surplus. During the first quarter of 2009, WMRe America did not pay any dividends to its immediate parent.

In accordance with the provisions of Swedish law, WMRe Sirius can voluntarily transfer its pre-tax income, or a portion thereof, subject to certain limitations, to its Swedish parent company to minimize taxes (referred to as a group contribution). In 2009, WMRe Sirius intends to transfer approximately $60 million of its 2008 pre-tax income to its Swedish parent company as a group contribution.

WMRe Sirius has the ability to pay dividends subject to the availability of unrestricted statutory surplus. Historically, WMRe Sirius has allocated the majority of its pre-tax income, after group contributions to its Swedish parent company, to the Safety Reserve (see “Safety Reserve” below). As of December 31, 2008, WMRe Sirius had $55 million of unrestricted statutory surplus (based on December 31, 2008 SEK to USD exchange rate), which is available for distribution in 2009. During the first quarter of 2009, WMRe Sirius declared $35 million of dividends to its immediate parent.

During 2009, WMRe Bermuda has the ability to make capital distributions without the prior approval of regulatory authorities, subject to meeting all appropriate liquidity and solvency requirements, of up to $101 million, which is equal to 15% of December 31, 2008 statutory capital excluding statutory surplus.  During the first quarter of 2009, WMRe Bermuda did not pay any dividends to its immediate parent.

During the first quarter of 2009, WMRUS did not pay any dividends to its immediate parent.  At March 31, 2009, WMRUS had $2 million of unrestricted cash.

During the first quarter of 2009, White Mountains Re paid $108 million of dividends to its immediate parent, which included $55 million in cash and $53 million of other assets.

As of March 31, 2009, White Mountains Re and its intermediate holding companies had approximately $45 million of net unrestricted cash and fixed maturity investments outside of WMRe America, WMRe Sirius, WMRe Bermuda and WMRUS.

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Table of Contents

Esurance:

Generally, Esurance’s regulated insurance operating subsidiaries have the ability to pay dividends during any 12-month period without the prior approval of regulatory authorities in an amount equal to the lesser of prior year statutory net income or 10% of prior year end statutory surplus, subject to the availability of unassigned funds. Based on upon 2008 statutory net income, Esurance’s top tier regulated insurance operating subsidiary does not have the ability to pay dividends during 2009 without prior approval of regulatory authorities and subject to the availability of unassigned funds. As of December 31, 2008, Esurance’s top tier regulated insurance operating subsidiary had $33 million of unassigned funds.

In addition, as of March 31, 2009, Esurance had approximately $7 million of net unrestricted cash and fixed maturity investments outside of its regulated insurance operating subsidiaries, including AFI. During the first quarter of 2009, AFI paid a $3 million cash dividend to its immediate parent.

Other Operations:

WM Advisors did not pay any dividends to its immediate parent during the first quarter of 2009.  As of March 31, 2009, WM Advisors had approximately $29 million of unrestricted cash and fixed maturity investments.

As of March 31, 2009, the Company and its intermediate holding companies had approximately $112 million of net unrestricted cash and fixed maturity investments included in its other operations segment.

Safety Reserve

In accordance with provisions of Swedish law, WMRe Sirius is permitted to transfer up to the full amount of its pre-tax income, subject to certain limitations, into an untaxed reserve referred to as a safety reserve, which amounted to $1.1 billion at March 31, 2009. Under GAAP, an amount equal to the safety reserve, net of the related deferred tax liability established at the Swedish tax rate of 26.3%, is classified as shareholders’ equity. Generally, this deferred tax liability is only required to be paid by WMRe Sirius if it fails to maintain predetermined levels of premium writings and loss reserves in future years. As a result of the indefinite deferral of these taxes, Swedish regulatory authorities do not apply any taxes to the safety reserve when calculating solvency capital under Swedish insurance regulations. Accordingly, under local statutory requirements, an amount equal to the deferred tax liability on WMRe Sirius’ safety reserve ($292 million at March 31, 2009) is included in solvency capital. Access to the safety reserve is restricted to coverage of aggregate losses and requires the approval of Swedish regulatory authorities. Similar to the approach taken by Swedish regulatory authorities, major rating agencies include the $1.1 billion balance of the safety reserve, without any provision for deferred taxes, in WMRe Sirius’ capital when assessing WMRe Sirius’ financial strength.

42



Table of Contents

Insurance Float

Insurance float is an important aspect of White Mountains’ insurance operations. Insurance float is money that an insurance company holds for a limited time. In an insurance operation, float arises because premiums are collected before losses are paid. This interval can extend over many years. During that time, the insurer invests the funds. When the premiums that an insurer collects do not cover the losses and expenses it eventually must pay, the result is an underwriting loss, which is considered to be the cost of insurance float. The amount and cost of insurance float for White Mountains is affected by underlying market conditions, as well as acquisitions or dispositions of insurance and reinsurance businesses.

Although insurance float can be calculated using numbers determined under GAAP, insurance float is not a GAAP concept and, therefore, there is no comparable GAAP measure.

One of the means by which White Mountains calculates its insurance float is by taking its net investment assets and subtracting its total adjusted capital. The following table illustrates White Mountains’ consolidated insurance float position as of March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008:

($ in millions)

 

March 31,
2009

 

December 31,
2008

 

Total investments

 

$

8,804.7

 

$

9,002.7

 

Consolidated limited partnership investments(1)

 

(30.3

)

(50.2

)

Cash

 

448.8

 

409.6

 

Investments in unconsolidated affiliates

 

99.7

 

116.9

 

Equity in net unrealized losses from Symetra’s fixed maturity portfolio

 

218.3

 

197.3

 

Securities lending payable — OneBeacon (2)

 

(48.6

)

 

Accounts receivable on unsettled investment sales

 

25.6

 

78.2

 

Accounts payable on unsettled investment purchases

 

(23.5

)

(7.5

)

Interest-bearing funds held by ceding companies (3)

 

118.4

 

123.7

 

Interest-bearing funds held under reinsurance treaties (4)

 

(55.5

)

(54.7

)

Net investment assets

 

$

9,557.6

 

$

9,816.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total White Mountains shareholders’ equity

 

$

2,866.2

 

$

2,898.8

 

Noncontrolling interest—OneBeacon Ltd.

 

287.0

 

283.5

 

Noncontrolling interest—WMRe Preference Shares

 

250.0

 

250.0

 

Debt

 

1,349.2

 

1,362.0

 

Total capital (5)

 

$

4,752.4

 

$

4,794.3

 

Equity in net unrealized losses from Symetra’s fixed maturity portfolio

 

218.3

 

197.3

 

Total adjusted capital

 

$

4,970.7

 

$

4,991.6

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Insurance float

 

$

4,586.9

 

$

4,824.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Insurance float as a multiple of total adjusted capital

 

0.9

x

1.0

x

Net investment assets as a multiple of total adjusted capital

 

1.9

x

2.0

x

 

 

 

 

 

 

Insurance float as a multiple of White Mountains shareholders’ equity

 

1.6

x

1.7

x

Net investment assets as a multiple of White Mountains shareholders’ equity

 

3.3

x

3.4

x


(1)

The noncontrolling portion of investments of consolidated limited partnerships has not been included in insurance float because White Mountains does not have the ability to utilize the net assets supporting this noncontrolling interest.

(2)

As of March 31, 2009, OneBeacon began classifying it securities lending collateral within its total investments.

(3)

Excludes funds held by ceding companies from which White Mountains does not receive interest credits.

(4)

Excludes funds held by White Mountains under reinsurance treaties for which White Mountains does not provide interest credits.

(5)

The noncontrolling interest arising from White Mountains’ investments in consolidated limited partnerships has not been included in total capital because White Mountains does not have the ability to utilize the net assets supporting this noncontrolling interest.

White Mountains has historically obtained its insurance float primarily through acquisitions, as opposed to organic growth. It is White Mountains’ intention to generate low-cost float over time through a combination of acquisitions and/or by organic growth in its existing insurance and reinsurance operations. However, White Mountains will seek to increase its insurance float organically only when market conditions allow for an expectation of generating underwriting profits.

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Table of Contents

Financing

The following table summarizes White Mountains’ capital structure as of March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008:

 

 

March 31,

 

December 31,

 

($ in millions)

 

2009

 

2008

 

OBH Senior Notes, carrying value

 

$

664.5

 

$

675.1

 

WMRe Senior Notes, carrying value

 

399.0

 

399.0

 

WTM Bank Facility

 

200.0

 

200.0

 

Other debt

 

85.7

 

87.9

 

Total debt

 

1,349.2

 

1,362.0

 

Noncontrolling interest—OneBeacon Ltd.

 

287.0

 

283.5

 

Noncontrolling interest—WMRe Preference Shares

 

250.0

 

250.0

 

Total White Mountains shareholders’ equity

 

2,866.2

 

2,898.8

 

Total capital(1)

 

4,752.4

 

4,794.3

 

Equity in net unrealized losses from Symetra’s fixed maturity portfolio

 

218.3

 

197.3

 

Total adjusted capital

 

4,970.7

 

$

4,991.6

 

Total debt to total adjusted capital

 

27

%

27

%

Total debt and Preference Shares to total adjusted capital

 

32

%

32

%


(1)

The noncontrolling interest arising from White Mountains’ investments in consolidated limited partnerships has not been included in total capital because White Mountains does not have the ability to utilize the assets supporting this noncontrolling interest.

Management believes that White Mountains generally has the flexibility and capacity to obtain funds externally as needed through debt or equity financing on both a short-term and long-term basis. However, given the recent disruptions in the capital markets, White Mountains can provide no assurance that, if needed, it would be able to obtain additional debt or equity financing on satisfactory terms, if at all.

During the first quarter of 2009, OneBeacon repurchased $11 million face value of its outstanding OBH Senior Notes for $8 million, which resulted in a $3 million gain on extinguishment of debt.

Refer to the Company’s 2008 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a fuller discussion regarding White Mountains’ debt obligations as of December 31, 2008.

The WTM Bank Facility contains various affirmative, negative and financial covenants which White Mountains considers to be customary for such borrowings and include maintaining certain minimum net worth and maximum debt to capitalization standards. Failure to meet one or more of these covenants could result in an event of default, which ultimately could eliminate availability under these facilities and result in acceleration of principal repayment on any amounts outstanding. At March 31, 2009, White Mountains was in compliance with all of the covenants under the WTM Bank Facility, and anticipates it will continue to remain in compliance with these covenants for the foreseeable future.

The OBH Senior Notes and the WMRe Senior Notes were issued under indentures which contain restrictive covenants that, among other things, limit the ability of the Company, OBH, WMRe Group and their respective subsidiaries to create liens and enter into sale and leaseback transactions and limits the ability of the Company, OBH, WMRe Group and their respective subsidiaries to consolidate, merge or transfer their properties and assets. The indentures do not contain any financial ratios or specified levels of net worth or liquidity to which the Company, OBH or WMRe Group must adhere. At March 31, 2009, White Mountains was in compliance with all of the covenants under the OBH Senior Notes and the WMRe Senior Notes, and anticipates it will continue to remain in compliance with these covenants for the foreseeable future.

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Table of Contents

Cash Flows

Detailed information concerning White Mountains’ cash flows during the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008 follows:

For the three months ended March 31, 2009

Financing and Other Capital Activities

During the first quarter of 2009, the Company declared and paid a $9 million cash dividend to its common shareholders.

During the first quarter of 2009, OneBeacon Ltd. declared and paid a $20 million cash dividend to its common shareholders. White Mountains received a total of $15 million of these dividends.

During the first quarter of 2009, OneBeacon repurchased $11 million face value of its outstanding OBH Senior Notes for $8 million.

During the first quarter of 2009, White Mountains Re paid $55 million of cash dividends to its immediate parent, which included $30 million received from Galileo.

During the first quarter of 2009, AFI paid $3 million of dividends to its immediate parent.

During the first quarter of 2009, White Mountains contributed $83 million in cash to WM Life Re and $24 million in cash to Esurance.

Other Liquidity and Capital Resource Activities

During the first quarter of 2009, White Mountains made payments totaling $43 million, in cash or by deferral into certain non-qualified compensation plans, to participants in the long-term incentive compensation plans of the Company and its subsidiaries.

For the three months ended March 31, 2008

Financing and Other Capital Activities

During the first quarter of 2008, compared to 1.6% inthe Company drew the full $475 million available on WTM Bank Facility. The Company repaid $175 million and $100 million of this amount during the second and third quarters of 2008, respectively.

During the first quarter of 2007. Despite2008, the Company declared and paid a significant decline incash dividend of $21 million to its common shareholders.

During the bond marketfirst quarter of 2008, OneBeacon Ltd. declared and further erosion inpaid cash dividends of $215 million to its common shareholders, including a $195 million special dividend and a $20 million regular quarterly dividend. White Mountains received a total of $161 million of these dividends.

During the equity markets infirst quarter of 2008, OneBeacon repurchased and retired 2.5 million of its Class A common shares for $53 million through its share repurchase program.

During the secondfirst quarter of 2008, White Mountains reported positive returns as the 3.2% return on equities more than offset the (0.2)% return on fixed maturities. ForRe paid $25 million of dividends to its immediate parent.

During the first six monthsquarter of 2009, White Mountains contributed $21 million in cash to Esurance.

Acquisitions and Dispositions

During the first quarter of 2008, White Mountains’ total return on invested assets was 0.9% compared to 3.5%Mountains Re acquired Helicon Re Holdings, Ltd. for approximately $150 million.

During the first six monthsquarter of 2007. The fixed maturity portfolio produced a return2008, White Mountains acquired 42% of 1.6%the outstanding debt and the equity portfolio returned (1.1) % as both portfolios outperformed their benchmarks in the first six months of 2008.AFI for $30 million.

 

Fair Value ConsiderationsOther Liquidity and Capital Resource Activities

During the first quarter of 2008, White Mountains made payments totaling $66 million, in cash or by deferral into certain non-qualified compensation plans, to participants in the long-term incentive compensation plans of the Company and its subsidiaries.

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Table of Contents

FAIR VALUE CONSIDERATIONS

 

On January 1, 2008, the CompanyWhite Mountains adopted FAS 157, Fair Value Measurements. FAS 157 provides a revised definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands financial statement disclosure requirements for fair value information. Under FAS 157, fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants (an exit price). The Statement establishes a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between inputs based on market data from independent sources (“observable inputs”) and a reporting entity’s internal assumptions based upon the best information available when external market data is limited or unavailable (“unobservable inputs”). The fair value hierarchy in FAS 157 prioritizes fair value measurements into three levels based on the nature of the inputs. Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets have the highest priority (“Level 1”), followed by observable inputs other than quoted prices including prices for similar but not identical assets or liabilities (“Level 2”), and unobservable inputs, including the reporting entity’s estimates of the assumptions that market participants would use, having the lowest priority (“Level 3”).

 

White Mountains uses observable inputs for the majority of its investment portfolio. As of June 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, approximately 92%93% of the investment portfolio recorded at fair value was priced based upon quoted market prices or other observable inputs. White Mountains uses brokers and outside pricing services to assist in determining fair values. For investments in active markets, White Mountains uses the quoted market prices provided by the outside pricing service to determine fair value. The outside pricing services used by White Mountains have indicated that they will only provide prices where observable inputs are available. In circumstances where quoted prices are unavailable, White Mountains utilizes fair value estimates based upon other observable inputs including matrix pricing, benchmark interest rates, market comparable and other relevant inputs.

White Mountains’ process to validate the market prices obtained from the outside pricing sources includes, but is not limited to, periodic evaluation of model pricing methodologies and monthly analytical reviews of certain prices. White Mountains also periodically performs back-testing of selected sales activity to determine whether there are any significant differences between the market price used to value the security prior to sale and the actual sale price.

 

Other long-term investments, which comprises investments in limited partnerships, hedge fundfunds and private equity interests for which the FAS 159 fair value option has been elected, are carried at fair value based upon White Mountains’ proportionate interest in the underlying partnership’s or fund’s net asset value, which approximates fair value. These investments are not publicly traded and, accordingly, quoted market prices are not available. In circumstances where the partnership net asset value is deemed to differ from fair value due to illiquidity or other factors, net asset value is adjusted accordingly.

 

Fair value estimates based upon quoted prices or other observable inputs obtained are validated by comparison to prices from an alternative pricing source on a test basis.

Fair values for securities for which quoted prices are unavailable are estimated based upon reference to observable inputs other than quoted prices, such as benchmark interest rates, market comparable securities, broker quotes and other relevant inputs. Level 3 measurements for fixed maturities relate primarily to securities recently acquired at the date of measurement and for which observable inputs were unavailable at that date. Fair value estimates based on conventional market methodologies (e.g., present value of future cash flows) are generally priced in the subsequent period through quoted prices or other observable inputs.

 

Where appropriate, assets and liabilities measured at fair value have been adjusted for the effect of counterparty credit risk.

White Mountains’ investment in Symetra warrants areis measured at fair value. Because the warrants are not publicly traded, the fair value measurement is based on unobservable inputs and accordingly is classified as a Level 3 measurement.

 

The following table summarizes White Mountains’ total fair value measurements and the fair value measurements based on Level 3 inputs for investments at June 30, 2008:March 31, 2009:

 

 

June 30, 2008

 

 

March 31, 2009

 

Million

 

Total fair value

 

Level 3 Inputs

 

Level 3 Inputs as a
% of total fair value

 

 

Total fair value

 

Level 3 Inputs

 

Level 3 Inputs as a
% of total fair value

 

Fixed maturities

 

$

6,846.4

 

$

153.2

 

2.2

%

 

$

5,675.2

 

$

170.6

 

3.0

%

Common equity securities

 

1,620.6

 

132.4

 

8.2

%

 

318.8

 

109.3

 

34.3

%

Convertible fixed maturity investments

 

414.6

 

 

 

 

265.0

 

.7

 

.3

%

Short-term investments

 

1,988.0

 

 

 

 

2,150.6

 

 

 

Other investments(1)

 

653.2

 

653.2

 

100.0

%

Other long-term investments(1)

 

381.4

 

381.4

 

100.0

%

Total investments

 

$

11,522.8

 

$

938.8

 

8.1

%

 

$

8,791.0

 

$

662.0

 

7.5

%

 


(1)   The fair value of investment partnerships excludes carrying value of $13.3

(1)

The fair value of investment partnerships excludes carrying value of $13.7 associated with other investment limited partnerships accounted for using the equity method.

 

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The following table summarizes the changes in White Mountains’ Level 3 fair value measurements for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008:March 31, 2009:

 

Millions

 

Fixed
Maturities

 

Common
equity
securities

 

Convertible
fixed
maturities

 

Other
investments

 

Total

 

 

Fixed
Maturities

 

Common
equity
securities

 

Convertible
fixed
maturities

 

Other
investments

 

Total

 

Balance at January 1, 2008

 

$

297.9

 

$

308.6

 

$

23.2

 

$

596.4

 

$

1,226.1

 

Balance at January 1, 2009

 

$

156.4

 

$

113.3

 

$

 

$

402.4

 

$

672.1

 

Total realized and unrealized losses

 

(3.9

)

(2.1

)

 

(16.0

)

(22.0

)

 

(3.6

)

(3.6

)

 

(44.3

)

(51.5

)

Purchases

 

16.0

 

8.5

 

2.8

 

35.7

 

63.0

 

 

16.4

 

 

.7

 

45.5

 

62.6

 

Sales

 

(88.4

)

(23.3

)

(23.2

)

(35.0

)

(169.9

)

 

(17.1

)

(.4

)

 

(22.2

)

(39.7

)

Transfers in

 

 

 

 

52.4

 

52.4

 

 

57.9

 

 

 

 

57.9

 

Transfers out

 

(34.9

)

(158.3

)

 

 

(193.2

)

 

(39.4

)

 

 

 

(39.4

)

Balance at March 31, 2008

 

$

186.7

 

$

133.4

 

$

2.8

 

$

633.5

 

$

956.4

 

Total realized and unrealized (losses) gains

 

(18.0

)

(1.3

)

 

17.1

 

(2.2

)

Purchases

 

62.9

 

1.2

 

 

4.6

 

68.7

 

Sales

 

(2.6

)

(.8

)

 

(2.0

)

(5.4

)

Transfers in

 

5.2

 

 

 

 

5.2

 

Transfers out

 

(81.0

)

(.1

)

(2.8

)

 

(83.9

)

Balance at June 30, 2008

 

$

153.2

 

$

132.4

 

$

 

$

653.2

 

$

938.8

 

Balance at March 31, 2009

 

$

170.6

 

$

109.3

 

$

.7

 

$

381.4

 

$

662.0

 

 

Transfers into Level 3 measurements for fixed maturities relate primarily to securities recently acquired as of the quarter end and for which observable inputs were unavailable. Such securities were manually priced using a combination of market inputs such as benchmark interest rates, market comparables and/or broker quotes. Transfers into Level 3 measurements for common equity securities related to securities for which pricing information did not represent current market inputs at the quarter end. This was deemed to render the fair value measurements as based upon unobservable inputs and were accordingly classified within Level 3. When observable pricing inputs subsequently became available, the fair value measurements for these fixed maturity and common equity securities were reclassified to Levels 1 and/or 2 and are reflected in transfers out of Level 3 measurements for the quarter ended June 30, 2008. Transfers into Level 3 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2008 for otherfixed maturity investments relate to securities that were manually priced in the Company’s investmentprior period but have been priced using observable inputs in Pentelia which was previously accounted for under the equity method (see Note 12). When the Company’s investment fell below the threshold for equity method accounting, the Company began accounting for the investment as a FAS 115 security, classified as trading.current period.

 

The following table summarizes the amount of total gains (losses) included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains (losses) for Level 3 assets still held at June 30,for three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008:

 

 

Three Months
Ended June 30,

 

Six Months
Ended June 30,

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

Millions

 

2008

 

2008

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Fixed maturities

 

$

(17.3

)

$

(21.2

)

 

$

 9.9

 

$

(3.9

)

Common equity securities

 

(1.3

)

(4.1

)

 

(2.7

)

(2.8

)

Convertible fixed maturities

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other investments

 

15.8

 

(2.0

)

Other long-term investments

 

(13.7

)

(17.8

)

Total change in unrealized losses - Level 3 assets

 

$

(2.8

)

$

(27.3

)

 

$

(6.5

)

$

(24.5

)

 

All of the Company’sWhite Mountains’ variable annuity reinsurance liabilities ($47.7432.3 million) were classified as Level 3 measurements at June 30, 2008.March 31, 2009. The following table summarizes the changes in the Company’sWhite Mountains’ variable annuity reinsurance guarantee liabilities and derivative instruments for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008:March 31, 2009:

Millions

 

(Guarantee
Liabilities)
Level 3

 

Derivative
Instruments
Level 3 (1)

 

Derivative
Instruments
Level 2 (2)

 

Derivative
Instruments
Level 1 (3)

 

Net Derivative
 Assets
(Guarantee
Liabilities)

 

Balance at January 1, 2009

 

$

(467.1

)

$

198.3

 

$

5.0

 

$

(24.9

)

$

(288.7

)

Purchases

 

 

8.8

 

 

 

8.8

 

Realized and unrealized gains (losses)

 

34.8

 

(15.7

)

(6.4

)

(31.0

)

(18.3

)

Transfers in (out)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales/settlements

 

 

 

 

11.6

 

11.6

 

Balance at March 31, 2009

 

$

(432.3

)

$

191.4

 

$

(1.4

)

$

(44.3

)

$

(286.6

)


(1)          Comprises OTC instruments.

(2)          Comprises interest rate swaps. Fair value measurement based upon bid/ask pricing quotes for similar instruments that are actively traded.

(3)          Comprises exchange traded equity index, foreign currency and interest rate futures. Fair value measurements based upon quoted prices for identical instruments that are actively traded.

 

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Millions

 

(Liabilities)
Level 3

 

Derivative
Instruments
Level 3

 

Derivative
Instruments
Level 1

 

Net Assets
(Liabilities)

 

Balance at January 1, 2008

 

$

(12.7

)

$

38.9

 

$

4.8

 

$

31.0

 

Cumulative effect adjustment - FAS 157

 

(.3

)

 

 

(.3

)

Purchases

 

 

10.9

 

 

10.9

 

Realized and unrealized gains (losses)

 

(83.0

)

23.1

 

32.6

 

(27.3

)

Transfers in (out)

 

 

 

 

 

Sales/settlements

 

 

 

(30.0

)

(30.0

)

Balance at March 31, 2008

 

$

(96.0

)

$

72.9

 

$

7.4

 

$

(15.7

)

Purchases

 

 

1.8

 

 

1.8

 

Realized and unrealized gains (losses)

 

48.3

 

(13.9

)

(26.8

)

7.6

 

Transfers in (out)

 

 

 

 

 

Sales/settlements

 

 

 

31.0

 

31.0

 

Balance at June 30, 2008

 

$

(47.7

)

$

60.8

 

$

11.6

 

$

24.7

 

The liability recorded for the variable annuity benefit guarantees includes certain inputs that management does not believe reflect the likely cost of amounts to be paid over the term of the contracts. Specifically, equity and currency exchange rate volatilities based upon current market expectations (“implied volatilities”) are significant inputs to the liability calculation. Over time, however, actual volatilities (“realized volatilities”) measured at the end of a term tend to be lower than those implied by the markets at the beginning of the corresponding term. From inception of reinsurance of the contracts, implied volatilities have increased significantly; the Company expects that the increase to the liability arising from current elevated implied volatilities will decrease over the expected remaining term of the contracts.

All of the Company’sWhite Mountains’ weather risk management contracts ($14.310.5 million) were classified as Level 3 measurements at June 30, 2008.March 31, 2009. The following table summarizes the changes in the Company’sWhite Mountains’ weather risk management contract Level 3 measurements for the sixthree months ended June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 and 2007:2008:

 

 

 

Six Months Ended June 30,

 

Millions

 

2008

 

2007

 

Net liability for weather derivative contracts as of January 1 (1)

 

$

17.9

 

$

12.1

 

Net consideration received during the period for new contracts

 

10.5

 

.4

 

Net payments made on contracts settled during the period

 

(7.4

)

(11.0

)

Net (decrease) increase in fair value on settled and unsettled contracts

 

(6.7

)

(.1

)

Net liability for weather derivative contracts as of June 30 (2)

 

$

14.3

 

$

1.4

 

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

Millions

 

2009

 

2008

 

Net liability for weather derivative contracts as of January 1 (1)

 

$

13.1

 

$

17.9

 

Net consideration (paid) received during the period for new contracts

 

(.2

)

8.4

 

Net receipts (payments) on contracts settled during the period

 

.3

 

(7.8

)

Net decrease in fair value on settled and unsettled contracts

 

(2.7

)

(4.0

)

Net liability for weather derivative contracts as of March 31 (2)

 

$

10.5

 

$

14.5

 

 


(1)          Includes unamortized deferred gains of $2.9$5.1 and $4.7$2.9 as of January 1, 20082009 and 2007.2008.

(2)          Includes unamortized deferred gains of $4.9$4.0 and $0.2$4.6 as of June 30, 2008March 31, 2009 and 2007.2008.

 

Mortgage-backed, Asset-backed Securities

White Mountains purchases commercial and residential mortgage-backed securities to maximize its fixed income portfolio’s risk adjusted returns and diversify the portfolio risk from primarily corporate credit risk to a mix of credit and cash flow risk. White Mountains is not an originator of residential mortgage loans and does not hold any residential mortgage-backed securities categorized as sub-prime as of June 30, 2008. In addition, White Mountains’ investments in hedge funds, limited partnerships and private equities contain negligible amounts of sub-prime mortgage-backed securities at June 30, 2008. White Mountains is not directly exposed to potential losses on sub-prime mortgage-backed securities, other than approximately $7 million of sub-prime mortgage-backed securities that are in the collateral account under its securities lending program at June 30, 2008. White Mountains considers sub-prime mortgage-backed securities to be those that are issued from dedicated sub-prime shelves, dedicated second-lien shelves (i.e., White Mountains considers investments backed primarily by second-liens to be a sub-prime risk regardless of credit score or other metrics) or otherwise have underlying loan pools that exhibit weak credit characteristics.

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There are also mortgage-backed securities that White Mountains categorizes as “non-prime” (also called “Alt A” or “A-”) that are backed by collateral that has overall credit quality between prime and sub-prime, based on a review of the characteristics of their underlying mortgage loan pools, such as credit scores and financial ratios. As of June 30, 2008, $47 million of White Mountains’ mortgage-backed securities holdings were classified as non-prime. All of these non-prime securities have the highest rating ascribed by Standard & Poors (“AAA”). White Mountains does not own any collateralized debt obligations, including residential mortgage-backed collateralized debt obligations.

The following table summarizes White Mountains’ asset-backed securities holdings as of June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007:

 

 

June 30,

 

December 31,

 

Millions

 

2008

 

2007

 

Mortgage-backed securities:

 

 

 

 

 

Agency (1)

 

 

 

 

 

GNMA

 

$

978.5

 

$

568.8

 

FNMA

 

263.5

 

156.7

 

FHLMC

 

296.5

 

293.7

 

Non-agency:

 

 

 

 

 

Residential

 

626.7

 

1,121.7

 

Commercial

 

441.0

 

317.2

 

Total mortgage-backed securities

 

2,606.2

 

2,458.1

 

Other asset-backed securities:

 

 

 

 

 

Credit card

 

224.7

 

428.9

 

Auto

 

15.5

 

8.4

 

Other

 

.6

 

3.2

 

Total other asset-backed securities

 

240.8

 

440.5

 

Total asset-backed securities (2)

 

$

2,847.0

 

$

2,898.6

 


(1)          Represents publicly traded residential mortgage-backed securities which carry the full faith and credit guaranty of the U.S. government (i.e., GNMA) or are guaranteed by a government sponsored entity (e.g., FNMA, FHLMC).

(2)          Of White Mountains’ total asset-backed securities, approximately 98% and 95% as of June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively, have the highest rating ascribed by Moody’s (“Aaa”) or Standard & Poors (“AAA”). The remainder are investment grade.

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Table of Contents

 

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

 

This report includes four non-GAAP financial measures that have been reconciled to their most comparable GAAP financial measures. White Mountains believes these measures to be more relevant than comparable GAAP measures in evaluating White Mountains’ results of operations and financial condition.

 

Adjusted comprehensive net income is a non-GAAP financial measure that excludes the change in net unrealized gains and losses from Symetra’s fixed maturity portfolio from comprehensive net income. In the calculation of comprehensive net income under GAAP, fixed maturity investments are marked-to-market while the liabilities to which those assets are matched are not. Symetra attempts to earn a “spread” between what it earns on its investments and what it pays out on its products. In order to try to fix this spread, Symetra invests in a manner that tries to match the duration and cash flows of its investments with the required cash outflows associated with its life insurance and structured settlements products. As a result, Symetra typically earns the same spread on in-force business whether interest rates fall or rise. Further, at any given time, some of Symetra’s structured settlement obligations may extend 40 or 50 years into the future, which is further out than the longest maturing fixed maturity investments regularly available for purchase in the market (typically 30 years). For these long-dated products, Symetra is unable to fully match the obligation with assets until the remaining expected payout schedule comes within the duration of securities available in the market. If at that time, these fixed maturity investments have yields that are lower than the yields expected when the structured settlement product was originally priced, the spread for the product will shrink and Symetra will ultimately harvest lower returns for its shareholders. GAAP comprehensive net income increases when rates decline, which would suggest an increase in the value of Symetra - the opposite of what is happening to the intrinsic value of the business. Therefore, White Mountains’ management and Board of Directors use adjusted comprehensive net income when assessing Symetra’s quarterly financial performance. In addition, this measure is typically the predominant component of change in adjusted book value per share, which is used in calculation of White Mountains’ performance for both short-term (annual bonus) and long-term incentive plans. The reconciliation of adjusted comprehensive net income to comprehensive net income is included on page 36.31.

 

Adjusted book value per share is a non-GAAP measure which is derived by expanding the GAAP calculation of book value per White Mountains common share calculation to exclude net unrealized gains/(losses) from Symetra’s fixed maturity portfolio. In addition, the number of common shares outstanding used in the calculation of adjusted book value per share are adjusted to exclude unearned shares of restricted stock, representativethe compensation cost of the proportion of unamortized compensation costwhich, at the date of the calculation, has yet to the value of the restricted stock on the date of issuance.be amortized. The reconciliation of adjusted book value per share to book value per share is included on page 35.30.

 

During the second quarter of 2008, White Mountains changed its principal financial reporting measure from “fully diluted tangible book value per share” to “adjusted book value per share”. Fully diluted tangible book value per share is a non-GAAP measure that differs from adjusted book value per share by excluding goodwill and other intangible assets. The change from fully diluted tangible book value per share to adjusted book value per share has been presented retroactively for all periods. As a result of the change, goodwill and other intangible assets are included in the calculation for all periods presented. For periods ended March 31, 2008 and prior, the CompanyWhite Mountains had not recorded any significant intangible assets other than goodwillgoodwill. The goodwill, which primarily relates to the FIN 46 consolidation of the Company’sWhite Mountains’ investment in the Tuckerman Funds, was $34$19.6 million, $34 million, $30$19.5 million and $28$34.0 million as of June 30,March 31, 2009, December 31, 2008 and March 31, 2008, December 31, 2007 and June 30, 2007, respectively. The inclusion of goodwill in adjusted book value per share did not have a significant effect on the calculation of growth per share for any periods presented.

 

Total capital at White Mountains is comprised of commonWhite Mountains shareholders’ equity, debt and minoritynoncontrolling interest in OneBeacon Ltd and the WMRe Preference Shares. Total adjusted capital excludes the equity in net unrealized gains from Symetra’s fixed maturity portfolio from total capital. The reconciliation of total capital to total adjusted capital is included on page 55.43.

 

Adjusted book value per common share at OneBeacon is a non-GAAP financial measure which is derived by excluding the impact of economically defeasing OneBeacon’s mandatorily redeemable preferred stock from book value per common share, the most closely comparable GAAP measure. Management believes that adjusted book value per common share is a useful supplement to understanding the OneBeacon’s earnings and profitability. A reconciliation of OneBeacon’s book value per common share to OneBeacon’s adjusted book value per common share is included on page 38.33.

 

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LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Berkshire Exchange

During the first quarter of 2008, White Mountains entered into an exchange agreement with Berkshire to transfer certain run-off businesses and a substantial amount of cash to Berkshire in exchange for substantially all of the common shares of White Mountains owned by Berkshire (the “Berkshire Exchange”).

Under the terms of the agreement, Berkshire would exchange all or substantially all of its 16.3% stake in White Mountains (1,724,200 common shares) for 100% of a White Mountains subsidiary, which will hold CCIC, International American Group and $751 million in cash, subject to adjustment.

In anticipation of the Berkshire Exchange, White Mountains drew the $475 million available on the WTM Bank Facility to provide the necessary funds at the holding company level required for the transaction. The Company plans to repay the borrowings over time as it extracts funds from its operations. In April 2008, the Company repaid $175 million of the borrowings. Outstanding borrowings under the WTM Bank Facility as of June 30, 2008 of $300 million have an effective interest rate of 3.2%.

Berkshire Preferred Stock Redemption

On May 31, 2008, OneBeacon repaid the Berkshire Preferred Stock for $300 million, its redemption value, using proceeds from the sale of assets that had been held in trust in connection with the OneBeacon Offering.

Operating cash and short-term investments

Holding company level. The primary sources of cash for the Company and certain of its intermediate holding companies are dividends and tax sharing payments received from its insurance and reinsurance operating subsidiaries, capital raising activities, net investment income and proceeds from sales and maturities of holding company investments. The primary uses of cash are repurchases of the Company’s and OneBeacon Ltd.’s common shares, payments on and repurchases/retirements of its debt obligations, dividend payments on the Company’s common shares, to minority interest holders of OneBeacon Ltd.’s common shares and to holders of the WMRe Preference Shares, purchases of investments, payments made to tax authorities and holding company operating expenses.

Operating subsidiary level. The primary sources of cash for White Mountains’ insurance and reinsurance operating subsidiaries are premium collections, net investment income, capital raising activities and proceeds from sales and maturities of investments. The primary uses of cash are claim payments, policy acquisition costs, operating expenses, purchases of investments, payments on and repurchases/retirements of their debt obligations and dividend and tax sharing payments made to holding companies.

Both internal and external forces influence White Mountains’ financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Claim settlements, premium levels and investment returns may be impacted by changing rates of inflation and other economic conditions. In many cases, significant periods of time, ranging up to several years or more, may lapse between the occurrence of an insured loss, the reporting of the loss to White Mountains and the settlement of the liability for that loss. The exact timing of the payment of claims and benefits cannot be predicted with certainty. White Mountains’ insurance and reinsurance operating subsidiaries maintain portfolios of invested assets with varying maturities and a substantial amount of short-term investments to provide adequate liquidity for the payment of claims.

Management believes that White Mountains’ cash balances, cash flows from operations, routine sales of investments and the liquidity provided by the WTM Bank Facility and the OBH Bank Facility are adequate to meet expected cash requirements for the foreseeable future on both a holding company and insurance and reinsurance operating subsidiary level.

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Table of Contents

Dividend Capacity

Under the insurance laws of the states and jurisdictions under which White Mountains’ insurance and reinsurance operating subsidiaries are domiciled, an insurer is restricted with respect to the timing or the amount of dividends it may pay without prior approval by regulatory authorities. Accordingly, there can be no assurance regarding the amount of such dividends that may be paid by such subsidiaries in the future. Following is a description of the dividend activities of White Mountains’ insurance and reinsurance operating subsidiaries and certain of its intermediate holding companies:

OneBeacon:

Generally, OneBeacon’s regulated insurance operating subsidiaries have the ability to pay dividends during any 12-month period without prior approval of regulatory authorities in an amount equal to the greater of prior year statutory net income or 10% of prior year end statutory surplus, subject to the availability of unassigned funds. As a result, based on 2007 statutory net income, OneBeacon’s top tier regulated insurance operating subsidiaries have the ability to pay approximately $346 million of dividends during 2008 without prior approval of regulatory authorities, subject to the availability of unassigned funds. As of December 31, 2007, OneBeacon’s top-tier insurance operating subsidiaries had $1.5 billion of unassigned funds. During the first six months of 2008, OneBeacon’s top-tier regulated insurance operating subsidiaries paid $72 million in dividends to their immediate parent.

During the first six months of 2008, OneBeacon Ltd. paid a $195 million special dividend in addition to its regular quarterly dividends to its common shareholders that totaled $40 million. An intermediate holding company of White Mountains received a total of $176 million of these dividends.

As of June 30, 2008, OneBeacon had approximately $157 million of net unrestricted cash and fixed maturity investments outside of its regulated insurance operating subsidiaries.

White Mountains Re:

WMRe America has the ability to pay dividends during any 12-month period without the prior approval of regulatory authorities in an amount equal to the lesser of net investment income, as defined by statute, or 10% of statutory surplus, in both cases as most recently reported to regulatory authorities, subject to the availability of earned surplus. As a result, based upon December 31, 2007 statutory surplus of $927 million, WMRe America had the ability to pay approximately $93 million of dividends during 2008 without prior approval of regulatory authorities, subject to the availability of earned surplus. As of June 30, 2008, WMRe America had negative earned surplus. During the first six months of 2008, WMRe America paid dividends of $60 million to its immediate parent.

WMRe Sirius has the ability to pay dividends subject to the availability of unrestricted statutory surplus. Historically, WMRe Sirius has allocated the majority of its earnings to the Safety Reserve (see “Safety Reserve” below). As of December 31, 2007, WMRe Sirius had $52 million of unrestricted statutory surplus, which is available for distribution in 2008. Based on its 2007 results, WMRe Sirius would have the ability to declare and pay additional dividends (on top of the $52 million noted above) of up to $60 million in 2008 without regulatory approval, if it elected not to allocate its related pre-tax earnings to the Safety Reserve. During the second quarter of 2008, WMRe Sirius elected to allocate these earnings to the Safety Reserve. During the first six months of 2008, WMRe Sirius paid $25 million in dividends to its immediate parent.

In accordance with the provisions of Swedish law, WMRe Sirius can voluntarily transfer its pre-tax income, or a portion thereof, subject to certain limitations, to its parent company to minimize taxes (referred to as a group contribution). In early 2008, WMRe Sirius transferred approximately $33 million of its 2007 pre-tax income to its Swedish parent company as a group contribution.

WMRe Bermuda has the ability to declare and pay dividends of up to $103 million in 2008 without regulatory approval, subject to meeting all appropriate liquidity and solvency requirements. During the first six months of 2008, WMRe Bermuda paid $28 million of dividends to its immediate parent.

WMRUS has the ability to distribute its 2008 earnings without restriction. At June 30, 2008, WMRUS had $4 million of unrestricted cash. WMRUS did not pay any dividends during the first six months of 2008.

During the first six months of 2008, White Mountains Re paid $50 million of dividends to its immediate parent.

As of June 30, 2008, White Mountains Re and its intermediate holding companies had $110 million of net unrestricted cash and fixed maturity investments outside of WMRe America, WMRe Sirius, WMRe Bermuda, Scan Re, CCIC and WMRUS.

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Esurance:

Esurance Insurance Company has the ability to pay dividends during any 12-month period without the prior approval of regulatory authorities in an amount equal to the lesser of prior year statutory net income or 10% of prior year end statutory surplus, subject to the availability of unassigned funds. As a result, based on December 31, 2007 statutory net income, Esurance Insurance Company has the ability to pay $3 million of dividends during 2008 without prior approval of regulatory authorities, subject to the availability of unassigned funds. As of June 30, 2008, Esurance Insurance Company had $33 million of unassigned funds. Esurance Insurance Company did not pay any dividends during the first six months of 2008.

As of June 30, 2008, Esurance had $0.2 million of net unrestricted cash and fixed maturity investments outside of its regulated insurance operating subsidiaries.

Other operations:

As of June 30, 2008, White Mountains had approximately $1.0 billion of net unrestricted cash, fixed maturity and equity investments at the Company and its intermediate holding companies included in its other operations segment.

Safety Reserve

In accordance with provisions of Swedish law, WMRe Sirius is permitted to transfer up to the full amount of its pre-tax income, subject to certain limitations, into an untaxed reserve referred to as a safety reserve, which amounted to $1.5 billion at June 30, 2008. Under GAAP, an amount equal to the safety reserve, net of the related deferred tax liability established at the Swedish tax rate of 28%, is classified as shareholder’s equity. Generally, this deferred tax liability is only required to be paid by WMRe Sirius if it fails to maintain predetermined levels of premium writings and loss reserves in future years. As a result of the indefinite deferral of these taxes, Swedish regulatory authorities do not apply any taxes to the safety reserve when calculating solvency capital under Swedish insurance regulations. Accordingly, under local statutory requirements, an amount equal to the deferred tax liability on WMRe Sirius’s safety reserve ($428 million at June 30, 2008) is included in solvency capital. Access to the safety reserve is restricted to coverage of aggregate losses and requires the approval of Swedish regulatory authorities.

Insurance Float

Insurance float is an important aspect of White Mountains’ insurance operations. Insurance float is money that an insurance company holds for a limited time. In an insurance operation, float arises because premiums are collected before losses are paid. This interval can extend over many years. During that time, the insurer invests the funds. When the premiums that an insurer collects do not cover the losses and expenses it eventually must pay, the result is an underwriting loss, which is considered to be the cost of insurance float. The amount and cost of insurance float for White Mountains is affected by underlying market conditions, as well as acquisitions or dispositions of insurance and reinsurance businesses.

Although insurance float can be calculated using numbers determined under GAAP, insurance float is not a GAAP concept and, therefore, there is no comparable GAAP measure.

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One of the means by which White Mountains calculates its insurance float is by taking its net investment assets and subtracting its total adjusted capital. The following table illustrates White Mountains’ consolidated insurance float position as of June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007:

($ in millions)

 

June 30,
2008

 

December 31,
2007

 

Total investments

 

$

11,536.1

 

$

11,649.0

 

Consolidated limited partnership investments (1)

 

(122.1

)

(123.0

)

Investments held in trust

 

 

(305.6

)

Cash

 

198.3

 

171.3

 

Investment in unconsolidated affiliates

 

289.0

 

406.3

 

Equity in net unrealized losses from Symetra’s fixed maturity portfolio

 

65.3

 

5.6

 

Accounts receivable on unsettled investment sales

 

36.5

 

201.1

 

Accounts payable on unsettled investment purchases

 

(72.8

)

(46.4

)

Interest-bearing funds held by ceding companies (2)

 

178.0

 

192.8

 

Interest-bearing funds held under reinsurance treaties (3)

 

(53.1

)

(73.4

)

Net investment assets

 

$

12,055.2

 

$

12,077.7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total common shareholders’ equity

 

$

4,597.3

 

$

4,713.4

 

Minority interest - OneBeacon Ltd.

 

400.0

 

517.2

 

Minority interest - WMRe Group Preference Shares

 

250.0

 

250.0

 

Debt

 

1,520.6

 

1,192.9

 

Total capital (4)(5)

 

$

6,767.9

 

$

6,673.5

 

Equity in net unrealized losses from Symetra’s fixed maturity portfolio

 

65.3

 

5.6

 

Total adjusted capital

 

$

6,833.2

 

$

6,679.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Insurance float

 

$

5,222.0

 

$

5,398.6

 

Insurance float as a multiple of total adjusted capital

 

0.8x

 

0.8x

 

Net investment assets as a multiple of total adjusted capital

 

1 .8x

 

1 .8x

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Insurance float as a multiple of common shareholders’ equity

 

1.1x

 

1.1x

 

Net investment assets as a multiple of common shareholders’ equity

 

2.6x

 

2.6x

 


(1)   The minority interest portion of investments of consolidated limited partnership have not been included in insurance float because White Mountains does not have the ability to utilize the net assets supporting this minority interest.

(2)   Excludes funds held by ceding companies from which White Mountains does not receive interest credits.

(3)   Excludes funds held by White Mountains under reinsurance treaties for which White Mountains does not provide interest credits.

(4)   Excludes the Berkshire Preferred Stock, having an aggregate accreted liquidation preference at December 31, 2007 of $278 and $306 of investments held in irrevocable grantor trusts for the purpose of economically defeasing the Berkshire Preferred Stock. The Berkshire Preferred Stock was redeemed in May 2008 using the proceeds from the segregated trust account.

(5)   The minority interest arising from White Mountains’ investments in consolidated limited partnerships has not been included in total capital because White Mountains does not have the ability to utilize the net assets supporting this minority interest.

White Mountains has historically obtained its insurance float primarily through acquisitions, as opposed to organic growth. It is White Mountains’ intention to generate low-cost float over time through a combination of acquisitions and/or by organic growth in its existing insurance and reinsurance operations. However, White Mountains will seek to increase its insurance float organically only when market conditions allow for an expectation of generating underwriting profits.

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Financing

The following table summarizes White Mountains’ capital structure as of June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007:

($ in millions)

 

June 30,
2008

 

December 31,
2007

 

OBH Senior Notes, carrying value

 

$

699.0

 

$

698.9

 

WMRe Senior Notes, carrying value

 

399.0

 

398.9

 

WTM Bank Facility

 

300.0

 

 

OBH Bank Facility

 

 

 

Other debt of operating subsidiaries

 

122.6

 

95.1

 

Total debt

��

1,520.6

 

1,192.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Minority interest - OneBeacon Ltd.

 

400.0

 

517.2

 

Minority interest - WMRe Group Preference Shares

 

250.0

 

250.0

 

Total common shareholders’ equity

 

4,597.3

 

4,713.4

 

Total capital (1)(2)

 

6,767.9

 

6,673.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equity in net unrealized losses from Symetra’s fixed maturity portfolio

 

65.3

 

5.6

 

Total adjusted capital

 

$

6,833.2

 

$

6,679.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total debt to total adjusted capital

 

22

%

18

%

Total debt and WMRe Group Preference Shares to total adjusted capital

 

26

%

22

%


(1)   The minority interest arising from White Mountains’ investments in consolidated limited partnerships has not been included in total capital because White Mountains does not have the ability to utilize the net assets supporting this minority interest.

(2)   The Berkshire Preferred Stock, having an aggregate accreted liquidation preference of $278 at December 31, 2007 was not included in total capital because it was economically defeased in connection with the OneBeacon Offering. The Berkshire Preferred Stock was redeemed in May 2008.

Management believes that White Mountains’ strong financial position provides it with the flexibility and capacity to obtain funds externally as needed through debt or equity financing on both a short-term and long-term basis.

Detailed information concerning significant changes in White Mountains’ financing structure during 2008 follows. Refer to the Company’s 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a fuller discussion regarding White Mountains’ debt obligations as of December 31, 2007.

At June 30, 2008, the noncontrolling shareholders of AFI held a Senior Secured Note (“the AFI Note”) for $29.6 million. On July 30, 2008, White Mountains repaid this note in connection with its acquisition of the remaining debt and equity interests of AFI from the minority owner (see Note 15).

During the first quarter of 2008, White Mountains drew the full $475 million under the WTM Bank Facility. White Mountains repaid $175 million of this amount during the second quarter of 2008.

OneBeacon, through its wholly owned subsidiary, OBH, has a $75 million revolving credit facility that matures in November 2011 (the “OBH Bank Facility”). As of June 30, 2008, the OBH Bank Facility was undrawn.

The WTM Bank Facility and the OBH Bank Facility contain various affirmative, negative and financial covenants which White Mountains considers to be customary for such borrowings and include maintaining certain minimum net worth and maximum debt to capitalization standards. Failure to meet one or more of these covenants could result in an event of default, which ultimately could eliminate availability under these facilities and result in acceleration of principal repayment on any amounts outstanding. At June 30, 2008, White Mountains was in compliance with all of the covenants under the WTM Bank Facility and the OBH Bank Facility, and anticipates it will continue to remain in compliance with these covenants for the foreseeable future.

The OBH Senior Notes and the WMRe Senior Notes were issued under indentures which contain restrictive covenants that, among other things, limit the ability of the Company, OBH, WMRe Group and their respective subsidiaries to create liens and enter into sale and leaseback transactions and limits the ability of OBH, WMRe Group and their respective subsidiaries to consolidate, merge or transfer their properties and assets. The indentures do not contain any financial ratios or specified levels of net worth or liquidity to which the Company, OBH or WMRe Group must adhere. At June 30, 2008, White Mountains was in compliance with all of the covenants under the OBH Senior Notes and the WMRe Senior Notes, and anticipates it will continue to remain in compliance with these covenants for the foreseeable future.

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Share Repurchase Programs

White Mountains:

In 2006, White Mountains’ board of directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to 1 million of its common shares, from time to time, subject to market conditions. Shares may be repurchased on the open market or through privately negotiated transactions. This program does not have a stated expiration date. As of June 30, 2008, 309,299 common shares had been repurchased and retired for $153 million, which included 18,458 common shares repurchased for $8 million during the first six months of 2008.

OneBeacon Ltd.:

In 2007, OneBeacon Ltd.’s board of directors authorized OneBeacon Ltd. to repurchase up to $200 million of its Class A common shares from time to time, subject to market conditions. Shares may be repurchased on the open market or through privately negotiated transactions. This program does not have a stated expiration date. Since the inception of this program, OneBeacon has repurchased and retired 4.5 million of its Class A common shares. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, OneBeacon repurchased and retired 0.5 million and 3.0 million, respectively, of its Class A common shares for $9 million and $62 million, respectively.

Cash Flows

Detailed information concerning White Mountains’ cash flows during the six months ended June 30, 2008 and 2007 follows:

For the six months ended June 30, 2008

Financing and Other Capital Activities

In anticipation of the Berkshire Exchange, the Company drew the $475 million available on WTM Bank Facility to provide the necessary funds at the holding company level required for the transaction. The Company plans to repay the borrowings over time as it extracts funds from its operations. In April 2008, the Company repaid $175 million of the borrowings on the WTM Bank Facility.

During the first six months of 2008, the Company declared and paid cash dividends of $42 million to its common shareholders.

During the first six months of 2008, the Company repurchased and retired 18,458 of its common shares for $8 million.

During the first six months of 2008, OneBeacon Ltd. declared and paid cash dividends of $236 million to its common shareholders, including a $195 million special dividend and $40 million of regular quarterly dividends. A total of $176 million of these dividends were received by an intermediate holding company of White Mountains.

During the first six months of 2008, OneBeacon Ltd. repurchased and retired 3.0 million of its Class A common shares for $62 million through its share repurchase program.

During the first six months of 2008, OneBeacon paid $12 million of dividends on, and repaid the $300 million redemption value of, the Berkshire Preferred Stock, using funds that had been held in trust for the purpose of economically defeasing the preferred stock.

During the six months ended June 30, 2008, White Mountains Re declared and paid $9 million of dividends to holders of the WMRe Preference Shares.

During the first six months of 2008, White Mountains Re paid $50 million of dividends to its immediate parent.

Acquisitions and Dispositions

During the first six months of 2008, White Mountains Re acquired Helicon Re Holdings, Ltd. for approximately $150 million.

During the first six months of 2008, White Mountains acquired 42% of the outstanding debt and equity of AFI for $30 million. White Mountains also contributed an additional $3 million to AFI during the first quarter of 2008. On April 1, 2008, AFI emerged from a pre-packaged bankruptcy reorganization. In the reorganization, the debt held by White Mountains was exchanged for additional shares of common equity, thus increasing White Mountains’ ownership share to 68.9%.

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Table of Contents

Other Liquidity and Capital Resource Activities

During the first six months of 2008, White Mountains made payments totaling $66 million, in cash or by deferral into certain non-qualified compensation plans or by issuing common shares of the Company, to participants in the long-term incentive compensation plans of the Company and its subsidiaries.

During the first six months of 2008, the Company issued a total of 600 common shares to its employees through the exercise of Options during the period and received cash proceeds of $0.1 million in connection with these Option exercises.

For the six months ended June 30, 2007

Financing and Other Capital Activities

In May 2007, White Mountains Re received net proceeds of $246 million from the issuance of the Preference Shares. White Mountains Re declared and paid a $2 million cash dividend on these shares in June 2007.

In March 2007, White Mountains Re received net proceeds of $392 million from the issuance of the WMRe Senior Notes and subsequently paid a cash dividend of $392 million to its immediate parent. In addition, White Mountains used a portion of the dividend to repay its $320 million outstanding balance on the WTM Bank Facility.

During the first six months of 2007, the Company declared and paid cash dividends of $43 million to its common shareholders.

During the first six months of 2007, OneBeacon Ltd. paid cash dividends of $27 million to its common shareholders, $15 million of which was received by an intermediate holding company of White Mountains.

On June 30, 2007, OneBeacon repaid $20 million of its mandatorily redeemable preferred stock using funds that had been held in trust for the purpose of economically defeasing the preferred stock. OneBeacon also paid $15 million in dividends on its mandatorily redeemable preferred stock during the first six months of 2007 using funds that were held in trust for the purpose of economically defeasing the preferred stock.

Acquisitions and Dispositions

During the first six months of 2007, White Mountains sold 645,262 shares of OneBeacon Ltd. to OneBeacon’s employee stock ownership plan for proceeds of $17 million.

Other Liquidity and Capital Resource Activities

During the first six months of 2007, White Mountains made payments totaling $56 million, in cash or by deferral into certain non-qualified compensation plans to participants in the long-term incentive compensation plans of the Company and its subsidiaries.

During the first six months of 2007, the Company issued a total of 9,750 common shares to its employees through the exercise of Options during the period and received cash proceeds of $2 million in connection with these Option exercises. The Company also repurchased 4,465 common shares from an employee for $3 million in satisfaction of an employee withholding tax liability.

 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES

 

Refer to the Company’s 20072008 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a complete discussion regarding White Mountains’ critical accounting estimates.

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Table of Contents

 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

The information contained in this report may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included or referenced in this report which address activities, events or developments which White Mountains expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. The words “will”, “believe,” “intend,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “estimate,” “predict” and similar expressions are also intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, among others, statements with respect to White Mountains’:

 

·                  growthchanges in book value and adjusted book value per share or return on equity;

·                  business strategy;

·                  financial and operating targets or plans;

·                  incurred losses and the adequacy of its loss and LAE reserves and related reinsurance;

·                  projections of revenues, income (or loss), earnings (or loss) per share, dividends, market share or other financial forecasts;

·                  expansion and growth of its business and operations; and

·                  future capital expenditures.

 

These statements are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by White Mountains in light of its experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors believed to be appropriate in the circumstances. However, whether actual results and developments will conform with its expectations and predictions is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations, including:

 

·                  the risks associated with Item 1A of the Company’s 20072008 Annual Report on Form 10-K;

·                  claims arising from catastrophic events, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods or terrorist attacks;

·                  the continued availability of capital and financing;

·                  general economic, market or business conditions;

·                  business opportunities (or lack thereof) that may be presented to it and pursued;

·                  competitive forces, including the conduct of other property and casualty insurers and reinsurers;

·                  changes in domestic or foreign laws or regulations, or their interpretation, applicable to White Mountains, its competitors or its clients;

·                  an economic downturn or other economic conditions adversely affecting its financial position;

·                  recorded loss reserves subsequently proving to have been inadequate; and

·                  other factors, most of which are beyond White Mountains’ control.

 

Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements made in this report are qualified by these cautionary statements, and there can be no assurance that the actual results or developments anticipated by White Mountains will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, White Mountains or its business or operations. White Mountains assumes no obligation to update publicly any such forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

 

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

 

Refer to White Mountains’ 20072008 Annual Report on Form 10-K and in particular Item 7A. - “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk”.  As of June 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, there were no material changes in the market risks as described in White Mountains’ most recent Annual Report.

 

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Table of Contents

 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures.

 

The Principal Executive Officer (“PEO”) and the Principal Financial Officer (“PFO”) of White Mountains have evaluated the effectiveness of its disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, the PEO and PFO have concluded that White Mountains’ disclosure controls and procedures are adequate and effective.

 

There were no significant changes with respect to the Company’s internal control over financial reporting or in other factors that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended June 30, 2008.March 31, 2009.

 

Part II.OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1.Legal Proceedings.

 

On July 24, 2008, OneBeaconScandinavian Re

Scandinavian Re is engaged in an arbitration proceeding with St. Paul Fire & Marine Insurance Company, et. al. (“St. Paul”).  This arbitration proceeding relates a dispute over a multi-year Retrocessional Casualty Aggregate Stop Loss Agreement concerning certain classes of casualty reinsurance business originally written by St. Paul during the 1999-2001 underwriting years.  St. Paul alleges that, under the agreement, Scandinavian Re is required to reimburse it for all incurred losses.  Scandinavian Re’s position is that only certain losses may be ceded to the agreement and, Liberty Mutual Insurance Group (“Liberty Mutual”) entered into a Confidential Settlement Agreementin addition, that St. Paul made numerous material misrepresentations and Release (the “Settlement Agreement”) that resolves nearly four years of arbitration and litigation. The disputes concerned amounts which Liberty Mutual asserted were due to it under agreements with OneBeacon (the “Liberty Agreements”) for unallocated loss adjustment expenses and amounts which OneBeacon asserted were due to it related to claims administration and reinsurance. The Settlement Agreement represents a full and final resolutionomissions during the formation of the disputes related toagreement as well as during the Liberty Agreements.

In connection with the Settlement Agreement, OneBeacon took a pre-tax charge in the amount of $9 million in the second quarter, representing a partadministration of the costprogram.  Accordingly, Scandinavian Re is seeking rescission or reformation of the settlement. OneBeacon made a cash payment to Liberty Mutual inagreement.  Discovery is ongoing and the amount of $16 million on July 30, 2008. No further charges or payments will be made with respect to the disputed matters.

Refer to the Company’s 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-K, and in particular Item 3-“Legal Proceedings”arbitration is now set for a brief description of all other non-routine legal proceedings. Damages sought by the claimants do not exceed 10% of the Company’s current assets.June 2009.

 

Item 1A.         Risk Factors

 

There have been no material changes in the Registrant’s risk factors since the Registrant’s most recently filed Form 10-K.

 

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

 

The following table provides detail of White Mountains’ purchases of its common shares during the first six months of 2008:

Months

 

Total Number of
Shares Purchased

 

Average Price
Paid per Share

 

Total Number of
Shares Purchased 
as Part of Publicly
Announced Plan (1)

 

Maximum
Number of
Shares that May
Yet Be Purchased 
Under the Plan (1)

 

January 1 - 31, 2008

 

6,838

 

$

480.15

 

 

709,159

 

June 1- 30, 2008

 

18,458

 

$

434.45

 

18,458

 

690,701

 

Total

 

25,296

 

$

446.80

 

18,458

 

690,701

 


(1)          On November 17, 2006, White Mountains’ board of directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to 1 million of its common shares, from time to time, subject to market conditions. Shares may be repurchased on the open market or through privately negotiated transactions. The repurchase authorization does not have a stated expiration.None

 

Item 3.           Defaults Upon Senior Securities.

 

None.

 

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Table of Contents

Item 4.Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

The Company’s 2008 Annual General Meeting of Members (the “2008 Annual Meeting”) was held on May 29, 2008 in Hamilton, Bermuda. At the 2008 Annual Meeting:

1)              four persons were elected to serve as Class II directors of the Company with a term ending 2011,

2)              an amendment to the Company’s Bye-law 62 that, in order to protect the Company’s tax attributes, would require prior Board approval for any transfer of Company shares that would result in the creation of a new 5% shareholder or an increase in the ownership percentage of any 5% shareholder was approved,

3)              an amendment to the Company’s Bye-law 39 and 52 to permit the Company, to the extent permitted by Bermuda law, to utilize the new ‘Notice and Access’ rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with providing proxy materials to Members was approved,

4)              four persons were elected to serve as directors of WMRe Sirius,

5)              four persons were elected to serve as directors of WMRe Bermuda, Scan Re, and Helicon,

6)              four persons were elected to serve as directors of WM Life Re,

7)              four persons were elected to serve as directors of Galileo Weather Risk Management Ltd. (“Galileo Ltd.”),

8)              four persons were elected to serve as directors of any new non-United States operating subsidiaries and

9)              the appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as the Company’s Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm for 2008 was approved.

As of March 31, 2008, the record date for the 2008 Annual Meeting, a total of 10,570,234 common shares were eligible to vote prior to consideration of the voting cut-back of all holders with 10% or more voting control in accordance with the Company’s Bye-laws. The results of the vote, after taking into consideration the voting cut-back, are presented below.

Proposal 1 - - Election of the Company’s Directors

Nominee:

 

Votes FOR

 

Votes Withheld

 

Raymond Barrette

 

6,903,487

 

149,991

 

Yves Brouillette

 

7,009,815

 

43,663

 

George J. Gillespie, III

 

5,398,980

 

1,654,498

 

John D. Gillespie

 

5,423,835

 

1,629,643

 

Proposal 2 - - Ratification of an amendment to the Company’s Bye-laws (5% ownership restriction)

 

 

Votes FOR

 

Votes Against

 

Abstained

 

 

 

5,305,531

 

1,723,904

 

24,043

 

Proposal 3 - - Ratification of an amendment to the Company’s Bye-laws (Notice and Access)

 

 

Votes FOR

 

Votes Against

 

Abstained

 

 

 

7,017,560

 

12,786

 

23,132

 

Proposal 4 - - Election of Directors of WMRe Sirius

Nominee:

 

Votes FOR

 

Votes Withheld

 

Charles B. Chokel

 

6,975,578

 

77,900

 

Allan L. Waters

 

6,975,578

 

77,900

 

Jan A.M. Silverudd

 

6,975,578

 

77,900

 

Goran Thorstensson

 

6,975,578

 

77,900

 

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Proposal 5 - - Election of Directors of WMRe Bermuda, Scandinavian Re, and Helicon

Nominee:

 

Votes FOR

 

Votes Withheld

 

Charles B. Chokel

 

6,997,504

 

55,974

 

Allan L. Waters

 

6,997,504

 

55,974

 

Warren J. Trace

 

6,997,504

 

55,974

 

Christine H. Repasy

 

6,997,504

 

55,974

 

Proposal 6 - - Election of Directors of WM Life Re

Nominee:

 

Votes FOR

 

Votes Withheld

 

Raymond Barrette

 

6,992,874

 

60,604

 

David T. Foy

 

6,992,874

 

60,604

 

Henry K. Cheng

 

6,992,874

 

60,604

 

Jennifer L. Pitts

 

6,992,874

 

60,604

 

Proposal 7 - - Election of Directors of Galileo Ltd

Nominee:

 

Votes FOR

 

Votes Withheld

 

David T. Foy

 

6,997,770

 

55,708

 

Robert R. Lusardi

 

6,997,770

 

55,708

 

Scott W. Edwards

 

6,997,770

 

55,708

 

Martin R. Malinow

 

6,997,770

 

55,708

 

Proposal 8 - - Election of Directors of any New Non-United States Operating Subsidiaries

Nominee:

 

Votes FOR

 

Votes Withheld

 

Raymond Barrette

 

6,997,611

 

55,867

 

David T. Foy

 

6,997,611

 

55,867

 

Warren J. Trace

 

6,997,611

 

55,867

 

Jennifer L. Pitts

 

6,997,611

 

55,867

 

Proposal 9 - - Approval of Appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

 

 

Votes FOR

 

Votes Against

 

Abstained

 

 

 

7,028,486

 

18,672

 

6,320

 

Item 5.Other Information.

 

None.

 

62Item 5.           Other Information.

None.

51



Table of Contents

 

Item 6.

Exhibits.

 

(a)

Exhibits

 

 

11

3(ii) -

Amended and Restated Bye-laws of the Company *

10.1 -

First Amendment to $475,000,000 Credit Agreement, dated June 19, 2007 among the Company, as the Borrower, Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent, Swing Line Lender and Issuing Lender, and the other lenders party hereto. *

11 -

Statement Re Computation of Per Share Earnings **

 

 

31.1

31.1 -

Principal Executive Officer Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14 (a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as Amended. *

 

 

31.2

31.2 -

Principal Financial Officer Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14 (a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as Amended. *

 

 

32.1

32.1 -

Principal Executive Officer Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. *

 

 

32.2

32.2 -

Principal Financial Officer Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. *

 


*                 Included herein

**          Not included as an exhibit as the information is contained elsewhere within this report. See Note 10 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Included herein

**

Not included as an exhibit as the information is contained elsewhere within this report. See Note 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

WHITE MOUNTAINS INSURANCE GROUP, LTD.

 

(Registrant)

 

 

 

 

Date: AugustMay 1, 2008

2009

By:

/s/   /s/ J. Brian Palmer

 

J. Brian Palmer

 

Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer

 

6352