UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
x
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 20172018
OR
o
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from                   to                   
 
Commission file number 001-36174
NMI Holdings, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

DELAWARE 45-4914248
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
   
2100 Powell Street, Emeryville, CA 94608
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

(855) 530-6642
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)


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 (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
YES x NO o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer"filer," "smaller reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer o
Accelerated filer x
Non-accelerated filer o
Smaller reporting company o
  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) 
Emerging growth company x


   
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
YES o NO x

The number of shares of common stock, $0.01 par value per share, of the registrant outstanding on October 30, 201726, 2018 was 60,033,14466,302,317 shares.



TABLE OF CONTENTS
Item 1.
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
Item 1.
Item 1A.
Item 6.



CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
This report contains forward looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (Securities Act), Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (Exchange Act), and the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statements about our expectations, beliefs, plans, predictions, forecasts, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not historical facts and may be forward looking. These statements are often, but not always, made through the use of words or phrases such as "anticipate," "believe," "can," "could," "may," "predict," "potential," "should," "will," "estimate," "plan," "project," "continuing," "ongoing," "expect," "intend" or words of similar meaning and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the outlook for our future business and financial performance. All forward looking statements are necessarily only estimates of future results, and actual results may differ materially from expectations. You are, therefore, cautioned not to place undue reliance on such statements which should be read in conjunction with the other cautionary statements that are included elsewhere in this report. Further, any forward looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which the statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. We have based these forward looking statements on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, operating results, business strategy and financial needs. There are important factors that could cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from the results, level of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward looking statements including, but not limited to:
changes in the business practices of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (collectively, the GSEs), including decisions that have the impact of decreasing or discontinuing the use of mortgage insurance as credit enhancement;
our ability to remain an eligible mortgage insurer under the private mortgage insurer eligibility requirements (PMIERs) and other requirements imposed by the GSEs, which they may change at any time;
retention of our existing certificates of authority in each state and the District of Columbia (D.C.) and our ability to remain a mortgage insurer in good standing in each state and D.C.;
our future profitability, liquidity and capital resources;
actions of existing competitors, including governmental agencies likepublic mortgage insurers such as the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and the Veterans Administration (VA), and potential market entry by new competitors or consolidation of existing competitors;
developments in the world's financial and capital markets and our access to such markets, including reinsurance;
adoption of new or changes to existing laws and regulations that impact our business or financial condition directly or the mortgage insurance industry generally or their enforcement and implementation by regulators;
changes to the GSEs' role in the secondary mortgage market or other changes that could affect the residential mortgage industry generally or mortgage insurance in particular;
potential future lawsuits, investigations or inquiries or resolution of current lawsuits or inquiries;
changes in general economic, market and political conditions and policies, interest rates, inflation and investment results or other conditions that affect the housing market or the markets for home mortgages or mortgage insurance;
our ability to successfully execute and implement our capital plans, including our ability to access the capital, credit and reinsurance marketmarkets and to enter into, and receive approval of, reinsurance arrangements on terms and conditions that are acceptable to us, the GSEs and our regulators;
our ability to implement our business strategy, including our ability to write mortgage insurance on high quality low down payment residential mortgage loans, implement successfully and on a timely basis, complex infrastructure, systems, procedures, and internal controls to support our business and regulatory and reporting requirements of the insurance industry;
our ability to attract and retain a diverse customer base, including the largest mortgage originators;
failure of risk management or pricing or investment strategies;
emergence of unexpected claim and coverage issues, including claims exceeding our reserves or amounts we had expected to experience;
potential adverse impacts arising from recent natural disasters, including, with respect to the affected areas, a decline in new business, adverse effects on home prices, and an increase in notices of default on insured mortgages;


the inability of our counter-parties, including third party reinsurers, to meet their obligations to us;
our ability to utilize our net operating loss carryforwards, which could be limited or eliminated in various ways, including if we experience an ownership change as defined in Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code;
failure to maintain, improve and continue to develop necessary information technology (IT) systems or the failure of technology providers to perform; and
ability to recruit, train and retain key personnel.
For more information regarding these risks and uncertainties as well as certain additional risks that we face, you should refer to Part I, Item 2, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and elsewhere in this report on Form 10-Q, including the exhibits hereto. In addition, for additional discussion of those risks and uncertainties that have the potential to affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or prospects in a material and adverse manner, you should review the Risk Factors in Part I, Item 1A, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 (20162017 (2017 10-K) and in Part II, Item 1A of our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2018 (First Quarter 10-Q), as subsequently updated in other reports we file from time to time with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
Unless expressly indicated or the context requires otherwise, the terms "we," "our," "us" and the "Company" in this document refer to NMI Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and its wholly owned subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.



PART I

Item 1. Financial Statements



INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 20172018 and December 31, 20162017
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 20172018 and 20162017
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity for the three and nine months ended September 30, 20172018 and the year ended December 31, 20162017
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the nine months ended September 30, 20172018 and 20162017
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)


September 30, 2017 December 31, 2016September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017
Assets(In Thousands, except for share data)(In Thousands, except for share data)
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost of $687,284 and $630,688 as of September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively)$692,729
 $628,969
Cash and cash equivalents20,698
 47,746
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost of $889,794 and $713,859 as of September 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively)$874,435
 $715,875
Cash and cash equivalents (including restricted cash of $1,406 and $0 as of September 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively)18,187
 19,196
Premiums receivable21,056
 13,728
34,675
 25,179
Accrued investment income4,598
 3,421
5,881
 4,212
Prepaid expenses2,651
 1,991
3,131
 2,151
Deferred policy acquisition costs, net36,101
 30,109
44,437
 37,925
Software and equipment, net21,767
 20,402
22,887
 22,802
Intangible assets and goodwill3,634
 3,634
3,634
 3,634
Prepaid reinsurance premiums39,915
 37,921
33,058
 40,250
Deferred tax asset, net38,490
 51,434
6,880
 19,929
Other assets4,973
 542
5,276
 3,695
Total assets$886,612
 $839,897
$1,052,481
 $894,848
      
Liabilities      
Term loan$143,969
 $144,353
$147,009
 $143,882
Unearned premiums161,345
 152,906
162,893
 163,166
Accounts payable and accrued expenses22,028
 25,297
27,134
 23,364
Reserve for insurance claims and claim expenses6,123
 3,001
10,908
 8,761
Reinsurance funds withheld33,105
 30,633
28,953
 34,102
Deferred ceding commission4,971
 4,831
4,161
 5,024
Warrant liability, at fair value4,046
 3,367
10,930
 7,472
Total liabilities375,587
 364,388
391,988
 385,771
Commitments and contingencies

 



 

      
Shareholders' equity      
Common stock - class A shares, $0.01 par value;
59,928,092 and 59,145,161 shares issued and outstanding as of September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively (250,000,000 shares authorized)
599
 591
Common stock - class A shares, $0.01 par value; 66,285,847 and 60,517,512 shares issued and outstanding as of September 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively (250,000,000 shares authorized)663
 605
Additional paid-in capital583,447
 576,927
678,165
 585,488
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax(630) (5,287)(16,303) (2,859)
Accumulated deficit(72,391) (96,722)(2,032) (74,157)
Total shareholders' equity511,025
 475,509
660,493
 509,077
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity$886,612
 $839,897
$1,052,481
 $894,848
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (UNAUDITED)


For the three months ended September 30,
For the nine months ended September 30,For the three months ended September 30,
For the nine months ended September 30,

2017 2016
2017
20162018 2017
2018
2017
Revenues(In Thousands, except for share data)(In Thousands, except for per share data)
Net premiums earned$44,519
 $31,808
 $115,661
 $77,656
$65,407
 $44,519
 $181,936
 $115,661
Net investment income4,170
 3,544
 11,885
 10,117
6,277
 4,170
 16,586
 11,885
Net realized investment gains (losses)69
 66
 198
 (758)
Net realized investment (losses) gains(8) 69
 51
 198
Other revenues195
 102
 461
 172
85
 195
 193
 461
Total revenues48,953
 35,520
 128,205
 87,187
71,761
 48,953
 198,766
 128,205
Expenses              
Insurance claims and claims expenses957
 664
 2,965
 1,592
Insurance claims and claim expenses1,099
 957
 3,311
 2,965
Underwriting and operating expenses24,645
 24,037
 78,682
 69,943
30,379
 24,645
 87,852
 78,682
Total expenses25,602
 24,701
 81,647
 71,535
31,478
 25,602
 91,163
 81,647
Other expense              
Loss from change in fair value of warrant liability(502) (797) (679) (187)(5,464) (502) (4,935) (679)
Interest expense(3,352) (3,733) (10,146) (11,072)(2,972) (3,352) (11,951) (10,146)
Total other expense(3,854) (4,530) (10,825) (11,259)(8,436) (3,854) (16,886) (10,825)
              
Income before income taxes19,497
 6,289
 35,733
 4,393
31,847
 19,497
 90,717
 35,733
Income tax expense7,185
 114
 11,917
 114
7,036
 7,185
 18,310
 11,917
Net income$12,312
 $6,175
 $23,816
 $4,279
$24,811
 $12,312
 $72,407
 $23,816

              
Earnings per share              
Basic$0.21
 $0.10
 $0.40
 $0.07
$0.38
 $0.21
 $1.12
 $0.40
Diluted$0.20
 $0.10
 $0.38
 $0.07
$0.36
 $0.20
 $1.07
 $0.38

              
Weighted average common shares outstanding              
Basic59,883,629
 59,130,401
 59,680,166
 59,047,758
65,948
 59,884
 64,584
 59,680
Diluted63,088,958
 60,284,746
 62,773,333
 59,861,916
68,844
 63,089
 67,512
 62,773

              
Net income$12,312
 $6,175
 $23,816
 $4,279
$24,811
 $12,312
 $72,407
 $23,816
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:              
Net unrealized gain (loss) in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax expense of $366 and $0 for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, and $2,439 and $0 for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016768
 (82) 4,786
 17,690
Reclassification adjustment for realized losses (gains) included in net income, net of tax expense of $24 and $0 for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, and $69 and $0 for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016(45) (66) (129) 758
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax723

(148)
4,657

18,448
Net unrealized gains (losses) in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax (benefit) expense of ($337) and $366 for the three months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, and ($3,676) and $2,439 for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017(1,267) 768
 (13,828) 4,786
Reclassification adjustment for realized losses (gains) included in net income, net of tax expense (benefit) of ($2) and $24 for the three months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, and ($27) and $69 for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 20177
 (45) 102
 (129)
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax(1,260)
723

(13,726)
4,657
Comprehensive income$13,035

$6,027

$28,473

$22,727
$23,551

$13,035

$58,681

$28,473
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (UNAUDITED)


Common Stock - Class AAdditional
Paid-in Capital
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)Accumulated DeficitTotalCommon Stock - Class AAdditional
Paid-in Capital
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)Accumulated DeficitTotal
SharesAmountSharesAmount
(In Thousands)(In Thousands)
Balances, January 1, 201658,808
$588
$570,340
$(7,474)$(160,723)$402,731
Common stock: class A shares issued under stock plans, net of shares withheld for employee taxes337
3
(227)

(224)
Share-based compensation expense

6,814


6,814
Change in unrealized investment gains/losses, net of tax expense of $1,178


2,187

2,187
Net income



64,001
64,001
Balances, December 31, 201659,145
$591
$576,927
$(5,287)$(96,722)$475,509
Balances, January 1, 201759,145
$591
$576,927
$(5,287)$(96,722)$475,509
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle

388

515
903




515
515
Common stock: class A shares issued under stock plans, net of shares withheld for employee taxes783
8
(801)

(793)638
7
(1,117)

(1,110)
Share-based compensation expense

6,933


6,933


2,271


2,271
Change in unrealized investment gains/losses, net of tax expense of $2,508


4,657

4,657
Change in unrealized investment gains/losses, net of tax expense of $664


1,233

1,233
Net income



5,492
5,492
Balances, March 31, 201759,783
$598
$578,081
$(4,054)$(90,715)$483,910
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle

388


388
Common stock: class A shares issued under stock plans, net of shares withheld for employee taxes75

82


82
Share-based compensation expense

1,948


1,948
Change in unrealized investment gains/losses, net of tax benefit of $1,454


2,700

2,700
Net income



6,012
6,012
Balances, June 30, 201759,858
$598
$580,499
$(1,354)$(84,703)$495,040
Common stock: class A shares issued under stock plans, net of shares withheld for employee taxes70
1
234


235
Share-based compensation expense

2,714


2,714
Change in unrealized investment gains/losses, net of tax benefit of $390


724

724
Net income



23,816
23,816




12,312
12,312
Balances, September 30, 201759,928
$599
$583,447
$(630)$(72,391)$511,025
59,928
$599
$583,447
$(630)$(72,391)$511,025
















NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (UNAUDITED)

 Common Stock - Class AAdditional
Paid-in Capital
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)Accumulated DeficitTotal
 SharesAmount
 (In Thousands)
Balances, January 1, 201860,518
$605
$585,488
$(2,859)$(74,157)$509,077
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle


282
(282)
Common stock: class A shares issued related to public offering4,255
43
79,122


79,165
Common stock: class A shares issued related to warrants26
*
489


489
Common stock: class A shares issued under stock plans, net of shares withheld for employee taxes770
8
(999)

(991)
Share-based compensation expense

2,805


2,805
Change in unrealized investment gains/losses, net of tax benefit of $423


(10,956)
(10,956)
Net income



22,355
22,355
Balances, March 31, 201865,569
$656
$666,905
$(13,533)$(52,084)$601,944
Common stock: class A shares issued related to warrants3
*
63


63
Common stock: class A shares issued under stock plans, net of shares withheld for employee taxes182
2
885


887
Share-based compensation expense

3,017


3,017
Change in unrealized investment gains/losses, net of tax benefit of $2,891


(1,510)
(1,510)
Net income



25,241
25,241
Balances, June 30, 201865,754
$658
$670,870
$(15,043)$(26,843)$629,642
Common stock: class A shares issued related to warrants57
1
1,244


1,245
Common stock: class A shares issued under stock plans, net of shares withheld for employee taxes475
4
3,092


3,096
Share-based compensation expense

2,959


2,959
Change in unrealized investment gains/losses, net of tax benefit of $335


(1,260)
(1,260)
Net income



24,811
24,811
Balances, September 30, 201866,286
$663
$678,165
$(16,303)$(2,032)$660,493

* During the three month periods ended March 31, 2018 and June 30, 2018, we issued 25,686 and 3,751common shares, respectively, with a par value of $0.01 related to the exercise of warrants, which is not identifiable in this schedule due to rounding.


See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)


For the nine months ended September 30,For the nine months ended September 30,
2017 20162018 2017
Cash flows from operating activities(In Thousands)(In Thousands)
Net income$23,816
 $4,279
$72,407
 $23,816
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:   
Net realized investment (gains) losses(198) 758
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:   
Net realized investment gains(51) (198)
Loss from change in fair value of warrant liability679
 187
4,935
 679
Depreciation and amortization4,871
 4,300
5,825
 4,871
Net amortization of premium on investment securities1,200
 954
1,176
 1,200
Amortization of debt discount and debt issuance costs1,112
 1,416
3,141
 1,112
Share-based compensation expense6,933
 4,987
8,781
 6,933
Deferred income taxes11,340
 
16,698
 11,340
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:      
Premiums receivable(7,328) (6,235)(9,496) (7,328)
Accrued investment income(1,177) (742)(1,669) (1,177)
Prepaid expenses(660) (885)(980) (660)
Deferred policy acquisition costs, net(5,992) (11,381)(6,512) (5,992)
Other assets(1)(1,150) (2)927
 (273)
Unearned premiums8,439
 54,628
(273) 8,439
Reserve for insurance claims and claims expenses3,122
 1,454
Reserve for insurance claims and claim expenses2,147
 3,122
Reinsurance balances, net(1)618
 (431)565
 (259)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses(3,847) (1,075)1,728
 (3,847)
Net cash provided by operating activities41,778
 52,212
99,349
 41,778
Cash flows from investing activities      
Purchase of short-term investments(111,551) (147,639)(168,751) (111,551)
Purchase of fixed-maturity investments, available-for-sale(166,640) (103,418)(310,286) (166,640)
Proceeds from maturity of short-term investments142,722
 93,916
148,997
 142,722
Proceeds from redemptions, maturities and sale of fixed-maturity investments, available-for-sale75,785
 101,874
154,438
 75,785
Additions to software and equipment(6,869) (8,449)(5,326) (6,869)
Net cash used in investing activities(66,553) (63,714)(180,928) (66,553)
Cash flows from financing activities      
Proceeds from issuance of common stock related to public offering, net of issuance costs79,165
 
Proceeds from issuance of common stock related to employee equity plans3,105
 526
12,557
 3,105
Proceeds from issuance of common stock related to warrants320
 
Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards(3,883) (694)(10,113) (3,883)
Proceeds from senior note, net149,250
 
Repayments of term loan(1,125) (1,125)(147,000) (1,125)
Payments of debt modification costs(370) 
Net cash used in financing activities(2,273) (1,293)
Payments of debt issuance/modification costs(3,609) (370)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities80,570
 (2,273)
      
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents(27,048) (12,795)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period47,746
 57,317
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period$20,698
 $44,522
Net decrease in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash(1,009) (27,048)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period19,196
 47,746
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period$18,187
 $20,698
      
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information      
Interest paid$10,350
 $9,669
$9,233
 $10,350
Income taxes paid802
 
Income tax paid687
 802
(1) Ceded losses recoverable on the QSR Transactions were reclassified from "Other Assets" in prior periods to "Reinsurance balance, net".
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)


1. Organization, and Basis of Presentation and Summary of Accounting Principles
NMI Holdings, Inc. (NMIH) is a Delaware corporation, incorporated in May 2011, to provide private mortgage guaranty insurance (which we refer to as mortgage insurance or MI) through its wholly owned insurance subsidiaries, National Mortgage Insurance Corporation (NMIC) and National Mortgage Reinsurance Inc One (Re One).
In April 2012, we completed a private placement of our securities, through which we offered and sold an aggregate of 55,000,00055 million of our Class A common stock resulting in net proceeds of approximately $510 million (the Private Placement), and we completed the acquisition of our insurance subsidiaries for $8.5 million in cash, common stock and warrants, plus the assumption of $1.3 million in liabilities. In November 2013, we completed an initial public offering of 2.4 million shares of our common stock, and our common stock began trading on the NASDAQ exchange on November 8, 2013, under the symbol "NMIH." In March 2018, we completed the sale of an additional 4.3 million shares of common stock including a 15% option to purchase additional shares, which was exercised in full.
In April 2013, NMIC, our primary insurance subsidiary, issued its first mortgage insurance policy. NMIC is licensed to write mortgage insurance in all 50 states and D.C. In August 2015, NMIH capitalized a wholly owned subsidiary, NMI Services, Inc. (NMIS), through which we offer outsourced loan review services on a limited basis to mortgage loan originators.
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements, which include the results of NMIH and its wholly owned subsidiaries, have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q as prescribed by the SEC for interim reporting and include other information and disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. (GAAP). Our accounts are maintained in U.S. dollars. These statements should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the year ended December 31, 2016,2017, included in our 20162017 10-K. All intercompany transactions have been eliminated. The preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities, as well as disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the balance sheet date. Estimates also affect the reported amounts of income and expenses for the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Certain reclassifications to our previously reported financial information have been made to conform to current period presentation. The results of operations for the interim period may not be indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year ending December 31, 2017.2018.
Deferred Policy Acquisition CostsSignificant Accounting Principles
Costs directly associated with the successful acquisition of mortgage insurance policies, consisting of certain selling expenses and other policy issuance and underwriting expenses, are initially deferred and reported as deferred policy acquisition costs (DAC). DAC is reviewed periodically to determine that it does not exceed recoverable amounts and is adjusted as appropriate for policy cancellations to be consistent with our revenue recognition policy. We estimate the rate of amortization to reflect actual experience and anyThere have been no changes to persistency or loss development. For each book yearour significant accounting principles as described in Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data - Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 2 - Summary of business, these costs are amortized to expenseAccounting Principles" of our 2017 Form 10-K, other than as noted in proportion to estimated gross profits over the estimated life of the policies. Total amortization of DAC, net of a portion of ceding commission related to the 2016 QSR Transaction (see Note 5, "Reinsurance", "Reinsurance"Variable interest entity") and ", was $1.7 million and $1.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, and $4.0 million and $3.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.Recent Accounting Pronouncements - Adopted" below.
Premium Deficiency Reserves
We consider whether a premium deficiency exists at each fiscal quarter using best estimate assumptions as of the testing date. Per ASC 944, a premium deficiency reserve shall be recognized if the sum of expected claim costs and claim adjustment expenses, expected dividends to policyholders, unamortized acquisition costs and maintenance costs exceeds related unearned premiums and anticipated investment income. We have determined that no premium deficiency reserves were necessary for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017 or 2016.
Reinsurance
We account for premiums, lossesclaims and lossclaim expenses that are ceded to reinsurers on basesa basis consistent with those we use to account for the original policies we issue and pursuant to the terms of our reinsurance contracts. We account for premiums ceded or otherwise paid to reinsurers as reductions to premium revenue.
Effective January 1, 2018, NMIC entered into a second quota share reinsurance transaction (2018 QSR Transaction) which is similar in nature to the quota share reinsurance transaction we entered into in September 2016 (2016 QSR Transaction, together with 2018 QSR Transaction, the QSR Transactions) (see Note 5, "Reinsurance"). We earn profit and ceding commissions in connection with our 2016the QSR Transaction (see Note 5, "Reinsurance").Transactions.  Profit commissions represent a percentage of the profits recognized by reinsurers that are returned to us, based on the level of lossesclaims and claim expenses that we cede. We recognize any profit commissions we earn as increases to premium revenue. Ceding commissions are calculated as a percentage of ceded written premiums which are intendedunder the 2016 QSR Transaction and as a percentage of ceded earned premiums under the 2018 QSR Transaction, to cover our costs to acquire and service the direct policies. We earn the
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

ceding commissions in a manner consistent with our recognition of earnings on the underlying insurance policies, over the terms of the policies reinsured. We account for ceding commissions earned as reductionsa reduction to underwriting and operating expenses.
WeUnder the QSR Transactions, we cede a portion of lossclaims and claim expenses reserves paid losses and loss expenses to our reinsurers, which are accounted for as reinsurance recoverables in "Other Assets" on the consolidated balance sheets and as reductions to lossclaim expense on the consolidated statements of operations. We remain directly liable for all loss payments in the event we are unable to collect from any reinsurer.
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

Variable interest entity
In May 2017, NMIC entered into aaggregate excess of loss reinsurance agreementagreements with Oaktown Re Ltd. (Oaktown Re) and Oaktown Re II Ltd (Oaktown Re II), each a Bermuda-domiciled special purpose reinsurer.reinsurer, in May 2017 and August 2018, respectively. At inception of theeach reinsurance agreement, we determined that each of Oaktown Re was aand Oaktown Re II were variable interest entity (VIE)entities (VIEs), as defined under GAAP (ASC 810), because itthey did not have sufficient equity at risk to finance itstheir respective activities. We evaluated the VIEVIEs at inception to determine whether NMIC was itsthe primary beneficiary under each deal and, if so, whether we were required to consolidate the assets and liabilities of theeach VIE. The primary beneficiary of a VIE is an enterprise that (1) has the power to direct the activities of the VIE, which most significantly impact its economic performance and (2) has significant economic exposure to the VIE; i.e., the obligation to absorb losses or receive benefits that could potentially be significant. The determination of whether an entity is the primary beneficiary of a VIE is complex and requires management judgment regarding determinative factors, including the expected results of the VIE and how those results are absorbed by beneficial interest holders, as well as which party has the power to direct activities that most significantly impact the performance of the VIE.
We concluded that we are not the primary beneficiary of either Oaktown Re and that consolidation is not required, as we door Oaktown Re II because NMIC does not have significant economic exposure to either Oaktown Re or Oaktown Re II, and, as such, we do not consolidate the VIEs in the entity.our consolidated financial statements.
See Note 5, "Reinsurance" for further discussion of the reinsurance arrangement.
Premiums Receivable
Premiums receivable consist of premiums due on our mortgage insurance policies. If a mortgage insurance premium is unpaid for more than 120 days, the receivable is written off against earned premium and the related insurance policy is canceled. We have determined that the receivable write-off was immaterial as of September 30, 2017.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements - Adopted
In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the FASB)(FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). This update is intended to provide a consistent approach in recognizing revenue. In accordance withDecember 2016, the new standard,FASB clarified that all contracts that are within the scope of Topic 944, Financial Services-Insurance, are excluded from the scope of ASU 2014-09. Accordingly, this update did not impact the recognition of revenue occurs whenrelated to insurance premiums or investment income, which represent a customer obtains controlmajority of promised goods or services in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. In addition, the new standard requires that reporting companies disclose the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. In August 2015, ASU 2015-14 deferred the provisions of ASU 2014-09 to be effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017. In addition, this guidance amends the existing requirements for the recognition of a gain or loss on the transfer of non-financial assets that are not in a contract with a customer (ASU 2017-05). In September 2017, ASU 2017-13, added guidance from an SEC Staff Announcement, "Transition Related to Accounting Standards Updates No. 2014-09."our total revenues. The adoption of this update forimpacted our loan review services revenue, which is the only revenue stream in scope of the update. We adopted this update on January 1, 2018 using the modified-retrospective approach and the impact was immaterial to our consolidated financial statements.
In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments - Overall: Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (Subtopic 825-10). This update requires entities to reduce the carrying amount of deferred tax assets, if necessary, by the amount of any tax benefit that is not expected to be realized. We adopted this update effective January 1, 2018, will have an2018. The impact was immaterial impact onto our consolidated financial statementsstatements.
In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02, Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Topic 220). This update permits a company to reclassify the disproportionate income tax effects as a result of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the TCJA) on items within accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) to retained earnings. This standard will not affecttake effect for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Early adoption is permitted. We adopted this update on January 1, 2018 and adjusted the Company’s reportingdisproportionate income tax effects, or "stranded tax effects," resulting in a $0.3 million reduction to our beginning retained earnings as of insurance premiums and investment income. We are still in the process of evaluating the adoption method and the impact on presentation and disclosure.January 1, 2018.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements - Not Yet Adopted
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). This update requires that businesses recognize rights and obligations associated with certain leases as assets and liabilities on the balance sheet. The standard also requires additional disclosures regarding the amount, timing, and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. For public business entities, this update is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018 and interim periods therein. Early adoption is permitted in any period. We expect to adopt this guidance on January 1, 2019. In September 2017, ASU 2017-13 added guidance from ana SEC Staff Announcement, "Transition Related to Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-02.2016-02," We anticipate thisand in July 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-11, Leases (Topic 842), Targeted Improvement, which provides companies the option to apply the provisions of the new lease standard prospectively as of the effective date, without adjusting comparative periods presented. The effect of adoption will have an impactdepend on our financial position, primarily due tocurrent lease portfolio at time of adoption; however, upon adoption, we anticipate that our office space operating lease, as wereported assets and liabilities will be required to recognize leaseincrease in connection with the recognition of any right-of-use assets and lease liabilities, such as the operating lease on our consolidated balance sheet. We will continue to assess the potential impacts of this standard, including the impact the adoption of this guidance will have on our results of operations or cash flows.corporate headquarters.
In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326). This update requires companies to measure all expected credit losses for financial assets held at the reporting date. The standard also amends the accounting for credit losses on available-for-sale debt securities and purchased financial assets with credit deterioration also is amended in the standard.deterioration. The standard
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

will take effect for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. We are currently evaluatingreviewing the impactimpacts the adoption of this ASUguidance will have, if any, on the consolidated financial statements.our accounting for credit losses on our
In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230). This update is intended
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

investment portfolio. We do not expect it to reduce diversity in practice in how certain cash receiptsimpact our accounting for insurance claims and cash paymentsclaims expenses as these items are presented and classifiednot in the statement of cash flows. The standard will take effect for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2017. The adoptionscope of this update, effective January 1, 2018, is not expected to have any impact on our statement of cash flows.ASU.
In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, Income Taxes- Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory (Topic 740). This update is intended to improve the accounting for the income tax consequences of intra-entity transfers of assets other than inventory. The standard will take effect for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2017. The adoption of this update, effective January 1, 2018, is not expected to have any impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350). This update is intended to simplify the test for goodwill impairment. The standard will take effect for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, after December 15, 2020. Early adoption is permitted for interim or annual goodwill impairment tests performed on testing dates after January 1, 2017. We have determined that the adoption of this ASU will have no impact on the consolidated financial statements.
In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-08, Receivables - Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20). This update shortens the amortization period for the premium on certain purchased callable debt securities to the earliest call date. The standard will take effect for public business entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted, and if an entity early adopts the guidance in an interim period, any adjustments are reflected as of the beginning of the fiscal year that includes that interim period. The adoption of this update, effective January 1, 2018, is not expected to have any impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In July 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-11, Earnings Per Share (Topic 260), Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity (Topic 480), and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815). This update is intended to simplify the accounting for certain equity-linked financial instruments with down round features. Thisinstruments. The standard will take effect for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Early adoption is permittedpermitted. The guidance must be applied using a full or modified retrospective approach. We expect to adopt this ASU in the first quarter of 2019 and have determined that it will have no impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In June 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-07, Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718). This update expands the scope of Topic 718 to include share-based payments made to non-employees in connection with the acquisition of goods and services. The standard will take effect for public business entities for fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2020. We expect to adopt this ASU in the first quarter of 2019 and have determined that it has no impact on our financial results at this time as we have not made any share-based grants to nonemployees as defined in ASC 718-10-20.
In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-12, Targeted Improvements to the Accounting for Long-Duration Contracts. This update provides guidance to the existing recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure requirements for long-duration contracts issued by an insurance entity. The standard will take effect for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim or annual period. The Company isperiods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2020. We are currently evaluating the impact the adoption of this ASU will have, if any, on theour consolidated financial statements.
Immaterial Correction of Prior Period Amounts
During the first quarter of 2017, after filing the 2016 10-K, including the audited financial statements included therein, we discovered that $1.8 million of deferred taxes on vested options associated with employees terminated in previous years had not been reversed. Because our deferred tax asset (DTA) was subject to a valuation allowance prior to December 31, 2016, no expense would have been recognized in periods prior to December 31, 2016. However, at December 31, 2016, when we released the valuation allowance against the DTA, the DTA was overstated by $1.8 million and resulted in a $1.8 million overstatement of our 2016 income tax benefit and net income.
In order to provide consistency in the consolidated statements and as permitted by Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) 108, revisions for these immaterial amounts to previously reported annual amounts are reflected in the Consolidated Balance Sheet financial information herein and will be reflected in the Consolidated Statement of Operations in future filings containing such financial information as permitted by SAB 108. A comparison of the affected amounts as previously reported and as adjusted are presented below.
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

As of and for the full year ended December 31, 2016As previously reported As adjusted
 (In thousands)
Income Statement   
Net income$65,841
 $64,001
Income tax (benefit)(54,389) (52,550)
Basic EPS1.11
 1.08
Diluted EPS1.08
 1.05
    
Balance Sheet   
Deferred tax asset, net$53,274
 $51,434
Total assets841,737
 839,897
Accumulated deficit(94,882) (96,722)
Total shareholders' equity477,349
 475,509
Change in Accounting Principle
In March 2016,August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09,2018-13, ImprovementsFair Value Measurement (Topic 820). This update requires companies to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting (Topic 718), which intends to simplify various aspects of the accountingmake disclosures about recurring and nonrecurring fair value measurements. The standard will take effect for and reporting of share-based payments. The new accounting is required to be adopted using a modified retrospective approach, with a cumulative-effect adjustment to opening retained earningspublic business entities for any outstanding liability awards that qualify for equity classification under the new guidance.
As the guidance is effective for annualfiscal years, and interim reporting periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2016, we adopted2019. We are currently evaluating the newimpact the adoption of this ASU will have, if any, on our fair value of financial instruments disclosures.
In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018 -15, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other - Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40). This update applies to cloud computing arrangements hosted by a vendor and provides companies with guidance on the criteria for capitalizing implementation, set-up and other up-front costs incurred in association with these arrangements. The standard will take effect for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. We are currently evaluating the first quarterimpact the adoption of 2017. This required us to reflectthis ASU will have, if any, adjustments as of January 1, 2017, the beginning of the annual period that includes the interim period of adoption. The primary impact of adoption was the recognition of excess tax benefits in our provision for income taxes in the consolidated statements of operations. Additionally,on our consolidated statements of cash flows now present excess tax benefits as an operating activity on a prospective basis. Finally, we have elected to account for forfeitures as they occur, rather than estimate expected forfeitures. The net cumulative effect of this change was recognized as a $0.5 million reduction to the accumulated deficit as of January 1, 2017.financial statements.
2. Investments
We have designated our investment portfolio as available-for-sale and report it at fair value. The related unrealized gains and losses are, after considering the related tax expense or benefit, recognized through comprehensive income and loss, and on an accumulated basis in shareholders' equity. Net realized investment gains and losses are reported in income based upon specific identification of securities sold.
Fair Values and Gross Unrealized Gains and Losses on Investments
Amortized
Cost
 Gross Unrealized Fair
Value
Amortized
Cost
 Gross Unrealized Fair
Value
 Gains Losses  Gains Losses 
As of September 30, 2017(In Thousands)
As of September 30, 2018(In Thousands)
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies$65,669
 $21
 $(636) $65,054
$48,292
 $
 $(2,483) $45,809
Municipal debt securities90,155
 929
 (348) 90,736
93,945
 20
 (1,933) 92,032
Corporate debt securities404,467
 5,619
 (1,246) 408,840
536,240
 323
 (10,217) 526,346
Asset-backed securities96,279
 1,142
 (101) 97,320
169,061
 113
 (1,236) 167,938
Total bonds656,570
 7,711
 (2,331) 661,950
847,538
 456
 (15,869) 832,125
Short-term investments30,714
 65
 
 30,779
42,256
 54
 
 42,310
Total investments$687,284
 $7,776
 $(2,331) $692,729
$889,794
 $510
 $(15,869) $874,435
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

Amortized
Cost
 Gross Unrealized Fair
Value
Amortized
Cost
 Gross Unrealized Fair
Value
 Gains Losses  Gains Losses 
As of December 31, 2016(In Thousands)
As of December 31, 2017(In Thousands)
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies$64,135
 $6
 $(962) $63,179
$65,669
 $
 $(981) $64,688
Municipal debt securities40,801
 131
 (663) 40,269
89,973
 534
 (659) 89,848
Corporate debt securities349,712
 1,722
 (2,356) 349,078
435,562
 4,231
 (1,958) 437,835
Asset-backed securities114,456
 765
 (560) 114,661
100,153
 916
 (125) 100,944
Total bonds569,104
 2,624
 (4,541) 567,187
691,357
 5,681
 (3,723) 693,315
Long-term investments - other353
 
 
 353
Short-term investments61,584
 198
 
 61,782
22,149
 58
 
 22,207
Total investments$630,688
 $2,822
 $(4,541) $628,969
$713,859
 $5,739
 $(3,723) $715,875
As of September 30, 20172018 and December 31, 2016,2017, approximately $5.3 million and $7.0 million, respectively, of our cash and investments were held in the form of U.S. Treasury securities on deposit with various state insurance departments to satisfy regulatory requirements. See Note 5 "Reinsurance" for the information related to restricted cash.
Scheduled Maturities
The amortized cost and fair values of available-for-sale securities as of September 30, 20172018 and December 31, 2016,2017, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Because most asset-backed securities provide for periodic payments throughout their lives, they are listed below in a separate category.
As of September 30, 2017Amortized
Cost
 Fair
Value
As of September 30, 2018Amortized
Cost
 Fair
Value
(In Thousands)(In Thousands)
Due in one year or less$108,020
 $108,048
$63,314
 $63,368
Due after one through five years158,353
 159,502
335,262
 330,603
Due after five through ten years309,708
 312,697
318,357
 308,759
Due after ten years14,924
 15,162
3,800
 3,767
Asset-backed securities96,279
 97,320
169,061
 167,938
Total investments$687,284
 $692,729
$889,794
 $874,435
As of December 31, 2016Amortized
Cost
 Fair
Value
As of December 31, 2017Amortized
Cost
 Fair
Value
(In Thousands)(In Thousands)
Due in one year or less$94,382
 $94,584
$97,406
 $97,394
Due after one through five years173,296
 173,251
195,795
 195,626
Due after five through ten years242,005
 240,060
305,798
 306,930
Due after ten years6,549
 6,413
14,707
 14,981
Asset-backed securities114,456
 114,661
100,153
 100,944
Total investments$630,688
 $628,969
$713,859
 $715,875
Aging of Unrealized Losses
As of September 30, 20172018, the investment portfolio had gross unrealized losses of $2.315.9 million, $1.5$7.8 million of which has been in an unrealized loss position for a period of 12 months or greater. We did not consider these securities to be other-than-temporarily impaired as of September 30, 2017.2018. We based our conclusion that these investments were not other-than-temporarily impaired as of September 30, 20172018 on the following facts: (i) the unrealized losses were primarily caused by interest rate movements since the purchase date; (ii) we do not intend to sell these investments; and (iii) we do not believe that it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell these investments before recovery of our amortized cost basis, which may not occur until maturity. For those securities in an unrealized loss position, the length of time the securities were in such a position is as follows:
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

Less Than 12 Months 12 Months or Greater TotalLess Than 12 Months 12 Months or Greater Total
# of SecuritiesFair ValueUnrealized Losses # of SecuritiesFair ValueUnrealized Losses # of SecuritiesFair ValueUnrealized Losses# of SecuritiesFair ValueUnrealized Losses # of SecuritiesFair ValueUnrealized Losses # of SecuritiesFair ValueUnrealized Losses
As of September 30, 2017 (Dollars in Thousands)
As of September 30, 2018 (Dollars in Thousands)
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies22
$38,425
$(263) 15
$19,621
$(373) 37
$58,046
$(636)5
$5,033
$(60) 18
$40,776
$(2,423) 23
$45,809
$(2,483)
Municipal debt securities9
21,567
(212) 8
10,319
(136) 17
31,886
(348)26
53,431
(885) 18
30,580
(1,048) 44
84,011
(1,933)
Corporate debt securities44
69,602
(317) 14
34,031
(929) 58
103,633
(1,246)180
343,602
(6,123) 43
76,589
(4,094) 223
420,191
(10,217)
Asset-backed securities15
21,173
(89) 2
4,988
(12) 17
26,161
(101)51
111,382
(976) 6
10,563
(260) 57
121,945
(1,236)
Total90
$150,767
$(881) 39
$68,959
$(1,450) 129
$219,726
$(2,331)262
$513,448
$(8,044) 85
$158,508
$(7,825) 347
$671,956
$(15,869)
Less Than 12 Months 12 Months or Greater TotalLess Than 12 Months 12 Months or Greater Total
# of SecuritiesFair ValueUnrealized Losses # of SecuritiesFair ValueUnrealized Losses # of SecuritiesFair ValueUnrealized Losses# of SecuritiesFair ValueUnrealized Losses # of SecuritiesFair ValueUnrealized Losses # of SecuritiesFair ValueUnrealized Losses
As of December 31, 2016 (Dollars in Thousands)
As of December 31, 2017 (Dollars in Thousands)
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies33
$51,093
$(962) 
$
$
 33
$51,093
$(962)16
$29,806
$(394) 26
$34,882
$(587) 42
$64,688
$(981)
Municipal debt securities14
28,659
(617) 1
1,704
(46) 15
30,363
(663)21
38,628
(264) 10
17,945
(395) 31
56,573
(659)
Corporate debt securities77
135,115
(1,955) 8
13,873
(401) 85
148,988
(2,356)94
128,313
(829) 23
48,978
(1,129) 117
177,291
(1,958)
Asset-backed securities30
38,702
(510) 6
2,472
(50) 36
41,174
(560)22
27,947
(63) 5
12,438
(62) 27
40,385
(125)
Total154
$253,569
$(4,044) 15
$18,049
$(497) 169
$271,618
$(4,541)153
$224,694
$(1,550) 64
$114,243
$(2,173) 217
$338,937
$(3,723)
The following table presents the components of net investment income:
For the three months ended September 30, For the nine months ended September 30,For the three months ended September 30, For the nine months ended September 30,
2017 2016 2017 20162018 2017 2018 2017
(In Thousands)(In Thousands)
Investment income$4,363
 $3,727
 $12,455
 $10,672
$6,473
 $4,363
 $17,192
 $12,455
Investment expenses(193) (183) (570) (555)(196) (193) (606) (570)
Net investment income$4,170
 $3,544
 $11,885
 $10,117
$6,277
 $4,170
 $16,586
 $11,885
The following table presents the components of net realized investment gains (losses):
For the three months ended September 30, For the nine months ended September 30,For the three months ended September 30, For the nine months ended September 30,
2017 2016 2017 20162018 2017 2018 2017
(In Thousands)(In Thousands)
Gross realized investment gains$69
 $66
 $536
 $683
$461
 $69
 $520
 $536
Gross realized investment losses
 
 (338) (1,441)(469) 
 (469) (338)
Net realized investment gains (losses)$69
 $66
 $198
 $(758)$(8) $69
 $51
 $198
Investment Securities - Other-than-Temporary Impairment (OTTI)
For the quarter endedAt September 30, 2017,2018, we held no other-than-temporarily impaired securities. There were no creditDuring the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and the three months ended September 30, 2017, we did not recognize any OTTI losses. During the nine months ended September 30, 2017, we recognized $0.1 million of OTTI losses recognized in earnings for which a portion of an OTTI loss was recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).earnings.
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

3. Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The following describes the valuation techniques used by us to determine the fair value of our financial instruments:
We established a fair value hierarchy by prioritizing the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy under this standard are described below:
Level 1 - Fair value measurements based on quoted prices in active markets that we have the ability to access for identical assets or liabilities. Market price data generally is obtained from exchange or dealer markets. We do not adjust the quoted price for such instruments.
Level 2 - Fair value measurements based on inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, and inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, such as interest rates and yield curves that are observable at commonly quoted intervals.
Level 3 - Fair value measurements based on valuation techniques that use significant inputs that are unobservable. Both observable and unobservable inputs may be used to determine the fair values of positions classified in Level 3. The circumstances for using these measurements include those in which there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability. Therefore, we must make certain assumptions, which require significant management judgment or estimation about the inputs a hypothetical market participant would use to value that asset or liability.
In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety.
Assets classified as Level 1 and Level 2
To determine the fair value of securities available-for-sale in Level 1 and Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, independent pricing sources have been utilized. One price is provided per security based on observable market data. To ensure securities are appropriately classified in the fair value hierarchy, we review the pricing techniques and methodologies of the independent pricing sources and believe that their policies adequately consider market activity, either based on specific transactions for the issue valued or based on modeling of securities with similar credit quality, duration, yield and structure that were recently traded. A variety of inputs are utilized by the independent pricing sources including benchmark yields, reported trades, non-binding broker/dealer quotes, issuer spreads, two sided markets, benchmark securities, bids, offers and reference data including data published in market research publications. Inputs may be weighted differently for any security, and not all inputs are used for each security evaluation. Market indicators, industry and economic events are also considered. This information is evaluated using a multidimensional pricing model. Quality controls are performed by the independent pricing sources throughout this process, which include reviewing tolerance reports, trading information and data changes, and directional moves compared to market moves. This model combines all inputs to arrive at a value assigned to each security. We have not made any adjustments to the prices obtained from the independent pricing sources. There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy during the quarter ended September 30, 2017.
Liabilities classified as Level 3
We calculate the fair value of outstanding warrants utilizing levelLevel 3 inputs, including a Black-Scholes option-pricing model, in combination with a binomial model, and we value the pricing protection features within the warrants using a Monte-Carlo simulation model. Variables in the model include the risk-free rate of return, dividend yield, expected life and expected volatility of our stock price.
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

The following tables present the level within the fair value hierarchy at which the Company’sour financial instruments were measured: 
Fair Value Measurements Using  Fair Value Measurements Using  
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
 Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 Fair ValueQuoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
 Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 Fair Value
As of September 30, 2017(In Thousands)
As of September 30, 2018(In Thousands)
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies$60,214
 $4,840
 $
 $65,054
$45,809
 $
 $
 $45,809
Municipal debt securities
 90,736
 
 90,736

 92,032
 
 92,032
Corporate debt securities
 408,840
 
 408,840

 526,346
 
 526,346
Asset-backed securities
 97,320
 
 97,320

 167,938
 
 167,938
Long-term investment – other
 
 
 
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments51,477
 
 
 51,477
60,497
 
 

 60,497
Total assets$111,691
 $601,736
 $
 $713,427
$106,306
 $786,316
 $
 $892,622
       
Warrant liability
 
 4,046
 4,046

 
 10,930
 10,930
Total liabilities$
 $
 $4,046
 $4,046
$
 $
 $10,930
 $10,930
Fair Value Measurements Using  Fair Value Measurements Using  
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
 Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 Fair ValueQuoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
 Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 Fair Value
As of December 31, 2016(In Thousands)
As of December 31, 2017(In Thousands)
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies$50,719
 $12,460
 $
 $63,179
$59,844
 $4,844
 $
 $64,688
Municipal debt securities
 40,269
 
 40,269

 89,848
 
 89,848
Corporate debt securities
 349,078
 
 349,078

 437,835
 
 437,835
Asset-backed securities
 114,661
 
 114,661

 100,944
 
 100,944
Long-term investment - other353
 
 
 353
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments109,528
 
 
 109,528
41,403
 
 
 41,403
Total assets$160,247
 $516,468
 $
 $676,715
$101,600
 $633,471
 $
 $735,071
       
Warrant liability
 
 3,367
 3,367

 
 7,472
 7,472
Total liabilities$
 $
 $3,367
 $3,367
$
 $
 $7,472
 $7,472
There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2, nor any transfers in or out of Level 3, of the fair value hierarchy during the nine months ended September 30, 20172018 and the year-endyear ended December 31, 2016.2017.
The following is a roll-forward of Level 3 liabilities measured at fair value:
 For the nine months ended September 30,
Warrant Liability2017 2016
 (In Thousands)
Balance, January 1$3,367
 $1,467
Change in fair value of warrant liability included in earnings679
 187
Balance, September 30$4,046
 $1,654
We revalue the warrant liability quarterly using a Black-Scholes option-pricing model, in combination with a binomial model, and we value the pricing protection features within the warrants using a Monte-Carlo simulation model. As of September 30, 2017, the assumptions used in the option-pricing model were as follows: a common stock price as of September 30, 2017 of
 For the nine months ended September 30,
Warrant Liability2018 2017
 (In Thousands)
Balance, January 1$7,472
 $3,367
Change in fair value of warrant liability included in earnings4,935
 679
Issuance of common stock on warrant exercise(1,477) 
Balance, September 30$10,930
 $4,046
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

$12.40, risk free interest rateThe following table outlines the key inputs and assumptions used to calculate the fair value of 1.66%, expected lifethe warrant liability in the Black-Scholes option-pricing model as of 3.25 years, expected volatility of 30.6% and a dividend yield of 0%. the dates indicated.
 As of September 30, 
 2018 2017 
Common stock price$22.65
 $12.40
 
Risk free interest rate2.86 - 2.90%
 1.66% 
Expected life2.50 - 3.56 Years
 3.25 years
 
Expected volatility39.9 - 41.5%
 30.6% 
Dividend yield0%
 0%
 
The changechanges in fair value isof the warrant liability for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017 are primarily attributable to an increasechanges in the price of our common stock from December 31, 2016during the respective periods, with additional impact related to September 30, 2017.changes in the Black-Scholes model inputs and exercises of outstanding warrants.
4. Term LoanDebt Obligations
On November 10, 2015,May 24, 2018, we entered into a credit agreement (the(2018 Credit Agreement) to obtain, which provides for (i) a three-year$150 million five-year senior secured term loan (thefacility (2018 Term Loan) for $150 million. On February 10, 2017, we entered into an amendment tothat matures on May 24, 2023; and (ii) a $85 million three-year secured revolving credit facility (2018 Revolving Credit Facility) that matures on May 24, 2021. Proceeds from the Credit Agreement, to extend the maturity date of the2018 Term Loan by one yearwere used to repay in full the outstanding amount due under our $150 million amended term loan due November 10, 2019 (the 2015 Term Loan), and reduceto pay fees and expenses incurred in connection with the interest rate. Based on our analysis, we concluded the amendment to the2018 Credit Agreement should be treated as a modification. As of September 30, 2017, theAgreement.
2018 Term Loan
The 2018 Term Loan bears interest at the Eurodollar Rate, as defined in the 2018 Credit Agreement and subject to a 1.00% floor, plus an annual margin rate of 6.75% (an4.75%, representing an all-in rate of 7.99%6.99% as of September 30, 2017),2018, payable monthly or quarterly based on our current interest rateperiod election. Quarterly principal payments of $375 thousand are also required. The outstanding balance2018 Term Loan has a prepayment premium of 1% for any refinancing prepayments made on or prior to the date that is six months after the date of the 2018 Credit Agreement, after which there is no prepayment penalty.
Interest expense for nine months ended September 30, 2018 includes amounts related to our interest payment, one-time financing costs and the amortization of issuance costs and original issue discounts. For the nine months ended September 30, 2018, we recorded $11.6 million of interest expense, including $2.2 million of costs related to the extinguishment of the 2015 Term Loan asand issuance of September 30, 2017 was $147 million.
Debtthe 2018 Term Loan. Capitalized debt issuance costs totaling $4.8$1.8 million including $370 thousand related to the modification and a 1% original issue discount,discounts totaling $986 thousand are being amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method over the contractual life of the 2018 Term Loan. Effective interest rate forAs of September 30, 2018, the Term Loan includes interest, amortization ofremaining unamortized issuance cost and original issue discounts totaled $2.6 million, and the discount. For the nine months ended September 30, 2017, we recorded $10.1 million of interest expense, including amortizationoutstanding principal balance of the issuance and modification costs and original issue discount.2018 Term Loan was $149.6 million.
We are subject to certain quarterly covenants under the 2018 Term Loan (as defined in the 2018 Credit Agreement. These covenants include, but areAgreement), including (but not limited to) a maximum debt-to-total capitalization ratio (as defined in the 2018 Credit Agreement) of 35% under the 2018 Term Loan. We were in compliance with all covenants as of September 30, 2018.
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

Future principal payments due under the 2018 Term Loan as of September 30, 2018 are as follows:
As of September 30, 2018 Principal 
  (In thousands) 
2018 $375
 
2019 1,500
 
2020 1,500
 
2021 1,500
 
2022 1,500
 
2023 143,250
 
Total $149,625
 
2018 Revolving Credit Facility
Borrowings under the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility may be used for general corporate purposes and will accrue interest at a variable rate equal to, at our discretion, (i) a base rate (as defined in the 2018 Credit Agreement, subject to a floor of 1.00% per annum) plus a margin of 1.00% to 2.50% per annum, based on the applicable corporate credit rating at the time, or (ii) the Eurodollar Rate (subject to a floor of 0.00% per annum) plus a margin of 2.00% to 3.50% per annum, based on the applicable corporate credit rating at the time. As of September 30, 2018, no borrowings had been made under the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility.
We are required to pay a quarterly commitment fee on the average daily undrawn amount of the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility, which ranges from 0.30% to 0.60%, based on the applicable corporate credit rating at the time. As of September 30, 2018, the applicable commitment fee was 0.50%. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, we recorded $0.1 million and $0.2 million of commitment fees in interest expense, respectively.
We incurred issuance costs of $1.5 million in connection with the establishment of the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility, which were deferred and recorded within Other Assets. These costs will be amortized through interest expense over the three-year life of the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility on a straight line basis. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, we recognized $0.1 million and $0.2 million of interest expense from the amortization of deferred issuance costs. At September 30, 2018, the remaining issuance costs were $1.3 million, net of accumulated amortization.
We are subject to certain covenants under the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility, including (but not limited to) the following: a maximum debt-to-total capitalization ratio (as defined therein) of 35%, maximum risk-to-capital (RTC) ratio of 22.0:1.0,a minimum liquidity (as defined therein),requirement, compliance with the PMIERs financial requirements (subject to any GSE-approved waivers), and minimum shareholders' equity requirements. This description is not intended to be complete in all respectsconsolidated net worth and is qualified in its entirety by the terms of the Credit Agreement, including its covenants and events of default.statutory capital requirements (respectively, as defined therein). We were in compliance with all covenants as of September 30, 2017.
Future principal payments due under the Term Loan as of September 30, 2017 are as follows:
As of September 30, 2017 Principal
  (In thousands)
2017 $375
2018 1,500
2019 145,125
Total $147,000
   

2018.
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

5. Reinsurance
We have enteredenter into two third-party reinsurance transactions to actively manage our risk, ensure PMIERs compliance and support the growth of our business. The GSEs and the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (Wisconsin OCI) have approved bothall such transactions (subject to certain conditions and their periodicongoing review, of the transactions, including levels of approved capital credit).

The effect of our reinsurance agreements on premiums written and earned is as follows:
For the three months endedFor the nine months endedFor the three months endedFor the nine months ended
September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
(In Thousands)(In Thousands)
Net premiums written          
Direct$56,217
 $46,535
$142,134
 $133,526
$73,748
 $56,217
$210,452
 $142,134
Ceded (1)
(8,501) (37,336)(20,029) (37,336)(8,367) (8,501)(21,598) (20,029)
Net premiums written$47,716
 $9,199
$122,105
 $96,190
$65,381
 $47,716
$188,854
 $122,105
          
Net premiums earned          
Direct$52,024
 $33,052
$133,696
 $78,900
$76,513
 $52,024
$210,725
 $133,696
Ceded (1)
(7,505) (1,244)(18,035) (1,244)(11,106) (7,505)(28,789) (18,035)
Net premiums earned$44,519
 $31,808
$115,661
 $77,656
$65,407
 $44,519
$181,936
 $115,661
(1) Net of profit commission
Excess-of-loss reinsurance
2017 ILN Transaction
In May 2017, NMIC entered into a reinsurance agreement with Oaktown Re that provides for up to $211.3 million of aggregate excess-of-loss reinsurance coverage at inception for new delinquencies on an existing portfolio of mortgage insurance policies written from 2013 through December 31, 2016. For the reinsurance coverage period, NMIC will retainretains the first layer of $126.8 million of aggregate losses, of which $125.6 million remained at September 30, 2018, and Oaktown Re will then provideprovides second layer coverage up to the outstanding reinsurance coverage amount. NMIC will then retain losses in excess of the outstanding reinsurance coverage amount. The outstanding reinsurance coverage amount decreases from $211.3 million at inception over a ten-year period as the underlying covered mortgages amortizeare amortized or repaid, and/or the mortgage insurance coverage is canceled and was $185$144.1 million as of September 30, 2017.2018. The outstanding reinsurance coverage amount will stop amortizing if certain credit enhancement or delinquency thresholds are triggered.
Oaktown Re financed the coverage by issuing mortgage insurance-linked notes in an aggregate amount of $211.3 million to unaffiliated investors (the 2017 Notes). The 2017 Notes mature on April 26, 2027. All of the proceeds paid to Oaktown Re from the sale of the 2017 Notes were deposited into a reinsurance trust to collateralize and fund the obligations of Oaktown Re to NMIC under the reinsurance agreement. At all times, fundsFunds in the reinsurance trust account are required to be invested in high credit quality money market funds.funds at all times.  We refer collectively to NMIC’sNMIC's reinsurance agreement with Oaktown Re and the issuance of the 2017 Notes by Oaktown Re as the 2017 ILN Transaction. Under the terms of the 2017 ILN Transaction, NMIC makes risk premium payments for the applicable outstanding reinsurance coverage amount and pays Oaktown Re for anticipated operating expenses (capped at $300 thousand per year). For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, NMIC ceded risk premiums of $1.5 million and $4.8 million, respectively. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, NMIC paidceded risk premiums of $1.9 million and $3.3 million, respectively. NMIC did not cede any losses to Oaktown Re.Re during the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2017 and 2018.
Under the reinsurance agreement, NMIC holds an optional termination right if certain events occur, including, among others, aftera clean-up call if the outstanding reinsurance coverage amount amortizes to 10% or less of the reinsurance coverage amount at inception or if NMIC reasonably determines that changes to GSE or rating agency asset requirements would cause a material and adverse effect on the capital treatment adopted by NMIC.afforded to NMIC under the agreement. In addition, there are certain events that will result in mandatory termination of the agreement, including NMIC’sNMIC's failure to pay premiums or consent to reductions in the trust account to make principal payments to noteholders, among others.
At the time the 2017 ILN Transaction was entered into with Oaktown Re, we evaluated the applicability of the accounting guidance that addresses VIEs. As a result of the evaluation of the 2017 ILN Transaction, we concluded that Oaktown Re is a VIE. However, given that NMIC does not have significant economic exposure in Oaktown Re, we do not consolidate Oaktown Re in our consolidated financial statements.
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

2018 ILN Transaction
In July 2018, NMIC entered into a reinsurance agreement with Oaktown Re II that provides for up to $264.5 million of aggregate excess-of-loss reinsurance coverage at inception for new delinquencies on an existing portfolio of mortgage insurance policies written between January 1, 2017 and May 31, 2018. For the reinsurance coverage period, NMIC retains the first layer of $125.3 million of aggregate losses, of which all remained at September 30, 2018, and Oaktown Re II then provides second layer coverage up to the outstanding reinsurance coverage amount. NMIC retains losses in excess of the outstanding reinsurance coverage amount. The outstanding reinsurance coverage amount decreases from $264.5 million at inception over a ten-year period as the underlying covered mortgages are amortized or repaid, and/or the mortgage insurance coverage is canceled, and was $264.5 million as of September 30, 2018. The outstanding reinsurance coverage amount will begin amortizing after an initial period in which a target level of credit enhancement is obtained and will stop amortizing if certain credit enhancement or delinquency thresholds are triggered.
Oaktown Re II financed the coverage by issuing mortgage insurance-linked notes in an aggregate amount of $264.5 million to unaffiliated investors (the 2018 Notes). The 2018 Notes mature on July 25, 2028. All of the proceeds paid to Oaktown Re II from the sale of the 2018 Notes were deposited into a reinsurance trust to collateralize and fund the obligations of Oaktown Re II to NMIC under the reinsurance agreement. Funds in the reinsurance trust account are required to be invested in high credit quality money market funds at all times. We refer collectively to NMIC's reinsurance agreement with Oaktown Re II and the issuance of the 2018 Notes by Oaktown Re II as the 2018 ILN Transaction, and the 2017 ILN Transaction and 2018 ILN Transaction as the ILN Transactions. Under the terms of the 2018 ILN Transaction, NMIC makes risk premium payments for the applicable outstanding reinsurance coverage amount and pays Oaktown Re II for anticipated operating expenses (capped at $250 thousand per year). For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, NMIC ceded risk premiums of $1.6 million. NMIC did not cede any losses to Oaktown Re II.
Under the reinsurance agreement, NMIC holds an optional termination right if certain events occur, including, among others, a clean-up call if the outstanding reinsurance coverage amount amortizes to 10% or less of the reinsurance coverage amount at inception or if NMIC reasonably determines that changes to GSE or rating agency asset requirements would cause a material and adverse effect on the capital treatment afforded to NMIC under the agreement. In addition, there are certain events that will result in mandatory termination of the agreement, including NMIC's failure to pay premiums or consent to reductions in the trust account to make principal payments to noteholders, among others.
Under the terms of the 2018 ILN Transaction, we are required to maintain a certain level of restricted funds in a premium deposit account with Bank of New York Mellon until the 2018 Notes have been redeemed in full. "Cash and cash equivalents" on our balance sheet includes restricted cash of $1.4 million as of September 30, 2018. We are not required to deposit additional funds into the premium deposit account and the restricted balance will decrease over time as the principal balance of the 2018 Notes declines.
Quota share reinsurance
In2016 QSR Transaction
Effective September 1, 2016, NMIC entered into a quota-share reinsurance transactionthe 2016 QSR Transaction with a panel of third-party reinsurers (2016 QSR Transaction).reinsurers. Each of the third-party reinsurers has an insurer financial strength rating of A- or better by Standard and Poor’s Rating Services (S&P), A.M. Best or both.
Under the 2016 QSR Transaction, effective September 1, 2016, NMIC ceded premiums written related to:
25% of existing risk written on eligible policies as of August 31, 2016;
100% of existing risk under our pool agreement with Fannie Mae; and
25% of risk on eligible policies written from September 1, 2016 through December 31, 2017.
The 2016 QSR Transaction is scheduled to terminate on December 31, 2027, except with respect to the ceded pool risk, which is scheduled to terminate on August 31, 2023. However, NMIC has the option, based on certain conditions and subject to a termination fee, to terminate the agreement as of December 31, 2020, or at the end of any calendar quarter thereafter, which would result in NMIC reassuming the related risk.
2018 QSR Transaction
Effective January 1, 2018, NMIC entered into the 2018 QSR Transaction with a panel of third-party reinsurers. Each of the third-party reinsurers has an insurer financial strength rating of A- or better by S&P, A.M. Best or both. Under the 2018 QSR
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

Transaction, NMIC cedes premiums earned related to 25% of risk on eligible policies written in 2018 and 20% to 30% (such amount to be determined by NMIC at its sole election by December 1, 2018) in 2019.
The 2018 QSR Transaction is scheduled to terminate on December 31, 2029. However, NMIC has the option, based on certain conditions and subject to a termination fee, to terminate the agreement as of December 31, 2022, or at the end of any calendar quarter thereafter, which would result in NMIC reassuming the related risk.
The following table shows the amounts related to the 2016 QSR Transaction:Transactions:
For the three months endedFor the nine months endedFor the three months ended For the nine months ended
September 30, 2017September 30, 2016September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
(In Thousands)(In Thousands)
Ceded risk-in-force$2,682,982
$1,778,235
$2,682,982
 $1,778,235
3,960,461
 2,682,982
 3,960,461
 2,682,982
Ceded premiums written(14,389)(38,977)(36,715) (38,977)(16,546) (14,389) (46,389) (36,715)
Ceded premiums earned(13,393)(2,885)(34,721) (2,885)(19,286) (13,393) (53,581) (34,721)
Ceded claims and claims expenses277
90
887
 90
337
 277
 1,053
 887
Ceding commission written2,878
7,795
7,343
 7,795
3,320
 2,878
 9,289
 7,343
Ceding commission earned2,581
551
6,921
 551
3,814
 2,581
 10,501
 6,921
Profit commission7,758
1,641
19,945
 1,641
11,272
 7,758
 31,180
 19,945
Ceded premiums written under the 2016 QSR Transaction are recorded on the balance sheet as prepaid reinsurance premiums and amortized to ceded premiums earned in a manner consistent with the recognition of incomerevenue on direct premiums. Under the 2018 QSR Transaction, premiums are ceded on an earned basis as defined in the agreement. NMIC receives a 20% ceding commission for premiums ceded pursuant to this transaction.under the QSR Transactions. NMIC also receives a profit commission, provided that the loss ratio on the loans covered under the agreement2016 QSR Transaction and 2018 QSR Transaction generally remains below 60% and 61%, respectively, as measured annually. Ceded claims and claimsclaim expenses under the QSR Transactions reduce NMIC's profit commission on a dollar-for-dollar basis.
In accordance with the terms of the 2016 QSR Transaction, rather than making a cash payment or transferring investments for ceded premiums written, NMIC established a funds withheld liability, which also includes amounts due to NMIC for ceding and profit commissions. Any loss recoveries and any potential profit commission to NMIC will be realized from this account until exhausted. NMIC's reinsurance recoverable balance is further supported by trust accounts established and maintained by each reinsurer in accordance with the PMIERs funding requirements for risk ceded to non-affiliates. The reinsurance recoverable on loss reserves related to our 2016 QSR Transaction was $1.2$2.5 million as of September 30, 2017.2018.
In accordance with the terms of the 2018 QSR Transaction, cash payments for ceded premiums earned are settled on a quarterly basis, offset by amounts due to NMIC for ceding and profit commissions. Any loss recoveries and any potential profit commission to NMIC are also settled quarterly. NMIC's reinsurance recoverable balance is supported by trust accounts established and maintained by each reinsurer in accordance with the PMIERs funding requirements for risk ceded to non-affiliates. The agreement is scheduledreinsurance recoverable on loss reserves related to terminate on December 31, 2027, except with respect to the ceded pool risk, which is scheduled to terminate on August 31, 2023. However, NMIC has the option, based on certain conditions and subject to a termination fee, to terminate the agreementour 2018 QSR Transaction was $64 thousand as of December 31, 2020, or at the end of any calendar quarter thereafter, which would result in NMIC reassuming the related risk.September 30, 2018.
6. Reserves for Insurance Claims and ClaimsClaim Expenses
We establish reserves to recognize the estimated liability for insurance claims and claim expenses related to defaults on insured mortgage loans. Our method, consistentConsistent with industry practice, is towe establish reserves only for loans that have been reported to us by servicers as having been in default for at least 60 days. Ourdays, referred to as case reserves, also include amounts for estimated claims incurredand additional loans that we estimate (based on loans thatactuarial review) have been in default for at least 60 days that have not yet been reported to us by the servicers, often referred to as IBNR.incurred but not reported (IBNR) reserves. We also establish claims expense reserves, which represent the estimated cost of the claim administration process, including legal and other fees, as well as other general expenses of administering the claims settlement process. As of September 30, 2017,2018, we had reserves for insurance claims and claims expenses of $6.1$10.9 million for 350746 primary loans in default. During the first nine months of 2017,2018, we paid 1659 claims totaling $731 thousand,$2.2 million, including two42 claims totaling $11 thousand covered under the 2016 QSR Transaction.Transactions representing $438 thousand of ceded claims and claims expenses.
In 2013, we entered into a pool insurance transaction with Fannie Mae. The pool transaction includes a deductible, which represents the amount of claims to be absorbed by Fannie Mae before we are obligated to pay any claims. We only establish reserves for pool risk if we expect claims to exceed the deductible under the pool agreement, which represents the amount of claims absorbed by Fannie Mae before we are obligated to pay any claims.this deductible. At September 30, 2017, 462018, 53 loans in the pool were past due by 60 days or more. These 46 loans
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

more. These 53 loans represent approximately $3.0$3.2 million of risk-in-force (RIF). Due to the size of the remaining deductible, of $10.0 million, the low level of notices of default (NODs) reported on loans in the pool through September 30, 20172018 and the expected severity (all loans in the pool have loan-to-value ratios (LTVs)(LTV) ratios under 80%), we did not have not established any poolcase or IBNR reserves for claims or IBNR for thepool risks at three and nine months endedSeptember 30, 20172018 and 2016.. In connection with the settlement of pool claims, we applied $368 thousand$0.6 million to the pool deductible through September 30, 2017.2018. At September 30, 2018, the remaining pool deductible was $9.8 million. We have not paid any pool claims to date. 100% of our pool RIF is reinsured under the 2016 QSR Transaction.
The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending reserve balances for primary insurance claims and claimsclaim expenses:
For the nine months ended September 30,For the nine months ended September 30,
2017 20162018 2017
(In Thousands)(In Thousands)
Beginning balance$3,001
 $679
$8,761
 $3,001
Less reinsurance recoverables (1)
(297) 
(1,902) (297)
Beginning balance, net of reinsurance recoverables2,704
 679
6,859
 2,704
      
Add claims incurred:      
Claims and claim expenses incurred:      
Current year (2)
3,546
 1,803
5,090
 3,546
Prior years (3)
(581) (214)(1,779) (581)
Total claims and claims expenses incurred2,965
 1,589
3,311
 2,965
      
Less claims paid:      
Claims and claim expenses paid:      
Current year (2)

 
37
 
Prior years (3)
720
 225
1,742
 720
Total claims and claim expenses paid720
 225
1,779
 720
      
Reserve at end of period, net of reinsurance recoverables4,949
 2,043
8,391
 4,949
Add reinsurance recoverables (1)
1,174
 90
2,517
 1,174
Ending balance$6,123
 $2,133
$10,908
 $6,123
(1) Related to ceded losses recoverable on the 2016 QSR Transaction,Transactions, included in "Other Assets" on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. See Note 5, "Reinsurance" for additional information.
(2) Related to insured loans with their most recent defaults occurring in the current year. For example, if a loan had defaulted in a prior year and subsequently cured and later re-defaulted in the current year, that default would be included in the current year.
(3) Related to insured loans with defaults occurring in prior years, which have been continuously in default since that time.
The "claims incurred" section of the table above shows claims and claim expenses incurred on NODs for current and prior years, including IBNR reserves. The amount of claims incurred relating to current year NODs represents the estimated amount of claims and claims expenses to be ultimately paid on such loans in default.  We recognized $581 thousand$1.8 million and $214 thousand$0.6 million of favorable prior year development during the nine months ended September 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively, due to NOD cures and ongoing analysis of recent loss development trends. We may increase or decrease our original estimates as we learn additional information about individual defaults and claims and continue to observe and analyze loss development trends in our portfolio. ReservesGross reserves of $1.7$3.7 million related to prior year defaults remained as of September 30, 2017.2018.
7. Earnings per Share

(EPS)
Basic earnings per share is based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding, while diluted earnings per share is based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding and common stock equivalents that would be issuable upon the vesting of service based RSUs, and exercise of vested and unvested stock options other share-based compensation arrangements, and the dilutive effect ofoutstanding
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

outstanding warrants. The following table reconciles the net income and the weighted average shares of common stock outstanding used in the computations of basic and diluted earnings per share of common stock:

For the three months ended September 30, For the nine months ended September 30,For the three months ended September 30, For the nine months ended September 30,
2017 2016 2017 20162018 2017 2018 2017

(In Thousands, except for per share data)(In Thousands, except for per share data)
Net income$12,312
 $6,175
 $23,816
 $4,279
$24,811
 $12,312
 $72,407
 $23,816
       
Basic weighted average shares outstanding65,948
 59,884
 64,584
 59,680
Basic earnings per share$0.21
 $0.10
 $0.40
 $0.07
$0.38
 $0.21
 $1.12
 $0.40
              
Net income$24,811
 $12,312
 $72,407
 $23,816
Warrant gain, net of tax
 
 
 
Diluted net income$24,811
 $12,312
 $72,407
 $23,816
       
Basic weighted average shares outstanding59,883,629
 59,130,401
 59,680,166
 59,047,758
65,948
 59,884
 64,584
 59,680
Dilutive effect of non-vested shares and warrants3,205,329
 1,154,345
 3,093,167
 814,158
Dilutive weighted average shares outstanding63,088,958
 60,284,746
 62,773,333
 59,861,916
Dilutive effect of issuable shares2,896
 3,205
 2,928
 3,093
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding68,844
 63,089
 67,512
 62,773
              
Diluted earnings per share$0.20

$0.10
 $0.38
 $0.07
$0.36
 $0.20
 $1.07
 $0.38
       
Anti-dilutive shares
 830
 252
 832

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, 830,043 and 832,460, respectively, and for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, 4,012,046 and 4,326,168, respectively, of our common stock equivalents issued under share-based compensation arrangements were not included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share because they were anti-dilutive. The warrants were not dilutive in 2016.
8. Warrants
We issued 992,000992 thousand warrants in connection with ourthe Private Placement. Each warrant gives the holder thereof the right to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price equal to $10.00. The warrants were issued with an aggregate fair value of $5.1 million. Upon exercise of these
During the nine months ended September 30, 2018, 142 thousand warrants the amounts will be treated as additional paid-in capital.were exercised resulting in 87 thousand common shares issued. No warrants were exercised during the nine months ended September 30, 20172017. Upon exercise, we reclassified the fair value of the warrants from warrant liability to additional paid-in capital and 2016. recognized a loss of approximately $333 thousand.
We account for these warrants to purchase our common shares in accordance with ASC 470-20, Debt with Conversion and Other Options and ASC 815-40, Derivatives and Hedging - Contracts in Entity's Own Equity.
9. Income Taxes
We are a U.S. taxpayer and are subject to a statutory U.S. federal corporate income tax rate of 21% for the current and all future years following the enactment of the TCJA on December 22, 2017. We were subject to a statutory U.S. federal corporate income tax rate of 35%. for all prior years through December 31, 2017. NMIH files a consolidated U.S. federal and various state income tax returns on behalf of itself and its subsidiaries. Our provision for income taxes for the interim reporting periods areis established based on anour estimated annual effective tax raterates for the year ending December 31, 2017.a given year. Our effective tax rate on our pre-tax income was 22.1% and 20.2% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, respectively, compared to 36.9% and 33.3% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively, compared to 1.8% and 2.6% for the comparable 2016 periods.respectively. The increasedecrease in the effective tax expenserates for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, against2018 compared to the comparable 2016 periodsthree and nine months ended September 30, 2017 is attributable to the elimination ofdecrease in the statutory U.S. federal corporate income tax benefits during the comparable 2016 periods due to the recognition of a full valuation allowance which had been recorded to reflect the amount of the deferred taxes that may not be realized.rate. We currently pay no regular federal income tax primarily due to the forecasted utilization of our federal net operating loss carryforwards, which were $122.9$93.9 million as of December 31, 2016. The2017. As a result, the interim provision for income taxes include current year alternative minimum tax andrepresents changes to deferred tax assets. See Note 1
Provisional amounts
, "OrganizationThe TCJA reduced the statutory U.S. federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% and Basischanged the tax deductibility of Presentation - Immaterial Correctioncertain expenses for tax years beginning after December 31, 2017. We have not completed our full assessment of Prior Period Amounts" for further details.the tax effects of the enactment of the TCJA on our deferred tax balances as of September 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017; however, in certain

NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

cases, as described below, we have made reasonable estimates of the effects on our deferred tax balances. We recognized a $13.6 million income tax expense in the year ended December 31, 2017 for the items we could reasonably estimate. We are still analyzing the TCJA and refining our calculations, which could impact the measurement of our existing deferred tax assets including those related to share-based compensation. For tax years beginning after December 31, 2017, the TCJA expanded the number of individuals whose compensation is subject to a $1 million cap on tax deductibility and includes performance-based compensation in the calculation. As a result, we recorded a provisional amount to reduce the future tax benefit related to share-based compensation. We will continue to make and refine our calculations as additional analysis is completed. In addition, our estimates may also be affected as we incorporate additional guidance that may be issued by the U.S. Treasury Department, the IRS, or other standard-setting bodies.
In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02, Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Topic 220). This update permits a company to reclassify the disproportionate income tax effects as a result of the TCJA on items within AOCI to retained earnings. We adopted this update on January 1, 2018 and adjusted the disproportionate income tax effects, or "stranded tax effects," resulting in a $0.3 million reduction to our beginning retained earnings as of January 1, 2018. The disproportionate tax effects that remain in AOCI of $4.2 million were not related to the TCJA and will remain in AOCI until certain events occur. Our elected accounting policy for available-for-sale debt securities is the "aggregate portfolio" approach.
10. StatutoryCommon Stock Offerings
In March 2018, we completed the sale of 3.7 million shares of common stock and granted the underwriters on the transaction a 15% overallotment option to purchase additional shares. The overallotment option was exercised in full, resulting in a total of 4.3 million shares of common stock issued. The common stock offering generated total proceeds of approximately $79.2 million, net of underwriting discounts, commissions and other direct offering expenses.
11. Regulatory Information
Our insurance subsidiaries, NMIC and Re One, file financial statements in conformity with statutory accounting principles (SAP) prescribed or permitted by the Wisconsin OCI, NMIC's principal regulator. Prescribed SAP includes state laws, regulations and general administrative rules, as well as a variety of publications of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. The Wisconsin OCI recognizes only statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the state of Wisconsin for determining and reporting the financial condition and results of operations of an insurance company and for determining its solvency under Wisconsin insurance laws.
NMIC and Re One's combined statutory net loss,income (loss) was as follows:
 For the three months ended September 30, For the nine months ended September 30,
 2018 2017 2018 2017
 (In Thousands)
Statutory net (loss)$(17,274) $(7,688) $(22,022) $(29,394)
NMIC and Re One's statutory surplus, contingency reserve and RTCrisk-to-capital (RTC) ratios were as follows:
As of and for the nine months and year endedSeptember 30, 2017 December 31, 2016
 (In Thousands)
Statutory net loss$(29,394) $(26,653)
Statutory surplus379,160
 413,809
Contingency reserve157,326
 90,479
Risk-to-Capital11.5:1
 11.6:1
 September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017
 (Dollars In Thousands)
Statutory surplus$440,697
 $371,084
Contingency reserve292,030
 186,641
RTC Ratio13.3:1
 13.2:1
NMIH is not subject to any limitations on its ability to pay dividends except those generally applicable to corporations that are incorporated in Delaware. Delaware such as NMIH. Delaware corporationcorporate law provides that dividends are only payable out of a corporation's surplus or, subject to certain limitations, recent net profits (subject to certain limitations).profits. NMIC and Re One are subject to restrictions on theirOne's ability to pay dividends without prior approval of theto NMIH is subject to Wisconsin OCI.OCI notice or approval. Certain other states in which NMIC is licensed also have statutes or regulations that restrict its ability to pay dividends. Since inception, NMIC hasand Re One have not paid any dividends to NMIH.


Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
The following analysis should be read in conjunction with our unaudited consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in this report and our audited financial statements, notes thereto and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" included in our 20162017 10-K, for a more complete understanding of our financial position and results of operations. In addition, investors should review the "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" above and the "Risk Factors" detailed in Part I, Item 1A of our 20162017 10-K and Part II, Item 1A of our First Quarter 10-Q, as subsequently updated in other reports we file with the SEC, for a discussion of those risks and uncertainties that have the potential to affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or prospects in a material and adverse manner. Our results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for a full fiscal year or for any other period.
Overview
We provide private MI through our wholly owned insurance subsidiaries. Oursubsidiaries NMIC and Re One. NMIC and Re One are domiciled in Wisconsin and principally regulated by the Wisconsin OCI. NMIC is our primary insurance subsidiary, NMIC,and is approved as an MI provider by the GSEs and is licensed to write MI coverage in all 50 states and D.C. Both of our insurance subsidiaries, NMIC and Re One are domiciled in Wisconsin and directly regulated by our primary regulator, the Wisconsin OCI. Re One solely provides statutorily required reinsurance to NMIC on insured loans with coverage levels in excess of 25%. after giving effect to third-party reinsurance. Our subsidiary, NMIS, provides outsourced loan review services on a limited basis to mortgage loan originators. Our stock trades on the NASDAQ under the symbol "NMIH."
MI protects lenders and investors from default-related losses on a portion of the unpaid principal balance of a covered mortgage. MI plays a critical role in the U.S. housing market by mitigating mortgage credit risk and facilitating the secondary market sale of high LTVhigh-LTV (i.e., above 80%) residential loans to the GSEs, who are otherwise restricted by their charters from purchasing or guaranteeing low down paymenthigh-LTV mortgages that are not covered by certain credit protections. Such credit protection and secondary market sales allow lenders to increase their capacity for mortgage commitments and expand financing access to existing and prospective primarily first-time, homeowners.
We were formedNMIH, a Delaware corporation, was incorporated in May 2011, and we began start-up operations in 2012 and wrote our first MI policy in 2013. Since formation, we have sought to establish customer relationships with a broad group of mortgage lenders and build a diversified, high-quality insured portfolio. As of September 30, 2017,2018, we had master policy relationships with 1,2401,340 customers, including national and regional mortgage banks, money center banks, credit unions, community banks, builder-owned mortgage lenders and internet-sourcedother non bank lenders. As of September 30, 2017,2018, we had $46.6$66.5 billion of total insurance-in-force (IIF), including primary IIF of $43.3$63.5 billion, and $10.7$15.8 billion of gross RIF, including primary RIF of $10.6$15.7 billion.
We believe that our success in acquiring a large and diverse group of lender customers and growing a portfolio of high-quality IIF traces to our founding principles, whereby we aim to help qualified individuals achieve the dream of homeownership, ensure that we remain a strong and credible counter-party, deliver a unique customer service experience, establish a differentiated risk management approach that emphasizes the individual underwriting review or validation of the vast majority of the loans we insure, and foster a culture of collaboration and excellence that helps us attract and retain experienced industry leaders. As of September 30, 2018, we had 300 full-time employees.
Our strategy is to continue to build on our position in the private MI market, expand our customer base and grow our insured portfolio of high-quality residential loans by focusing on long-term customer relationships, disciplined and proactive risk selection and pricing, fair and transparent claims payment practices, responsive customer service, financial strength and profitability.
Our common stock trades on the NASDAQ under the symbol "NMIH."
We discuss below our results of operations for the periods presented, andas well as the conditions and trends that have impacted or are expected to impact our business.business, including new insurance writings, the composition of our insurance portfolio and other factors that we expect to impact our results. Our headquarters are located in Emeryville, California and our website is www.nationalmi.com. Our website and the information contained on or accessible through our website are not incorporated by reference into this report.
New Insurance Written, Insurance In Force and Risk In Force
New insurance written (NIW) is the aggregate unpaid principal balance of mortgages underpinning new policies written during a given period. Our NIW is affected by the overall size of the mortgage origination market and the volume of low down paymenthigh-LTV mortgage originations, which tend to be generated to a greater extent in purchase originations as compared to refinancings. Our NIW is also affected by the percentage of such low down paymenthigh-LTV originations covered by private versus public MI or other alternative credit enhancement structures and our share of the private MI market. NIW, together with persistency, drives our IIF. IIF is the aggregate unpaid principal balance of the mortgages we insure, as reported to us by servicers at a given date, and represents the sum total of


NIW from all prior periods less principal payments on insured mortgages and policy cancellations (including for prepayment, nonpayment of premiums, coverage rescission and claims payment)claim payments). RIF is related to IIF and represents the aggregate amount of coverage we provide on all outstanding policies at a given date. RIF is calculated as the sum total of the coverage percentage of each individual policy in our portfolio applied to the unpaid principal balance of such insured mortgage. RIF is affected by IIF and the LTV profile of our insured mortgages, with lower LTV loans generally having a lower coverage percentage and higher LTV loans having a higher coverage percentage. Gross RIF represents RIF without anybefore consideration of the impact of reinsurance. Net RIF representsis gross RIF net of ceded risk and is therefore affected by our reinsurance agreements.reinsurance.



Net Premiums Written and Net Premiums Earned
Our objective is to achieve a mid-teens return on PMIERs required assets and weWe set our premium rates on individual policies based on the risk characteristics of the underlying mortgage loans and borrowers, and in accordance with our filed rates and applicable rating rules. See " - Effective June 4, 2018, we implemented our proprietary risk-based pricing platform, which we refer to as Rate GPSGSE OversightSM," below. Rate GPS considers up to 30 individual risk variables to assist in our underwriting selection process and determine policy pricing on an individual loan basis. Rate GPS evaluates a broader and more granular spectrum of risk attributes than our previous rate card pricing system and, we believe, provides us with an increased ability to align our premium rates with the risks of each individual loan. Although we expect most new business to be priced through Rate GPS, we will continue to offer a rate card pricing option to a limited number of lender customers who require a rate card for operational reasons. We believe Rate GPS will enhance our ability to continue building a discussion of the PMIERs financial requirements.high-quality mortgage insurance portfolio, and allow us to achieve risk-adjusted returns in line with our pricing expectations.
Premiums are generally fixed over the estimated life of the underlying loans. Net premiums written are equal to gross premiums written minus ceded premiums written under our reinsurance arrangements.arrangements and less premium refunds. As a result, net premiums written are generally influenced by:
NIW;
premium rates and the mix of premium payment type, which are either single, monthly or annual premiums, as described below;
cancellation rates of our insurance policies, which are impacted by payments or prepayments on mortgages, refinancings (which are affected by prevailing mortgage interest rates)rates as compared to interest rates on loans underpinning our in force policies), levels of claims payments and home prices;
cession of premiums under third-party reinsurance arrangements.
Premiums are paid either by the borrower (BPMI) or the lender (LPMI) in a single payment at origination (single premium), on a monthly installment basis (monthly premium) or on an annual installment basis (annual premium). Our net premiums written will differ from our net premiums earned due to policy payment type. For single premiums, we receive a single premium payment at origination, which is initially recorded as unearned premium and earned over the estimated life of the policy. A majority of our single premium policies in force as of September 30, 20172018 were non-refundable under most cancellation scenarios. If non-refundable single premium policies are canceled, we immediately recognize the remaining unearned premium balances as earned premium revenue. Monthly premiums are recognized in the month billed and when the coverage is effective. Annual premiums are earned on a straight-line basis over the year of coverage. Substantially all of our policies provide for either single or monthly premiums.
The percentage of IIF that remains on our books after any 12-month period is defined as our persistency rate. Because our insurance premiums are earned over the life of a policy, higher persistency rates can have a significant impact on our net premiums earned and profitability. Generally, faster speeds of mortgage prepayment lead to lower persistency. Prepayment speeds and the relative mix of business between single and monthly premium policies also impact our profitability. Our premium rates include certain assumptions regarding repayment or prepayment speeds of the mortgages underlying our policies. Because premiums are paid at origination on single premium policies and substantially all of our single premium policies are non-refundable on cancellation, assuming all other factors remain constant, if single premium loans are prepaid earlier than expected, our profitability on these loans is likely to increase and, if loans are repaid slower than expected, our profitability on these loans is likely to decrease. By contrast, if monthly premium loans are repaid earlier than anticipated, we do not earn any more premium with respect to those loans and, unless we replace the repaid monthly premium loan with a new loan at the same or greater premium rate, our profitability is likely to decline.
Effect of reinsurance on our results
We utilize third-party reinsurance to actively manage our risk, ensure PMIERs compliance and support the growth of our business. We currently have both quota share and excess-of-loss reinsurance agreements in place, which impact our results of operations and regulatory capital and PMIERs asset positions. Under a quota share reinsurance agreement, the reinsurer receives a


premium in exchange for covering an agreed-upon portion of incurred losses. Such a quota share arrangement reduces net premiums written and earned and also reduces net RIF, providing capital relief to the ceding insurance company and reducing incurred claims in accordance with the terms of the reinsurance agreement. In addition, reinsurers typically pay ceding commissions as part of quota share transactions, which offset the ceding company’scompany's acquisition and underwriting expenses. Certain quota share agreements include profit commissions that are earned based on loss performance and serve to reduce ceded premiums. Under an excess-of-loss agreement, the ceding insurer is typically responsible for losses up to an agreed-upon threshold and the reinsurer then provides coverage in excess of such threshold up to a maximum agreed-upon limit. In general, there are no ceding commissions under excess-of-loss reinsurance agreements. We expect to continue to evaluate reinsurance opportunities in the normal course of business.
In September 2016, Quota share reinsurance
The 2018 QSR Transaction took effect on January 1, 2018. Under the terms of the 2018 QSR Transaction, NMIC has ceded or will cede 25% of its eligible policies written in 2018 and 20% to 30% (such amount to be determined by NMIC at its sole election by December 1, 2018) of eligible policies written in 2019, in exchange for reimbursement of ceded claims and claims expenses on covered policies, a 20% ceding commission, and a profit commission of up to 61% that varies directly and inversely with ceded claims.
NMIC entered into the 2016 QSR Transaction.Transaction in September 2016. Under the terms of the 2016 QSR Transaction, NMIC (1) ceded 100% of the risk relating to our pool agreement with Fannie Mae, and (2) ceded or will cede25% of existing risk written on eligible policies as of August 31, 2016 and (3) ceded 25% of the risk relating to eligible primary insurance policies written between September 1, 2016 and December 31, 2017, in exchange for reimbursement of ceded claims and claims expenses on covered policies, a 20% ceding commission, and a profit commission of up to 60% that varies directly and inversely with ceded claims.
Excess-of-loss reinsurance
In July 2018, NMIC secured $264.5 million of aggregate excess-of-loss reinsurance coverage at inception for an existing portfolio of MI policies written from January 1, 2017 through May 31, 2018, through a mortgage insurance-linked notes offering by Oaktown Re II. The reinsurance coverage amount under the terms of the 2018 ILN Transaction decreases from $264.5 million at inception over a ten-year period as the underlying covered mortgages are amortized or repaid, and/or the mortgage insurance coverage is canceled. The outstanding reinsurance coverage amount will begin amortizing after an initial period in which a target level of credit enhancement is obtained and was $264.5 million as of September 30, 2018. For the reinsurance coverage period, NMIC retains the first layer of $125.3 million of aggregate losses, of which all remained at September 30, 2018, and Oaktown Re II then provides a second layer coverage up to the outstanding reinsurance coverage amount. NMIC retains losses in excess of the outstanding reinsurance coverage amount.
In May 2017, NMIC secured $211.3 million of aggregate excess-of-loss reinsurance coverage at inception for an existing portfolio of MI policies written from 2013 through December 31, 2016, through a mortgage insurance-linked notes offering by


Oaktown Re. The reinsurance coverage amount under the terms of the 2017 ILN Transaction decreases from $211.3 million at inception over a ten-year period as the underlying covered mortgages amortizeare amortized or repaid, and/or the mortgage insurance coverage is canceled and was $185$144.1 million as of September 30, 2017.2018. For the reinsurance coverage period, NMIC will retainretains the first layer of $126.8 million of aggregate losses, of which $125.6 million remained as of September 30, 2018, and Oaktown Re will then provide aprovides second layer of coverage up to the outstanding reinsurance coverage amount. NMIC retains losses in excess of the outstanding reinsurance coverage amount.
See, Item 1, "Financial Statements - Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 5, Reinsurance" for further discussion of these third-party reinsurance arrangements.


Portfolio Data
The following table presents primary and pool NIW and IIF as of the dates and for the periods indicated. Unless otherwise noted, the tables below do not include the effects of our third-party reinsurance arrangements described above.
Primary and pool IIF and NIWAs of and for the three months ended For the nine months endedAs of and for the three months ended For the nine months ended
September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
IIF NIW IIF NIW NIWIIF NIW IIF NIW NIW
  (In Millions)  (In Millions)
Monthly$28,707
 $4,833
 $16,038
 $4,162
 $11,824
 $10,354
$46,967
 $6,675
 $28,707
 $4,833
 $17,827
 $11,824
Single14,552
 1,282
 12,190
 1,695
 2,887
 5,595
16,560
 686
 14,552
 1,282
 2,507
 2,887
Primary43,259
 6,115
 28,228
 5,857
 14,711
 15,949
63,527
 7,361
 43,259
 6,115
 20,334
 14,711
                      
Pool3,330
 
 3,826
 $
 
 
2,974
 
 3,330
 $
 
 
Total$46,589
 $6,115
 $32,054
 $5,857
 $14,711
 $15,949
$66,501
 $7,361
 $46,589
 $6,115
 $20,334
 $14,711
For the three months ended September 30, 2017, primary NIW increased 4%, compared to the same period in 2016, primarily because of the growth within and an expansion of our customer base. Primary NIW decreased 8% for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2016, due to a reduction in our single policy production, driven primarily by actions we initiated to reduce the concentration of single policies in our product mix, partially offset by growth in our monthly policy volume. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, NIW increased 20% and 38%, respectively, compared to the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, primarily because of the growth in our monthly policy volume tied to increased penetration of existing customer accounts and new customer account activations, partially offset by a reduction in our single policy production. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, monthly premium NIW increased 16%38% and 14%51%, respectively, compared to the same periods a year ago, driven primarily by the growth of our customer base.ago.
For the ninethree months ended September 30, 2017, 80%2018, monthly premium polices accounted for 91% of our NIW related to monthly premium policies.NIW. As of September 30, 2017,2018, monthly premium policies accounted for 66%74% of our primary IIF, as compared to 60% at December 31, 2016 and 57%66% at September 30, 2016.2017. We expect the break-down of monthly premium policies and single premium policies (which we refer to as "mix") in our primary IIF to continue to trend toward our current NIW mix over time. Our totalprimary IIF increased 45%47% as of September 30, 20172018 compared to September 30, 2016,2017, primarily because of ourthe NIW generated between such measurement dates and higherthe high persistency of our policies in force.
The following table presents net premiums written and earned for the periods indicated.
Primary and pool premiums written and earnedFor the three months endedFor the nine months endedFor the three months ended For the nine months ended
September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2017September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
(In Thousands)(In Thousands)
Net premiums written (1)
$47,716
 $9,199
$122,105
$96,190
$65,381
 $47,716
 $188,854
 $122,105
Net premiums earned (1)
44,519
 31,808
115,661
77,656
65,407
 44,519
 181,936
 115,661
(1) Net premiums written and earned are reported net of reinsurance.reinsurance and premium refunds.
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017,2018, net premiums written increased 419%37% and 27%55%, respectively, and net premiums earned increased 40%47% and 49%57%, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2016.2017. The increases in net premiums written and earned are due to the growth of our IIF and increased monthly policy production, and IIFpartially offset by increased cessions under the QSR Transactions tied to the growth of our direct premium volume and the initial cessioninception dates of the ILN Transactions. The growth of our net premiums written on IIF atand net premiums earned was also impacted by the inception ofQSR Transactions. Under the 2016 QSR Transaction, partially offset bypremiums on singles policies are ceded on a written basis, with unearned premium reserves ceded and recognized on balance sheet as prepaid reinsurance premiums, and subsequently amortized to earnings in a manner consistent with the decrease in singlerecognition of earnings on direct premiums written. Under the 2018 QSR Transaction, premiums on singles policies are ceded on an earned basis. The reinsurance coverage period for the 2016 QSR Transaction ended for new policies written after December 31, 2017, and we did not cede any unearned premium NIW. The increases in net premiums earned are primarily due to growth in our monthly policy production and IIF, partially offset by cessionsreserves on singles policies under the 2016 QSR Transaction and 2017 ILN Transaction and,during the three or nine months ended September 30, 2018. We did, however, continue to recognize earnings from the amortization of prepaid reinsurance premiums on policies previously ceded under the 2016 QSR Transaction. This contributed to accelerated growth in net premiums earned compared to net premiums written for the same periods in 2016, reductions in our single premium policy production and earningspresented.


from cancellations. Pool premiums written and earned for the three and nine months ended September 30, 20172018, were $0.9 million and $2.9$2.6 million, respectively, before the effects of the 2016 QSR Transaction.Transaction, under which all of our written and earned pool premiums have been ceded.


Portfolio Statistics
Unless otherwise noted, the portfolio statistics tables presented below do not include the effects of our third-party reinsurance arrangements described above. The table below highlights trends in our primary portfolio as of the date and for the periods indicated.
Primary portfolio trendsAs of and for the three months endedAs of and for the three months ended
September 30, 2017 June 30, 2017 March 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 June 30, 2018 March 31, 2018 December 31, 2017 September 30, 2017
($ Values In Millions)($ Values In Millions)
New insurance written$6,115
 $5,037
 $3,559
 $5,240
 $5,857
$7,361
 $6,513
 $6,460
 $6,876
 $6,115
Percentage of monthly premium91% 88% 84% 83% 79%
Percentage of single premium9% 12% 16% 17% 21%
New risk written1,496
 1,242
 868
 1,244
 1,415
$1,883
 $1,647
 $1,580
 $1,665
 $1,496
Insurance in force (1)
43,259
 38,629
 34,779
 32,168
 28,228
Insurance in force (IIF) (1)
63,527
 58,089
 53,434
 48,465
 43,259
Percentage of monthly premium74% 72% 70% 69% 66%
Percentage of single premium26% 28% 30% 31% 34%
Risk in force (1)
10,572
 9,417
 8,444
 7,790
 6,847
$15,744
 $14,308
 $13,085
 $11,843
 $10,572
Policies in force (count) (1)
180,089
 161,195
 145,632
 134,662
 119,002
262,485
 241,993
 223,263
 202,351
 180,089
Average loan size (1)
$0.240
 $0.240
 $0.239
 $0.239
 $0.237
$0.242
 $0.240
 $0.239
 $0.240
 $0.240
Weighted-average coverage (2)
24.4% 24.4% 24.3% 24.2% 24.3%
Average coverage (2)
24.8% 24.6% 24.5% 24.4% 24.4%
Loans in default (count)350
 249
 207
 179
 115
746
 768
 1,000
 928
 350
Percentage of loans in default0.2% 0.2% 0.1% 0.1% 0.1%0.3% 0.3% 0.5% 0.5% 0.2%
Risk in force on defaulted loans$19
 $14
 $12
 $10
 $6
$42
 $43
 $57
 $53
 $19
Average premium yield (3)
0.43% 0.41% 0.40% 0.44% 0.48%0.43% 0.44% 0.43% 0.44% 0.43%
Earnings from cancellations$4.3
 $3.8
 $2.5
 $5.1
 $5.8
$2.6
 $3.1
 $2.8
 $4.2
 $4.3
Annual persistency85.1% 83.1% 81.3% 80.7% 81.8%
Quarterly run-off (4)
3.8% 3.4% 2.9% 4.6% 5.3%
Annual persistency (4)
86.1% 85.5% 85.7% 86.1% 85.1%
Quarterly run-off (5)
3.3% 3.5% 3.1% 3.9% 3.8%
(1) 
Reported as of the end of the period.
(2) 
Calculated as end of period RIF divided by IIF.
(3) 
Calculated as net primary and pool premiums earned, net of reinsurance, divided by average gross primary IIF for the period, annualized.
(4) 
Defined as the percentage of IIF that remains on our books after any 12-month period.
(5)
Defined as the percentage of IIF that is no longer on our books after any three-month3-month period.
The table below presents a summary of the change in total primary IIF during the periods indicated.
Primary IIFFor the three months ended For the nine months endedFor the three months ended For the nine months ended
September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
(In Millions)(In Millions)
IIF, beginning of period$38,629
 $23,624
 $32,168
 $14,824
$58,089
 $38,629
 $48,465
 $32,168
NIW6,115
 5,857
 14,711
 15,949
7,361
 6,115
 20,334
 14,711
Cancellations and other reductions(1,485) (1,253) (3,620) (2,545)(1,923) (1,485) (5,272) (3,620)
IIF, end of period$43,259
 $28,228
 $43,259
 $28,228
$63,527
 $43,259
 $63,527
 $43,259


We consider a "book" to be a collective pool of policies insured during a particular period, normally a calendar year. In general, the majority of underwriting profit, calculated as earned premium revenue minus claims and underwriting and operating expenses, generated by a particular book year emerges in the years immediately following origination. This pattern generally occurs because relatively few of the claims that a book will ultimately experience typically occur in the first few years following origination, when premium revenue is highest, while subsequent years are affected by declining premium revenues, as the number of insured loans decreases (primarily due to loan prepayments), and by increasing losses.
The table below presents a summary of our primary IIF and RIF by book year as of the dates indicated.
Primary IIF and RIFAs of September 30, 2017 As of September 30, 2016As of September 30, 2018 As of September 30, 2017
IIF RIF IIF RIFIIF RIF IIF RIF
(In Millions)(In Millions)
September 30, 2017$14,315
 $3,508
 $
 $
September 30, 2018$19,804
 $4,980
 $
 $
201719,317
 4,731
 14,315
 3,508
201618,684
 4,520
 15,433
 3,719
16,086
 3,948
 18,684
 4,520
20158,742
 2,167
 10,679
 2,610
7,144
 1,790
 8,742
 2,167
20141,479
 368
 2,062
 505
1,145
 288
 1,479
 368
201339
 9
 54
 13
31
 7
 39
 9
Total$43,259
 $10,572
 $28,228
 $6,847
$63,527
 $15,744
 $43,259
 $10,572
We utilize certain risk principles that form the basis of how we underwrite and originate primary NIW. We manage our portfolio credit risk by using several loan eligibility matrices which prescribe the maximum LTV, minimum borrower credit score, maximum borrower debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, maximum loan size, property type, loan type, loan term and occupancy status of loans that we will insure. Our loan eligibility matrices, as well as all of our detailed underwriting guidelines, are contained in our Underwriting Guideline Manual that is publicly available on our website. Our eligibility criteria and underwriting guidelines are designed to mitigate the layered risk inherent in a single insurance policy. "Layered risk" refers to the accumulation of borrower, loan and property risk. For example, we have higher credit score and lower maximum allowed LTV requirements for investor-owned properties, compared to owner-occupied properties. We monitor the concentrations of various risk attributes in our insurance portfolio, which may change over time, in part, as a result of regional conditions or public policy shifts.
The tables below present our primary NIW by FICO, LTV and purchase/refinance mix for the periods indicated. We calculate the LTV of a loan as the percentage of the original loan amount to the original purchase value of the property securing the loan.
Primary NIW by FICOFor the three months ended For the nine months endedFor the three months ended For the nine months ended
September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
($ In Millions)($ In Millions)
>= 760$2,806
 $2,975
 $6,865
 $8,418
$3,191
 $2,806
 $8,617
 $6,865
740-759934
 934
 2,277
 2,606
1,228
 934
 3,431
 2,277
720-739807
 725
 1,889
 1,870
1,095
 807
 2,973
 1,889
700-719697
 588
 1,662
 1,540
878
 697
 2,435
 1,662
680-699456
 387
 1,088
 940
632
 456
 1,668
 1,088
<=679415
 248
 930
 575
337
 415
 1,210
 930
Total$6,115
 $5,857
 $14,711
 $15,949
$7,361
 $6,115
 $20,334
 $14,711
Weighted average FICO747
 753
 748
 754
747
 747
 746
 748


Primary NIW by LTVFor the three months endedFor the nine months endedFor the three months ended For the nine months ended
September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
($ In Millions)($ In Millions)
95.01% and above$722
 $347
$1,470
 $918
$676
 $722
 $2,644
 $1,470
90.01% to 95.00%2,714
 2,557
6,623
 7,005
3,553
 2,714
 9,249
 6,623
85.01% to 90.00%1,765
 1,844
4,372
 4,996
2,373
 1,765
 6,017
 4,372
85.00% and below914
 1,109
2,246
 3,030
759
 914
 2,424
 2,246
Total$6,115
 $5,857
$14,711
 $15,949
$7,361
 $6,115
 $20,334
 $14,711
Weighted average LTV92.3% 91.7%92.2% 91.6%92.5% 92.3% 92.6% 92.2%
Primary NIW by purchase/refinance mixFor the three months ended For the nine months endedFor the three months ended For the nine months ended
September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
(In Millions)(In Millions)
Purchase$5,387
 $4,400
 $12,889
 $11,518
$7,022
 $5,387
 $18,584
 $12,889
Refinance728
 1,457
 1,822
 4,431
339
 728
 1,750
 1,822
Total$6,115
 $5,857
 $14,711
 $15,949
$7,361
 $6,115
 $20,334
 $14,711
The tables below present our total primary IIF and RIF by FICO and LTV and total primary RIF by loan type as of the dates indicated.
Primary IIF by FICOAs ofAs of
September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
($ Values In Millions)($ In Millions)
>= 760$21,329
 49% $14,258
 50%$29,627
 47% $21,329
 49%
740-7596,983
 16
 4,612
 16
10,386
 16
 6,983
 16
720-7395,547
 13
 3,648
 13
8,566
 14
 5,547
 13
700-7194,505
 10
 2,813
 10
7,008
 11
 4,505
 10
680-6992,942
 7
 1,863
 7
4,655
 7
 2,942
 7
<=6791,953
 5
 1,034
 4
3,285
 5
 1,953
 5
Total$43,259
 100% $28,228
 100%$63,527
 100% $43,259
 100%
Primary RIF by FICOAs ofAs of
September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
($ Values In Millions)($ In Millions)
>= 760$5,251
 50% $3,470
 51%$7,361
 47% $5,251
 50%
740-7591,713
 16
 1,130
 17
2,592
 16
 1,713
 16
720-7391,349
 13
 887
 13
2,131
 14
 1,349
 13
700-7191,092
 10
 680
 10
1,732
 11
 1,092
 10
680-699707
 7
 443
 6
1,145
 7
 707
 7
<=679460
 4
 237
 3
783
 5
 460
 4
Total$10,572
 100% $6,847
 100%$15,744
 100% $10,572
 100%


Primary IIF by LTVAs ofAs of
September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
($ Values In Millions)($ In Millions)
95.01% and above$3,038
 7% $1,363
 5%$6,309
 10% $3,038
 7%
90.01% to 95.00%19,562
 45
 12,644
 45
28,879
 45
 19,562
 45
85.01% to 90.00%13,437
 31
 9,157
 32
19,074
 30
 13,437
 31
85.00% and below7,222
 17
 5,064
 18
9,265
 15
 7,222
 17
Total$43,259
 100% $28,228
 100%$63,527
 100% $43,259
 100%
Primary RIF by LTVAs ofAs of
September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
($ Values In Millions)($ In Millions)
95.01% and above$822
 8% $380
 6%$1,670
 11% $822
 8%
90.01% to 95.00%5,722
 54
 3,725
 54
8,416
 53
 5,722
 54
85.01% to 90.00%3,205
 30
 2,174
 32
4,590
 29
 3,205
 30
85.00% and below823
 8
 568
 8
1,068
 7
 823
 8
Total$10,572
 100% $6,847
 100%$15,744
 100% $10,572
 100%
Primary RIF by Loan TypeAs ofAs of
September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
      
Fixed98% 98%98% 98%
Adjustable rate mortgages:      
Less than five years
 

 
Five years and longer2
 2
2
 2
Total100% 100%100% 100%
The table below shows selected primary portfolio statistics, by book year, as of September 30, 2017.2018.
As of September 30, 2017As of September 30, 2018
Book yearOriginal Insurance Written Remaining Insurance in Force % Remaining of Original Insurance Policies Ever in Force Number of Policies in Force Number of Loans in Default # of Claims Paid 
Incurred Loss Ratio (Inception to Date) (1)
 
Cumulative default rate (2)
Original Insurance Written Remaining Insurance in Force % Remaining of Original Insurance Policies Ever in Force Number of Policies in Force Number of Loans in Default # of Claims Paid 
Incurred Loss Ratio (Inception to Date) (1)
 
Cumulative default rate (2)
($ Values in Millions)($ Values in Millions)
2013$162
 $39
 24% 655
 201
 
 1
 0.2% 0.2%$162
 $31
 19% 655
 166
 
 1
 0.2% 0.2%
20143,451
 1,479
 43% 14,786
 7,451
 54
 9
 3.8% 0.4%3,451
 1,145
 33% 14,786
 5,944
 53
 23
 3.6% 0.5%
201512,422
 8,742
 70% 52,548
 39,727
 164
 14
 2.9% 0.3%12,422
 7,144
 58% 52,548
 33,093
 197
 47
 2.9% 0.5%
201621,187
 18,684
 88% 83,626
 76,095
 119
 3
 1.6% 0.1%21,187
 16,086
 76% 83,626
 66,849
 248
 25
 2.0% 0.3%
201714,711
 14,315
 97% 57,800
 56,615
 13
 
 0.5% 
21,582
 19,317
 90% 85,897
 79,147
 215
 2
 2.3% 0.3%
201820,334
 19,804
 97% 78,829
 77,286
 33
 
 0.8% %
Total$51,933
 $43,259
 
 209,415
 180,089
 350
 27
 
 
$79,138
 $63,527
 
 316,341
 262,485
 746
 98
 
 
(1) 
The ratio of total claims incurred (paid and reserved) divided by cumulative premiums earned, net of reinsurance.
(2) 
The sum of the number of claims paid ever to date and number of loans in default as of the end of the period divided by policies ever in force.


Geographic Dispersion
The following table shows the distribution by state of our primary RIF as of the periods indicated. As of September 30, 2017,2018, our RIF continues to be relatively more concentrated in California, primarily as a result of the size of the California mortgage market relative to the rest of the country and the location and timing of theour acquisition of new customers. The distribution of risk as of September 30, 20172018 is not necessarily representative of the geographic distribution we expect in the future.


Top 10 primary RIF by stateAs ofAs of
September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
California13.6% 13.2%13.3% 13.6%
Texas7.6
 6.8
8.1
 7.6
Virginia5.6
 6.6
Arizona4.4
 3.8
5.0
 4.4
Florida4.3
 4.7
4.9
 4.3
Colorado3.8
 4.0
Virginia4.9
 5.6
Michigan3.7
 3.9
3.7
 3.7
Pennsylvania3.6
 3.6
3.6
 3.6
Colorado3.4
 3.8
Illinois3.3
 3.4
Utah3.6
 3.6
3.2
 3.6
Maryland3.6
 3.6
Total53.8% 53.8%53.4% 53.6%
Insurance Claims and ClaimsClaim Expenses
Insurance claims and claimsclaim expenses incurred represent estimated future payments on newly defaulted insured loans and any change in our claim estimates for previously existing defaults. Claims incurred is generally affected by a variety of factors, including the state of the economy, changes in housing values, loan and borrower level risk characteristics, the size of loans insured and the percentage of coverage on insured loans.
Reserves for claims and allocated claimsclaim expenses are established for mortgage loan defaults, which we refer to as case reserves, when we are notified that a borrower has missed two or more mortgage payments (i.e., an NOD). We also make estimates of IBNR defaults, which are defaults that have been incurred but have not been reported by loan servicers, based uponon historical reporting trends, and establish IBNR reserves for those estimates. We also establish reserves for unallocated claims expenses not associated with a specific claim. The claims expenses consist of the estimated cost of the claim administration process, including legal and other fees as well as other general expenses of administering the claims settlement process.
Reserves are established by estimating the number of loans in default that will result in a claim payment, which is referred to as claim frequency, and the amount of the claim payment expected to be paid on each such loan in default, which is referred to as claim severity. Claim frequency and severity estimates are established based on historical observed experience regarding certain loan factors, such as age of the default, cure rates, size of the loan and estimated change in property valuation. Reserves are released the month in which a loan in default is brought current by the borrower, which is referred to as a cure. Adjustments to reserve estimates are reflected in the period in which the adjustment is made. Reserves are also ceded to reinsurers under our 2016the QSR Transaction.Transactions. We will not cede reserves to the reinsurerreinsurers under the 2017 ILN TransactionTransactions unless losses exceed ourthe respective retained coverage layer.layers. Reserves are not established for future claims on insured loans which are not currently in default.
We expect our insurance claims and claims expenses to be relatively low in the near-term. Based on our experience and industry data, we believe that claims incidence for mortgage insurance is generally highest in the third through sixth years after loan origination. As of September 30, 2017, over 95% of our primary IIF was related to business written since January 1, 2015. Additionally, our pool insurance agreement with Fannie Mae contains a claim deductible through which Fannie Mae absorbs specified losses before we are obligated to pay any claims. We have not established any pool reserves for claims or IBNR to date. Although the claims experience on new primary insurance written by us to date has been favorable, we expect incurred claims to increase as a greater amount of our existing insured portfolio reaches its anticipated period of highest claim frequency. We estimate that the loss ratio over the life of our existing primary insured portfolio will be between 20% and 25% of earned premiums, and we price to that expectation. Additionally, our pool insurance agreement with Fannie Mae contains a claim deductible through which Fannie Mae absorbs specified losses before we are obligated to pay any claims. We have not established any pool reserves for claims or IBNR to date.
The actual claims we incur as our portfolio matures are difficult to predict and depend on the specific characteristics of our current in-force book (including the credit score and DTI of the borrower, the LTV ratio of the mortgage and geographic concentrations, among others), as well as the profile of new business we write in the future. In addition, claims experience will be affected by future macroeconomic factors such as housing prices, interest rates and employment.employment and other events, such as natural disasters. To date, our claims experience is developing at a slower pace than historical trends indicate, as a result of high quality underwriting, a strong


macroeconomic environment and a favorable housing market. For additional discussion of our reserves, see, Item 1, "Financial Statements - Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 6, Reserves for Insurance Claims and Claims Expenses."
We insure mortgages for homes in areas that have been impacted by recent natural disasters, including hurricanes Harvey and Irma and the fires in Northern California.disasters. We do not provide coverage for property or casualty claims related to physical damage of a home underpinning an insured mortgage. We anticipate that we will experienceexperienced an increase in NODs on insured loans in the


areas impacted areas.by such disasters in the fourth quarter of 2017 and the first quarter of 2018. In the second and third quarters of 2018, we experienced an increase in cure activity on this NOD population. Our ultimate claims exposure for loans in areas impacted by natural catastrophes will depend on the number of NODs received, proximate cause of each default, and cure rate of the NOD population.population, and potential repair cost curtailment for appropriate claims on damaged properties as permitted by our Master Policy. In the event of natural disasters, cure rates are influenced by the adequacy of homeowners and floodother hazard insurance carried on a related property, GSE-sponsored forbearance and other assistance programs, and a borrower's access to aid from government entities and private organizations, in addition to other factors which generally impact cure rates in unaffected areas.
The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending reserve balances for primary insurance claims and claims expenses.
For the three months ended For the nine months endedFor the three months ended For the nine months ended
September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
(In Thousands)(In Thousands)
Beginning balance$5,048
 $1,475
 $3,001
 $679
$10,601
 $5,048
 $8,761
 $3,001
Less reinsurance recoverables (1)
(899) 
 (297) 
(2,382) (899) (1,902) (297)
Beginning balance, net of reinsurance recoverables4,149
 1,475
 2,704
 679
8,219
 4,149
 6,859
 2,704
              
Add claims incurred:              
Claims and claim expenses incurred:              
Current year (2)
1,215
 690
 3,546
 1,803
1,938
 1,215
 5,090
 3,546
Prior years (3)
(258) (29) (581) (214)(839) (258) (1,779) (581)
Total claims and claims expenses incurred957
 661
 2,965
 1,589
1,099
 957
 3,311
 2,965
              
Less claims paid:              
Claims and claim expenses paid:              
Current year (2)

 
 
 
37
 
 37
 
Prior years (3)
157
 93
 720
 225
890
 157
 1,742
 720
Total claims and claim expenses paid157
 93
 720
 225
927
 157
 1,779
 720
              
Reserve at end of period, net of reinsurance recoverables4,949
 2,043
 4,949
 2,043
8,391
 4,949
 8,391
 4,949
Add reinsurance recoverables (1)
1,174
 90
 1,174
 90
2,517
 1,174
 2,517
 1,174
Ending balance$6,123
 $2,133
 $6,123
 $2,133
$10,908
 $6,123
 $10,908
 $6,123
(1)    Related to ceded losses recoverable onunder the 2016 QSR Transaction,Transactions, included in "Other Assets" on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. See Item 1, "Financial Statements - Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 5, Reinsurance" for additional information.
(2)    Related to insured loans with their most recent defaults occurring in the current year. For example, if a loan had defaulted in a prior year and subsequently cured and later re-defaulted in the current year, that default would be included in the current year. Amounts are net of reinsurance.
(3)    Related to insured loans with defaults occurring in prior years, which have been continuously in default since that time. Amounts are net of reinsurance.
The "claims incurred" section of the table above shows claims and claim expenses incurred on NODs for current and prior years, including IBNR reserves.reserves and is presented net of reinsurance. The amount of claims incurred relating tofor current year NODs represents the estimated amount to be ultimately paid on such loans in default. The decreases during the periods presented in reserves held for prior year defaults represent favorable development and are generally the result of NOD cures and ongoing analysis of recent loss development trends. We may increase or decrease our original estimates as we learn additional information about individual defaults


and claims, and continue to observe and analyze loss development trends in our portfolio.


Gross reserves of $3.7 million related to prior year defaults remained as of September 30, 2018.
The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending count of loans in default for the periods indicated.
For the three months ended For the nine months endedFor the three months ended For the nine months ended
September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
Beginning default inventory249
 79
 179
 36
768
 249
 928
 179
Plus: new defaults208
 69
 479
 158
380
 208
 1,080
 479
Less: cures(103) (30) (292) (73)(378) (103) (1,203) (292)
Less: claims paid(4) (3) (16) (6)(24) (4) (59) (16)
Ending default inventory350
 115
 350
 115
746
 350
 746
 350
The increase in the ending default inventory at September 30, 20172018 compared to September 30, 20162017 was primarily due to the aging of earlier book years and an increase in the overall number of policies in force and expected loss development of our portfolio.     portfolio which, historically drives a general increase in defaults, as well as defaults on insured loans in areas impacted by natural disasters that occurred in late 2017.
The following table provides details of our claims paid, before giving effect to claims paidceded under the 2016 QSR Transaction, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016.periods indicated. No claims paid were ceded under the 2018 QSR Transaction during the periods indicated.
For the three months ended For the nine months endedFor the three months ended For the nine months ended
September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
($ Values In Thousands)($ In Thousands)
Number of claims paid(1)4
 3
 16
 6
24
 4
 59
 16
Total amount paid for claims$160
 $93
 $731
 $225
$1,128
 $160
 $2,217
 $731
Average amount paid per claim(2)$40
 $31
 $46
 $32
$49
 $40
 $41
 $46
Severity(1)(3)
73% 53% 83% 62%80% 73% 76% 83%
(1)    Count includes claims settled without payment.
(2)     Calculation is net of claims settled without payment.
(3)     Severity represents the total amount of claims paid including claims expenses divided by the related RIF on the loan at the time the claim is perfected.

The increase in the number of claims paid for the three and nine months ended September 30, 20172018, compared to the same periods ended September 30, 20162017, is due to an increase in our default inventory. Weinventory and the continued growth and seasoning of our insured portfolio. Claims settled without payment are included in claim counts, but excluded from averages. Over time, we expect the severity of claims we receivepaid to be between 85% and 95% of the coverage amount. We believe our severity for the period ended September 30, 2018 is below long-term expectations due to home price appreciation in recent periods.

The following table shows our average reserve per default, before giving effect to reserves ceded under the QSR Transactions, as of the periods indicated.
Average reserve per default:As of September 30, 2017 As of September 30, 2016As of September 30, 2018 As of September 30, 2017
(In Thousands)(In Thousands)
Case (1)
$16
 $17
$14
 $16
IBNR1
 1
1
 1
Total$17
 $18
$15
 $17
(1)Defined as the gross reserve per insured loan in default.
The average reserve per default at September 30, 2018 decreased from September 30, 2017, primarily due to defaults on insured loans in areas impacted by natural disasters. As of September 30, 2018, 91 of the 746 loans in default relate to homes in areas declared by FEMA to be disaster zones following natural catastrophes.  We expect that this population of loans in default will cure at a higher rate than the estimated rate we apply to non-disaster related loans in default, due to our historical and observed industry


experience, and current economic indicators and relief programs. As such, we have established lower reserves for this population of NODs than we otherwise would for a similarly situated set of NODs in non-disaster zones. Over time, we anticipate that our average reserve per default will increase as the NODs in these zones cure and our NOD population continues to age.
GSE Oversight
As an Approved Insurer, NMIC is subject to ongoing compliance with the PMIERs. (Italicized terms have the same meaning that such terms have in the PMIERs, as described below.) The PMIERs establish operational, business, remedial and financial requirements applicable to Approved Insurers. The PMIERs financial requirements prescribe a risk-based methodology whereby the amount of assets required to be held against each insured loan is determined based on certain risk characteristics, such as FICO, vintage (year of origination), performing vs. non-performing (i.e., current vs. delinquent), LTV and other risk features. An asset charge is calculated for each insured loan based on its risk profile. In general, higher quality loans carry lower charges.
Under the PMIERs financial requirements, Approved Insurers must maintain available assets that equal or exceed minimum required assets, which is an amount equal to the greater of (i) $400 million or (ii) a total risk-based required asset amount. The risk-based required asset amount is a function of the risk profile of an Approved InsurersInsurer's net RIF, calculated by applying on a loan-


by-loanloan-by-loan basis certain risk-based factors derived from tables set out in the PMIERs to the net RIF, and other transactional adjustments approved by the GSEs, such as with respect to our 2017 ILN TransactionTransactions and 2016 QSR Transaction.Transactions. The risk-based required asset amount for primary insurance is subject to a floor of 5.6% of total, performing, primary RIF, and the risk-based required asset amount for pool insurance considers both the factors in the tables and the net remaining stop loss for each pool insurance policy. The PMIERs financial requirements also increase the amount of available assets that must be held by an Approved Insurer for LPMI policies originated on or after January 1, 2016.
By April 15th of each year, NMIC must certify it met all PMIERs requirements as of December 31st of the prior year. We certified to the GSEs by April 15, 20172018 that NMIC fully compliedwas in full compliance with the PMIERs as of December 31, 2016.2017. NMIC also has an ongoing obligation to immediately notify the GSEs in writing upon discovery of itsa material failure to meet one or more of the PMIERs requirements. We continuously monitor our compliance with the PMIERs.
The following table provides a comparison of the PMIERs financial requirements as reported by NMIC as of the dates indicated.
As of As of
September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 September 30, 2018September 30, 2017
(In Thousands) (In Thousands)
Available assets$495,182
 $488,635
 $702,020
$495,182
Risk-based required assets356,207
 320,609
 398,975
356,207
The increase in available assetsof $207 million as of September 30, 20172018 compared to September 30, 20162017 is driven by theour positive cash flow from operations and amortizationa $70 million capital contribution from NMIH to NMIC during the second quarter of 2018, partially offset by an increase in our unearned premium reserves.reserve. The increase in the risk-based required asset amount of $43 million is due to the growth of our gross RIF and, to a lesser extent, an increase in our NOD population, which has a higher risk-based required asset amount charge, partially offset by the cession of risk relating to our third-party reinsurance agreements.
On September 27, 2018, the GSEs published revised PMIERs that will take effect and become applicable to NMIC on March 31, 2019. We expect that NMIC will remain in full compliance with the existing and revised PMIERs, as applicable, prior to and after March 31, 2019.
Capital Position of Our Insurance Subsidiaries and Financial Strength Ratings
In addition to GSE-imposed asset requirements, NMIC is also subject to state regulatory minimum capital requirements based on its RIF. While formulations of this minimum capital may vary by jurisdiction, the most common measure allows for a maximum permitted RTC ratio of 25:1.
As of September 30, 2017,2018, NMIC's primary RIF, net of reinsurance, was approximately $6.2$9.7 billion. NMIC ceded 100% of its pool RIF pursuant to the 2016 QSR Transaction. Based on NMIC's total statutory surplus of $502.6$698.0 million (including contingency reserves) as of September 30, 2017,2018, NMIC's RTC ratio was 12.3:13.9:1. Re One had total statutory capital of $33.9$34.7 million as of September 30, 2017,2018, with a RTC ratio of 0.7:1.0:1. We continuously monitor our compliance with state capital requirements.


In August 2017,May 2018, Moody's Investors Service (Moody's) re-affirmedupgraded its "Ba1" financial strength rating from "Ba1" to "Baa3" for NMIC and its B2issued a "Ba3" rating offor NMIH's $150 million senior secured 2018 Term Loan, compared to its previous "B1" rating on the 2015 Term Loan. Moody'sThe outlook for both ratings changed from " stable" to " positive."is stable. In July 2017,2018, S&P re-affirmedaffirmed its "BBB-" financial strength and long-term counter-party credit ratings on NMIC and its"BB-its "BB-" long-term counter-party credit rating on NMIH. S&P'sThe outlook foron both companiesratings is "positive."positive.
Competition
The MI industry is highly competitive and currently consists of six private mortgage insurers, including NMIC, as well as governmental agenciespublic MIs like the FHA and the VA. Private MI companies compete based on service, customer relationships, underwriting and other factors, including price. We expect the MI market to remain competitive, with pressure for industry participants to grow or maintain their market share.
The private MI industry overall competes more broadly with government entitiespublic MIs who significantly increased their presence in the MI market following the financial crisis. Although there has been broad policy consensus toward the need for private capital to play a larger role and government credit risk to be reduced in the U.S. housing finance system, it remains difficult to predict whether the combined market share of governmental agencies such as the FHA and VApublic MIs will recede to historical levels. A range of factors influence a lender's decision to choose private MI over governmental insurance options,public MI, including among others, premium rates and other charges, loan eligibility requirements, cancelability, loan size limits and the relative ease of use of private MI products compared to governmentalpublic MI alternatives.


Consolidated Results of Operations
Consolidated statements of operationsThree months ended Nine months endedThree months ended Nine months ended
September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
Revenues(In Thousands)(In Thousands)
Net premiums earned$44,519
 $31,808
 $115,661
 $77,656
$65,407
 $44,519
 $181,936
 $115,661
Net investment income4,170
 3,544
 11,885
 10,117
6,277
 4,170
 16,586
 11,885
Net realized investment gains (losses)69
 66
 198
 (758)
Net realized investment (losses) gains(8) 69
 51
 198
Other revenues195
 102
 461
 172
85
 195
 193
 461
Total revenues48,953
 35,520
 128,205
 87,187
71,761
 48,953
 198,766
 128,205
Expenses              
Insurance claims and claims expenses957
 664
 2,965
 1,592
Insurance claims and claim expenses1,099
 957
 3,311
 2,965
Underwriting and operating expenses24,645
 24,037
 78,682
 69,943
30,379
 24,645
 87,852
 78,682
Total expenses25,602
 24,701
 81,647
 71,535
31,478
 25,602
 91,163
 81,647
Other expense              
Loss from change in fair value of warrant liability(502) (797) (679) (187)(5,464) (502) (4,935) (679)
Interest expense(3,352) (3,733) (10,146) (11,072)(2,972) (3,352) (11,951) (10,146)
Income before income taxes19,497
 6,289
 35,733
 4,393
31,847
 19,497
 90,717
 35,733
Income tax expense7,185
 114
 11,917
 114
7,036
 7,185
 18,310
 11,917
Net income$12,312
 $6,175
 $23,816
 $4,279
$24,811
 $12,312
 $72,407
 $23,816
              
Loss ratio(1)
2.1% 2.1% 2.6% 2.1%1.7% 2.1% 1.8% 2.6%
Expense ratio(2)
55.4% 75.6% 68.0% 90.1%46.4% 55.4% 48.3% 68.0%
Combined ratio57.5% 77.7% 70.6% 92.2%48.1% 57.5% 50.1% 70.6%
(1)    Loss ratio is calculated by dividing the provision for insurance claims and claims expenses by net premiums earned.
(2)    Expense ratio is calculated by dividing other underwriting and operating expenses by net premiums earned.
Revenues
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017,2018, net premiums earned increased $12.7$20.9 million or 40%47% and $38.0$66.3 million or 49%57%, respectively, compared to the corresponding three and nine months ended September 30, 2016.2017. The increase in both periods is primarily due to the continued growth inof our IIF and increased monthly policy production, and IIF, partially offset by increases to cessions under the effectsQSR Transactions tied to the growth of our direct premium volume and the inception dates of the 2016 QSR Transaction and 2017 ILN Transaction and reductions in our single policy production and earnings from early policy cancellations.Transactions.
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017,2018, net investment income increased $0.6$2.1 million and $1.8$4.7 million, respectively, compared to the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016,2017 due to an increase in the size of and improved yields on our total investment portfolio.
Expenses
We recognize insurance claims and claimsclaim expenses in connection with the loss experience of our insured portfolio and incur other underwriting and operating expenses, including employee compensation and benefits, policy acquisition costs, and technology, professional services and facilities expenses, in connection with the development and operation of our business.

Insurance claims and claim expenses increased $0.1 million or 15% and $0.3 million or 12% for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2018, respectively, compared to the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2017, primarily due to an increase in new NODs and aging of existing NODs, partially offset by the release of reserves related to prior year defaults.


Insurance claimsUnderwriting and claimsoperating expenses increased $0.3$5.7 million or 23% and $1.4$9.2 million or 12%, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017,2018, respectively, compared to the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, as a result of an increase in our NODs, primarily due to an increase in the number of policies in force year-over-year and expected loss development of our portfolio. The increase in claims and claims expenses for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017 was offset by the partial release of reserves related to prior year defaults.
Underwriting and operating expenses increased $0.6 million or 3%, and $8.7 million or 12% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively, compared to the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016.2017. Employee compensation accounts for the majority of our operating expenses. Weexpenses, which increased the size of our workforce from 273 employees as of September 30, 2016 to 298 employees as of September 30, 2017 to support the growth of our business, particularly in our salesoperating functions. We incurred $2.6 million of underwriting and operating functions.expenses during the nine months ended September 30, 2018 in connection with the 2018 ILN Transaction completed in July 2018. Underwriting and operating expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 also reflectincluded $4.8 million of operating expenses related to the 2017 ILN Transaction and an amendment of the 2015 Credit Agreement.
We incurred interestInterest expense related to the Term Loan of $3.4was $3.0 million and $10.1$12.0 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017,2018, respectively, compared to interest expense of $3.7$3.4 million and $11.1$10.1 million, respectively, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively.2017. Interest expense declined in connection withfor the amendmentnine months ended September 2018 included $2.2 million of our Credit Agreement which wecosts related to the extinguishment of the 2015 Term Loan and issuance of the 2018 Term Loan completed in FebruaryMay 2018. Interest expense for the three months ended September 30, 2018 declined compared to the three months ended September 30, 2017 which among other items, reduceddue to the reduction in the interest ratespread payable on our borrowings under the 2018 Term Loan as compared to the 2015 Term Loan. See Item 1, "Financial Statements - Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 4, Term Loan.Debt Obligations."
Income Tax
We aretax expense increased to $18.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 from $11.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 because of the growth in our pre-tax income, partially offset by a U.S. taxpayer and are subjectdecrease in our effective tax rate. Our effective tax rate on our pre-tax income decreased to a20.2% for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 from 33.3% for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, primarily because the TCJA reduced the statutory U.S. federal corporate income tax rate ofto 21% for the current and all future years from 35%. Our holding company files a consolidated U.S. federal and various state income tax returns on behalf of itself and its subsidiaries.
for all prior years through December 31, 2017. Our provision for income taxes for the interim reporting periods areis established based on anour estimated annual effective tax rate for a given year. We expect our annual effective tax rate for the year ending December 31, 2017. We currently pay no regular2018 will approximate the current 21% statutory U.S. federal corporate income tax due to the forecasted utilization of federal net operating loss carryforwards, which were $122.9 million as of December 31, 2016. The interim provision for income taxes include current year alternative minimum tax and changes to deferred tax assets. Our effective tax rate on our pre-tax income was 36.9% for the three months ended September 30, 2017, compared to 1.8% for the comparable 2016 period. Our effective tax rate on our pre-tax income was 33.3% for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, compared to our effective tax rate on our pre-tax income of 2.6% for the comparable 2016 period. The difference between our statutory tax rate and our effective tax rates for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017 is due to a discrete tax benefit associated with excess tax benefits for restricted stock units that were recognized during the periods as a result of the adoption of ASU 2016-09 in the prior quarter. See Item 1, "Financial Statements - Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 1, Organization and Basis of Presentation - Change in Accounting Principle." We expect our effective tax rate to return to approximately the statutory tax rate for the year ending December 31, 2017. From inception through September 30, 2016, we had evaluated the realizability of our net deferred tax assets on a quarterly basis and concluded that it was more-likely-than-not that our net deferred tax assets may not be realized and recognized a full valuation allowance against net deferred tax assets.



Consolidated balance sheetsSeptember 30, 2017 
December 31, 2016 (1)
 (In Thousands)
Total investment portfolio$692,729
 $628,969
Cash and cash equivalents20,698
 47,746
Premiums receivable21,056
 13,728
Deferred policy acquisition costs, net36,101
 30,109
Software and equipment, net21,767
 20,402
Prepaid reinsurance premiums39,915
 37,921
Deferred tax asset, net38,490
 51,434
Other assets15,856
 9,588
Total assets$886,612
 $839,897
Term loan$143,969
 $144,353
Unearned premiums161,345
 152,906
Accounts payable and accrued expenses22,028
 25,297
Reserve for insurance claims and claims expenses6,123
 3,001
Reinsurance funds withheld33,105
 30,633
Deferred ceding commission4,971
 4,831
Warrant liability4,046
 3,367
Total liabilities375,587
 364,388
Total shareholders' equity511,025
 475,509
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity$886,612
 $839,897
(1) The 2016 prior period balance sheet has been revised.rate. See Item 1, "Financial Statements - Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 1, Organization and Basis of Presentation. Immaterial Correction of Prior Period Amounts" 9, Income Taxes.for further details."
Consolidated balance sheetsSeptember 30, 2018 December 31, 2017
 (In Thousands)
Total investment portfolio$874,435
 $715,875
Cash and cash equivalents18,187
 19,196
Premiums receivable34,675
 25,179
Deferred policy acquisition costs, net44,437
 37,925
Software and equipment, net22,887
 22,802
Prepaid reinsurance premiums33,058
 40,250
Deferred tax asset, net6,880
 19,929
Other assets17,922
 13,692
Total assets$1,052,481
 $894,848
Term loan$147,009
 $143,882
Unearned premiums162,893
 163,166
Accounts payable and accrued expenses27,134
 23,364
Reserve for insurance claims and claims expenses10,908
 8,761
Reinsurance funds withheld28,953
 34,102
Deferred ceding commission4,161
 5,024
Warrant liability10,930
 7,472
Total liabilities391,988
 385,771
Total shareholders' equity660,493
 509,077
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity$1,052,481
 $894,848
As of September 30, 2017,2018, we had approximately $713.4$892.6 million in cash and investments, including $61.7$50.8 million held atby NMIH. The increase in cash and cash equivalents and investments from year-end 2016December 31, 2017 primarily relates to cash generated from operations.operations and net proceeds of approximately $79.2 million from the common stock offering completed in March 2018.


Premiums receivable was $34.7 million as of September 30, 2018, compared to $25.2 million as of December 31, 2017. The increase was primarily driven by the increase in our monthly premium policies in force, where premiums are generally paid one month in arrears.
Net deferred policy acquisition costs were $36.1$44.4 million as of September 30, 2017,2018, compared to $30.1$37.9 million at December 31, 2016.2017. The increase was primarily driven by growth in the defermentnumber of policies written during the period ended September 30, 2018 and the deferral of certain costs associated with polices written during the nine months ended September 30, 2017,origination of those policies, partially offset by the amortization of previously deferred acquisition costs and the capitalization of ceding commissions associated with the 2016 QSR Transaction during the period.costs.
UnearnedPrepaid reinsurance premiums increased $8.4 million to $161.3were $33.1 million as of September 30, 2018, compared to $40.3 million as of December 31, 2017. The prepaid reinsurance premiums balance represents the unearned premiums reserve on single premium policies ceded under the 2016 QSR Transaction. The reinsurance coverage period of the 2016 QSR Transaction ended for new premiums written after December 31, 2017, and under the 2018 QSR Transaction we cede premiums on singles policies on an earned basis. Consequently, we did not cede any unearned premium reserves on singles policies with coverage effective dates on or after January 1, 2018. The decrease in prepaid reinsurance premiums reflects the amortization of the unearned premiums, reserve on singles policies previously ceded under the 2016 QSR Transaction.
Net deferred tax assets decreased to $6.9 million as of September 30, 2018, from $19.9 million at December 31, 2017, primarily due to single premium policy originationthe utilization of net operating loss carryforwards during the period, offsetperiod. For further information regarding income taxes and their impact on our results of operations and financial position, see Item 1, "Financial Statements - Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 9, Income Taxes."
Other assets increased to $17.9 million as of September 30, 2018 from $13.7 million as of December 31, 2017, driven by an increase in accrued investment income and prepaid expenses for various contracts renewals, as well as the capitalization of $1.3 million deferred debt issuance costs in connection with the establishment of the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility.
Unearned premiums decreased $0.3 million to $162.9 million as of September 30, 2018, primarily due to the amortization through earnings of existing unearned premiums in accordance with the expiration of risk on the related policies and the cancellation of other single premium policies.    policies, partially offset by single premium policy origination during the period.
Other assets balanceAccounts payable and accrued expense increased $6.3 million to $15.9$27.1 million as of September 30, 2018, from $23.4 million at December 31, 2017, primarily due to $3.3 million of pending proceedsan increase in personnel expense and deferred rent accruals, reinsurance premiums payable and unsettled payments from the salepurchase of short-term investments incertain securities at September 30, 2018.
Reserve for insurance claims and a $1.2claim expenses increased $2.1 million increase in accrued investment income as a result ofto $10.9 million at September 30, 2018, primarily due to an increase in the sizenumber of new defaults and the aging of existing defaults in our investment portfolio.general loan population, offset by the release of reserves on cured defaults. See "- Insurance Claims and Claims Expenses," abovefor further details.
Accounts payable and accrued expenses decreased to $22.0Reinsurance funds withheld was $29.0 million as of September 30, 2017, from $25.3 million at December 31, 2016. The balance consists of expenses to be paid within the next 12 months and decreased as a result of lower operating accruals and lower accrued interest due to a lower interest rate on the Term Loan.
Reinsurance funds withheld was $33.1 million as of September 30, 2017,2018, representing the net of our ceded reinsurance premiums written, less our profit and ceding commission receivables related tounder the 2016 QSR Transaction. The increasedecrease in reinsurance funds withheld of $2.5$5.1 million from December 31, 2016,2017, was a result of increaseda decline in ceded premiums written.written on single premium policies, due to the end of the effective reinsurance coverage period of the 2016 QSR Transaction at December 31, 2017. See, Item 1, "Financial Statements - Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 5, Reinsurance."


Warrant liability increased to $10.9 million at September 30, 2018, compared to $7.5 million at December 31, 2017, primarily due to the increase in our common stock price during the period, with additional impact related to changes in the Black-Scholes model inputs and exercises of outstanding warrants.  For further information regarding valuation of our warrant liability and their impact on our results of operations and financial position, see Item 1, "Financial Statements - Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 3, Fair Value of Financial Instruments."
The following table summarizes our consolidated cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities:activities.
Consolidated cash flowsFor the nine months ended September 30,For the nine months ended September 30,
2017 20162018 2017
Net cash (used in) provided by:(In Thousands)
Net cash provided by (used in) :(In Thousands)
Operating activities$41,778
 $52,212
$99,349
 $41,778
Investing activities(66,553) (63,714)(180,928) (66,553)
Financing activities(2,273) (1,293)80,570
 (2,273)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents$(27,048) $(12,795)$(1,009) $(27,048)


Net cash provided by operating activities was $99.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared to $41.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, compared to $52.2 million in the same period in 2016.2017. The decreaseincrease in cash generated from operating activities was primarily causeddriven by increasedgrowth in premiums written and investment income, partially offset by increases in operating expenses in connection with employee compensation and benefits costs andas well as higher claims paid due to an increase in our default inventory offset by growth in net premiums written.inventory.
Cash used in investing activities for the periods presented was driven by the purchase of fixed and short-term maturities during those periods.
The $1 million increase in cash Cash used in financinginvesting activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 compared to2018, reflects, in part, the same periodinvestment of net proceeds from the common stock offering completed in March 2018.
Cash provided by financing activities was $80.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016,2018, compared to cash used in financing activities of $2.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017. The increase was primarily due todriven by the $79.2 million net cash proceeds raised through the common stock offering we completed in March 2018, partially offset by the net cash used in connection with the extinguishment of the 2015 Term Loan, and establishment of the 2018 Term Loan and 2018 Revolving Credit Facility, as well as an increase in taxes paid related toon the net share settlement of employee equity awards.


Holding Company Liquidity and Capital Resources
NMIH serves as the holding company for our insurance subsidiaries and does not have any significant operations of its own. NMIH's principal liquidity demands include funds for: (i) payment of certain corporate expenses; (ii) payment of certain reimbursable expenses of its insurance subsidiaries; (iii) payment of principal, interest and interestother fees related to the Term Loan;2018 Credit Agreement; (iv) tax payments to the Internal Revenue Service; (v) capital support for its subsidiaries; and (vi) payment of dividends, if any, on its common stock. NMIH is not subject to any limitations on its ability to pay dividends except those generally applicable to corporations, such as NMIH, that are incorporated in Delaware. Delaware corporation law provides that dividends are only payable out of a corporation's surplus or recent net profits (subject to certain limitations).
As of September 30, 2017,2018, NMIH had $61.7$50.8 million of cash and investments. NMIH's principal source of net operating cash is investment incomeincome. NMIH also has access to the $85 million 2018 Revolving Credit Facility and in the future could includebenefit from dividends from NMIC and Re One, if available and permitted under law and by the GSEs.
In March 2018, NMIH completed the sale of 4.3 million shares of common stock, including the exercise of a 15% overallotment option to purchase additional shares, and raised proceeds of approximately $79.2 million, net of underwriting discounts, commissions and other direct offering expenses. In April, 2018, NMIH made a capital contribution of $70 million to NMIC.
NMIH has entered into tax and expense-sharing agreements with its subsidiaries which have been approved by the Wisconsin OCI, but such approval may be changed or revoked at any time. With the Wisconsin OCI's approval, NMIH began allocating the interest expense on its 2015 Term Loan to NMIC in the first quarter of 2017, consistent with the benefits NMIC received when NMIH down-streamed the loan proceeds to NMIC. NMIH received similar approval from the Wisconsin OCI to allocate interest expense to NMIC on the 2018 Term Loan and 2018 Revolving Credit Facility.
NMIC'sOur insurance subsidiaries' ability to pay dividends to NMIH is subject to insurance department notice or approval. Under Wisconsin law, NMICinsurance companies may pay dividends up to specified levels (i.e.(i.e., "ordinary" dividends) with 30 days' prior notice to the Wisconsin OCI. Dividends in larger amounts, or "extraordinary" dividends, are subject to the Wisconsin OCI's prior approval. Under Wisconsin insurance laws, an extraordinary dividend is defined as any payment or distribution that together with other dividends and distributions made within the preceding 12 months exceeds the lesser of (i) 10% of the insurer’sinsurer's statutory policyholders' surplus as of the preceding December 31 or (ii) adjusted statutory net income for the 12-month period ending the preceding December 31.
NMIC has never paid any dividends to NMIH. NMIC reported a statutory net loss for the twelve12 months ended December 31, 20162017 and currently cannot pay any dividends to NMIH through December 31, 2018 without the prior approval of the Wisconsin OCI. Re One has never paid dividends to NMIH. Re One currently has the capacity to pay ordinary dividends of $505 thousand to NMIH. Certain other states in which NMIC isand Re One are licensed also have statutes or regulations that may restrict itstheir ability to pay dividends.
NMIC's capital needs depend on many factors including its ability to successfully write new business, establish premium rates at levels sufficient to cover claims and operating costs and meet minimum required asset thresholds under the PMIERs and state capital requirements. NMIC's capital needs also depend on its decision to access the reinsurance markets. NMIH may require liquidity to fund the capital needs of its insurance subsidiaries.


In November 2015,On May 24, 2018, NMIH entered into the 2018 Credit Agreement forcovering the Term Loan. On February 10, 2017, NMIH amended the Credit Agreement, (Amendment No. 1) to reduce the interest rate and extend the maturity date of the2018 Term Loan from November 10,and 2018 to November 10, 2019.Revolving Credit Facility. The amended2018 Term Loan bears interest at the Eurodollar Rate, as defined in the 2018 Credit Agreement and subject to a 1.00% floor, plus an annual margin rate of 6.75%4.75%, payable monthly or quarterly based on our current interest period election. Borrowings under the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility will accrue interest at a variable rate election.equal to, at our discretion, (i) a base rate (as defined in the 2018 Credit Agreement, subject to a floor of 1.00% per annum) plus a margin of 1.00% to 2.50% per annum, based on the applicable corporate credit rating at the time, or (ii) the Eurodollar Rate (subject to a floor of 0.00% per annum) plus a margin of 2.00% to 3.50% per annum, based on the applicable corporate credit rating at the time. The 2018 Credit Agreement also requires a quarterly commitment fee on the average daily undrawn amount ranging from 0.30% to 0.60%, based on the applicable corporate credit rating at the time.
The 2018 Credit Agreement contains various restrictivecertain covenants and required financial ratios and tests (which were not modified by Amendment No. 1) that we are required to meet or maintain. These covenants include, but arefor the 2018 Term Loan, including (but not limited toto) the following:financial covenant of a maximum debt-to-total capitalization ratio (as defined therein) of 35%, and certain covenants for the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility, including (but not limited to) the following financial covenants: a maximum RTCdebt-to-total capitalization ratio of 22.0:1.0,35%, a minimum liquidity (as defined therein) of $27.4 million as of September 30, 2017,requirement, compliance with the PMIERs financial requirements (subject to any GSE-approved waivers), and minimum shareholders' equityconsolidated net worth and statutory capital requirements. In October 2017, NMIH further amended the Credit Agreement to remove a covenant that required NMIH to maintain liquidity (as defined therein)We were in an aggregate amount no less thancompliance with all remaining interest payments due under the Term Loan, while retaining the requirement to maintain minimum liquidity (as defined therein) in an amount no less than all remaining principle amortization payments due under the Term Loan, estimated to be $3 millioncovenants as of the date of this report (not including the amount due at the maturity date).September 30, 2018.


Consolidated Investment Portfolio
Our primary objectives with respect to our investment portfolio are to preserve capital and generate investment income, while maintaining sufficient liquidity to cover our operating needs. We aim to achieve diversification as toby type, quality, maturity, industry, and issuer that maximizes the after-tax return on investments.industry. We have adopted an investment policy that defines, among other things, eligible and ineligible investments, concentration limits for asset types, industry sectors, single issuers, and certain credit ratings, and benchmarks for asset duration.
Substantially all of our investment portfolio is held in fixed maturity instruments. As of September 30, 2017,2018, the fair value of our investment portfolio was $692.7$874.4 million. We also had an additional $20.7$18.2 million of cash and equivalents as of September 30, 2017.2018. Pre-tax book yield on the investment portfolio for the nine months ended September 30, 20172018 was 2.3%2.8%. The book yield is calculated as period-to-date net investment income divided by the average amortized cost of the investment portfolio. Yield on the investment portfolio is likely to change over time based on movements in interest rates, credit spreads, the duration or mix of our investment portfolio and other factors.
The following tables present a breakdown of our investment portfolio and cash and cash equivalents by investment type and credit rating:rating.
Percentage of portfolio's fair valueSeptember 30, 2017 December 31, 2016
1.Corporate debt securities57% 52%
2.U.S. treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies9
 9
3.Asset-backed securities14
 17
4.Cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments7
 16
5.Municipal debt securities13
 6
 Total100% 100%
The ratings of our investment portfolio were:
Percentage of portfolio's fair valueSeptember 30, 2018 December 31, 2017
Corporate debt securities59% 59%
Asset-backed securities19
 14
Cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments7
 6
Municipal debt securities10
 12
U.S. treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies5
 9
Total100% 100%
Investment portfolio ratings at fair value(1)September 30, 2017 December 31, 2016September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017
AAA19% 24%22% 21%
AA(1)(2)
21
 19
17
 19
A(1)(2)
45
 44
43
 46
BBB(1)(2)
15
 13
18
 14
Total100% 100%100% 100%
(1)    IncludeExcluded certain operating cash accounts.
(2)    Includes +/– ratings.
The ratings aboveOur investments are providedrated by one or more of: Moody's, S&P and Fitch Ratings.nationally recognized statistical rating organizations. If threemultiple ratings are available, we assign the middle rating for classification purposes, otherwise we assign the lowest rating.


Other Items
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements and Contractual Obligations
We had no material off-balance sheet arrangements as of September 30, 2017.2018. In connection with the 2017 ILN Transaction,Transactions, we have certain future contractual commitments to Oaktown Re aand Oaktown Re II, special purpose VIEVIEs that isare not consolidated in our financial results. See Item 1, "Financial Statements - Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 1, Organization and Basis of Presentation - Variable interest entity" and"Note 5, Reinsurance."
There are no material changes outside the ordinary course of business in the contractual obligations specified in our 2016 10-K.
Critical Accounting Estimates
We use accounting principles and methods that conform to GAAP. Where GAAP specifically excludes mortgage insurance we follow general industry practices. We are required to apply significant judgment and make material estimates in the preparation of our financial statements and with regard to various accounting, reporting and disclosure matters. Assumptions and estimates are required to apply these principles where actual measurement is not possible or practical. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates and assumptions. Our actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.


We believe that the assumptions and estimates associated with revenue recognition, fair value measurements, our investment portfolio, deferred policy acquisition costs, premium deficiency reserves, income taxes, reserves for insurance claims and claims expenses, warrants and share-based compensation have the greatest potential impact on our consolidated financial statements. Therefore, we consider these to be our critical accounting estimates. There have been no material changes to our critical accounting policies and estimates as compared to the critical accounting policies and estimates described in our 20162017 10-K.


Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
We own and manage a large portfolio of various holdings, types and maturities. NMIH's principal source of operating cash is investment income. The assets within the investment portfolio are exposed to the same factors that affect overall financial market performance.
We manage market risk via a defined investment policy implemented by our treasury function with oversight from our Board of Director's Risk Committee. Important drivers of our market risk exposure monitored and managed by us include but are not limited to:
Changes to the level of interest rates. Increasing interest rates may reduce the value of certain fixed-rate bonds held in the investment portfolio. Higher rates may cause variable rate assets to generate additional income. Decreasing rates will have the reverse impact. Significant changes in interest rates can also affect persistency and claim rates of our insurance portfolio, and as a result we may determine that our investment portfolio needs to be restructured to better align it with future liabilities and claim payments. Such restructuring may cause investments to be liquidated when market conditions are adverse. Additionally, the changes in Eurodollar based interest rates affect the interest expense related to the Company'sour debt.
Changes to the term structure of interest rates. Rising or falling rates typically change by different amounts along the yield curve. These changes may have unforeseen impacts on the value of certain assets.
Market volatility/changes in the real or perceived credit quality of investments. Deterioration in the quality of investments, identified through changes to our own or third party (e.g.(e.g., rating agency) assessments, will reduce the value and potentially the liquidity of investments.
Concentration Risk. If the investment portfolio is highly concentrated in one asset, or in multiple assets whose values are highly correlated, the value of the total portfolio may be greatly affected by the change in value of just one asset or a group of highly correlated assets.
Prepayment Risk. Bonds may have call provisions that permit debtors to repay prior to maturity when it is to their advantage. This typically occurs when rates fall below the interest rate of the debt.
The carrying value of our investment portfolio as of September 30, 20172018 and December 31, 20162017 was $693$874 million and $629$716 million, respectively, of which 100% was invested in fixed maturity securities. The primary market risk to our investment portfolio is interest rate risk associated with investments in fixed maturity securities. We mitigate the market risk associated with our fixed maturity securities portfolio by matching the duration of our fixed maturity securities with the expected duration of the liabilities that those securities are intended to support.
As of September 30, 2017,2018, the duration of our fixed income portfolio, including cash and cash equivalents, was 3.953.53 years, which means that an instantaneous parallel shift (movement up or down) in the yield curve of 100 basis points would result in a change of 3.95%3.53% in fair value of our fixed income portfolio. Excluding cash, our fixed income portfolio duration was 4.133.67 years, which means that an instantaneous parallel shift (movement up or down) in the yield curve of 100 basis points would result in a change of 4.13%3.67% in fair value of our fixed income portfolio.
We are also subject to market risk related to our 2018 Term Loan and 2017the ILN Transaction.Transactions. As discussed in Item 1, "Financial Statements - Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 4, Term Loan,Debt Obligations," the 2018 Term Loan bears interest at a variable rate and, as a result, increases in market interest rates would generally result in increased interest expense on our outstanding principal.
The risk premium amounts under the 2017 ILN TransactionTransactions are calculated by multiplying the outstanding reinsurance coverage amount at the beginning of any payment period by a coupon rate, which is the sum of 1-month LIBOR and a risk margin, and then subtracting actual investment income earned on the trust balance during that payment period. An increase in 1-month LIBOR rates would generally increase the risk premium payments, while an increase to money market rates, which directly affect investment income earned on the trust balance, would generally decrease them. Although we expect the two rates to move in tandem, to the extent they do not, it could increase or decrease the risk premium payments that otherwise would be due.


Item 4. Controls and Procedures
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our PrincipalChief Executive Officer and PrincipalChief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Our management, including our PrincipalChief Executive Officer and PrincipalChief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Exchange Act) as of September 30, 2017,2018 pursuant to Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act. Management applied its judgment in assessing the costs and benefits of such controls and procedures, which by their nature, can provide only reasonable assurance regarding management's control objectives. Management does not expect that our disclosure controls and procedures will prevent or detect all errors and fraud. A control system, irrespective of how well it is designed and operated, can only provide reasonable assurance and cannot guarantee that it will succeed in its stated objectives.
Based upon that evaluation, our PrincipalChief Executive Officer and PrincipalChief Financial Officer concluded that, as of September 30, 2017,2018 our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective due to provide reasonable assurance that the existence of a material weaknessinformation required to be disclosed by us in the design and operating effectiveness of an internal control related to reconciliation support used to validate our deferred tax inventory. A material weakness is a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected in a timely basis. As described in Item 1, "Financial Statements - Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 1, Organization and Basis of Presentation - Immaterial Correction of Prior Period Amounts," above, we detected a $1.8 million error in the deferred tax balance that was immaterial to the 2016 financial statements. Notwithstanding the material weakness identified, our management has concluded that the consolidated financial statements included in this Form 10-Q fairly present, in all material respects, our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows at and for the periods presented. In addition, there were no material errors in our financial results or balances identified as a result of this control deficiency, and accordingly, amendment of our 2016 Form 10-K is not required.
We enhanced existing controls and designed and implemented new controls applicable to our deferred tax accounting, including those related to stock compensation, to ensure that our DTA is accurately calculated and appropriately reflected in our financial statements and reports we file withor submit under the SEC. We believe these actions are sufficient to remediateExchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the identified material weaknesstime periods specified in the SEC's rules and strengthen our internal control over financial reporting; however, there can be no guarantee that such remediation will be sufficient. We will continue to monitor the effectiveness of our controls and will make any further changes management determines appropriate.forms.
Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Other than noted above, there wereThere was no changeschange in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by this report that havehas materially affected, or areis reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.



PART II
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
Certain lawsuits and claims arising in the ordinary course of business may be filed or pending against us or our affiliates from time to time. In accordance with applicable accounting guidance, we establish accruals for all lawsuits, claims and expected settlements when we believe it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of the loss is reasonably estimable. When a loss contingency is not both probable and estimable, we do not establish an accrual. Any such loss estimates are inherently uncertain, based on currently available information and are subject to management’s judgment and various assumptions. Due to the inherent subjectivity of these estimates and unpredictability of outcomes of legal proceedings, any amounts accrued may not represent the ultimate resolution of such matters.
To the extent we believe any potential loss relating to such lawsuits and claims may have a material impact on our liquidity, consolidated financial position, results of operations, and/or our business as a whole and is reasonably possible but not probable, we will disclose information relating to any such potential loss, whether in excess of any established accruals or where there is no established accrual. We will also disclose information relating to any material potential loss that is probable but not reasonably estimable. Where reasonably practicable, we will provide an estimate of loss or range of potential loss. No disclosures are generally made for any loss contingencies that are deemed to be remote.
Based upon information available to us and our review of lawsuits and claims filed or pending against us to date, we have not recognized a material accrual liability for these matters, nor do we currently expect it is reasonably possible that these matters will result in a material liability to the Company. However, the outcome of litigation and other legal and regulatory matters is inherently uncertain, and it is possible that one or more of such matters currently pending or threatened could have an unanticipated material adverse effect on our liquidity, consolidated financial position, results of operations, and/or our business as a whole, in the future.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
Risk factors that affect our business and financial results are discussed in Part I, Item 1A of our 2016 10-K.2017 10-K, as updated in our First Quarter 10-Q. As of the date of this report, we are not aware of any material changes in our risk factors from the risk factors disclosed in our 2016 10-K.2017 10-K, as updated in our First Quarter 10-Q. You should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described herein and in our 20162017 10-K and First Quarter 10-Q, which have the potential to affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or prospects in a material and adverse manner. The risks described herein and in our 20162017 10-K and First Quarter 10-Q are not the only risks we face, as there are additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial which may in the future adversely affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results.


Item 6. Exhibits
An index to exhibits has been filed as part of this report and is incorporated herein by reference.



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.

NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
November 1, 2017


By: /s/ Adam Pollitzer
     Name: Adam Pollitzer
     Title: Chief Financial Officer and Duly Authorized Signatory



EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit Number Description
   
2.1 
Stock Purchase Agreement, dated November 30, 2011, between NMI Holdings, Inc. and MAC Financial Ltd. (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to our Form S-1 Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-191635), filed on October 9, 2013)
2.2 
Amendment to Stock Purchase Agreement, dated April 6, 2012, between NMI Holdings, Inc. and MAC Financial Ltd. (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.2 to our Form S-1 Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-191635), filed on October 9, 2013)
3.1 
Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to our Form S-1 Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-191635), filed on October 9, 2013)
3.2 
Third Amended and Restated By-Laws (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to our Form 8-K, filed on December 9, 2014)
4.1 
Specimen Class A common stock certificate (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to our Form S-1 Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-191635), filed on October 9, 2013)
4.2 
Registration Rights Agreement between NMI Holdings, Inc. and FBR Capital Markets & Co., dated April 24, 2012 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to our Form S-1 Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-191635), filed on October 9, 2013)
4.3 
Registration Rights Agreement by and between MAC Financial Ltd. and NMI Holdings, Inc., dated April 24, 2012 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to our Form S-1 Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-191635), filed on October 9, 2013)
4.4 
Registration Rights Agreement between FBR & Co., FBR Capital Markets LT, Inc., FBR Capital Markets & Co., FBR Capital Markets PT, Inc. and NMI Holdings, Inc., dated April 24, 2012 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to our Form S-1 Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-191635), filed on October 9, 2013)
4.5 
Warrant No. 1 to Purchase Common Stock of NMI Holdings, Inc. issued to FBR Capital Markets & Co., dated June 13, 2013 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to our Form S-1 Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-191635), filed on October 9, 2013)
4.6 
Form of Warrant to Purchase Common Stock of NMI Holdings, Inc. issued to former stockholders of MAC Financial Ltd. (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.6 to our Form S-1 Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-191635), filed on October 9, 2013)
10.1 ~ 
NMI Holdings Inc. 2012 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Form S-1 Registration Statement (registration No. 333-191635), filed on October 9, 2013)
10.2 ~ 
Form of NMI Holdings, Inc. 2012 Stock Incentive Plan Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to our Form S-1 Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-191635), filed on October 9, 2013)
10.3 ~ 
Form of NMI Holdings, Inc. 2012 Stock Incentive Plan Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Management (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to our Form S-1 Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-191635), filed on October 9, 2013)
10.4 ~ 
Form of NMI Holdings, Inc. 2012 Stock Incentive Plan Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Directors (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to our Form S-1 Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-191635), filed on October 9, 2013)
10.5 ~ 
Form of NMI Holdings, Inc. 2012 Stock Incentive Plan Nonqualified Stock Option Award Agreement for Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to our Form S-1 Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-191635), filed on October 9, 2013)
10.6 ~ 
Form of NMI Holdings, Inc. 2012 Stock Incentive Plan Nonqualified Stock Option Award Agreement for Management (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to our Form S-1 Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-191635), filed on October 9, 2013)
10.7 ~ 
Form of NMI Holdings, Inc. 2012 Stock Incentive Plan Nonqualified Stock Option Award Agreement for Directors (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to our Form S-1 Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-191635), filed on October 9, 2013)
10.8 ~ 
10.9 ~ 
Form of NMI Holdings, Inc. 2012 Stock Incentive Plan Nonqualified Stock Option Award Agreement for Employees  (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to our Form 10-K, filed on February 17, 2017)
10.10 ~ 
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement by and between NMI Holdings, Inc. and Bradley M. Shuster, dated December 23, 2015 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Form 8-K, filed on December 29, 2015)

i



10.11 ~
Offer Letter by and between NMI Holdings, Inc. and Glenn Farrell, effective December 4, 2014 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Form 8-K, filed on December 9, 2014)
10.12 ~ 
Offer Letter by and between NMI Holdings, Inc. and William Leatherberry, dated July 11, 2014 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to our Form 10-Q, filed on April 28, 2016)
10.1310.12 ~ 
Offer Letter by and between NMI Holdings, Inc. and Adam Pollitzer, dated February 1, 2017 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Form 8-K, filed on February 3, 2017)
10.1410.13 ~ 
Form of Indemnification Agreement between NMI Holdings, Inc. and its directors and certain executive officers (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Form 8-K, filed on November 25, 2014)
10.1510.14 + 
10.1610.15 
10.1710.16 
10.1810.17 
10.18
10.19 ~ 
NMI Holdings, Inc. Amended and Restated 2014 Omnibus Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Appendix A to our 2017 Annual Proxy Statement, filed on March 30, 2017)
10.20 ~

 
Form of NMI Holdings, Inc. Amended and Restated 2014 Omnibus Incentive Plan Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Chief Executive Officer (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to our Form 10-Q filed on August 1, 2017)
10.21 ~ 
Form of NMI Holdings, Inc. Amended and Restated 2014 Omnibus Incentive Plan Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Executive Officers (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to our Form 10-Q filed on August 1, 2017)
10.22 ~ 
Form of NMI Holdings, Inc. Amended and Restated 2014 Omnibus Incentive Plan Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Employees (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.21 to our Form 10-Q filed on August 1, 2017)
10.23 ~

 
Form of NMI Holdings, Inc. Amended and Restated 2014 Omnibus Incentive Plan Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Independent Directors (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to our Form 10-Q filed on August 1, 2017)
10.24 ~ 
10.25 ~

 
10.26 ~ 
Form of NMI Holdings, Inc. 2014 Omnibus Incentive Plan Phantom Unit Award Agreement for Independent Directors (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.21 to our Form 10-Q, filed on August 5, 2015)
10.27 ~

 
Form of NMI Holdings, Inc. 2014 Omnibus Incentive Plan Performance Based Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Chief Executive Officer (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to our Form 10-K, filed on February 17, 2017)
10.28 ~ 
NMI Holdings, Inc. Severance Benefit Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Form 8-K, filed on February 17, 2016)
10.29 ~

 
NMI Holdings, Inc. Change in Control Severance Benefit Plan(incorporated (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Form 8-K, filed on February 23, 2017)
10.30 ~ 
10.31~
NMI Holdings, Inc. Clawback Policy (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to our Form 8-K, filed on February 23, 2017)
10.31 ~
Separation Agreement between NMI Holdings, Inc. and Glenn Farrell effective July 31, 2017 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Form 8-K, filed on August 1, 2017)
21.1 
Subsidiaries of NMI Holdings, Inc. (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 21.1 to our Form 10-Q, filed on October 30, 2015)
31.1 
Principal Executive Officer's Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2 
Principal Financial Officer's Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

ii



32.1 # 
Certifications of CEO and CFO Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
101 * 
The following financial information from NMI Holdings, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 20172018 formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language):
(i) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 20172018 and December 31, 20162017
(ii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 20172018 and 20162017
     (iii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity for the nine months ended September 30, 20172018 and the year ended December 31, 20162017
(iv) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the nine months ended September 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, and
(v) Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
~Indicates a management contract or compensatory plan or contract.
+Confidential treatment granted as to certain portions, which portions have been filed separately with the SEC.
#
In accordance with Item 601(b)(32)(ii) of Regulation S-K and SEC Release No. 34-47986, the certifications furnished in Exhibit 32 hereto are deemed to accompany this Form 10-Q and will not be deemed "filed" for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act or deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Exchange Act or the Securities Act except to the extent that the registrant specifically incorporates it by reference.


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.
NMI HOLDINGS, INC.
Date: October 30, 2018
By:   /s/ Adam S. Pollitzer                                                                      
*In accordance with Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, the information furnished in these exhibits will not be deemed "filed" for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act.  Such exhibits will not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act except to the extent that the registrant specifically incorporates it by reference.Name:Adam S. Pollitzer
Title:Chief Financial Officer and Duly Authorized Signatory



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