10-Q 1 d10q.htm QUARTERLY REPORT Quarterly Report
Table of Contents

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 


 

FORM 10-Q

 


 

x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2005

 

or

 

¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the transition period from              to             

 

Commission File Number: 2-64559

 


 

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 


 

Ohio   31-4156830
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)   (IRS Employer Identification No.)

 

One Nationwide Plaza, Columbus, Ohio   43215
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

 

(614) 249-7111

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

N/A

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

 


 

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

 

Yes  x    No  ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act)

 

Yes  ¨    No  x

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock as of the latest practicable date.

 

As of July 29, 2005, the registrant had 3,814,779 shares outstanding of its common stock (par value $1 per share).

 

The Registrant meets the conditions set forth in General Instruction H(1)(a) and (b) of Form 10-Q and is therefore filing this Form in the reduced disclosure format.

 



Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

FORM 10-Q

 

FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED JUNE 30, 2005

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

   1

ITEM 1 Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

   1

ITEM 2 Management’s Narrative Analysis of the Results of Operations

   24

ITEM 3 Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

   54

ITEM 4 Controls and Procedures

   54

PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

   55

ITEM 1 Legal Proceedings

   55

ITEM 2 Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

   57

ITEM 3 Defaults Upon Senior Securities

   57

ITEM 4 Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

   57

ITEM 5 Other Information

   57

ITEM 6 Exhibits

   57

SIGNATURE

   58


Table of Contents

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1 Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

 

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Consolidated Statements of Income

(Unaudited)

(in millions)

 

    

Three months ended

June 30,


   

Six months ended

June 30,


 
     2005

    2004

    2005

   2004

 

Revenues:

                               

Policy charges

   $ 260.2     $ 254.2     $ 522.0    $ 508.9  

Life insurance premiums

     66.8       65.5       131.4      130.5  

Net investment income

     527.3       482.3       1,044.4      985.1  

Net realized (losses) gains on investments, hedging instruments and hedged
items and hedged items

     (5.3 )     (27.1 )     15.8      (38.6 )

Other

     0.6       5.0       3.1      6.5  
    


 


 

  


Total revenues

     849.6       779.9       1,716.7      1,592.4  
    


 


 

  


Benefits and expenses:

                               

Interest credited to policyholder account values

     335.5       312.2       657.5      628.0  

Other benefits and claims

     101.6       92.4       191.0      180.2  

Policyholder dividends on participating policies

     8.3       11.2       18.0      19.7  

Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs

     106.8       102.2       224.8      205.8  

Interest expense on debt, primarily with Nationwide Financial Services,
Inc. (NFS)

     15.9       15.4       31.3      29.9  

Other operating expenses

     128.6       144.0       263.5      286.3  
    


 


 

  


Total benefits and expenses

     696.7       677.4       1,386.1      1,349.9  
    


 


 

  


Income from continuing operations before federal income tax
expense

     152.9       102.5       330.6      242.5  

Federal income tax expense

     37.1       16.7       83.4      51.4  
    


 


 

  


Income from continuing operations

     115.8       85.8       247.2      191.1  

Cumulative effect of adoption of accounting principle, net of taxes

     —         —         —        (3.3 )
    


 


 

  


Net income

   $ 115.8     $ 85.8     $ 247.2    $ 187.8  
    


 


 

  


 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements,

including Note 7 which describes related party transactions.

 

1


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(in millions, except per share amounts)

 

    

June 30,

2005


   December 31,
2004


     (Unaudited)     

Assets

             

Investments:

             

Securities available-for-sale, at fair value:

             

Fixed maturity securities (cost $27,114.5 in 2005; $26,708.7 in 2004)

   $ 28,014.1    $ 27,652.0

Equity securities (cost $33.8 in 2005; $37.7 in 2004)

     44.0      48.1

Mortgage loans on real estate, net

     8,543.4      8,649.2

Real estate, net

     81.5      83.9

Policy loans

     586.9      644.5

Other long-term investments

     567.6      539.6

Short-term investments, including amounts managed by a related party

     1,719.6      1,645.8
    

  

Total investments

     39,557.1      39,263.1

Cash

     0.4      15.5

Accrued investment income

     347.2      364.2

Deferred policy acquisition costs

     3,424.6      3,416.6

Other assets

     1,831.4      2,099.8

Assets held in separate accounts

     59,787.9      60,798.7
    

  

Total assets

   $ 104,948.6    $ 105,957.9
    

  

Liabilities and Shareholder’s Equity

             

Liabilities:

             

Future policy benefits and claims

   $ 36,221.1    $ 36,383.1

Short-term debt

     336.2      215.0

Long-term debt, payable to NFS

     700.0      700.0

Other liabilities

     3,549.3      3,645.2

Liabilities related to separate accounts

     59,787.9      60,798.7
    

  

Total liabilities

     100,594.5      101,742.0
    

  

Shareholder’s equity:

             

Common stock, $1 par value; authorized - 5.0 shares; issued and outstanding - 3.8 shares

     3.8      3.8

Additional paid-in capital

     274.4      274.4

Retained earnings

     3,716.1      3,543.9

Accumulated other comprehensive income

     359.8      393.8
    

  

Total shareholder’s equity

     4,354.1      4,215.9
    

  

Total liabilities and shareholder’s equity

   $ 104,948.6    $ 105,957.9
    

  

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements,

including Note 7 which describes related party transactions.

 

2


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Consolidated Statements of Shareholder’s Equity

Six Months Ended June 30, 2005 and 2004

(Unaudited)

(in millions)

 

     Common
stock


   Additional
paid-in
capital


   Retained
earnings


    Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income


    Total
shareholder’s
equity


 

Balance as of December 31, 2003

   $ 3.8    $ 271.3    $ 3,257.2     $ 467.3     $ 3,999.6  

Comprehensive loss:

                                      

Net income

     —        —        187.8       —         187.8  

Net unrealized losses on securities available-for-sale arising during the period, net of taxes

     —        —        —         (190.5 )     (190.5 )

Accumulated net losses on cash flow hedges, net of taxes

     —        —        —         (1.6 )     (1.6 )
                                  


Total comprehensive loss

                                   (4.3 )
                                  


Dividends to NFS

     —        —        (75.0 )     —         (75.0 )
    

  

  


 


 


Balance as of June 30, 2004

   $ 3.8    $ 271.3    $ 3,370.0     $ 275.2     $ 3,920.3  
    

  

  


 


 


Balance as of December 31, 2004

   $ 3.8    $ 274.4    $ 3,543.9     $ 393.8     $ 4,215.9  

Comprehensive income:

                                      

Net income

     —        —        247.2       —         247.2  

Net unrealized losses on securities available-for-sale arising during the period, net of taxes

     —        —        —         (52.7 )     (52.7 )

Accumulated net gains on cash flow hedges, net of taxes

     —        —        —         18.7       18.7  
                                  


Total comprehensive income

                                   213.2  
                                  


Dividends to NFS

     —        —        (75.0 )     —         (75.0 )
    

  

  


 


 


Balance as of June 30, 2005

   $ 3.8    $ 274.4    $ 3,716.1     $ 359.8     $ 4,354.1  
    

  

  


 


 


 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements,

including Note 7 which describes related party transactions.

 

3


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(Unaudited)

(in millions)

 

    

Six months ended

June 30,


 
     2005

    2004

 

Cash flows from operating activities:

                

Net income

   $ 247.2     $ 187.8  

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

                

Interest credited to policyholder account values

     657.5       628.0  

Capitalization of deferred policy acquisition costs

     (239.5 )     (269.0 )

Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs

     224.8       205.8  

Amortization and depreciation

     30.7       42.9  

Net realized (gains) losses on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items

     (15.8 )     38.6  

Decrease in accrued investment income

     17.0       0.4  

Decrease (increase) in other assets

     287.2       (64.2 )

(Decrease) increase in policy and other liabilities

     (298.1 )     146.3  

Other, net

     (41.7 )     3.8  
    


 


Net cash provided by operating activities

     869.3       920.4  
    


 


Cash flows from investing activities:

                

Proceeds from maturity of securities available-for-sale

     2,863.2       1,922.9  

Proceeds from sale of securities available-for-sale

     1,023.5       314.5  

Proceeds from repayments of mortgage loans on real estate

     1,115.3       816.4  

Cost of securities available-for-sale acquired

     (4,196.8 )     (2,713.0 )

Cost of mortgage loans on real estate originated or acquired

     (913.6 )     (1,101.3 )

Net change in short-term investments

     (58.9 )     399.8  

Collateral received (paid) – securities lending, net

     202.8       (157.8 )

Other, net

     100.0       (188.4 )
    


 


Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

     135.5       (706.9 )
    


 


Cash flows from financing activities:

                

Net change in short-term debt

     121.2       57.4  

Cash dividends paid to NFS

     (25.0 )     (75.0 )

Investment and universal life insurance product deposits

     1,106.6       2,021.6  

Investment and universal life insurance product withdrawals

     (2,222.7 )     (2,212.3 )
    


 


Net cash used in financing activities

     (1,019.9 )     (208.3 )
    


 


Net (decrease) increase in cash

     (15.1 )     5.2  

Cash, beginning of period

     15.5       0.1  
    


 


Cash, end of period

   $ 0.4     $ 5.3  
    


 


 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements,

including Note 7 which describes related party transactions.

 

4


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

(1)

Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of Nationwide Life Insurance Company and subsidiaries (NLIC or collectively, the Company) have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. GAAP differs from statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by regulatory authorities. The financial information included herein reflects all adjustments (all of which are normal and recurring in nature) which are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation of financial position and results of operations. Operating results for all periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and related notes for the year ended December 31, 2004 included in the Company’s 2004 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses for the reporting period. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates.

 

(2)

Reclassification

 

Certain items in the unaudited consolidated financial statements and related notes have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation.

 

(3)

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

 

In May 2005, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 154, Accounting Changes and Error Corrections (SFAS 154), which replaces Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 20, Accounting Changes (APB 20), and SFAS No. 3, Reporting Accounting Changes in Interim Financial Statements. SFAS 154 applies to all voluntary changes in accounting principle as well as to changes required by an accounting pronouncement in the unusual instance that the pronouncement does not include specific transition provisions. SFAS 154 requires retrospective application of changes in accounting principle to prior period financial statements, unless it is impracticable to determine either the period-specific effects or the cumulative effect of the change. When it is impracticable to determine the period-specific effects of an accounting change on one or more individual prior periods presented, SFAS 154 requires that the new accounting principle be applied to the balances of assets and liabilities as of the beginning of the earliest period for which retrospective application is practicable and that a corresponding adjustment be made to the opening balance of retained earnings for that period rather than being reported on the income statement. When it is impracticable to determine the cumulative effect of applying a change in accounting principle to all prior periods, SFAS 154 requires that the new accounting principle be applied as if it were adopted prospectively from the earliest date practicable. SFAS 154 carries forward without change the guidance contained in APB 20 for reporting the correction of an error in previously issued financial statements and a change in accounting estimate and justifying a change in accounting principle on the basis of preferability. SFAS 154 is effective for accounting changes and corrections of errors made in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2005 with earlier adoption permitted. The Company will adopt SFAS 154 effective January 1, 2006. SFAS 154 will have no impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations upon adoption.

 

In March 2004, the Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) reached consensus on further guidance concerning the identification of and accounting for other-than-temporary impairments and disclosures for cost method investments, as required by EITF Issue No. 03-1, The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments (EITF 03-1), which was issued on October 23, 2003. The Company disclosed in its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2004 that this additional guidance would be applied during its third quarter beginning July 1, 2004. Also, effective June 30, 2004, the Company revised its method of evaluating securities to be sold based on additional interpretation of the intent to hold criteria in EITF 03-1. This revision had no impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

5


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, Continued

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

On September 8, 2004, the FASB exposed for comment FASB Staff Position (FSP) EITF Issue 03-1-a, which was intended to provide guidance related to the application of paragraph 16 of EITF 03-1, and proposed FSP EITF Issue 03-1-b, which proposed a delay in the effective date of EITF 03-1 for debt securities that are impaired because of interest rate and/or sector spread increases. Based on comments received on these proposals, on September 30, 2004 the FASB issued FSP EITF 03-1-1, Effective Date of Paragraphs 10-20 of EITF Issue No. 03-1, which delayed the effectiveness of the guidance in EITF 03-1 in its entirety, with the exception of certain disclosure requirements. The delay had no impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations. The Company continues to actively monitor its portfolio for any securities deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired, based on the guidance in SFAS No. 115, Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities (SFAS 115), and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 59, Accounting for Noncurrent Marketable Equity Securities (SAB 59).

 

At its June 29, 2005 meeting, the FASB decided not to provide additional guidance on the meaning of other-than-temporary impairment. Instead, the FASB will issue proposed FSP EITF 03-1-a, Implementation Guidance for the Application of Paragraph 16 of EITF Issue No. 03-1, as final. The final FSP will supersede EITF 03-1 and EITF Topic No. D-44, Recognition of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment upon the Planned Sale of a Security Whose Cost Exceeds Fair Value (EITF Topic D-44). The final FSP, retitled FSP FAS 115-1, The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments (FSP FAS 115-1), will replace the guidance set forth in paragraphs 10-18 of EITF 03-1 with references to existing other-than-temporary impairment guidance. FSP FAS 115-1 will codify the guidance set forth in EITF Topic D-44 and clarify that an investor should recognize an impairment loss no later than when the impairment is deemed other-than-temporary, even if a decision to sell has not been made. The FASB decided that FSP FAS 115-1 would be effective for other-than-temporary impairment analysis conducted in periods beginning after September 15, 2005. The finalized FSP is expected to be issued in August 2005. The Company actively monitors its portfolio for any securities deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired based on the guidance in SFAS 115 and SAB 59, which is expected to be the guidance referenced in FSP FAS 115-1. Because the Company is currently following the existing guidance, the adoption of FSP FAS 115-1 is not expected to have an impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

In June 2004, the FASB issued FSP FAS 97-1, Situations in Which Paragraphs 17(b) and 20 of FASB Statement No. 97, Accounting and Reporting by Insurance Enterprises for Certain Long-Duration Contracts and for Realized Gains and Losses from the Sale of Investments, Permit or Require Accrual of an Unearned Revenue Liability (FSP FAS 97-1), to clarify the guidance related to unearned revenue reserves (URR). The primary purpose of FSP FAS 97-1 is to address the practice question of whether Statement of Position (SOP) 03-1, Accounting and Reporting by Insurance Enterprises for Certain Nontraditional Long-Duration Contracts and for Separate Accounts (SOP 03-1), issued by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), restricts the application of the URR guidance in SFAS No. 97 to situations in which profits are expected to be followed by losses. Because the Company was computing its URR in accordance with FSP FAS 97-1 at the time SOP 03-1 was adopted, the issuance of FSP FAS 97-1 had no impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations at the time of adoption.

 

The Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (the Act) was signed into law on December 8, 2003. In accordance with FSP FAS 106-1, Accounting and Disclosure Requirements Related to The Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (FSP FAS 106-1), issued in January 2004, the Company elected to defer accounting for the effects of the Act until the FASB issues guidance on how to account for the provisions of the Act. In May 2004, the FASB issued FSP FAS 106-2, Accounting and Disclosure Requirements Related to The Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (FSP FAS 106-2), which superceded FSP FAS 106-1 and provided guidance on accounting and disclosures related to the Act. Specifically, measures of the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation and net periodic postretirement benefit cost on or after the date of enactment must reflect the effects of the Act. The Company’s adoption of FSP FAS 106-2, effective June 30, 2004, had no impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations due the application of Company maximum contribution caps and because the Company does not apply to the United States government for benefit reimbursements.

 

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Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, Continued

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

In December 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 132 (revised 2003), Employers’ Disclosures about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits - an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88 and 106 (SFAS 132R). SFAS 132R provides revised disclosure guidance for pension and other postretirement benefit plans but does not change the measurement or recognition of those plans under existing guidance. Disclosures previously required under SFAS No. 132, Employers’ Disclosures about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits, which was replaced by SFAS 132R, were retained. In addition, SFAS 132R requires additional disclosures about the assets, obligations, cash flows and net periodic benefit cost of defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans on both an interim period and annual basis. See Note 6 for required disclosures. The Company adopted SFAS 132R effective December 31, 2003, except for the provisions relating to annual disclosures about estimated benefit payments, which was adopted in the fourth quarter of 2004, as permitted by SFAS 132R. Adoption of SFAS 132R had no impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

In July 2003, the AICPA issued SOP 03-1 to address many topics. The most significant topic affecting the Company was the accounting for contracts with guaranteed minimum death benefits (GMDB). SOP 03-1 requires companies to evaluate the significance of a GMDB to determine whether a contract should be accounted for as an investment or insurance contract. For contracts determined to be insurance contracts, companies are required to establish a reserve to recognize a portion of the assessment (revenue) that compensates the insurance company for benefits to be provided in future periods. SOP 03-1 also provides guidance on separate account presentation, interest in separate accounts, gains and losses on the transfer of assets from the general account to a separate account, liability valuation, return based on a contractually referenced pool of assets or index, annuitization options, and sales inducements to contract holders. The Company adopted SOP 03-1 effective January 1, 2004, which resulted in a $3.3 million charge, net of taxes, as the cumulative effect of adoption of this accounting principle.

 

The following table summarizes the components of cumulative effect adjustments recorded in the Company’s 2004 consolidated statements of income:

 

(in millions)      


   January 1, 2004

 

Increase in future policy benefits:

        

Ratchet interest crediting

   $ (12.3 )

Secondary guarantees - life insurance

     (2.4 )

GMDB claim reserves

     (1.8 )

Guaranteed minimum income benefits (GMIB) claim reserves

     (1.0 )
    


Subtotal

     (17.5 )

Adjustment to amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs related to above

     12.4  

Deferred federal income taxes

     1.8  
    


Cumulative effect of adoption of accounting principle, net of taxes

   $ (3.3 )
    


 

 

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Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, Continued

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

(4)

Variable Annuity Contracts

 

The Company issues traditional variable annuity contracts through its separate accounts, for which investment income and gains and losses on investments accrue directly to, and investment risk is borne by, the contract holder. The Company also issues non-traditional variable annuity contracts in which the Company provides various forms of guarantees to benefit the related contract holders. The Company provides four primary guarantee types under non-traditional variable annuity contracts: (1) GMDB; (2) guaranteed minimum accumulation benefits (GMAB); (3) GMIB; and (4) a hybrid guarantee with GMAB and guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefits (GMWB).

 

The GMDB provides a specified minimum return upon death. Many, but not all, of these death benefits are spousal, whereby a death benefit will be paid upon death of the first spouse. The survivor has the option to terminate the contract or continue it and have the death benefit paid into the contract and a second death benefit paid upon the survivor’s death. The Company offers six primary GMDB types:

 

 

 

Return of premium – provides the greater of account value or total deposits made to the contract less any partial withdrawals and assessments, which is referred to as “net premiums.” There are two variations of this benefit. In general, there is no lock in age for this benefit. However, for some contracts the GMDB reverts to the account value at a specified age, typically age 75.

 

 

 

Reset – provides the greater of a return of premium death benefit or the most recent five-year anniversary (prior to lock-in age) account value adjusted for withdrawals. For most contracts, this GMDB locks in at age 86 or 90, and for others the GMDB reverts to the account value at age 75, 85, 86 or 90.

 

 

 

Ratchet – provides the greater of a return of premium death benefit or the highest specified “anniversary” account value (prior to age 86) adjusted for withdrawals. Currently, there are three versions of ratchet, with the difference based on the definition of anniversary: monthaversary – evaluated monthly; annual – evaluated annually; and five-year – evaluated every fifth year.

 

 

 

Rollup – provides the greater of a return of premium death benefit or premiums adjusted for withdrawals accumulated at generally 5% simple interest up to the earlier of age 86 or 200% of adjusted premiums. There are two variations of this benefit. For certain contracts, this GMDB locks in at age 86, and for others the GMDB reverts to the account value at age 75.

 

 

 

Combo - provides the greater of annual ratchet death benefit or rollup death benefit. This benefit locks in at either age 81 or 86.

 

 

 

Earnings enhancement - provides an enhancement to the death benefit that is a specified percentage of the adjusted earnings accumulated on the contract at the date of death. There are two versions of this benefit: (1) the benefit expires at age 86, and a credit of 4% of account value is deposited into the contract; and (2) the benefit does not have an end age, but has a cap on the payout and is paid upon the first death in a spousal situation. Both benefits have age limitations. This benefit is paid in addition to any other death benefits paid under the contract.

 

The GMAB, offered in the Company’s Capital Preservation Plus (CPP) contract rider, is a living benefit that provides the contract holder with a guaranteed return of premium, adjusted proportionately for withdrawals, after a specified period of time (5, 7 or 10 years) selected by the contract holder at the issuance of the variable annuity contract. In some cases, the contract holder also has the option, after a specified period of time, to drop the rider and continue the variable annuity contract without the GMAB. In general, the GMAB requires a minimum allocation to guaranteed term options or adherence to limitations required by an approved asset allocation strategy.

 

The GMIB is a living benefit that provides the contract holder with a guaranteed annuitization value. The GMIB types are:

 

 

 

Ratchet – provides an annuitization value equal to the greater of account value, net premiums or the highest one-year anniversary account value (prior to age 86) adjusted for withdrawals.

 

 

 

Rollup – provides an annuitization value equal to the greater of account value and premiums adjusted for withdrawals accumulated at 5% compound interest up to the earlier of age 86 or 200% of adjusted premiums.

 

 

 

Combo – provides an annuitization value equal to the greater of account value, ratchet GMIB benefit or rollup GMIB benefit.

 

8


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, Continued

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

Beginning in March 2005, the Company began offering a hybrid GMAB/GMWB living benefit through its Capital Preservation Plus Lifetime Income contract rider. This living benefit combines a GMAB feature in its first 5-10 years (virtually identical to the previously described CPP benefit) with a lifetime withdrawal benefit which begins upon the maturity of the GMAB and extends for the duration of the insured’s life. In the event that the insured’s contract value is exhausted through such withdrawals, the Company shall continue to fund future withdrawals at a pre-defined level until the insured’s death. In some cases, the contract owner has the right to drop the GMWB portion of this rider or periodically reset the guaranteed withdrawal basis to a higher level. This benefit requires a minimum allocation to guaranteed term options or adherence to limitations required by an approved asset allocation strategy. All GMAB contracts with the hybrid GMAB/GMWB living benefit rider are included with GMAB contracts in the following tables.

 

The following table summarizes the account values and net amount at risk, net of reinsurance, for variable annuity contracts with guarantees invested in both general and separate accounts as of the dates indicated:

 

     June 30, 2005

   December 31, 2004

(in millions)      


   Account
value


   Net amount
at risk1


  

Wtd. avg.

attained age


   Account
value


   Net amount
at risk1


   Wtd. avg.
attained age


GMDB:

                                     

Return of premium

   $ 9,182.4    $ 50.9    56    $ 9,675.4    $ 54.1    59

Reset

     16,721.1      124.5    62      17,315.9      153.2    62

Ratchet

     10,073.4      44.1    65      9,621.0      42.3    64

Rollup

     598.9      9.6    69      638.6      9.7    68

Combo

     2,466.3      28.3    67      2,519.9      19.2    67
    

  

  
  

  

  

Subtotal

     39,042.1      257.4    62      39,770.8      278.5    62

Earnings enhancement

     321.4      18.0    61      310.1      18.0    60
    

  

  
  

  

  

Total - GMDB

   $ 39,363.5    $ 275.4    63    $ 40,080.9    $ 296.5    62
    

  

  
  

  

  

GMAB2:

                                     

5 Year

   $ 678.7    $ 0.2    N/A    $ 460.6    $ 0.1    N/A

7 Year

     774.5      0.4    N/A      568.4      —      N/A

10 Year

     428.6      0.3    N/A      304.0      —      N/A
    

  

  
  

  

  

Total - GMAB

   $ 1,881.8    $ 0.9    N/A    $ 1,333.0    $ 0.1    N/A
    

  

  
  

  

  

GMIB3:

                                     

Ratchet

   $ 430.5    $ —      N/A    $ 437.7    $ —      N/A

Rollup

     1,153.6      0.1    N/A      1,188.2      —      N/A

Combo

     0.5      —      N/A      1.0      —      N/A
    

  

  
  

  

  

Total - GMIB

   $ 1,584.6    $ 0.1    N/A    $ 1,626.9    $ —      N/A
    

  

  
  

  

  

                                     

 

 

1

Net amount at risk is calculated on a seriatum basis and represents the greater of the respective guaranteed benefit less the account value and zero. As it relates to GMIB, net amount at risk is calculated as if all policies were eligible to annuitize immediately, although all GMIB options have a waiting period of at least 7 years from issuance, with the earliest annuitizations beginning in 2006.

 

 

2

GMAB contracts with the hybrid GMAB/GMWB living benefit rider had account values of $241.0 as of June 30, 2005.

 

 

3

The weighted average period remaining until expected annuitization is not meaningful and has not been presented because there is currently no material GMIB exposure.

 

9


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, Continued

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

Following is a rollforward of the liabilities for guarantees on variable annuity contracts reflected in the Company’s general account for the periods indicated:

 

(in millions)        


   GMDB

    GMAB

    GMIB

   Total

 

Balance as of December 31, 2003

   $ 21.8     $ 4.3     $  —      $ 26.1  

Expense provision

     25.0       —         0.8      25.8  

Net claims paid

     (23.2 )     —         —        (23.2 )

Value of new business sold

     —         24.7       —        24.7  

Change in fair value

     —         (8.4 )     —        (8.4 )
    


 


 

  


Balance as of December 31, 2004

     23.6       20.6       0.8      45.0  

Expense provision

     16.4       —         0.1      16.5  

Net claims paid

     (11.7 )     —         —        (11.7 )

Value of new business sold

     —         18.4       —        18.4  

Change in fair value

     (3.5 )     3.6       —        0.1  
    


 


 

  


Balance as of June 30, 2005

   $ 24.8     $ 42.6     $ 0.9    $ 68.3  
    


 


 

  


 

The following table summarizes account balances of contracts with guarantees that were invested in separate accounts as of the dates indicated:

 

(in millions)      


  

June 30,

2005


   December 31,
2004


Mutual funds:

             

Bond

   $ 4,017.2    $ 4,136.8

Domestic equity

     26,712.2      27,402.4

International equity

     1,817.8      1,831.3
    

  

Total mutual funds

     32,547.2      33,370.5

Money market funds

     1,437.5      1,313.6
    

  

Total

   $ 33,984.7    $ 34,684.1
    

  

 

The Company’s GMDB claim reserves are determined by estimating the expected value of death benefits on contracts that trigger a policy benefit and recognizing the excess ratably over the accumulation period based on total expected assessments. GMIB claim reserves are determined each period by estimating the expected value of annuitization benefits in excess of the projected account balance at the date of annuitization and recognizing the excess ratably over the accumulation period based on total assessments. The Company regularly evaluates GMDB and GMIB claim reserve estimates used and adjusts the additional liability balances as appropriate, with a related charge or credit to other benefits and claims in the period of evaluation if actual experience or other evidence suggests that earlier assumptions should be revised. The assumptions used in calculating GMIB claim reserves are consistent with those used for calculating GMDB claim reserves. In addition, the calculation of GMIB claim reserves assumes utilization ranges from a low of 3% when the contract holder’s annuitization value is 10% in the money to 100% utilization when the contract holder is 90% in the money.

 

 

10


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, Continued

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

The following assumptions and methodology were used to determine the GMDB claim reserves as of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004:

 

 

 

Data used was based on a combination of historical numbers and future projections involving 50 probabilistically generated economic scenarios

 

 

 

Mean gross equity performance – 8.1%

 

 

 

Equity volatility – 18.7%

 

 

 

Mortality – 100% of Annuity 2000 table

 

 

 

Asset fees – equivalent to mutual fund and product loads

 

 

 

Discount rate – 8.0%

 

Lapse rate assumptions vary by duration as shown below:

 

Duration (years)      


   1

   2

   3

   4

   5

   6

   7

   8

   9

   10+

Minimum

   4.50%    5.50%    6.50%    8.50%    10.50%    10.50%    10.50%    17.50%    17.50%    17.50%

Maximum

   4.50%    8.50%    11.50%    17.50%    22.50%    22.50%    22.50%    22.50%    22.50%    19.50%

 

GMABs and hybrid GMABs/GMWBs are considered embedded derivatives under current accounting guidance, resulting in the related liabilities being separated from the host insurance product and recognized at fair value, with changes in fair value reported in earnings, and therefore, excluded from the SOP 03-1 policy benefits.

 

 

11


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, Continued

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

(5)

Comprehensive Income

 

Comprehensive income includes net income and certain items that are reported directly within separate components of shareholder’s equity that bypass net income (other comprehensive income or loss). The following table summarizes the Company’s other comprehensive income (loss), before and after federal income tax (expense) benefit, for the periods indicated:

 

     Three months
ended June 30,


    Six months ended
June 30,


 

(in millions)      


   2005

    2004

    2005

    2004

 

Net unrealized gains (losses) on securities available-for-sale arising during the period:

                                

Net unrealized gains (losses) before adjustments

   $ 389.4     $ (871.7 )   $ (20.3 )   $ (523.4 )

Adjustment to deferred policy acquisition costs

     (128.9 )     285.8       (1.4 )     155.8  

Adjustment to future policy benefits and claims

     (40.5 )     62.1       (35.8 )     43.3  

Related federal income tax (expense) benefit

     (77.0 )     183.3       20.1       113.5  
    


 


 


 


Net unrealized gains (losses)

     143.0       (340.5 )     (37.4 )     (210.8 )
    


 


 


 


Reclassification adjustment for net realized (gains) losses on securities available-for-sale realized during the period:

                                

Net unrealized (gains) losses

     (1.4 )     24.3       (23.6 )     31.2  

Related federal income tax expense (benefit)

     0.5       (8.4 )     8.3       (10.9 )
    


 


 


 


Net reclassification adjustment

     (0.9 )     15.9       (15.3 )     20.3  
    


 


 


 


Other comprehensive income (loss) on securities available-for-sale

     142.1       (324.6 )     (52.7 )     (190.5 )
    


 


 


 


Accumulated net holding gains (losses) on cash flow hedges:

                                

Unrealized holding gains (losses)

     23.0       (10.0 )     28.8       (2.5 )

Related federal income tax (expense) benefit

     (8.1 )     3.5       (10.1 )     0.9  
    


 


 


 


Other comprehensive income (loss) on cash flow hedges

     14.9       (6.5 )     18.7       (1.6 )
    


 


 


 


Total other comprehensive income (loss)

   $ 157.0     $ (331.1 )   $ (34.0 )   $ (192.1 )
    


 


 


 


 

Adjustments for net realized gains and losses on the ineffective portion of cash flow hedges were immaterial during the three and six month periods ended June 30, 2005 and 2004.

 

12


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, Continued

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

(6)

Pension Plan and Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions

 

The Company, together with certain other affiliated companies, participates in a defined benefit pension plan sponsored by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company (NMIC). The following table summarizes the components of net periodic benefit cost for the NMIC pension plan for the periods indicated:

 

    

Three months ended

June 30,


   

Six months ended

June 30,


 

(in millions)        


   2005

    2004

    2005

    2004

 

Service cost

   $ 33.1     $ 29.8     $ 67.1     $ 59.6  

Interest cost

     33.2       33.2       67.4       66.3  

Expected return on plan assets

     (43.6 )     (40.5 )     (86.1 )     (81.0 )

Recognized net actuarial loss

     0.2       1.2       1.9       2.3  

Amortization of prior service cost

     1.2       0.8       2.3       1.6  

Amortization of unrecognized transition asset

     (0.3 )     (0.4 )     (0.6 )     (0.7 )
    


 


 


 


Net periodic benefit cost

   $ 23.8     $ 24.1     $ 52.0     $ 48.1  
    


 


 


 


NMIC and all participating employers, including the Company, expect to contribute $125.2 million to this pension plan during 2005. Through June 30, 2005, $120.0 million had been contributed, including $20.6 million by the Company. Additional contributions to this pension plan totaling $5.2 million are anticipated from NMIC and certain participating employers for the remainder of the year. The Company is not expected to make any further contributions in 2005. Tax planning strategies influence the timing of plan contributions.

    

In addition to the defined benefit pension plan, the Company, together with certain other affiliated companies, participates in life and health care defined benefit plans sponsored by NMIC. The following table summarizes the components of net periodic benefit cost for the NMIC postretirement benefit plans as a whole for the periods indicated:

   
    

Three months ended

June 30,


   

Six months ended

June 30,


 

(in millions)        


   2005

    2004

    2005

    2004

 

Service cost

   $ 2.6     $ 2.7     $ 4.9     $ 5.4  

Interest cost

     3.7       5.1       8.0       10.2  

Expected return on plan assets

     (2.1 )     (2.1 )     (4.4 )     (4.2 )

Recognized net actuarial loss

     0.2       1.2       0.7       2.5  

Amortization of prior service cost

     (3.6 )     (3.4 )     (7.4 )     (6.8 )
    


 


 


 


Net periodic benefit cost

   $ 0.8     $ 3.5     $ 1.8     $ 7.1  
    


 


 


 


 

NMIC and all participating employers, including the Company, expect to contribute $18.0 million to the postretirement benefit plans during 2005. Through June 30, 2005, $8.5 million had been contributed, including $1.7 million by the Company. Additional contributions to the plan totaling $9.5 million are anticipated from NMIC and all participating employers, including $1.7 million by the Company, for the remainder of the year. Postretirement benefit plan contributions generally are funded on a monthly basis.

 

 

13


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, Continued

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

(7)

Related Party Transactions

 

The Company has entered into significant, recurring transactions and agreements with NMIC, other affiliates and subsidiaries as a part of its ongoing operations. The nature of the transactions and agreements include annuity and life insurance contracts, reinsurance agreements, cost sharing agreements, administration services agreements, marketing agreements, office space leases, intercompany loan agreements, intercompany repurchase agreements and cash management services agreements. The transactions and agreements are described more fully in Note 16 to the audited consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s 2004 Annual Report on Form 10-K. During the second quarter of 2005, there have been no material changes to the nature and terms of these transactions and agreements.

 

Amounts on deposit with a related party in cash management for the benefit of the Company were $402.2 million and $500.2 million as of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, respectively.

 

The Company periodically enters into loan agreements with NFS at terms the Company believes are materially consistent with what NFS could have obtained from unaffiliated parties. During the quarter ended June 30, 2005, the Company loaned $15.0 million to NFS. The loan was repaid during the quarter, and related interest income was immaterial.

 

The Company also participates in intercompany repurchase agreements with affiliates whereby the seller transfers securities to the buyer at a stated value. Upon demand or after a stated period, the seller repurchases the securities at the original sales price plus interest. As of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, the Company had no cash borrowings outstanding from affiliated entities under such agreements. During the first six months of 2005 and 2004, the maximum outstanding borrowings under such agreements were $43.7 million and $126.6 million, respectively, and the amounts the Company incurred for interest expense on intercompany repurchase agreements during these periods were immaterial. The Company believes that the terms of the repurchase agreements are materially consistent with what the Company could have obtained from unaffiliated parties.

 

Funds of Gartmore Global Investments, Inc. (GGI), an affiliate, are offered to the Company’s customers as investment options in certain of the Company’s products. As of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, customer allocations to GGI funds totaled $14.66 billion and $14.06 billion, respectively. For the quarters ended June 30, 2005 and 2004, GGI paid the Company $12.7 million and $11.0 million, respectively, for the distribution and servicing of these funds, compared to $24.9 million and $21.7 million for the first six months of 2005 and 2004, respectively.

 

During the first six months of 2005 and 2004, NLIC paid dividends to NFS totaling $25.0 million and $75.0 million, respectively.

 

14


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, Continued

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

(8)

Contingencies

 

Legal Matters

 

The Company is a party to litigation and arbitration proceedings in the ordinary course of its business. It is not possible to determine the ultimate outcome of the pending investigations and legal proceedings or to provide reasonable ranges of potential losses. Some of the matters, including certain of those referred to below, are in very preliminary stages, and the Company does not have sufficient information to make an assessment of plaintiffs’ claims for liability or damages. In some of the cases seeking to be certified as class actions, the court has not yet decided whether a class will be certified or (in the event of certification) the size of the class and class period. In many of the cases, plaintiffs are seeking undefined amounts of damages or other relief, including punitive damages and equitable remedies, that are difficult to quantify and cannot be defined based on the information currently available. The Company does not believe, based on information currently known by the Company’s management, that the outcomes of such pending investigations and legal proceedings are likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position. However, given the large and/or indeterminate amounts sought in certain of these matters and inherent unpredictability of litigation, it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain matters could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial results in a particular quarterly or annual period.

 

In recent years, life insurance companies have been named as defendants in lawsuits, including class action lawsuits relating to life insurance and annuity pricing and sales practices. A number of these lawsuits have resulted in substantial jury awards or settlements.

 

The financial services industry, including mutual fund, variable annuity, life insurance and distribution companies, has also been the subject of increasing scrutiny by regulators, legislators and the media over the past two years. Numerous regulatory agencies, including the SEC, the National Association of Securities Dealers and the New York State Attorney General, have commenced industry-wide investigations regarding late trading and market timing in connection with mutual funds and variable insurance contracts, and have commenced enforcement actions against some mutual fund and life insurance companies on those issues. The Company has been contacted by or received subpoenas from the SEC and the New York State Attorney General, who are investigating market timing in certain mutual funds offered in insurance products sponsored by the Company. The Company is cooperating with this investigation and is responding to information requests.

 

In addition, state and federal regulators have commenced investigations or other proceedings relating to compensation and bidding arrangements and possible anti-competitive activities between insurance producers and brokers and issuers of insurance products, and unsuitable sales and replacements by producers on behalf of the issuer. Also under investigation are compensation arrangements between the issuers of variable insurance contracts and mutual funds or their affiliates, the use of side agreements and finite reinsurance, and funding agreements issued to back medium-term note (MTN) programs. Related investigations and proceedings may be commenced in the future. The Company has been contacted by or received subpoenas from state and federal regulatory agencies, state securities law regulators and state attorneys general for information relating to these investigations into compensation and bidding arrangements, anti-competitive activities, unsuitable sales or replacement practices, and funding agreements backing the MTN program. The Company is cooperating with regulators in connection with these inquiries. NMIC, the Company’s ultimate parent, has been contacted by or received subpoenas from certain regulators for information on certain of these issues with respect to its operations and the operations of its subsidiaries, including the Company. The Company will cooperate with NMIC in responding to these inquiries to the extent that any inquiries encompass its operations.

 

These proceedings are expected to continue in the future and could result in legal precedents and new industry-wide legislation, rules and regulations that could significantly affect the financial services industry, including life insurance and annuity companies. These proceedings also could affect the outcome of one or more of the Company’s litigation matters.

 

15


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, Continued

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

On April 13, 2004, NLIC was named in a class action lawsuit filed in Circuit Court, Third Judicial Circuit, Madison County, Illinois, entitled Woodbury v. Nationwide Life Insurance Company. The plaintiff claims to represent a class of persons in the United States who, through their ownership of an NLIC annuity or insurance product, held units of any NLIC sub-account invested in mutual funds which included foreign securities in their portfolios and which allegedly experienced market timing trading activity. The complaint contains allegations of negligence, reckless indifference and breach of fiduciary duty. The plaintiff seeks to recover compensatory and punitive damages in an amount not to exceed $75,000 per plaintiff or class member. NLIC removed this case to the United States District Court for the Southern District of Illinois on June 1, 2004. The plaintiffs moved to remand on June 28, 2004. On July 12, 2004, NLIC filed a memorandum opposing remand and requesting a stay pending the resolution of an unrelated case covering similar issues, which is an appeal from a decision of the same District Court remanding a removed market timing case to an Illinois state court. On July 30, 2004, the U.S. District Court granted NLIC’s request for a stay pending a decision by the Seventh Circuit on the unrelated case mentioned above. On December 27, 2004, the case was transferred to the United States District Court for the District of Maryland and included in the multi-district proceeding there entitled In Re Mutual Funds Investment Litigation. On April 25, 2005, NLIC filed a motion to dismiss. In response, on May 13, 2005, the plaintiff filed a First Amended Complaint purporting to represent, with certain exceptions, a class of all persons who held (through their ownership of an NLIC annuity or insurance product) units of any NLIC sub-account invested in mutual funds that included foreign securities in their portfolios and that experienced market timing or stale price trading activity. The First Amended Complaint purports to disclaim, with respect to market timing or stale price trading in NLIC’s annuities sub-accounts, any allegation based on NLIC’s untrue statement, failure to disclose any material fact, or usage of any manipulative or deceptive device or contrivance in connection with any class member’s purchases or sales of NLIC annuities or units in annuities sub-accounts. The plaintiff claims, in the alternative, that if NLIC is found with respect to market timing or stale price trading in its annuities sub-accounts, to have made any untrue statement, to have failed to disclose any material fact or to have used or employed any manipulative or deceptive device or contrivance, then the plaintiff purports to represent a class, with certain exceptions, of all persons who, prior to NLIC’s untrue statement, omission of material fact, use or employment of any manipulative or deceptive device or contrivance, held (through their ownership of an NLIC annuity or insurance product) units of any NLIC sub-account invested in mutual funds that included foreign securities in their portfolios and that experienced market timing activity. The First Amended Complaint alleges common law negligence and seeks to recover damages not to exceed $75,000 per plaintiff or class member, including all compensatory damages and costs. On June 24, 2005, NLIC filed a motion to dismiss the First Amended Complaint. NLIC intends to defend this lawsuit vigorously.

 

On January 21, 2004, the Company was named in a lawsuit filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi entitled United Investors Life Insurance Company v. Nationwide Life Insurance Company and/or Nationwide Life Insurance Company of America and/or Nationwide Life and Annuity Insurance Company and/or Nationwide Life and Annuity Company of America and/or Nationwide Financial Services, Inc. and/or Nationwide Financial Corporation, and John Does A-Z. In its complaint, plaintiff United Investors alleges that the Company and/or its affiliated life insurance companies caused the replacement of variable insurance policies and other financial products issued by United Investors with policies issued by the Nationwide defendants. The plaintiff raises claims for (1) violations of the Federal Lanham Act, and common law unfair competition and defamation, (2) tortious interference with the plaintiff’s contractual relationship with Waddell & Reed, Inc. and/or its affiliates, Waddell & Reed Financial, Inc., Waddell & Reed Financial Services, Inc. and W&R Insurance Agency, Inc., or with the plaintiff’s contractual relationships with its variable policyholders, (3) civil conspiracy, and (4) breach of fiduciary duty. The complaint seeks compensatory damages, punitive damages, pre- and post-judgment interest, a full accounting, a constructive trust, and costs and disbursements, including attorneys’ fees. The Company filed a motion to dismiss the complaint on June 1, 2004. On February 8, 2005 the court denied the motion to dismiss. On March 23, 2005, the Company filed its answer. The Company intends to defend this lawsuit vigorously.

 

16


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, Continued

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

On October 31, 2003, NLIC and Nationwide Life and Annuity Insurance Company (NLAIC) were named in a lawsuit seeking class action status filed in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona entitled Robert Helman et al v. Nationwide Life Insurance Company et al. The suit challenges the sale of deferred annuity products for use as investments in tax-deferred contributory retirement plans. On April 8, 2004, the plaintiff filed an amended class action complaint on behalf of all persons who purchased an individual variable deferred annuity contract or a certificate to a group variable annuity contract issued by NLIC or NLAIC which were allegedly used to fund certain tax-deferred retirement plans. The amended class action complaint seeks unspecified compensatory damages. NLIC and NLAIC filed a motion to dismiss the complaint on May 24, 2004. On July 27, 2004, the court granted the motion to dismiss. The plaintiff has appealed that dismissal to the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. NLIC and NLAIC intend to defend this lawsuit vigorously.

 

On August 15, 2001, the Company was named in a lawsuit filed in the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut entitled Lou Haddock, as trustee of the Flyte Tool & Die, Incorporated Deferred Compensation Plan, et al v. Nationwide Financial Services, Inc. and Nationwide Life Insurance Company. The plaintiffs first amended their complaint on September 5, 2001 to include class action allegations and have subsequently amended their complaint three times. As amended, in the current complaint the plaintiffs seek to represent a class of ERISA qualified retirement plans that purchased variable annuities from NLIC. The plaintiffs allege that they invested ERISA plan assets in their variable annuity contracts and that the Company breached ERISA fiduciary duties by allegedly accepting service payments from certain mutual funds. The complaint seeks disgorgement of some or all of the payments allegedly received by the Company, other unspecified relief for restitution, declaratory and injunctive relief, and attorneys’ fees. On December 13, 2001, the plaintiffs filed a motion for class certification. The plaintiffs filed a supplement to that motion on September 19, 2003. The Company opposed that motion on December 24, 2003. On July 6, 2004, the Company filed a Revised Memorandum in Support of Summary Judgment. The plaintiffs have opposed that motion. The Company intends to defend this lawsuit vigorously.

 

Tax Matters

 

The Company’s federal income tax returns are routinely audited by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and the Company is currently under examination for the 2000-2002 tax years. The Company has established tax reserves representing its best estimate of additional amounts it may be required to pay if certain tax positions it has taken are challenged and ultimately denied by the IRS. These reserves are reviewed regularly and are adjusted as events occur that the Company believes impact its liability for additional taxes, such as lapsing of applicable statutes of limitations, conclusion of tax audits or substantial agreement on the deductibility/non-deductibility of uncertain items, additional exposure based on current calculations, identification of new issues, release of administrative guidance or rendering of a court decision affecting a particular tax issue. The Company believes its tax reserves reasonably provide for potential assessments that may result from IRS examinations and other tax-related matters for all open tax years.

 

A significant component of the tax reserve is related to the separate account dividends-received deduction (DRD). The Company has not yet reached an agreement with the IRS, and there can be no assurance that such an agreement will be reached. However, favorable resolution of the separate account DRD and/or other identified issues could result in a potentially significant benefit to the Company’s future results of operations.

 

(9)

Securitization Transactions

 

Since 2001, the Company has sold $557.0 million of credit enhanced equity interests in Low-Income-Housing Tax Credit Funds (Tax Credit Funds) to unrelated third parties. The Company has guaranteed cumulative after-tax yields to third party investors ranging from 4.38% to 5.25% over periods ending between 2002 and 2021. As of June 30, 2005, the Company held guarantee reserves totaling $5.6 million on these transactions. These guarantees are in effect for periods of approximately 15 years each. The Tax Credit Funds provide a stream of tax benefits to the investors that will generate a yield and return of capital. If the tax benefits are not sufficient to provide these cumulative after-tax yields, then the Company must fund any shortfall, which is mitigated by stabilization collateral set aside by the Company at the inception of the transactions. The maximum amount of undiscounted future payments that the Company could be required to pay the investors under the terms of the guarantees is $1.50 billion. The Company does not anticipate making any payments related to the guarantees.

 

17


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, Continued

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

At the time of the sales, $5.1 million of net sale proceeds were set aside as collateral for certain properties owned by the Tax Credit Funds that had not met all of the criteria necessary to generate tax credits. Such criteria include completion of construction and the leasing of each unit to a qualified tenant, among others. Properties meeting the necessary criteria are considered to have “stabilized.” The properties are evaluated regularly, and the collateral is released when stabilized. No stabilization collateral amounts were released into income during the first six months of 2005 and 2004. As of June 30, 2005, $1.4 million of stabilization collateral was unrecognized and recorded as a reserve.

 

To the extent there are cash deficits in any specific property owned by the Tax Credit Funds, property reserves, property operating guarantees and reserves held by the Tax Credit Funds are exhausted before the Company is required to perform under its guarantees. To the extent the Company is ever required to perform under its guarantees, it may recover any such funding out of the cash flow distributed from the sale of the underlying properties of the Tax Credit Funds. This cash flow distribution would be paid to the Company prior to any cash flow distributions to unrelated third party investors.

 

(10)

Variable Interest Entities

 

As of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, the Company had relationships with 18 and 14 variable interest entities (VIEs), respectively, where the Company was the primary beneficiary. Each of these VIEs is a conduit that assists the Company in structured products transactions. One of the VIEs is used in the securitization of mortgage loans, while the others are involved in the sale of Tax Credit Funds to third party investors where the Company provides guaranteed returns (see Note 9). The results of operations and financial position of these VIEs are included along with corresponding minority interest liabilities in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

 

The net assets of these VIEs totaled $410.5 million and $366.4 million as of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, respectively.

 

The following table summarizes the most significant components of net assets as of the dates indicated:

 

(in millions)      


  

June 30,

2005


   December 31,
2004


Mortgage loans on real estate

   $ 31.9    $ 32.1

Other long-term investments

     426.1      401.2

Short-term investments

     44.5      31.7

Other assets

     40.2      35.6

Short-term debt

     32.6      32.6

Other liabilities

     100.0      116.3

 

The total exposure to loss on these VIEs where the Company is the primary beneficiary was immaterial as of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004. For the mortgage loan VIE, to which the short-term debt relates, the creditors have no recourse against the Company in the event of default by the VIE.

 

In addition to the VIEs described above, the Company holds variable interests, in the form of limited partnerships or similar investments, in a number of Tax Credit Funds where the Company is not the primary beneficiary. These investments have been held by the Company for periods of 1 to 9 years and allow the Company to experience certain tax credits and other tax benefits from affordable housing projects. The Company also has certain investments in other securitization transactions that qualify as VIEs, but for which the Company is not the primary beneficiary. The total exposure to loss on these VIEs was $34.8 million and $36.3 million as of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, respectively.

 

 

18


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, Continued

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

(11)

Segment Information

 

Management of the Company views its business primarily based on the underlying products, and this is the basis used for defining its reportable segments. The Company reports four segments: Individual Investments, Retirement Plans, Individual Protection, and Corporate and Other. The primary segment profitability measure that management uses is pre-tax operating earnings, which is calculated by adjusting income from continuing operations before federal income taxes and the cumulative effect of adoption of accounting principles, if any, to exclude net realized gains and losses on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items, except for periodic net coupon settlements on non-qualifying derivatives and realized gains and losses related to securitizations, if any.

 

The Individual Investments segment consists of individual The BEST of AMERICA® and private label deferred variable annuity products, deferred fixed annuity products, income products, and advisory services program revenues and expenses. Individual deferred annuity contracts provide the customer with tax-deferred accumulation of savings and flexible payout options including lump sum, systematic withdrawal or a stream of payments for life. In addition, individual variable annuity contracts provide the customer with access to a wide range of investment options and asset protection in the event of an untimely death, while individual fixed annuity contracts generate a return for the customer at a specified interest rate fixed for prescribed periods.

 

The Retirement Plans segment is comprised of the Company’s private and public sector retirement plans business. The private sector includes Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 401(k) business and the public sector includes IRC Section 457 and Section 401(a) business, both in the form of fixed and variable group annuities.

 

The Individual Protection segment consists of investment life insurance products, including individual variable, corporate-owned and bank-owned life insurance products; traditional life insurance products; and universal life insurance products. Life insurance products provide a death benefit and generally allow the customer to build cash value on a tax-advantaged basis.

 

The Corporate and Other segment includes certain structured products business, the MTN program, net investment income not allocated to product segments, periodic net coupon settlements on non-qualifying derivatives, unallocated expenses, interest expense on debt, revenue and expenses of the Company’s non-insurance subsidiaries not reported in other segments, and realized gains and losses related to securitizations.

 

19


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, Continued

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

The following tables summarize the Company’s business segment operating results for the periods indicated:

 

     Three months ended June 30, 2005

 

(in millions)      


   Individual
Investments


   Retirement
Plans


   Individual
Protection


   Corporate
and Other


    Total

 

Revenues:

                                     

Policy charges

   $ 130.6    $ 36.3    $ 93.3    $ —       $ 260.2  

Life insurance premiums

     23.1      —        43.7      —         66.8  

Net investment income

     207.6      157.3      85.6      76.8       527.3  

Net realized losses on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items1

     —        —        —        (5.1 )     (5.1 )

Other

     0.3      0.1      —        —         0.4  
    

  

  

  


 


Total revenues

     361.6      193.7      222.6      71.7       849.6  
    

  

  

  


 


Benefits and expenses:

                                     

Interest credited to policyholder account values

     142.0      109.5      47.6      36.4       335.5  

Other benefits and claims

     40.9      —        60.7      —         101.6  

Policyholder dividends on participating policies

     —        —        8.3      —         8.3  

Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs

     70.8      11.0      25.0      —         106.8  

Interest expense on debt

     —        —        —        15.9       15.9  

Other operating expenses

     45.5      45.8      35.9      1.4       128.6  
    

  

  

  


 


Total benefits and expenses

     299.2      166.3      177.5      53.7       696.7  
    

  

  

  


 


Income from continuing operations before federal income tax expense

     62.4      27.4      45.1      18.0     $ 152.9  
                                 


Net realized losses on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items1

     —        —        —        5.1          
    

  

  

  


       

Pre-tax operating earnings

   $ 62.4    $ 27.4    $ 45.1    $ 23.1          
    

  

  

  


       

 

1

Excluding periodic net coupon settlements on non-qualifying derivatives.

 

 

20


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, Continued

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

     Three months ended June 30, 2004

 

(in millions)      


   Individual
Investments


   Retirement
Plans


   Individual
Protection


   Corporate
and Other


    Total

 

Revenues:

                                     

Policy charges

   $ 126.0    $ 40.2    $ 88.0    $ —       $ 254.2  

Life insurance premiums

     19.8      —        45.7      —         65.5  

Net investment income

     202.7      154.5      80.3      44.8       482.3  

Net realized losses on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items1

     —        —        —        (29.3 )     (29.3 )

Other

     0.2      —        —        7.0       7.2  
    

  

  

  


 


Total revenues

     348.7      194.7      214.0      22.5       779.9  
    

  

  

  


 


Benefits and expenses:

                                     

Interest credited to policyholder account values

     143.1      105.9      45.9      17.3       312.2  

Other benefits and claims

     33.1      —        59.3      —         92.4  

Policyholder dividends on participating policies

     —        —        11.2      —         11.2  

Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs

     69.0      10.4      22.8      —         102.2  

Interest expense on debt

     —        —        —        15.4       15.4  

Other operating expenses

     48.0      44.4      37.6      14.0       144.0  
    

  

  

  


 


Total benefits and expenses

     293.2      160.7      176.8      46.7       677.4  
    

  

  

  


 


Income (loss) from continuing operations before federal income tax expense

     55.5      34.0      37.2      (24.2 )   $ 102.5  
                                 


Net realized losses on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items1

     —        —        —        29.3          
    

  

  

  


       

Pre-tax operating earnings

   $ 55.5    $ 34.0    $ 37.2    $ 5.1          
    

  

  

  


       

 

1

Excluding periodic net coupon settlements on non-qualifying derivatives.

 

21


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, Continued

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

     Six months ended June 30, 2005

(in millions)      


   Individual
Investments


   Retirement
Plans


   Individual
Protection


   Corporate
and Other


    Total

Revenues:

                                   

Policy charges

   $ 261.1    $ 73.6    $ 187.3    $ —       $ 522.0

Life insurance premiums

     43.7      —        87.7      —         131.4

Net investment income

     412.7      319.2      169.3      143.2       1,044.4

Net realized gains on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items1

     —        —        —        16.1       16.1

Other

     0.6      0.2      —        2.0       2.8
    

  

  

  


 

Total revenues

     718.1      393.0      444.3      161.3       1,716.7
    

  

  

  


 

Benefits and expenses:

                                   

Interest credited to policyholder account values

     280.7      218.8      91.1      66.9       657.5

Other benefits and claims

     72.3      —        118.7      —         191.0

Policyholder dividends on participating policies

     —        —        18.0      —         18.0

Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs

     153.4      23.3      48.1      —         224.8

Interest expense on debt

     —        —        —        31.3       31.3

Other operating expenses

     90.9      91.6      71.1      9.9       263.5
    

  

  

  


 

Total benefits and expenses

     597.3      333.7      347.0      108.1       1,386.1
    

  

  

  


 

Income from continuing operations before federal income tax expense

     120.8      59.3      97.3      53.2     $ 330.6
                                 

Net realized gains on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items1

     —        —        —        (16.1 )      
    

  

  

  


     

Pre-tax operating earnings

   $ 120.8    $ 59.3    $ 97.3    $ 37.1        
    

  

  

  


     

Assets as of period end

   $ 51,916.8    $ 28,897.4    $ 14,014.5    $ 10,119.9     $ 104,948.6
    

  

  

  


 


 

1

Excluding periodic net coupon settlements on non-qualifying derivatives.

 

22


Table of Contents

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc.)

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, Continued

June 30, 2005 and 2004

 

     Six months ended June 30, 2004

 

(in millions)      


   Individual
Investments


   Retirement
Plans


   Individual
Protection


   Corporate
and Other


    Total

 

Revenues:

                                     

Policy charges

   $ 250.1    $ 80.1    $ 178.7    $ —       $ 508.9  

Life insurance premiums

     37.1      —        93.4      —         130.5  

Net investment income

     414.3      311.1      163.5      96.2       985.1  

Net realized losses on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items1

     —        —        —        (43.8 )     (43.8 )

Other

     0.2      —        —        11.5       11.7  
    

  

  

  


 


Total revenues

     701.7      391.2      435.6      63.9       1,592.4  
    

  

  

  


 


Benefits and expenses:

                                     

Interest credited to policyholder account values

     288.4      213.6      91.1      34.9       628.0  

Other benefits and claims

     61.3      —        118.9      —         180.2  

Policyholder dividends on participating policies

     —        —        19.7      —         19.7  

Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs

     141.2      20.0      44.6      —         205.8  

Interest expense on debt

     —        —        —        29.9       29.9  

Other operating expenses

     98.6      90.9      80.3      16.5       286.3  
    

  

  

  


 


Total benefits and expenses

     589.5      324.5      354.6      81.3       1,349.9  
    

  

  

  


 


Income (loss) from continuing operations before federal income tax expense

     112.2      66.7      81.0      (17.4 )   $ 242.5  
                                 


Net realized losses on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items1

     —        —        —        43.8          
    

  

  

  


       

Pre-tax operating earnings

   $ 112.2    $ 66.7    $ 81.0    $ 26.4          
    

  

  

  


       

Assets as of period end

   $ 50,612.4    $ 29,131.6    $ 11,840.5    $ 10,446.9     $ 102,031.4  
    

  

  

  


 



 

1

Excluding periodic net coupon settlements on non-qualifying derivatives.

 

 

23


Table of Contents

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

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

Forward-Looking Information

   25

Overview

   25

Critical Accounting Policies and Recently Issued Accounting Standards

   27

Results of Operations

   31

Sales

   33

Business Segments

   38

Related Party Transactions

   54

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

   54

Off-Balance Sheet Transactions

   54

 

24


Table of Contents

Forward-Looking Information

 

The information included herein contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 with respect to the results of operations and businesses of Nationwide Life Insurance Company and its subsidiaries (NLIC, or collectively, the Company). Whenever used in this report, words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “project,” “target” and other words of similar meaning are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or projected, forecast, estimated or budgeted in such forward-looking statements include, among others, the following possibilities:

 

 

(i)

The potential impact on the Company’s reported net income and related disclosures that could result from the adoption of certain accounting and/or financial reporting standards issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board, Public Company Accounting Oversight Board or other standard-setting bodies;

 

 

(ii)

Tax law changes impacting the tax treatment of life insurance and investment products;

 

 

(iii)

Repeal of the federal estate tax;

 

 

(iv)

Heightened competition, including specifically the intensification of price competition, the entry of new competitors and the development of new products by new and existing competitors;

 

 

(v)

Adverse state and federal legislation and regulation, including limitations on premium levels, increases in minimum capital and reserves, and other financial viability requirements; restrictions on mutual fund distribution payment arrangements such as revenue sharing and 12b-1 payments; and regulation changes resulting from industry practice investigations;

 

 

(vi)

Failure to expand distribution channels in order to obtain new customers or failure to retain existing customers;

 

 

(vii)

Inability to carry out marketing and sales plans, including, among others, development of new products and/or changes to certain existing products and acceptance of the new and/or revised products in the market;

 

 

(viii)

Changes in interest rates and the equity markets causing a reduction of investment income and/or asset fees; an acceleration of the amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs (DAC); reduction in the value of the Company’s investment portfolio or separate account assets; or a reduction in the demand for the Company’s products;

 

 

(ix)

General economic and business conditions which are less favorable than expected;

 

 

(x)

Competitive, regulatory or tax changes that affect the cost of, or demand for, the Company’s products;

 

 

(xi)

Unanticipated changes in industry trends and ratings assigned by nationally recognized rating organizations;

 

 

(xii)

Settlement of tax liabilities for amounts that differ significantly from those recorded on the balance sheet;

 

 

(xiii)

Deviations from assumptions regarding future persistency, mortality, morbidity and interest rates used in calculating reserve amounts and in pricing the Company’s products; and

 

 

(xiv)

Adverse litigation results and/or resolution of litigation and/or arbitration or investigation results.

 

Overview

 

The following analysis of unaudited consolidated results of operations and financial condition of the Company should be read in conjunction with the unaudited consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere herein.

 

The Company is a leading provider of long-term savings and retirement products in the United States of America and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide Financial Services, Inc. (NFS). The Company develops and sells a diverse range of products including individual annuities, private and public sector group retirement plans, other investment products sold to institutions, life insurance and advisory services.

 

 

25


Table of Contents

Business Segments

 

Management of the Company views its business primarily based on the underlying products, and this is the basis used for defining its reportable segments. The Company reports four segments: Individual Investments, Retirement Plans, Individual Protection, and Corporate and Other. The primary segment profitability measure that management uses is pre-tax operating earnings, which is calculated by adjusting income from continuing operations before federal income taxes and the cumulative effect of adoption of accounting principles, if any, to exclude net realized gains and losses on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items, except for periodic net coupon settlements on non-qualifying derivatives and realized gains and losses related to securitizations, if any.

 

The following table summarizes pre-tax operating earnings by segment for the periods indicated:

 

     Three months ended June 30,

   Six months ended June 30,

(in millions)


   2005

   2004

   Change

   2005

   2004

   Change

Individual Investments

   $ 62.4    $ 55.5    12%    $ 120.8    $ 112.2    8%

Retirement Plans

     27.4      34.0    (19)%      59.3      66.7    (11)%

Individual Protection

     45.1      37.2    21%      97.3      81.0    20%

Corporate and Other

     23.1      5.1    353%      37.1      26.4    41%

 

The Individual Investments segment consists of individual The BEST of AMERICA® and private label deferred variable annuity products, deferred fixed annuity products, income products, and advisory services program revenues and expenses. Individual deferred annuity contracts provide the customer with tax-deferred accumulation of savings and flexible payout options including lump sum, systematic withdrawal or a stream of payments for life. In addition, individual variable annuity contracts provide the customer with access to a wide range of investment options and asset protection in the event of an untimely death, while individual fixed annuity contracts generate a return for the customer at a specified interest rate fixed for prescribed periods.

 

The Retirement Plans segment is comprised of the Company’s private and public sector retirement plans business. The private sector includes Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 401(k) business and the public sector includes IRC Section 457 and Section 401(a) business, both in the form of fixed and variable group annuities.

 

The Individual Protection segment consists of investment life insurance products, including individual variable, corporate-owned life insurance (COLI) and bank-owned life insurance (BOLI) products; traditional life insurance products; and universal life insurance products. Life insurance products provide a death benefit and generally allow the customer to build cash value on a tax-advantaged basis.

 

The Corporate and Other segment includes certain structured products business, the medium-term note (MTN) program, net investment income not allocated to product segments, periodic net coupon settlements on non-qualifying derivatives, unallocated expenses, interest expense on debt, revenue and expenses of the Company’s non-insurance subsidiaries not reported in other segments, and realized gains and losses related to securitizations.

 

Revenues and Expenses

 

The Company earns revenues and generates cash primarily from policy charges, life insurance premiums and net investment income. Policy charges include asset fees, which are earned primarily from separate account values generated from the sale of individual and group variable annuities and investment life insurance products; cost of insurance charges earned on universal life insurance products, which are assessed on the amount of insurance in force in excess of the related policyholder account value; administrative fees, which include fees charged per contract on a variety of the Company’s products and premium loads on universal life insurance products; and surrender fees, which are charged as a percentage of premiums withdrawn during a specified period for annuity and certain life insurance contracts. Net investment income includes earnings on investments supporting fixed annuities, the MTN program and certain life insurance products, and earnings on invested assets not allocated to product segments, all net of related investment expenses.

 

 

26


Table of Contents

The Company makes decisions concerning the sale of invested assets based on a variety of market, business, tax and other factors. All realized gains and losses generated by these sales, charges related to other-than-temporary impairments of available-for-sale securities and other investments, and changes in valuation allowances on mortgage loans on real estate are reported in realized gains and losses on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items. Also included are changes in the fair values of derivatives qualifying as fair value hedges and the related changes in the fair values of hedged items; the ineffective, or excluded, portion of cash flow hedges; changes in the fair values of derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment; and periodic net coupon settlements on non-qualifying derivatives.

 

Other income includes asset fees, administrative fees, commissions and other income earned by subsidiaries of the Company that provide administrative, marketing and distribution services.

 

The Company’s primary expenses include interest credited to policyholder account values, other benefits and claims, amortization of DAC and general business operating expenses. Interest credited principally relates to individual and group fixed annuities, funding agreements backing the Company’s MTN program and certain life insurance products. Other benefits and claims include policyholder benefits in excess of policyholder account values for universal life and individual deferred annuities and net claims and provisions for future policy benefits for traditional life insurance products and immediate annuities.

 

Profitability

 

The Company’s profitability largely depends on its ability to effectively price and manage risk on its various products, administer customer funds and control operating expenses.

 

In particular, the Company’s profitability is driven by fee income on separate account products, general account asset levels and the Company’s ability to manage interest spread income. Interest spread income is comprised of net investment income, excluding any applicable allocated charges for invested capital, less interest credited to policyholder account values. Interest spread income can vary depending on crediting rates offered by the Company; performance of the investment portfolio, including the rate of prepayments; changes in market interest rates; the competitive environment; and other factors. In recent periods, the Company has taken actions to address low interest rate environments and the resulting impact on interest spread margins, lowering commission rates for individual fixed annuities and invoking contractual provisions that limit the amount of variable annuity deposits allocated to the guaranteed fixed option. Also, the majority of new business now contains lower floor guarantees than were historically provided.

 

In addition, life insurance profits are significantly impacted by mortality, morbidity and persistency experience.

 

Cumulative Effect of Adoption of Accounting Principle

 

In July 2003, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants issued Statement of Position 03-1, Accounting and Reporting by Insurance Enterprises for Certain Nontraditional Long-Duration Contracts and for Separate Accounts (SOP 03-1). SOP 03-1 addresses many topics. The most significant topic affecting the Company was the accounting for contracts with guaranteed minimum death benefits (GMDB). SOP 03-1 requires companies to evaluate the significance of a GMDB to determine whether a contract should be accounted for as an investment or insurance contract. For contracts determined to be insurance contracts, companies are required to establish a reserve to recognize a portion of the assessment (revenue) that compensates the insurance company for benefits to be provided in future periods. SOP 03-1 also provides guidance on separate account presentation, interest in separate accounts, gains and losses on the transfer of assets from the general account to a separate account, liability valuation, return based on a contractually referenced pool of assets or index, annuitization options, and sales inducements to contract holders. The Company adopted SOP 03-1 effective January 1, 2004, which resulted in a $3.3 million charge, net of taxes, as the cumulative effect of adoption of this accounting principle. Also, see Note 3 to the unaudited consolidated financial statements included in this report.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Recently Issued Accounting Standards

 

In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses for the reporting period. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates.

 

 

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The most critical estimates include those used in determining DAC and amortization of DAC for investment products and universal life insurance products, impairment losses on investments, valuation allowances for mortgage loans on real estate, federal income taxes, and pension and other postretirement employee benefits.

 

Note 2 to the audited consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s 2004 Annual Report on Form 10-K provides a summary of significant accounting policies. Note 3 to the unaudited consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 – Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements of this report provides a discussion of recently issued accounting standards.

 

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs for Investment Products and Universal Life Insurance Products

 

The Company has deferred the costs of acquiring investment products and universal life insurance products business, principally commissions, certain expenses of the policy issue and underwriting department, and certain variable sales expenses that relate to and vary with the production of new and renewal business. Investment products consist primarily of individual and group variable and fixed deferred annuities. Universal life insurance products include universal life insurance, variable universal life insurance, COLI and other interest-sensitive life insurance policies. DAC is subject to recoverability testing at the time of policy issuance and loss recognition testing at the end of each reporting period.

 

For investment products (principally individual and group annuities) and universal life insurance products, DAC is being amortized with interest over the lives of the policies in relation to the present value of estimated gross profits from projected interest margins, asset fees, cost of insurance, policy administration and surrender charges, less policy benefits and policy maintenance expenses. The DAC asset related to investment products and universal life insurance products is adjusted to reflect the impact of unrealized gains and losses on fixed maturity securities available-for-sale, as described in Note 2(e) to the audited consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s 2004 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

The most significant assumptions that are involved in the estimation of future gross profits include future net separate account performance, surrender/lapse rates, interest margins and mortality. The Company’s long-term assumption for net separate account performance is currently 8% growth per year. If actual net separate account performance varies from the 8% assumption, the Company assumes different performance levels over the next three years such that the mean return equals the long-term assumption. This process is referred to as a reversion to the mean. The assumed net separate account return assumptions used in the DAC models are intended to reflect what is anticipated. However, based on historical returns of the Standard & Poor’s (S&P) 500 Index, the Company’s policy regarding the reversion to the mean process does not permit such returns to be negative or in excess of 15% during the three-year reversion period.

 

Changes in assumptions can have a significant impact on the amount of DAC reported for investment products and universal life insurance products and their related amortization patterns. In the event actual experience differs from assumptions or assumptions are revised, the Company is required to record an increase or decrease in DAC amortization expense (DAC unlocking), which could be significant. In general, increases in the estimated general and separate account returns result in increased expected future profitability and may lower the rate of DAC amortization, while increases in lapse/surrender and mortality assumptions reduce the expected future profitability of the underlying business and may increase the rate of DAC amortization.

 

The Company evaluates the appropriateness of the individual variable annuity DAC balance within pre-set parameters. These parameters are designed to appropriately reflect the Company’s long-term expectations with respect to individual variable annuity contracts while also evaluating the potential impact of short-term experience on the Company’s recorded individual variable annuity DAC balance. If the recorded balance of individual variable annuity DAC falls outside of these parameters for a prescribed period of time, or if the recorded balance falls outside of these parameters and the Company determines it is not reasonably possible to get back within the parameters during this period of time, assumptions are required to be unlocked and DAC is recalculated using revised best estimate assumptions. Otherwise, DAC is not unlocked to reflect updated assumptions. If DAC assumptions were unlocked and revised, the Company would continue to use the reversion to the mean process.

 

For other investment products and universal life insurance products, DAC is adjusted each quarter to reflect revised best estimate assumptions, including the use of a reversion to the mean methodology over the next three years as it relates to net separate account performance. Any resulting DAC unlocking adjustments are reflected currently in the consolidated statements of income.

 

 

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Impairment Losses on Investments

 

Management regularly reviews each investment in its fixed maturity and equity securities portfolios to evaluate the necessity of recording impairment losses for other-than-temporary declines in the fair value of investments.

 

Under the Company’s accounting policy for equity securities and debt securities that can be contractually prepaid or otherwise settled in a way that may limit the Company’s ability to fully recover cost, an impairment is deemed to be other-than-temporary unless the Company has both the ability and intent to hold the investment for a reasonable period until the security’s forecasted recovery and evidence exists indicating that recovery will occur in a reasonable period of time. Also, for such debt securities the Company estimates cash flows over the life of purchased beneficial interests in securitized financial assets. If the Company estimates that the fair value of its beneficial interests is not greater than or equal to its carrying value based on current information and events, and if there has been an adverse change in estimated cash flows since the last revised estimate, considering both timing and amount, then the Company recognizes an other-than-temporary impairment and writes down the purchased beneficial interest to fair value.

 

For other debt securities, an other-than-temporary impairment charge is taken when the Company does not have the ability and intent to hold the security until the forecasted recovery or if it is no longer probable that the Company will recover all amounts due under the contractual terms of the security. Many criteria are considered during this process including, but not limited to, the current fair value as compared to amortized cost or cost, as appropriate, of the security; the amount and length of time a security’s fair value has been below amortized cost or cost; specific credit issues and financial prospects related to the issuer; the Company’s intent to hold or dispose of the security; and current economic conditions.

 

Other-than-temporary impairment losses result in a permanent reduction to the cost basis of the underlying investment.

 

Impairment losses are recorded on investments in long-lived assets used in operations when indicators of impairment are present and the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by those assets are less than the assets’ carrying amounts.

 

Significant changes in the factors the Company considers when evaluating investments for impairment losses, including significant deterioration in the credit worthiness of individual issuers, could result in a significant change in impairment losses reported in the consolidated financial statements.

 

Valuation Allowances for Mortgage Loans on Real Estate

 

The Company provides valuation allowances for impairments of mortgage loans on real estate based on a review by portfolio managers. Mortgage loans on real estate are considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. When the Company determines that a loan is impaired, a provision for loss is established equal to the difference between the carrying value and the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, or the fair value of the collateral, if the loan is collateral dependent. In addition to the valuation allowance on specific loans, the Company maintains an unallocated allowance for probable losses inherent in the loan portfolio as of the balance sheet date, but not yet specifically identified by loan. Changes in the valuation allowance are recorded in net realized gains and losses on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items. Loans in foreclosure are placed on non-accrual status. Interest received on non-accrual status mortgage loans on real estate is included in net investment income in the period received.

 

The valuation allowance account for mortgage loans on real estate is maintained at a level believed adequate by the Company and reflects the Company’s best estimate of probable credit losses, including losses incurred at the balance sheet date, but not yet identified by specific loan. The Company’s periodic evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance for losses is based on past loan loss experience, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower’s ability to repay, the estimated value of the underlying collateral, composition of the loan portfolio, current economic conditions and other relevant factors.

 

Significant changes in the factors the Company considers in determining the valuation allowance for mortgage loans on real estate could result in a significant change in the valuation allowance reported in the unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

 

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Federal Income Taxes

 

The Company provides for federal income taxes based on amounts the Company believes it ultimately will owe. Inherent in the provision for federal income taxes are estimates regarding the deductibility of certain items and the realization of certain tax credits. In the event the ultimate deductibility of certain items or the realization of certain tax credits differs from estimates, the Company may be required to significantly change the provision for federal income taxes recorded in the consolidated financial statements. Any such change could significantly affect the amounts reported in the unaudited consolidated statements of income.

 

The Company’s federal income tax returns are routinely audited by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and the Company is currently under examination for the 2000-2002 tax years. The Company has established tax reserves representing its best estimate of additional amounts it may be required to pay if certain tax positions it has taken are challenged and ultimately denied by the IRS. These reserves are reviewed regularly and are adjusted as events occur that the Company believes impact its liability for additional taxes, such as lapsing of applicable statutes of limitations, conclusion of tax audits or substantial agreement on the deductibility/non-deductibility of uncertain items, additional exposure based on current calculations, identification of new issues, release of administrative guidance or rendering of a court decision affecting a particular tax issue. The Company believes its tax reserves reasonably provide for potential assessments that may result from IRS examinations and other tax-related matters for all open tax years.

 

A significant component of the tax reserve is related to the separate account dividends-received deduction (DRD). The Company has not yet reached an agreement with the IRS, and there can be no assurance that such an agreement will be reached. However, favorable resolution of the separate account DRD and/or other identified issues could result in a potentially significant benefit to the Company’s future results of operations.

 

Pension and Other Postretirement Employee Benefits

 

Pension and other postretirement employee benefits (OPEB) assumptions are revised annually in conjunction with preparation of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K. The 2004 pension expense for substantially all of the Company’s employees and certain agents totaled $13.7 million, an increase of $0.5 million over 2003 pension expense of $13.2 million. The increase primarily was due to decreasing interest rates at the plan level, reflected in a lower discount rate. For the Company’s primary pension plan, the discount rate used to value cash flows was lowered to 5.50% to determine 2004 pension expense from 6.00% used in 2003, and the long-term expected rate of return on plan assets was lowered to 7.25% for 2004 from 7.75% for 2003

 

The 2004 and 2003 OPEB expense for substantially all of the Company’s employees and certain agents totaled $1.1 million. The discount rate used to value cash flows was lowered to 6.10% to determine 2004 OPEB expense from 6.60% in 2003, and the long-term expected rate of return on plan assets was lowered to 7.00% for 2004 from 7.50% for 2003.

 

The Company employs a prospective building block approach in establishing the discount rate and the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets. This process is integrated with the determination of other economic assumptions such as salary scale. For a given measurement date, the discount rate is set by reference to the yield on high-quality corporate bonds to approximate the rate at which plan benefits could effectively be settled. For pension benefits, a downward adjustment in the discount rate is included for plan administration and other expenses likely to be charged by an insurer. Since the OPEB liability includes both claims and administration expenses, a similar downward adjustment is not appropriate for the OPEB discount rate. The historical real rate of return for the reference bonds is subtracted from the yield on these bonds to generate an assumed inflation rate. The expected real rates of return on various asset sub-classes are developed based on historic risk premiums for those sub-classes. The expected real rates of return, reduced for investment expenses, are applied to the target allocation of each asset sub-class to produce an expected real rate of return for the target portfolio. This expected real rate of return varies by plan and changes when the plan’s target investment portfolio changes. The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets is the assumed inflation rate plus the expected real rate of return. This process effectively sets the expected return for the plan’s portfolio at the yield for the reference bond portfolio, adjusted for expected risk premiums of the target asset portfolio. Given the prospective nature of this calculation, short-term fluctuations in the market do not impact the expected risk premiums. However, as the yield for the reference bonds fluctuates, the assumed inflation rate and the expected long-term rate are adjusted in tandem.

 

 

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The following illustrates the impact of changes in individual assumptions (without changing any other assumption) on expenses in 2004: (1) a 50 basis point increase in the pension discount rate would have decreased 2004 pension expense by approximately 10%, and a 50 basis point increase in the pension long-term expected rate of return would have decreased 2004 pension expense by approximately 13%; and (2) a 50 basis point increase in the OPEB discount rate would have decreased 2004 OPEB expense by approximately 21%, and a 50 basis point increase in the OPEB long-term expected rate of return would have decreased 2004 OPEB expense by approximately 11%.

 

Results of Operations

 

Second Quarter - 2005 Compared to 2004

 

The following table summarizes the Company’s consolidated results of operations for the periods indicated:

 

     Three months ended June 30,

(in millions)


   2005

   2004

   Change

Revenues:

                  

Policy charges:

                  

Asset fees

   $ 150.3    $ 146.3    3%

Cost of insurance charges

     67.3      64.1    5%

Administrative fees

     20.8      20.6    1%

Surrender fees

     21.8      23.2    (6)%
    

  

  

Total policy charges

     260.2      254.2    2%
    

  

  

Life insurance premiums

     66.8      65.5    2%

Net investment income

     527.3      482.3    9%

Net realized losses on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items

     (5.3)      (27.1)    NM

Other

     0.6      5.0    (88)%
    

  

  

Total revenues

     849.6      779.9    9%
    

  

  

Benefits and expenses:

                  

Interest credited to policyholder account values

     335.5      312.2    7%

Other benefits and claims

     101.6      92.4    10%

Policyholder dividends on participating policies

     8.3      11.2    (26)%

Amortization of DAC

     106.8      102.2    5%

Interest expense, primarily with NFS

     15.9      15.4    3%

Other operating expenses

     128.6      144.0    (11)%
    

  

  

Total benefits and expenses

     696.7      677.4    3%
    

  

  

Income from continuing operations before federal income tax expense

     152.9      102.5    49%

Federal income tax expense

     37.1      16.7    122%
    

  

  

Net income

   $ 115.8    $ 85.8    35%
    

  

  

 

The increase in net income primarily was driven by lower net realized losses on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items, higher interest spread income and lower other operating expense, while increases in other benefits and claims and amortization of DAC partially offset this improvement.

 

Continuing improvement in the credit environment created substantially lower net realized losses on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items in the second quarter of 2005 compared to the total in the same period a year ago.

 

The increase in interest spread income was due to higher invested asset levels and income from mortgage loan prepayment penalties and bond call premiums. In addition, the increase in interest credited to policyholder account values primarily was driven by higher average crediting rates related to the Company’s MTN program (3.53% in the second quarter of 2005 compared to 1.43% in the same period a year ago) due to an increase in the 3-month LIBOR rate to which most of these liabilities are indexed.

 

The decrease in other operating expenses is primarily attributable to lower expenses related to variable interest entities (VIEs), employee incentives and consulting.

 

 

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The increase in other benefits and claims was driven by the Individual Investments segment, reflecting the increase in the provision for future policy benefits for immediate annuities and higher guaranteed minimum accumulation benefit (GMAB) costs. The higher provision for future policy benefits was consistent with the increase in premium income between periods. The rise in GMAB costs was due to increased new business with this product feature, reserve modeling refinements and higher hedge costs due to market conditions.

 

The increase in amortization of DAC was attributable to higher estimated gross profits on the underlying business and refinement of amortization calculations.

 

Effective tax rates were 24.3% for the second quarter of 2005 and 16.3% for the comparable quarter of 2004. The increase was related to the prior year release of tax reserves as a result of that period’s evaluation of tax exposure items.

 

Year-to-Date - 2005 Compared to 2004

 

The following table summarizes the Company’s consolidated results of operations for the periods indicated:

 

     Six months ended June 30,

(in millions )


   2005

   2004

   Change

Revenues:

                  

Policy charges:

                  

Asset fees

   $ 300.5    $ 293.2    2%

Cost of insurance charges

     133.9      127.6    5%

Administrative fees

     45.1      44.1    2%

Surrender fees

     42.5      44.0    (3)%
    

  

  

Total policy charges

     522.0      508.9    3%
    

  

  

Life insurance premiums

     131.4      130.5    1%

Net investment income

     1,044.4      985.1    6%

Net realized gains (losses ) on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items

     15.8      (38.6)    NM

Other

     3.1      6.5    (52)%
    

  

  

Total revenues

     1,716.7      1,592.4    8%
    

  

  

Benefits and expenses :

                  

Interest credited to policyholder account values

     657.5      628.0    5%

Other benefits and claims

     191.0      180.2    6%

Policyholder dividends on participating policies

     18.0      19.7    (9)%

Amortization of DAC

     224.8      205.8    9%

Interest expense, primarily with NFS

     31.3      29.9    5%

Other operating expenses

     263.5      286.3    (8)%
    

  

  

Total benefits and expenses

     1,386.1      1,349.9    3%
    

  

  

Income from continuing operations before federal income tax expense

     330.6      242.5    36%

Federal income tax expense

     83.4      51.4    62%
    

  

  

Income from continuing operations

     247.2      191.1    29%

Cumulative effect of adoption of accounting principle, net of tax

     —        (3.3)    NM
    

  

  

Net income

   $ 247.2    $ 187.8    32%
    

  

  

 

The increase in net income was driven by net realized gains on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items, higher interest spread income and lower other operating expenses. Increases in amortization of DAC and other benefits and claims partially offset the overall improvement in net income.

 

The Company recorded net realized gains on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items in the first six months of 2005 compared to significant net realized losses in the same period a year ago due to continuing improvement in the credit environment and higher realized gains on disposals.

 

 

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The increase in interest spread income was due to higher invested asset levels and income from mortgage loan prepayment penalties and bond call premiums. In addition, the increase in interest credited to policyholder account values primarily was driven by higher average crediting rates related to the Company’s MTN program (3.17% in the first six months of 2005 compared to 1.44% in the same period a year ago) due to an increase in the 3-month LIBOR rate to which most of these liabilities are indexed, partially offset by lower average crediting rates in the Individual Investments segment (3.84% in the first six months of 2005 compared to 3.97% in the same period a year ago) as a result of active management of crediting rates in the current environment.

 

The decrease in other operating expenses is primarily attributable to lower general sales expenses and incentives, expenses related to VIEs and consulting.

 

The increase in amortization of DAC was attributable to higher estimated gross profits on the underlying business and refinement of amortization calculations.

 

The increase in other benefits and claims reflects the increase in the provision for future policy benefits for immediate annuities and higher GMAB costs, partially offset by a reduction in GMDB expenses. The higher provision for future policy benefits was consistent with the increase in premium income between periods. The rise in GMAB costs was due to increased new business with this product feature, reserve modeling refinements and higher hedge costs due to market conditions. GMDB costs improved due to higher equity market levels and other reserve modeling refinements.

 

Effective tax rates were 25.2% for the first six months of 2005 and 21.2% for the comparable period of 2004. The increase was related to the second quarter 2004 release of tax reserves as a result of that period’s evaluation of tax exposure items, partially offset by the fact that permanent items, primarily the separate account DRD, grew at a slower rate than pre-tax earnings.

 

Sales

 

The Company regularly monitors and reports a production volume metric titled “sales.” Sales or similar measures are commonly used in the insurance industry as a measure of the volume of new and renewal business generated in a period.

 

Sales are not derived from any specific generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) income statement accounts or line items and should not be viewed as a substitute for any financial measure determined in accordance with GAAP, including sales as it relates to non-insurance companies. Additionally, the Company’s definition of sales may differ from that used by other companies. As used in the insurance industry, sales, or similarly titled measures, generate customer funds managed and administered, which ultimately drive revenues.

 

As calculated and analyzed by the Company, statutory premiums and deposits on individual and group annuities and life insurance products calculated in accordance with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by regulatory authorities and deposits on administration-only group retirement plans and the advisory services program are adjusted as described below to arrive at sales.

 

Life insurance premiums determined on a GAAP basis are significantly different than statutory premiums and deposits. Life insurance premiums determined on a GAAP basis are recognized as revenue when due, as calculated on an accrual basis in proportion to the service provided and performance rendered under the contract. In addition, many life insurance and annuity products involve an initial deposit or a series of deposits from customers. These deposits are accounted for as such on a GAAP basis and therefore are not reflected in the GAAP income statement. On a statutory basis, life insurance premiums collected (cash basis) and deposits received (cash basis) are aggregated and reported as revenues in the line item statutory premiums and annuity considerations.

 

Sales, as reported by the Company, are stated net of internal replacements, which the Company believes provides a more meaningful disclosure of production in a given period. In addition, the Company’s definition of sales excludes funding agreements issued under the Company’s MTN program; large case BOLI; large case pension plan acquisitions; and deposits into Nationwide employee and agent benefit plans. Although these products contribute to asset and earnings growth, they do not produce steady production flow that lends itself to meaningful comparisons and, therefore, are excluded from sales.

 

The Company believes that the presentation of sales as measured for management purposes enhances the understanding of the Company’s business and helps depict longer-term trends that may not be apparent in the results of operations due to differences between the timing of sales and revenue recognition.

 

 

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The Company’s flagship products are marketed under The BEST of AMERICA brand and include individual variable and group annuities, group private sector retirement plans, and variable life insurance. The BEST of AMERICA products allow customers to choose from investment options managed by premier mutual fund managers. The Company has also developed private label variable and fixed annuity products in conjunction with other financial services providers that allow those providers to sell products to their own customer bases under their own brand names.

 

The Company also markets group deferred compensation retirement plans to employees of state and local governments for use under IRC Section 457. The Company utilizes its sponsorship by the National Association of Counties, The United States Conference of Mayors and the International Association of Firefighters when marketing IRC Section 457 products.

 

The Company sells its products through a diverse distribution network. Unaffiliated entities that sell the Company’s products to their own customer bases include independent broker/dealers, financial institutions, wirehouse and regional firms, pension plan administrators, life insurance specialists and representatives of certain certified public accounting (CPA) firms. Representatives of affiliates who market products directly to a customer base include Nationwide Retirement Solutions, Inc. (NRS), Nationwide Financial Network producers and TBG Insurance Services Corporation (TBG Financial). The Company also distributes products through the agency distribution force of its ultimate parent, Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company (NMIC), or Nationwide agents.

 

Second Quarter - 2005 Compared to 2004

 

The following table summarizes sales by product and segment for the periods indicated:

 

     Three months ended June 30,

(in millions)


   2005

   2004

   Change

Individual Investments

                

Individual variable annuities:

                

The BEST of AMERICA products

   816.4    $ 961.1    (15)%

Private label annuities

   95.3      102.3    (7)%
    
  

  

Total individual variable annuities

   911.7      1,063.4    (14)%

Individual fixed annuities

   63.4      208.9    (70)%

Income products

   44.7      33.3    34%

Advisory services program

   63.8      43.9    45%
    
  

  

Total Individual Investments

   1,083.6      1,349.5    (20)%
    
  

  

Retirement Plans

                

Private sector pension plan:

                

The BEST of AMERICA products

   357.5      411.6    (13)%

Other

   16.0      5.9    171%
    
  

  

Total private sector pension plan

   373.5      417.5    (11)%
    
  

  

Public sector pension plan:

                

IRC Section 457 annuities

   394.4      366.5    8%
    
  

  

Total Retirement Plans

   767.9      784.0    (2)%
    
  

  

Individual Protection

                

Corporate-owned life insurance

   142.9      129.0    11%

The BEST of AMERICA variable life series

   109.1      109.8    (1)%

Traditional/universal life insurance

   89.1      84.8    5%
    
  

  

Total Individual Protection

   341.1      323.6    5%
    
  

  

Total sales

   2,192.6    $ 2,457.1    (11)%
    
  

  

 

See Part I, Item 2 - Management’s Narrative Analysis of the Results of Operations (MD&A) - Business Segments of this report for an analysis of sales by product and segment.

 

 

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The following table summarizes sales by distribution channel for the periods indicated:

 

     Three months ended June 30,

(in millions)


   2005

   2004

   Change

Non-affiliated:

                  

Independent broker/dealers

   $ 648.2    $ 726.3    (11)%

Financial institutions

     338.7      498.6    (32)%

Wirehouse and regional firms

     325.2      388.8    (16)%

Life insurance specialists

     104.3      101.7    3%

Pension plan administrators

     94.7      97.1    (2)%

CPA channel

     31.3      32.3    (3)%
    

  

  

Total non-affiliated sales

     1,542.4      1,844.8    (16)%
    

  

  

Affiliated:

                  

NRS

     401.1      373.3    7%

Nationwide agents

     174.6      169.9    3%

TBG Financial

     38.6      29.5    31%

NFN producers

     35.9      39.6    (9)%
    

  

  

Total affiliated sales

     650.2      612.3    6%
    

  

  

Total sales

   $ 2,192.6    $ 2,457.1    (11)%
    

  

  

 

The decrease in total sales primarily was due to lower sales through financial institutions, independent broker/dealers, and wirehouse and regional firms. Higher sales through NRS helped offset the overall decline.

 

Sales generated by financial institutions declined primarily due to both planned reductions and intense competition in fixed annuity sales and the shift of pension business to the Nationwide Trust Company, FSB (NTC) platform. This channel also has been impacted by wholesaler turnover.

 

Sales through the independent broker/dealers channel decreased due to sluggish variable annuity and variable life insurance sales, where new products recently have been introduced. The new Capital Preservation Plus Lifetime Income contract rider began to pick up momentum at the end of the second quarter of 2005 and should improve future variable annuity performance. In addition, the new Next Generation II variable life product was introduced at the end of the second quarter. While fixed life sales increased slightly, performance was impacted by market anticipation of the Company’s July 2005 rollout of a new universal life product.

 

Sales generated by wirehouse and regional firms decreased due to lower variable annuity sales and the shift of pension business to NTC. The decline was partially offset by increases in sales of variable and fixed life insurance products.

 

NRS sales growth was driven by recurring deposits from the State of New York, the State of California, and the City of Phoenix cases and higher participation rates in large plans.

 

 

35


Table of Contents

Year-to-Date – 2005 Compared to 2004

 

The following table summarizes sales by product and segment for the periods indicated:

 

     Six months ended June 30,

(in millions)


   2005

   2004

   Change

Individual Investments

                  

Individual variable annuities:

                  

The BEST of AMERICA products

   $ 1,575.9    $ 1,947.1    (19)%

Private label annuities

     184.5      254.6    (28)%
    

  

  

Total individual variable annuities

     1,760.4      2,201.7    (20)%

Individual fixed annuities

     117.7      391.1    (70)%

Income products

     87.6      66.1    33%

Advisory services program

     117.0      66.8    75%
    

  

  

Total Individual Investments

     2,082.7      2,725.7    (24)%
    

  

  

Retirement Plans

                  

Private sector pension plan:

                  

The BEST of AMERICA products

     750.1      916.5    (18)%

Other

     39.1      15.1    159%
    

  

  

Total private sector pension plan

     789.2      931.6    (15)%
    

  

  

Public sector pension plan:

                  

IRC Section 457 annuities

     768.2      773.2    (1)%
    

  

  

Total Retirement Plans

     1,557.4      1,704.8    (9)%
    

  

  

Individual Protection

                  

Corporate-owned life insurance

     377.7      346.9    9%

The BEST of AMERICA variable life series

     212.8      217.8    (2)%

Traditional/universal life insurance

     172.2      171.9    —  
    

  

  

Total Individual Protection

     762.7      736.6    4%
    

  

  

Total sales

   $ 4,402.8    $ 5,167.1    (15)%
    

  

  

 

See Part I, Item 2 – MD&A – Business Segments of this report for an analysis of sales by product and segment.

 

 

36


Table of Contents

The following table summarizes sales by distribution channel for the periods indicated:

 

     Six months ended June 30,

(in millions)


   2005

   2004

   Change

Non-affiliated:

                  

Independent broker/dealers

   $ 1,281.7    $ 1,543.6    (17)%

Financial institutions

     660.7      994.3    (34)%

Wirehouse and regional firms

     634.3      815.4    (22)%

Life insurance specialists

     230.9      238.4    (3)%

Pension plan administrators

     196.2      215.2    (9)%

CPA channel

     63.4      45.1    41%
    

  

  

Total non-affiliated sales

     3,067.2      3,852.0    (20)%
    

  

  

Affiliated:

                  

NRS

     782.1      787.8    (1)%

Nationwide agents

     339.0      348.4    (3)%

TBG Financial

     147.1      110.7    33%

NFN producers

     67.4      68.2    (1)%
    

  

  

Total affiliated sales

     1,335.6      1,315.1    2%
    

  

  

Total sales

   $ 4,402.8    $ 5,167.1    (15)%
    

  

  

 

The decrease in total sales primarily was due to lower sales through financial institutions, independent broker/dealers, and wirehouse and regional firms. Higher sales through TBG Financial helped offset the overall decline.

 

Sales generated by financial institutions declined primarily due to both planned reductions and intense competition in fixed annuity sales and the shift of pension business to the NTC platform. This channel also has been impacted by wholesaler turnover. The overall decline was partially offset by growth in immediate annuity and variable life insurance sales.

 

Sales through the independent broker/dealers channel decreased due to sluggish variable annuity and variable life insurance sales, where new products recently have been introduced. While fixed life sales increased slightly, performance was impacted by market anticipation of the Company’s July 2005 rollout of a new universal life product.

 

Sales generated by wirehouse and regional firms decreased due to lower variable annuity sales and the shift of pension business to NTC. The decline was partially offset by higher sales of fixed life insurance products.

 

Sales through TBG Financial increased due to higher renewal premiums from the funding of existing executive deferred compensation plans and strong first year sales of the private placement product.

 

 

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Table of Contents

Business Segments

 

Individual Investments

 

Second Quarter – 2005 Compared to 2004

 

The following table summarizes selected financial data for the Company’s Individual Investments segment for the periods indicated:

 

     Three months ended June 30,

(in millions)


   2005

   2004

   Change

Statements of Income Data

                  

Revenues:

                  

Policy charges:

                  

Asset fees

   $ 111.1    $ 105.8    5%

Administrative fees

     3.4      3.6    (6)%

Surrender fees

     16.1      16.6    (3)%
    

  

  

Total policy charges

     130.6      126.0    4%
    

  

  

Premiums on income products

     23.1      19.8    17%

Net investment income

     207.6      202.7    2%

Other

     0.3      0.2    50%
    

  

  

Total revenues

     361.6      348.7    4%
    

  

  

Benefits and expenses:

                  

Interest credited to policyholder account values

     142.0      143.1    (1)%

Other benefits and claims

     40.9      33.1    24%

Amortization of DAC

     70.8      69.0    3%

Other operating expenses

     45.5      48.0    (5)%
    

  

  

Total benefits and expenses

     299.2      293.2    2%
    

  

  

Pre-tax operating earnings

   $ 62.4    $ 55.5    12%
    

  

  

Other Data

                  

Sales:

                  

Individual variable annuities

   $ 911.7    $ 1,063.4    (14)%

Individual fixed annuities

     63.4      208.9    (70)%

Income products

     44.7      33.3    34%

Advisory services program

     63.8      43.9    45%
    

  

  

Total sales

   $ 1,083.6    $ 1,349.5    (20)%
    

  

  

Average account values:

                  

General account

   $ 14,592.5    $ 14,521.2    —  

Separate account

     33,847.6      33,020.9    3%

Advisory services program

     281.5      71.1    296%
    

  

  

Total average account values

   $ 48,721.6    $ 47,613.2    2%
    

  

  

Pre-tax operating earnings to average account values

     0.51%      0.47%     
                    

 

The increase in pre-tax operating earnings primarily was driven by higher asset fees, interest spread income and premiums on income products, partially offset by higher other benefits and claims.

 

Asset fees rose due to increases in both average separate account values and the average asset fee rate. Asset fees are calculated daily and charged as a percentage of separate account values. The average variable asset fee rate increased from 1.29% to 1.32% as new business sold with higher asset fee levels influenced the overall average rate.

 

 

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Table of Contents

Interest spread income grew 10% in the second quarter of 2005 compared to the same period a year ago. The following table summarizes the interest spread on Individual Investments segment average general account values for the periods indicated:

 

    

Three months ended

June 30,


 
     2005

    2004

 

Net investment income

   5.86 %   5.74 %

Interest credited

   3.89 %   3.94 %
    

 

Interest spread on average general account values

   1.97 %   1.80 %
    

 

 

Interest spread margins widened during the second quarter of 2005 to 197 basis points compared to 180 basis points in the same period a year ago. Included in the current quarter were 16 basis points, or $6.0 million, of income from mortgage loan prepayment penalties and bond call premiums compared to 7 basis points, or $2.4 million, in the same period a year ago. The higher interest rate environment compared to the prior year eased pressure on margins due to interest rate floors contained in certain variable annuity contracts.

 

The increase in premiums on income products primarily resulted from higher interest rates relative to a year ago. Increased purchase rates driven by higher interest rates created a favorable environment for income products.

 

The increase in other benefits and claims reflects the increase in the provision for future policy benefits for immediate annuities and higher GMAB costs, partially offset by a reduction in GMDB expenses. The higher provision for future policy benefits was consistent with the increase in premium income between periods. The rise in GMAB costs was due to increased new business with this product feature, reserve modeling refinements and higher hedge costs due to market conditions. GMDB costs improved due to higher equity market levels and other reserve modeling refinements.

 

The decline in sales was driven by lower individual variable and fixed annuity sales. Variable annuity production decreased primarily due to a more competitive environment. Fixed annuity sales declined due to the Company’s intentional reduction in individual fixed annuity business due to the challenging interest rate environment.

 

 

39


Table of Contents

Year-to-Date – 2005 Compared to 2004

 

The following table summarizes selected financial data for the Company’s Individual Investments segment for the periods indicated:

 

     Six months ended June 30,

(in millions)      


   2005

   2004

   Change

Statements of Income Data

                  

Revenues:

                  

Policy charges:

                  

Asset fees

   $ 221.9    $ 211.8    5%

Administrative fees

     7.5      7.5    —  

Surrender fees

     31.7      30.8    3%
    

  

  

Total policy charges

     261.1      250.1    4%
    

  

  

Premiums on income products

     43.7      37.1    18%

Net investment income

     412.7      414.3    —  

Other

     0.6      0.2    200%
    

  

  

Total revenues

     718.1      701.7    2%
    

  

  

Benefits and expenses:

                  

Interest credited to policyholder account values

     280.7      288.4    (3)%

Other benefits and claims

     72.3      61.3    18%

Amortization of DAC

     153.4      141.2    9%

Other operating expenses

     90.9      98.6    (8)%
    

  

  

Total benefits and expenses

     597.3      589.5    1%
    

  

  

Pre-tax operating earnings

   $ 120.8    $ 112.2    8%
    

  

  

Other Data

                  

Sales:

                  

Individual variable annuities

   $ 1,760.4    $ 2,201.7    (20)%

Individual fixed annuities

     117.7      391.1    (70)%

Income products

     87.6      66.1    33%

Advisory services program

     117.0      66.8    75%
    

  

  

Total sales

   $ 2,082.7    $ 2,725.7    (24)%
    

  

  

Average account values:

                  

General account

   $ 14,628.1    $ 14,511.9    1%

Separate account

     34,126.5      32,718.0    4%

Advisory services program

     253.0      56.2    350%
    

  

  

Total average account values

   $ 49,007.6    $ 47,286.1    4%
    

  

  

Account values as of period end:

                  

Individual variable annuities

   $ 39,049.8    $ 38,119.1    2%

Individual fixed annuities

     7,710.7      7,733.1    —  

Income products

     1,811.4      1,725.4    5%

Advisory services program

     314.6      91.2    245%
    

  

  

Total account values

   $ 48,886.5    $ 47,668.8    3%
    

  

  

GMDB - Net amount at risk, net of reinsurance

   $ 275.4    $ 445.4    (38)%

GMDB - Reserves, net of reinsurance

   $ 24.8    $ 25.8    (4)%

Pre-tax operating earnings to average account values

     0.49%      0.47%     
                    

 

 

40


Table of Contents

The increase in pre-tax operating earnings primarily was driven by higher asset fees, lower other operating expenses, higher premiums on income products and increased interest spread income. Higher amortization of DAC and other benefits and claims partially offset the overall increase.

 

Asset fees increased primarily due to changes in the market value of the investment options underlying the account values, which have followed the general trends of the equity markets over the comparison periods.

 

Other operating expenses declined principally due to reductions in employee incentives and lower technology costs, partially offset by higher marketing costs.

 

The increase in premiums on income products primarily resulted from higher interest rates relative to a year ago. Increased purchase rates driven by higher interest rates created a favorable environment for income products.

 

Interest spread income grew 5% in the first half of 2005 compared to the same period a year ago. The following table summarizes the interest spread on Individual Investments segment average general account values for the periods indicated:

 

     Six months ended
June 30,


     2005

   2004

Net investment income

   5.81%    5.86%

Interest credited

   3.84%    3.97%
    
  

Interest spread on average general account values

   1.97%    1.89%
    
  

 

Interest spread margins widened during the first six months of 2005 to 197 basis points compared to 189 basis points in the same period a year ago. Included in the current period were 18 basis points, or $12.8 million, of income from mortgage loan prepayment penalties and bond call premiums compared to 12 basis points, or $8.9 million, in the same period a year ago. The higher interest rate environment compared to the prior year eased pressure on margins due to interest rate floors contained in certain variable annuity contracts. For the full year 2005, the Company expects interest spread margins to tighten and projects full year spreads of 185 to 190 basis points, including a nominal level of prepayment activity.

 

Amortization of DAC increased primarily due to higher estimated gross profits on the underlying business and refinement of amortization calculations.

 

The increase in other benefits and claims reflects the increase in the provision for future policy benefits for immediate annuities and higher GMAB costs, partially offset by a reduction in GMDB expenses. The higher provision for future policy benefits was consistent with the increase in premium income between periods. The rise in GMAB costs was due to increased new business with this product feature, reserve modeling refinements and higher hedge costs due to market conditions. GMDB costs improved due to higher equity market levels and other reserve modeling refinements.

 

The decline in sales was driven by lower individual variable and fixed annuity sales. Variable annuity production decreased primarily due to a more competitive environment. Fixed annuity sales declined due to the Company’s intentional reduction in individual fixed annuity business due to the challenging interest rate environment.

 

41


Table of Contents

The following table summarizes selected information about the Company’s deferred individual fixed annuities, including the fixed option of variable annuities, as of June 30, 2005:

 

     Ratchet

   Reset

(dollars in millions)      


   Account
value


  

Wtd. avg.
crediting

rate


   Account
value


  

Wtd. avg.
crediting

rate


Minimum interest rate of 3.50% or greater

   $ —      N/A    $ 864.8    3.52%

Minimum interest rate of 3.00% to 3.49%

     3,129.1    5.07%      6,139.0    3.08%

Minimum interest rate lower than 3.00%

     904.8    3.16%      355.5    3.39%

MVA with no minimum interest rate guarantee

     —      N/A      —      N/A
    

  
  

  

Total deferred individual fixed annuities

   $ 4,033.9    4.64%    $ 7,359.3    3.15%
    

  
  

  

 

    

Market value

adjustment (MVA)


   Total

(dollars in millions)      


   Account
value


  

Wtd. avg.
crediting

rate


   Account
value


  

Wtd. avg.
crediting

rate


Minimum interest rate of 3.50% or greater

   $ —      N/A    $ 864.8    3.52%

Minimum interest rate of 3.00% to 3.49%

     —      N/A      9,268.1    3.75%

Minimum interest rate lower than 3.00%

     —      N/A      1,260.3    3.23%

MVA with no minimum interest rate guarantee

     1,355.8    3.27%      1,355.8    3.27%
    

  
  

  

Total deferred individual fixed annuities

   $ 1,355.8    3.27%    $ 12,749.0    3.63%
    

  
  

  

 

 

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Table of Contents

Retirement Plans

 

Second Quarter – 2005 Compared to 2004

 

Retirement Plans sales do not include large case retirement plan acquisitions and Nationwide employee and agent benefit plans. However, the statements of income data below does reflect this business.

 

The following table summarizes selected financial data for the Company’s Retirement Plans segment for the periods indicated:

 

     Three months ended June 30,

(in millions)      


   2005

   2004

   Change

Statements of Income Data

                  

Revenues:

                  

Policy charges:

                  

Asset fees

   $ 32.1    $ 34.8    (8)%

Administrative fees

     1.8      2.4    (25)%

Surrender fees

     2.4      3.0    (20)%
    

  

  

Total policy charges

     36.3      40.2    (10)%
    

  

  

Net investment income

     157.3      154.5    2%

Other

     0.1      —      —  
    

  

  

Total revenues

     193.7      194.7    (1)%
    

  

  

Benefits and expenses:

                  

Interest credited to policyholder account values

     109.5      105.9    3%

Amortization of DAC

     11.0      10.4    6%

Other operating expenses

     45.8      44.4    3%
    

  

  

Total benefits and expenses

     166.3      160.7    3%
    

  

  

Pre-tax operating earnings

   $ 27.4    $ 34.0    (19)%
    

  

  

Other Data

                  

Sales:

                  

Private sector

   $ 373.5    $ 417.5    (11)%

Public sector

     394.4      366.5    8%
    

  

  

Total sales

   $ 767.9    $ 784.0    (2)%
    

  

  

Average account values:

                  

General account

   $ 10,432.8    $ 9,648.6    8%

Separate account

     18,524.5      19,238.2    (4)%
    

  

  

Total average account values

   $ 28,957.2    $ 28,886.8    —  
    

  

  

Pre-tax operating earnings to average account values

     0.38%      0.47%     
                    

 

The decrease in pre-tax operating earnings primarily was driven by lower asset fees, higher other operating expenses and lower interest spread income.

 

The decrease in asset fees was associated with the declining issuances of group annuity products in favor of non-annuity products due to the quality and breadth of NTC fund options in non-annuity products, continued surrenders of group annuity contracts and conversion of NLIC annuity contracts to NTC non-annuity contracts.

 

The increase in other operating expenses primarily reflects costs related to a series of information technology enhancements to the defined contribution record-keeping platform.

 

43


Table of Contents

The following table summarizes the interest spread on Retirement Plans segment average general account values for the periods indicated:

 

     Three months ended
June 30,


     2005

   2004

Net investment income

   6.03%    6.41%

Interest credited

   4.20%    4.39%
    
  

Interest spread on average general account values

   1.83%    2.02%
    
  

 

Interest spread margins declined to 183 basis points in the second quarter of 2005 compared to 202 basis points for the comparable period a year ago. Included in the current quarter were 16 basis points, or $4.3 million, of income from mortgage loan prepayment penalties and bond call premiums compared to 10 basis points, or $2.5 million, in the same period a year ago. The decrease in margins was driven by the combination of long-duration higher yielding assets rolling over into lower yielding assets and yields on new cash flows falling below the portfolio rate.

 

Private sector sales decreased due to declining issuances of group annuity products in favor of products on the NTC platform.

 

The increase in public sector sales was due to growth in the core small case city/county business.

 

 

44


Table of Contents

Year-to-Date – 2005 Compared to 2004

 

The following table summarizes selected financial data for the Company’s Retirement Plans segment for the periods indicated:

 

     Six months ended June 30,

(in millions)        


   2005

   2004

   Change

Statements of Income Data

                  

Revenues:

                  

Policy charges:

                  

Asset fees

   $ 65.0    $ 70.0    (7)%

Administrative fees

     4.1      4.1    —  

Surrender fees

     4.5      6.0    (25)%
    

  

  

Total policy charges

     73.6      80.1    (8)%
    

  

  

Net investment income

     319.2      311.1    3%

Other

     0.2      —      —  
    

  

  

Total revenues

     393.0      391.2    —  
    

  

  

Benefits and expenses:

                  

Interest credited to policyholder account values

     218.8      213.6    2%

Amortization of DAC

     23.3      20.0    17%

Other operating expenses

     91.6      90.9    1%
    

  

  

Total benefits and expenses

     333.7      324.5    3%
    

  

  

Pre-tax operating earnings

   $ 59.3    $ 66.7    (11)%
    

  

  

Other Data

                  

Sales:

                  

Private sector

   $ 789.2    $ 931.6    (15)%

Public sector

     768.2      773.2    (1)%
    

  

  

Total sales

   $ 1,557.4    $ 1,704.8    (9)%
    

  

  

Average account values:

                  

General account

   $ 10,334.7    $ 9,599.6    8%

Separate account

     18,753.5      19,294.8    (3)%
    

  

  

Total average account values

   $ 29,088.2    $ 28,894.4    1%
    

  

  

Account values as of period end:

                  

Private sector

   $ 13,787.9    $ 14,404.2    (4)%

Public sector

     14,797.6      14,407.4    3%
    

  

  

Total account values

   $ 28,585.5    $ 28,811.6    (1)%
    

  

  

Pre-tax operating earnings to average account values

     0.41%      0.46%     
                    

 

The decrease in pre-tax operating earnings primarily was driven by lower asset fees and higher amortization of DAC, partially offset by higher interest spread income.

 

The decrease in asset fees was associated with the declining issuances of group annuity products in favor of non-annuity products due to the quality and breadth of NTC fund options in non-annuity products, continued surrenders of group annuity contracts and conversion of NLIC annuity contracts to NTC non-annuity contracts.

 

The increase in amortization of DAC was related to changes in private sector amortization calculation assumptions driven by actual experience for the declining block of group annuity business.

 

 

45


Table of Contents

The following table summarizes the interest spread on Retirement Plans segment average general account values for the periods indicated:

 

     Six months ended
June 30,


     2005

   2004

Net investment income

   6.18%    6.48%

Interest credited

   4.23%    4.45%
    
  

Interest spread on average general account values

   1.95%    2.03%
    
  

 

Interest spread margins decreased to 195 basis points in the first six months of 2005 compared to 203 basis points in the same period a year ago. Included in the current period were 21 basis points, or $10.9 million, of income from mortgage loan prepayment penalties and bond call premiums compared to 15 basis points, or $7.5 million, in the same period a year ago. The decrease in margins was driven by the combination of long-duration higher yielding assets rolling over into lower yielding assets and yields on new cash flows falling below the portfolio rate. For the full year 2005, the Company expects interest spread margins to tighten and projects full year spreads of 180 to 185 basis points, including a nominal level of prepayment activity.

 

Private sector sales decreased due to declining issuances of group annuity products in favor of products on the NTC platform.

 

The decrease in public sector sales was due to lower plan-to-plan transfers.

 

46


Table of Contents

Individual Protection

 

Second Quarter – 2005 Compared to 2004

 

The following table summarizes selected financial data for the Company’s Individual Protection segment for the periods indicated:

 

     Three months ended June 30,

(in millions)        


   2005

   2004

   Change

Statements of Income Data

                  

Revenues:

                  

Policy charges:

                  

Asset fees

   $ 7.1    $ 5.7    25%

Cost of insurance charges

     67.3      64.1    5%

Administrative fees

     15.6      14.7    6%

Surrender fees

     3.3      3.5    (6)%
    

  

  

Total policy charges

     93.3      88.0    6%
    

  

  

Life insurance premiums

     43.7      45.7    (4)%

Net investment income

     85.6      80.3    7%
    

  

  

Total revenues

     222.6      214.0    4%
    

  

  

Benefits and expenses:

                  

Interest credited to policyholder account values

     47.6      45.9    4%

Other benefits and claims

     60.7      59.3    2%

Policyholder dividends on participating policies

     8.3      11.2    (26)%

Amortization of DAC

     25.0      22.8    10%

Other operating expenses

     35.9      37.6    (5)%
    

  

  

Total benefits and expenses

     177.5      176.8    —  
    

  

  

Pre-tax operating earnings

   $ 45.1    $ 37.2    21%
    

  

  

Other Data

                  

Sales:

                  

The BEST of AMERICA variable life series

   $ 109.1    $ 109.8    (1)%

Corporate-owned life insurance

     142.9      129.0    11%

Traditional/universal life insurance

     89.1      84.8    5%
    

  

  

Total sales

   $ 341.1    $ 323.6    5%
    

  

  

 

Higher pre-tax operating earnings were driven by improved results from the corporate investment life insurance business due to increases in sales and business in force and due to higher interest spread income and cost of insurance charges. Lower policyholder dividends on participating policies also contributed to the increase. A decrease in life insurance premiums and higher amortization of DAC partially offset the overall improvement.

 

Interest spread income increased primarily due to higher income from mortgage loan prepayment penalties and bond call premiums.

 

Cost of insurance charges were higher principally due to the increase in business in force throughout the product lines. The aging of the portfolio in the individual life insurance business and higher COLI sales also contributed to the improvement.

 

Policyholder dividends on participating policies declined due to an adjustment to the dividend scale related to lower investment yields on traditional life insurance products.

 

Life insurance premiums declined due to lower sales of whole life insurance products.

 

The increase in amortization of DAC was attributable to amortization calculation refinements.

 

 

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Sales improved primarily due to higher COLI sales, which were driven by two new large cases that closed during the period and a more favorable legislative environment.

 

Year-to-Date – 2005 Compared to 2004

 

The following table summarizes selected financial data for the Company’s Individual Protection segment for the periods indicated:

 

     Six months ended June 30,

(in millions)        


   2005

   2004

   Change

Statements of Income Data

                  

Revenues:

                  

Policy charges:

                  

Asset fees

   $ 13.5    $ 11.3    19%

Cost of insurance charges

     133.9      127.6    5%

Administrative fees

     33.5      32.7    2%

Surrender fees

     6.4      7.1    (10)%
    

  

  

Total policy charges

     187.3      178.7    5%
    

  

  

Life insurance premiums

     87.7      93.4    (6)%

Net investment income

     169.3      163.5    4%
    

  

  

Total revenues

     444.3      435.6    2%
    

  

  

Benefits and expenses:

                  

Interest credited to policyholder account values

     91.1      91.1    —  

Other beneifts and claims

     118.7      118.9    —  

Policyholder dividends on participating policies

     18.0      19.7    (9)%

Amortization of DAC

     48.1      44.6    8%

Other operating expenses

     71.1      80.3    (11)%
    

  

  

Total benefits and expenses

     347.0      354.6    (2)%
    

  

  

Pre-tax operating earnings

   $ 97.3    $ 81.0    20%
    

  

  

Other Data

                  

Sales:

                  

The BEST of AMERICA variable life series

   $ 212.8    $ 217.8    (2)%

Corporate-owned life insurance

     377.7      346.9    9%

Traditional/universal life insurance

     172.2      171.9    —  
    

  

  

Total sales

   $ 762.7    $ 736.6    4%
    

  

  

Policy reserves as of period end:

                  

Individual investment life insurance

   $ 3,112.6    $ 2,815.6    11%

Corporate investment life insurance

     6,338.1      4,728.1    34%

Traditional life insurance

     2,143.6      2,059.3    4%

Universal life insurance

     1,024.3      938.9    9%
    

  

  

Total policy reserves

   $ 12,618.6    $ 10,541.9    20%
    

  

  

Insurance in force as of period end:

                  

Individual investment life insurance

   $ 36,928.6    $ 35,650.2    4%

Corporate investment life insurance

     23,184.9      9,533.6    143%

Traditional life insurance

     20,663.3      21,748.3    (5)%

Universal life insurance

     8,569.1      8,296.3    3%
    

  

  

Total insurance in force

   $ 89,345.9    $ 75,228.4    19%
    

  

  

 

Pre-tax operating earnings increased due to significant improvement in COLI production, lower other operating expenses, higher cost of insurance charges and increased interest spread income. Lower life insurance premiums in other product lines and higher amortization of DAC partially offset the overall increase.

 

 

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The decline in other operating expenses resulted from increased capitalization of DAC and certain software charges, partially offset by higher trail commissions.

 

Cost of insurance charges were higher principally due to the increase in business in force throughout the product lines. The aging of the portfolio in the individual life insurance business and higher COLI sales also contributed to the improvement.

 

Interest spread income increased primarily due to higher income from mortgage loan prepayment penalties and bond call premiums.

 

Life insurance premiums declined due to lower sales of whole life insurance products.

 

Sales improved primarily due to higher COLI sales, which were driven by two new large cases that closed during the period and a more favorable legislative environment.

 

Corporate and Other

 

Second Quarter – 2005 Compared to 2004

 

The following table summarizes selected financial data for the Company’s Corporate and Other segment for the periods indicated:

 

     Three months ended June 30,

(in millions)        


   2005

   2004

   Change

Statements of Income Data

                  

Operating revenues:

                  

Net investment income

   $ 76.8    $ 44.8    71%

Other

     —        7.0    (100)%
    

  

  

Total operating revenues

     76.8      51.8    48%
    

  

  

Benefits and expenses:

                  

Interest credited to policyholder account values

     36.4      17.3    110%

Interest expense on debt

     15.9      15.4    3%

Other operating expenses

     1.4      14.0    (90)%
    

  

  

Total benefits and expenses

     53.7      46.7    15%
    

  

  

Pre-tax operating earnings

     23.1      5.1    353%

Net realized losses on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items1

     (5.1)      (29.3)    NM
    

  

  

Income (loss) from continuing operations before federal income taxes

   $ 18.0    $ (24.2)    NM
    

  

  

 

1

Excluding periodic net coupon settlements on non-qualifying derivatives.

 

 

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The following table summarizes net realized losses on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items from continuing operations by source for the periods indicated:

 

     Three months ended
June 30,


 

(in millions)        


   2005

    2004

 

Realized gains on sales, net of hedging losses:

                

Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale

   $ 8.5     $ 7.7  

Hedging losses on fixed maturity sales

     (2.1 )     (1.6 )

Equity securities available-for-sale

     0.4       0.1  

Mortgage loans on real estate

     1.7       5.6  

Mortgage loan hedging losses

     (0.5 )     (0.8 )

Real estate

     —         2.1  

Other

     0.8       —    
    


 


Total realized gains on sales

     8.8       13.1  
    


 


Realized losses on sales, net of hedging gains:

                

Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale

     (2.3 )     (2.3 )

Hedging gains on fixed maturity sales

     —         0.4  

Equity securities available-for-sale

     —         (0.1 )

Mortgage loans on real estate

     (2.2 )     (5.2 )

Other

     (0.5 )     (1.2 )
    


 


Total realized losses on sales

     (5.0 )     (8.4 )
    


 


Other-than-temporary and other investment impairments:

                

Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale

     (5.2 )     (29.3 )

Equity securities available-for-sale

     —         (0.4 )

Real estate

     (0.1 )     (0.3 )

Other

     (0.4 )     —    
    


 


Total other-than-temporary and other investment impairments

     (5.7 )     (30.0 )
    


 


Credit default swaps

     (0.7 )     0.1  

Periodic net coupon settlements on non-qualifying derivatives

     (0.2 )     2.2  

Other derivatives

     1.3       (4.1 )

Other

     (3.8 )     —    
    


 


Net realized losses on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items

   $ (5.3 )   $ (27.1 )
    


 


 

Pre-tax operating earnings increased significantly due to higher interest spread income and lower other operating expenses, partially offset by a decrease in other income. The increase in interest spread income was driven by higher invested asset levels and income from mortgage loan prepayment penalties and bond call premiums. The decline in other operating expenses primarily was due to lower expenses related to VIEs and legal matters. Other income decreased due to lower VIE and structured products earnings in the current quarter.

 

The Company recorded substantially lower net realized losses on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items excluding operating items (periodic net coupon settlements on non-qualifying derivatives) in the second quarter of 2005 compared to significant net realized losses in the same period a year ago due to continuing improvement in the credit environment.

 

 

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Table of Contents

Year-to-Date – 2005 Compared to 2004

 

The following table summarizes selected financial data for the Company’s Corporate and Other segment for the periods indicated:

 

     Six months ended June 30,

(in millions)        


   2005

   2004

   Change

Statements of Income Data

                  

Operating revenues:

                  

Net investment income

   $ 143.2    $ 96.2    49%

Other

     2.0      11.5    (83)%
    

  

  

Total operating revenues

     145.2      107.7    35%
    

  

  

Benefits and expenses:

                  

Interest credited to policyholder account values

     66.9      34.9    92%

Interest expense on debt

     31.3      29.9    5%

Other operating expenses

     9.9      16.5    (40)%
    

  

  

Total benefits and expenses

     108.1      81.3    33%
    

  

  

Pre-tax operating earnings

     37.1      26.4    41%

Net realized gains (losses) on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items1

     16.1      (43.8)    NM
    

  

  

Income (loss) from continuing operations before federal income taxes

   $ 53.2    $ (17.4)    NM
    

  

  

Other Data

                  

Account values as of period end —

                  

Funding agreements backing medium-term notes

   $ 4,009.1    $ 4,831.4    (17)%
    

  

  

1

Excluding periodic net coupon settlements on non-qualifying derivatives.

 

 

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The following table summarizes net realized gains (losses) on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items from continuing operations by source for the periods indicated:

 

     Six months ended
June 30,


 

(in millions)        


   2005

    2004

 

Realized gains on sales, net of hedging losses:

                

Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale

   $ 38.4     $ 14.5  

Hedging losses on fixed maturity sales

     (4.1 )     (5.2 )

Equity securities available-for-sale

     1.8       1.1  

Mortgage loans on real estate

     3.3       5.6  

Mortgage loan hedging losses

     (0.5 )     (1.3 )

Real estate

     —         2.5  

Other

     1.0       0.2  
    


 


Total realized gains on sales

     39.9       17.4  
    


 


Realized losses on sales, net of hedging gains:

                

Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale

     (9.8 )     (4.8 )

Hedging gains on fixed maturity sales

     3.6       0.8  

Equity securities available-for-sale

     —         (0.5 )

Mortgage loans on real estate

     (3.0 )     (5.9 )

Mortgage loan hedging gains

     1.9       1.8  

Real estate

     —         (1.2 )

Other

     (0.7 )     (1.4 )
    


 


Total realized losses on sales

     (8.0 )     (11.2 )
    


 


Other-than-temporary and other investment impairments:

                

Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale

     (5.9 )     (40.9 )

Equity securities available-for-sale

     (0.9 )     (0.6 )

Mortgage loans on real estate, including valuation allowance adjustment

     (2.6 )     (2.0 )

Real estate

     (0.1 )     (2.5 )

Other

     (0.4 )     —    
    


 


Total other-than-temporary and other investment impairments

     (9.9 )     (46.0 )
    


 


Credit default swaps

     (2.4 )     (2.7 )

Periodic net coupon settlements on non-qualifying derivatives

     (0.3 )     5.2  

Other derivatives

     1.9       (1.3 )

Other

     (5.4 )     —    
    


 


Net realized gains (losses) on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items

   $ 15.8     $ (38.6 )
    


 


 

Pre-tax operating earnings increased significantly primarily due to higher interest spread income and lower other operating expenses, partially offset by a decrease in other income. The increase in interest spread income was driven by higher invested asset levels and income from mortgage loan prepayment penalties and bond call premiums. The decline in other operating expenses primarily was due to lower project spending, partially offset by higher legal expenses. Other income decreased due to lower VIE and structured products earnings during the second quarter.

 

The Company recorded substantial net realized gains on investments, hedging instruments and hedged items excluding operating items (periodic net coupon settlements on non-qualifying derivatives) in the first six months of 2005 compared to significant net realized losses in the same period a year ago due to continuing improvement in the equity markets and credit environment.

 

The Company has a comprehensive portfolio monitoring process for fixed maturity and equity securities to identify and evaluate the necessity of recording impairment losses for other-than-temporary declines in the fair value of investments. See Part I, Item 2MD&ACritical Accounting Policies and Recently Issued Accounting StandardsImpairment Losses on Investments of this report for a complete discussion of this process.

 

 

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The following table summarizes for the six months ended June 30, 2005 the Company’s largest aggregate losses on sales and write-downs by issuer (including affiliates), the related circumstances giving rise to the losses and the circumstances that may have affected other material investments held:

 

                      June 30, 2005

 

(in millions)      


  

Fair value

at sale

(proceeds)


   YTD loss on
sale


   

YTD

write-downs


    Holdings1

   Net
unrealized
gain (loss)


 

A collateralized loan obligation. Expected cash flows experienced deterioration in the second quarter of 2005, and the issue was impaired to fair value.

   $ —      $ —       $ (1.8 )   $ 3.2    $ —    

Preferred term securities purchased for the purpose of selling into a securitization. The securitization had not yet been completed as of the end of the second quarter of 2005. Since the Company intends to sell these securities, an impairment loss was recorded in the second quarter of 2005.

     —        —         (1.4 )     23.9      —    

A provider of communications integrated circuits to the telecommunications industry. An upcoming unfavorable dollar-for-dollar equity exchange prompted an impairment loss in the second quarter of 2005.

     —        —         (1.0 )     3.1      —    

A payroll services and temporary staffing company. A decline occurred in the fourth quarter of 2004, and an impairment was recorded. An additional decline occurred in the first quarter of 2005, and a further impairment was recorded. No additional declines occurred in the second quarter of 2005 making further impairment unnecessary.

     —        —         (0.9 )     2.2      —    

A holding company whose holdings manufacture baked goods, snack pies, gourmet coffee and biscotti. The anticipated recovery amount of this investment has decreased due to problems in the process of consolidating operations. Thus, an impairment was taken in the second quarter of 2005.

     —        —         (0.5 )     1.7      —    

An asset-backed security secured by vacation club membership interests. Expected cash flows experienced deterioration in the first quarter of 2005, and the issue was impaired to fair value. No additional declines occurred in the second quarter of 2005 making further impairment unnecessary.

     —        —         (0.4 )     0.9      —    

U.S. government securities that were sold at a loss in the first and second quarters of 2005. No impairment is necessary on the remaining holdings.

     209.1      (2.5 )     —         372.9      17.4  

Credit card-backed securities. A sale of a portion of these holdings resulted in a loss in the first quarter of 2005. Expected cash flows and fair values of the remaining holdings are being monitored.

     26.6      (0.7 )     —         94.4      2.0  

A financial services company that offers a variety of automotive financial services to various authorized dealers. A sale of two securities by this issuer was completed in the first quarter of 2005. The Company has the ability and intent to hold the remaining securities to recovery. No impairment on these holdings is necessary at this time.

     7.7      (0.4 )     —         70.9      (3.6 )

Asset-backed securities secured by student loans. A sale of a portion of the holdings resulted in a loss in the first quarter of 2005. There has been no adverse change in cash flows, and the Company has the ability and intent to hold the remaining securities to recovery. No impairment on these holdings is necessary at this time.

     34.7      (0.4 )     —         89.7      (2.4 )

An asset-backed security. A sale of the entire holding was completed in the second quarter of 2005.

     4.6      (0.4 )     —         —        —    

Collateralized mortgage obligations. A sale of a portion of the holdings resulted in a loss in the first quarter of 2005. Expected cash flows and fair values of the remaining holdings are being monitored. The Company has the ability and intent to hold the remaining securities to recovery. No impairment on these holdings is necessary at this time.

     12.4      (0.3 )     —         29.4      (0.2 )

Securities issued by U.S. government sponsored enterprises (these securities are not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government) that were sold at a loss in the first quarter of 2005. No impairment is necessary on the remaining holdings.

     37.6      (0.3 )     —         948.8      85.1  
    

  


 


 

  


Total

   $ 332.7    $ (5.0 )   $ (6.0 )   $ 1,641.1    $ 98.3  
    

  


 


 

  



 

1

Holdings represent amortized cost of fixed maturity securities and cost of equity securities as of the date indicated.

 

No other issuer had an aggregated loss on sales and write-downs greater than 2% of the Company’s total gross loss on sales and write-downs on fixed maturity and equity securities.

 

 

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Related Party Transactions

 

See Note 7 to the unaudited consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 - Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements of this report for a discussion of related party transactions.

 

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

 

Contractual obligations and commitments have not changed materially from those disclosed in the Company’s 2004 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Transactions

 

Under the MTN program, the Company issues funding agreements, which are insurance obligations under Ohio law, to an unconsolidated third party trust to secure notes issued to investors by the trust. The funding agreements are recorded as a component of future policy benefits and claims on the unaudited consolidated balance sheets. Because the Company is not the primary beneficiary of, and has no ownership interest in, or control over, the third party trust that issues the notes, the Company does not include the trust in its unaudited consolidated financial statements. Since the notes issued by the trust have a secured interest in the funding agreements issued by the Company, Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. and Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services assign the same ratings to the notes and the insurance financial strength of the Company.

 

As of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, the Company had received $1.26 billion and $874.2 million, respectively, of cash collateral on securities lending and $297.9 million and $415.7 million, respectively, of cash for derivative collateral. As of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, the Company had received $7.6 million and $191.8 million, respectively, of non-cash collateral on securities lending. Both the cash and non-cash collateral amounts were included in short-term investments with a corresponding liability recorded in other liabilities. As of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, the Company had loaned securities with a fair value of $1.23 billion and $1.04 billion, respectively. The Company also held $81.0 million and $222.5 million of securities as off-balance sheet collateral on derivative transactions as of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, respectively.

 

ITEM 3 Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

Market risks have not changed materially from those disclosed in the Company’s 2004 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

ITEM 4 Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

The Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934). Based on such evaluation, such officers have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report.

 

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

There have been no changes during the Company’s second fiscal quarter to its internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

 

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PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1 Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is a party to litigation and arbitration proceedings in the ordinary course of its business. It is not possible to determine the ultimate outcome of the pending investigations and legal proceedings or to provide reasonable ranges of potential losses. Some of the matters, including certain of those referred to below, are in very preliminary stages, and the Company does not have sufficient information to make an assessment of plaintiffs’ claims for liability or damages. In some of the cases seeking to be certified as class actions, the court has not yet decided whether a class will be certified or (in the event of certification) the size of the class and class period. In many of the cases, plaintiffs are seeking undefined amounts of damages or other relief, including punitive damages and equitable remedies, that are difficult to quantify and cannot be defined based on the information currently available. The Company does not believe, based on information currently known by the Company’s management, that the outcomes of such pending investigations and legal proceedings are likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position. However, given the large and/or indeterminate amounts sought in certain of these matters and inherent unpredictability of litigation, it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain matters could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial results in a particular quarterly or annual period.

 

In recent years, life insurance companies have been named as defendants in lawsuits, including class action lawsuits relating to life insurance and annuity pricing and sales practices. A number of these lawsuits have resulted in substantial jury awards or settlements.

 

The financial services industry, including mutual fund, variable annuity, life insurance and distribution companies, has also been the subject of increasing scrutiny by regulators, legislators and the media over the past two years. Numerous regulatory agencies, including the SEC, the National Association of Securities Dealers and the New York State Attorney General, have commenced industry-wide investigations regarding late trading and market timing in connection with mutual funds and variable insurance contracts, and have commenced enforcement actions against some mutual fund and life insurance companies on those issues. The Company has been contacted by or received subpoenas from the SEC and the New York State Attorney General, who are investigating market timing in certain mutual funds offered in insurance products sponsored by the Company. The Company is cooperating with this investigation and is responding to information requests.

 

In addition, state and federal regulators have commenced investigations or other proceedings relating to compensation and bidding arrangements and possible anti-competitive activities between insurance producers and brokers and issuers of insurance products, and unsuitable sales and replacements by producers on behalf of the issuer. Also under investigation are compensation arrangements between the issuers of variable insurance contracts and mutual funds or their affiliates, the use of side agreements and finite reinsurance, and funding agreements issued to back MTN programs. Related investigations and proceedings may be commenced in the future. The Company has been contacted by or received subpoenas from state and federal regulatory agencies, state securities law regulators and state attorneys general for information relating to these investigations into compensation and bidding arrangements, anti-competitive activities, unsuitable sales or replacement practices, and funding agreements backing the MTN program. The Company is cooperating with regulators in connection with these inquiries. NMIC, the Company’s ultimate parent, has been contacted by or received subpoenas from certain regulators for information on certain of these issues with respect to its operations and the operations of its subsidiaries, including the Company. The Company will cooperate with NMIC in responding to these inquiries to the extent that any inquiries encompass its operations.

 

These proceedings are expected to continue in the future and could result in legal precedents and new industry-wide legislation, rules and regulations that could significantly affect the financial services industry, including life insurance and annuity companies. These proceedings also could affect the outcome of one or more of the Company’s litigation matters.

 

 

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On April 13, 2004, NLIC was named in a class action lawsuit filed in Circuit Court, Third Judicial Circuit, Madison County, Illinois, entitled Woodbury v. Nationwide Life Insurance Company. The plaintiff claims to represent a class of persons in the United States who, through their ownership of an NLIC annuity or insurance product, held units of any NLIC sub-account invested in mutual funds which included foreign securities in their portfolios and which allegedly experienced market timing trading activity. The complaint contains allegations of negligence, reckless indifference and breach of fiduciary duty. The plaintiff seeks to recover compensatory and punitive damages in an amount not to exceed $75,000 per plaintiff or class member. NLIC removed this case to the United States District Court for the Southern District of Illinois on June 1, 2004. The plaintiffs moved to remand on June 28, 2004. On July 12, 2004, NLIC filed a memorandum opposing remand and requesting a stay pending the resolution of an unrelated case covering similar issues, which is an appeal from a decision of the same District Court remanding a removed market timing case to an Illinois state court. On July 30, 2004, the U.S. District Court granted NLIC’s request for a stay pending a decision by the Seventh Circuit on the unrelated case mentioned above. On December 27, 2004, the case was transferred to the United States District Court for the District of Maryland and included in the multi-district proceeding there entitled In Re Mutual Funds Investment Litigation. On April 25, 2005, NLIC filed a motion to dismiss. In response, on May 13, 2005, the plaintiff filed a First Amended Complaint purporting to represent, with certain exceptions, a class of all persons who held (through their ownership of an NLIC annuity or insurance product) units of any NLIC sub-account invested in mutual funds that included foreign securities in their portfolios and that experienced market timing or stale price trading activity. The First Amended Complaint purports to disclaim, with respect to market timing or stale price trading in NLIC’s annuities sub-accounts, any allegation based on NLIC’s untrue statement, failure to disclose any material fact, or usage of any manipulative or deceptive device or contrivance in connection with any class member’s purchases or sales of NLIC annuities or units in annuities sub-accounts. The plaintiff claims, in the alternative, that if NLIC is found with respect to market timing or stale price trading in its annuities sub-accounts, to have made any untrue statement, to have failed to disclose any material fact or to have used or employed any manipulative or deceptive device or contrivance, then the plaintiff purports to represent a class, with certain exceptions, of all persons who, prior to NLIC’s untrue statement, omission of material fact, use or employment of any manipulative or deceptive device or contrivance, held (through their ownership of an NLIC annuity or insurance product) units of any NLIC sub-account invested in mutual funds that included foreign securities in their portfolios and that experienced market timing activity. The First Amended Complaint alleges common law negligence and seeks to recover damages not to exceed $75,000 per plaintiff or class member, including all compensatory damages and costs. On June 24, 2005, NLIC filed a motion to dismiss the First Amended Complaint. NLIC intends to defend this lawsuit vigorously.

 

On January 21, 2004, the Company was named in a lawsuit filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi entitled United Investors Life Insurance Company v. Nationwide Life Insurance Company and/or Nationwide Life Insurance Company of America and/or Nationwide Life and Annuity Insurance Company and/or Nationwide Life and Annuity Company of America and/or Nationwide Financial Services, Inc. and/or Nationwide Financial Corporation, and John Does A-Z. In its complaint, plaintiff United Investors alleges that the Company and/or its affiliated life insurance companies caused the replacement of variable insurance policies and other financial products issued by United Investors with policies issued by the Nationwide defendants. The plaintiff raises claims for (1) violations of the Federal Lanham Act, and common law unfair competition and defamation, (2) tortious interference with the plaintiff’s contractual relationship with Waddell & Reed, Inc. and/or its affiliates, Waddell & Reed Financial, Inc., Waddell & Reed Financial Services, Inc. and W&R Insurance Agency, Inc., or with the plaintiff’s contractual relationships with its variable policyholders, (3) civil conspiracy, and (4) breach of fiduciary duty. The complaint seeks compensatory damages, punitive damages, pre- and post-judgment interest, a full accounting, a constructive trust, and costs and disbursements, including attorneys’ fees. The Company filed a motion to dismiss the complaint on June 1, 2004. On February 8, 2005 the court denied the motion to dismiss. On March 23, 2005, the Company filed its answer. The Company intends to defend this lawsuit vigorously.

 

On October 31, 2003, NLIC and Nationwide Life and Annuity Insurance Company (NLAIC) were named in a lawsuit seeking class action status filed in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona entitled Robert Helman et al v. Nationwide Life Insurance Company et al. The suit challenges the sale of deferred annuity products for use as investments in tax-deferred contributory retirement plans. On April 8, 2004, the plaintiff filed an amended class action complaint on behalf of all persons who purchased an individual variable deferred annuity contract or a certificate to a group variable annuity contract issued by NLIC or NLAIC which were allegedly used to fund certain tax-deferred retirement plans. The amended class action complaint seeks unspecified compensatory damages. NLIC and NLAIC filed a motion to dismiss the complaint on May 24, 2004. On July 27, 2004, the court granted the motion to dismiss. The plaintiff has appealed that dismissal to the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. NLIC and NLAIC intend to defend this lawsuit vigorously.

 

 

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On August 15, 2001, the Company was named in a lawsuit filed in the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut entitled Lou Haddock, as trustee of the Flyte Tool & Die, Incorporated Deferred Compensation Plan, et al v. Nationwide Financial Services, Inc. and Nationwide Life Insurance Company. The plaintiffs first amended their complaint on September 5, 2001 to include class action allegations and have subsequently amended their complaint three times. As amended, in the current complaint the plaintiffs seek to represent a class of ERISA qualified retirement plans that purchased variable annuities from NLIC. The plaintiffs allege that they invested ERISA plan assets in their variable annuity contracts and that the Company breached ERISA fiduciary duties by allegedly accepting service payments from certain mutual funds. The complaint seeks disgorgement of some or all of the payments allegedly received by the Company, other unspecified relief for restitution, declaratory and injunctive relief, and attorneys’ fees. On December 13, 2001, the plaintiffs filed a motion for class certification. The plaintiffs filed a supplement to that motion on September 19, 2003. The Company opposed that motion on December 24, 2003. On July 6, 2004, the Company filed a Revised Memorandum in Support of Summary Judgment. The plaintiffs have opposed that motion. The Company intends to defend this lawsuit vigorously.

 

ITEM 2 Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Omitted due to reduced disclosure format.

 

ITEM 3 Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

Omitted due to reduced disclosure format.

 

ITEM 4 Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

 

Omitted due to reduced disclosure format.

 

ITEM 5 Other Information

 

On August 3, 2005, the Board of Directors of NFS approved a software licensing agreement between NFS and its subsidiaries, which includes the Company, and Nationwide Services Company, LLC (NSC) pursuant to which NSC agrees to license to NFS and its subsidiaries use of the DCDirect Core Platform Software. Simultaneous with the execution of the software licensing agreement between NSC and NFS and its subsidiaries was the termination of a software licensing agreement entered into as of February 10, 2003 between Nationwide Global Holdings, Inc. (NGH) and NFS pursuant to which NGH licensed to NFS use of the DCDirect Core Platform Software.

 

ITEM 6 Exhibits

 

10.1

  

Amended and Restated Five Year Credit Agreement, dated May 13, 2005, among NMIC, NLIC, NFS, the lenders party thereto and Citicorp USA, Inc., as agent, and Wachovia Bank, NA, as syndication agent (previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the NFS Current Report on Form 8-K, Commission File Number 1-12785, filed May 19, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference).

10.2

  

Form of Software License Agreement between NSC and NFS and its Subsidiaries (previously filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the NFS Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, Commission File Number 1-12785, filed August 4, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference).

31.1

  

Certification of W.G. Jurgensen pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2

  

Certification of M. Eileen Kennedy pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.1

  

Certification of W.G. Jurgensen pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (this exhibit is intended to be furnished in accordance with Regulation S-K, Item 601(b)(32)(ii) and shall not be deemed “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 or incorporated by reference into any document filed under the Securities Act of 1933, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference to such filing).

32.2

  

Certification of M. Eileen Kennedy pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (this exhibit is intended to be furnished in accordance with Regulation S-K, Item 601(b)(32)(ii) and shall not be deemed “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 or incorporated by reference into any document filed under the Securities Act of 1933, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference to such filing).

 

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SIGNATURE

 

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

 

 

   

NATIONWIDE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY

   

(Registrant)

Date: August 4, 2005

 

/s/ M. Eileen Kennedy


   

M. Eileen Kennedy,

Senior Vice President — Chief Financial Officer

 

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