Back to GetFilings.com



 


SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 
 
 

FORM 10-Q

 
 
 

Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the

Securities Exchange Act of 1934


For the Quarterly Period Ended
June 30, 2003

Commission File
No. 1-7361


AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION


Incorporated under
the Laws of Ohio

 IRS Employer I.D.
No. 31-0624874



One East Fourth Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202

(513) 579-2121

 

 

 

 

 

       Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months, and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes   X      No       

       Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is an accelerated filer. Yes           No   X  

       As of August 1, 2003, there were 10,593,000 shares of the Registrant's Common Stock outstanding, all of which were owned by American Financial Group, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 


AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

Page 

Part I - Financial Information

 

  Item  1 - Financial Statements:

 

                Consolidated Balance Sheet

2 

                Consolidated Statement of Earnings

3 

                Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders' Equity

4 

                Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

5 

                Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

6 

  Item  2 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition

 

            and Results of Operations

15 

  Item  3 - Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure of Market Risk

27 

  Item  4 - Controls and Procedures

27 

   

Part II - Other Information

 

  Item  1 - Legal Proceedings

28 

  Item  6 - Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

28 

  Signature

29 

   

Exhibit Index

 

  Exhibit 12    - Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges

E-1 

  Exhibit 31(a) - Certification of the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to

 

                  Section 302(a) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

E-2 

  Exhibit 31(b) - Certification of the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to

 

                  Section 302(a) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

E-3 

  Exhibit 32    - Certification of the Chief Executive Officer and the

 

                  Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the

 

                  Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

E-4 

   
   
   

                                                               

 
   

 

 

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

PART I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

(Dollars In Thousands)

 

June 30,

December 31,

 

       2003 

       2002 

Assets:

   

  Cash and short-term investments

$   894,588 

$   870,797 

  Investments:

   

    Fixed maturities - at market

   

      (amortized cost - $11,075,809 and $11,549,710)

11,724,809 

12,006,910 

    Other stocks - at market

   

      (cost - $167,446 and $173,933)

311,446 

299,133 

    Investment in investee corporations

222,136 

-    

    Policy loans

213,737 

214,852 

    Real estate and other investments

    264,667 

    257,731 

        Total investments

12,736,795 

12,778,626 

 

 

 

  Recoverables from reinsurers and prepaid

 

 

    reinsurance premiums

2,873,095 

2,866,780 

  Agents' balances and premiums receivable

563,240 

708,327 

  Deferred acquisition costs

807,642 

842,070 

  Other receivables

261,827 

306,904 

  Variable annuity assets (separate accounts)

492,573 

455,142 

  Prepaid expenses, deferred charges and other assets

312,294 

425,127 

  Goodwill

    169,331 

    248,683 

     
 

$19,111,385 

$19,502,456 

     

Liabilities and Capital:

   

  Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses

$ 4,639,326 

$ 5,203,831 

  Unearned premiums

1,587,804 

1,847,924 

  Annuity benefits accumulated

6,778,284 

6,453,881 

  Life, accident and health reserves

950,439 

902,393 

  Payable to reinsurers

407,135 

508,718 

  Payable to American Financial Group, Inc.

441,200 

310,010 

  Long-term debt:

   

    Holding companies

19,758 

267,512 

    Subsidiaries

251,764 

296,771 

  Variable annuity liabilities (separate accounts)

492,573 

455,142 

  Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other 

 

 

    liabilities

  1,089,112 

  1,032,079 

        Total liabilities

16,657,395 

17,278,261 

     

  Minority interest

549,876 

494,472 

     

  Shareholders' Equity:

   

    Preferred Stock - at liquidation value

72,154 

72,154 

    Common Stock, no par value

   

      - 20,000,000 shares authorized

   

      - 10,593,000 shares outstanding

9,625 

9,625 

    Capital surplus

990,056 

987,539 

    Retained earnings

411,079 

343,705 

    Unrealized gain on marketable securities, net

    421,200 

    316,700 

        Total shareholders' equity

  1,904,114 

  1,729,723 

     
 

$19,111,385 

$19,502,456 

     

2

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF EARNINGS

(In Thousands)

 

 

Three months ended 

Six months ended     

 

      June 30,      

       June 30,         

 

2003 

2002 

2003 

2002 

Income:

       

  Property and casualty insurance

       

    premiums

$412,500 

$618,935 

$  955,285 

$1,222,843 

  Life, accident and health premiums

83,218 

72,709 

162,728 

143,644 

  Investment income

188,095 

213,518 

391,100 

434,477 

  Realized gains (losses) on:

 

 

 

 

    Securities

17,898 

(47,490)

20,137 

(65,290)

    Subsidiaries

7,704 

-    

(31,682)

-    

  Other income

  69,626 

  62,405 

   124,164 

   110,017 

 

779,041 

920,077 

1,621,732 

1,845,691 

Costs and Expenses:

   

 

 

  Property and casualty insurance:

   

 

 

    Losses and loss adjustment expenses

317,839 

459,037 

689,809 

901,950 

    Commissions and other underwriting

 

 

 

 

      expenses

123,871 

166,689 

280,308 

336,955 

  Annuity benefits

80,860 

71,016 

155,707 

146,541 

  Life, accident and health benefits

59,307 

59,392 

122,403 

115,312 

  Annuity and life acquisition expenses

33,271 

25,233 

59,569 

50,012 

  Interest charges on borrowed money

10,194 

11,554 

19,340 

22,648 

  Other operating and general expenses

  94,626 

  96,367 

   190,223 

   184,899 

 719,968 

 889,288 

 1,517,359 

 1,758,317 

     

 

 

Operating earnings before income taxes

59,073 

30,789 

104,373 

87,374 

Provision for income taxes

  17,030 

   5,685 

    25,419 

     8,388 

     

 

 

Net operating earnings

42,043 

25,104 

78,954 

78,986 

     

 

 

Minority interest expense, net of tax

(7,650)

(6,311)

(11,668)

(11,379)

Equity in net earnings (losses)

   

 

 

  of investees, net of tax

   2,417 

  (2,353)

     2,974 

    (5,087)

Earnings before cumulative effect

 

 

 

 

  of accounting change

36,810 

16,440 

70,260 

62,520 

Cumulative effect of accounting change

    -    

    -    

      -    

   (40,360)

     

 

 

Net Earnings

$ 36,810 

$ 16,440 

$   70,260 

$   22,160 

     

 

 

3

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

(Dollars in Thousands)

 

   

Common Stock 

 

Unrealized 

 
 

Preferred 

and Capital 

Retained 

Gain on 

 
 

    Stock 

     Surplus 

Earnings 

Securities 

     Total 

Balance at January 1, 2003

$72,154 

$997,164 

$343,705 

$316,700 

$1,729,723 

           

  Net earnings

-    

-    

70,260 

-    

70,260 

  Change in unrealized

-    

-    

-    

104,500 

   104,500 

    Comprehensive income

       

174,760 

           

  Capital contribution from parent

-    

4,667 

-    

-    

4,667 

  Dividends on Preferred Stock

-    

-    

(2,886)

-    

(2,886)

  Other

   -    

  (2,150)

    -    

    -    

    (2,150)

           

Balance at June 30, 2003

$72,154 

$999,681 

$411,079 

$421,200 

$1,904,114 

           
           
           
           

Balance at January 1, 2002

$72,154 

$993,750 

$255,127 

$156,900 

$1,477,931 

           

  Net earnings

-    

-    

22,160 

-    

22,160 

  Change in unrealized

-    

-    

-    

72,100 

   72,100 

    Comprehensive income

       

94,260 

           

  Capital contribution from parent

-    

3,067 

-    

-    

3,067 

  Dividends on Preferred Stock

-    

-    

(2,886)

-    

(2,886)

  Other

   -    

    (567)

    -    

    -    

      (567)

           

Balance at June 30, 2002

$72,154 

$996,250 

$274,401 

$229,000 

$1,571,805 

 

 

4

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

(In Thousands)

 

 Six months ended June 30,  

 

2003 

2002 

Operating Activities:

   

  Net earnings

$   70,260 

$   22,160 

  Adjustments:

   

    Cumulative effect of accounting change

-    

40,360 

    Equity in net (earnings) losses of investees

(2,974)

5,087 

    Depreciation and amortization

93,225 

81,023 

    Annuity benefits

155,707 

146,541 

    Realized losses on investing activities

6,783 

57,539 

    Deferred annuity and life policy acquisition costs

(82,239)

(80,775)

    Increase in reinsurance and other receivables

(246,974)

(355,340)

    Decrease (increase) in other assets

36,797 

(29,374)

    Increase in insurance claims and reserves

369,408 

375,850 

    Increase (decrease) in payable to reinsurers

(22,781)

109,896 

    Decrease in other liabilities

(18,528)

(10,527)

    Increase in minority interest

6,304 

7,160 

    Dividends from investees

432 

-    

    Other, net

       825 

    (1,651)

 

   366,245 

   367,949 

     

Investing Activities:

   

  Purchases of and additional investments in:

   

    Fixed maturity investments

(3,549,798)

(2,484,455)

    Equity securities

(24,562)

(10,562)

    Subsidiary

-    

(48,500)

    Real estate, property and equipment

(14,088)

(29,689)

  Maturities and redemptions of fixed maturity

   

    investments

949,402 

827,153 

  Sales of:

   

    Fixed maturity investments

2,093,884 

1,168,341 

    Equity securities

15,322 

18,109 

    Subsidiaries

247,380 

-    

    Real estate, property and equipment

7,433 

10,559 

  Cash and short-term investments of acquired

   

    (former) subsidiaries, net

(112,666)

4,642 

  Decrease in other investments

     4,349 

    12,989 

 

  (383,344)

  (531,413)

Financing Activities:

   

  Fixed annuity receipts

440,769 

361,223 

  Annuity surrenders, benefits and withdrawals

(282,890)

(278,496)

  Net transfers from (to) variable annuity assets

6,747 

(2,855)

  Additional long-term borrowings

35,320 

59,000 

  Reductions of long-term debt

(328,180)

(46,434)

  Borrowings from AFG

169,500 

7,400 

  Payments to AFG

(36,100)

(37,500)

  Issuances of trust preferred securities

33,943 

-    

  Capital contribution

4,667 

4,667 

  Cash dividends paid

    (2,886)

    (2,886)

 

    40,890 

    64,119 

     

Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Short-term Investments

23,791 

(99,345)

     

Cash and short-term investments at beginning

   

  of period

   870,797 

   543,644 

     

Cash and short-term investments at end of period

$  894,588 

$  444,299 

5

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

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

    Certain reclassifications have been made to prior periods to conform to the current period's presentation. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. All acquisitions have been treated as purchases. The results of operations of companies since their formation or acquisition are included in the consolidated financial statements.

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

    Investments  All fixed maturity securities are considered "available for sale" and reported at fair value with unrealized gains and losses reported as a separate component of shareholders' equity. Short-term investments are carried at cost; loans receivable are carried primarily at the aggregate unpaid balance. Premiums and discounts on mortgage-backed securities are amortized over a period based on estimated future principal payments, including prepayments. Prepayment assumptions are reviewed periodically and adjusted to reflect actual prepayments and changes in expectations. The most significant determinants of prepayments are the difference between interest rates on the underlying mortgages and current mortgage loan rates and the structure of the security. Other factors affecting prepayments include the size, type and age of underlying mortgages, the geographic location of the mortgaged properties and the cr edit worthiness of the borrowers. Variations from anticipated prepayments will affect the life and yield of these securities.

    Gains or losses on securities are determined on the specific identification basis. When a decline in the value of a specific investment is considered to be other than temporary, a provision for impairment is charged to earnings and the cost basis of that investment is reduced.

    Interest income on non-investment grade asset-backed investments is recorded at a yield based on projected cash flows. The yield is adjusted prospectively to reflect actual cash flows and changes in projected amounts. Impairment losses on these investments must be recognized when (i) the fair value of the security is less than its cost basis and (ii) there has been an adverse change in the expected cash flows. These impairment losses are included in realized gains and losses.

    Investment in Investee Corporations  Investments in securities of 20%-to 50%-owned companies are generally carried at cost, adjusted for AFC's proportionate share of their undistributed earnings or losses.

     

    6

    AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

    NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED

     

    Goodwill  Goodwill represents the excess of cost of subsidiaries over AFC's equity in their underlying net assets. Effective January 1, 2002, AFC implemented Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 142, under which goodwill is no longer amortized but is subject to an impairment test at least annually. As required under SFAS No. 142, AFC completed the transitional test for goodwill impairment (as of January 1, 2002) in the fourth quarter of 2002. The resulting write-down was reported by restating first quarter 2002 results for the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle.

    Insurance  As discussed under "Reinsurance" below, unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses and unearned premiums have not been reduced for reinsurance recoverable.

           Reinsurance  Amounts recoverable from reinsurers are estimated in a manner consistent with the claim liability associated with the reinsured policies. AFC's insurance subsidiaries report as assets (a) the estimated reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses, including an estimate for losses incurred but not reported, and (b) amounts paid to reinsurers applicable to the unexpired terms of policies in force. Payable to reinsurers includes ceded premiums retained by AFC's insurance subsidiaries under contracts to fund ceded losses as they become due. AFC's insurance subsidiaries also assume reinsurance from other companies. Income on reinsurance assumed is recognized based on reports received from ceding companies.

           Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs ("DPAC")  Policy acquisition costs (principally commissions, premium taxes and other marketing and underwriting expenses) related to the production of new business are deferred. For the property and casualty companies, DPAC is limited based upon recoverability without any consideration for anticipated investment income and is charged against income ratably over the terms of the related policies.

    DPAC related to annuities and universal life insurance products is deferred to the extent deemed recoverable and amortized, with interest, in relation to the present value of expected gross profits on the policies. To the extent that realized gains and losses result in adjustments to the amortization of DPAC related to annuities, such adjustments are reflected as components of realized gains. DPAC related to annuities is also adjusted, net of tax, for the change in amortization that would have been recorded if the unrealized gains (losses) from securities had actually been realized. This adjustment is included in "Unrealized gain on marketable securities, net" in the shareholders' equity section of the Balance Sheet.

    DPAC related to traditional life and health insurance is amortized over the expected premium paying period of the related policies, in proportion to the ratio of annual premium revenues to total anticipated premium revenues.

           Annuity and Life Acquisition Expenses  Annuity and life acquisition expenses on the Statement of Earnings consists primarily of amortization of DPAC related to the annuity and life, accident and health businesses. This line item also includes certain marketing and commission costs that are expensed as paid.

           Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses  The net liabilities stated for unpaid claims and for expenses of investigation and adjustment of unpaid claims are based upon (a) the accumulation of case estimates for losses reported prior to the close of the accounting period on direct business written; (b) estimates received from ceding reinsurers and insurance pools and associations;

    7

    AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

    NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED

     

    (c) estimates of unreported losses based on past experience; (d) estimates based on experience of expenses for investigating and adjusting claims; and (e) the current state of the law and coverage litigation. Establishing reserves for asbestos and environmental claims involves considerably more judgment than other types of claims due to, among other things, inconsistent court decisions, an increase in bankruptcy filings as a result of asbestos-related liabilities, novel theories of coverage, and judicial interpretations that often expand theories of recovery and broaden the scope of coverage.

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

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

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

           Variable Annuity Assets and Liabilities  Separate accounts related to variable annuities represent deposits invested in underlying investment funds on which Great American Financial Resources, Inc. ("GAFRI"), an 82%-owned subsidiary, earns a fee. Investment funds are selected and may be changed only by the policyholder, who retains all investment risk.

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

           Policyholder Dividends  Dividends payable to policyholders are included in "Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities" and represent estimates of amounts payable on participating policies which share in favorable underwriting results. Estimates are accrued during the period in which premiums are earned. Changes in estimates are included in income in the period determined. Policyholder dividends do not become legal liabilities unless and until declared by the boards of directors of the insurance companies.

    8

    AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

    NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED

     

    Minority Interest  For balance sheet purposes, minority interest represents (i) the interests of noncontrolling shareholders in AFC subsidiaries, including preferred securities issued by trust subsidiaries of AFC and (ii) American Financial Group, Inc.'s ("AFG") direct ownership interest in American Premier Underwriters, Inc. ("American Premier" or "APU") and American Financial Enterprises, Inc. For income statement purposes, minority interest expense represents those shareholders' interest in the earnings of AFC subsidiaries as well as AFC preferred dividends and accrued distributions on the trust preferred securities.

    Recently issued accounting standards will require AFC's trust-issued preferred securities to be classified as liabilities beginning in the third quarter of 2003; distributions on these securities will be shown as interest expense.

    Income Taxes  AFC files consolidated federal income tax returns which include all 80%-owned U.S. subsidiaries, except for certain life insurance subsidiaries and their subsidiaries. Deferred income taxes are calculated using the liability method. Under this method, deferred income tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax bases and are measured using enacted tax rates. Deferred tax assets are recognized if it is more likely than not that a benefit will be realized.

    Benefit Plans  AFC provides retirement benefits to qualified employees of participating companies through the AFG Retirement and Savings Plan, a defined contribution plan. AFC makes all contributions to the retirement fund portion of the plan and matches a percentage of employee contributions to the savings fund. Employees have been permitted to direct the investment of their contributions to independently managed investment funds, while Company contributions have been invested primarily in securities of AFG and affiliates. Employees may direct the investment of a portion of their vested retirement fund account balances (increasing from 62.5% in July 2003 to 100% in April 2004) from securities of AFG and its affiliates to independently managed investment funds. As of June 30, 2003, the Plan owned 11% of AFG's outstanding common stock. Company contributions are expensed in the year for which they are declar ed.

    AFC and many of its subsidiaries provide health care and life insurance benefits to eligible retirees. AFC also provides postemployment benefits to former or inactive employees (primarily those on disability) who were not deemed retired under other company plans. The projected future cost of providing these benefits is expensed over the period employees earn such benefits.

    Derivatives  Derivatives included in AFC's Balance Sheet consist primarily of investments in common stock warrants (valued at $7.8 million at June 30, 2003; included in other stocks), the equity-based component of certain annuity products (included in annuity benefits accumulated) and related call options (included in other investments) designed to be consistent with the characteristics of the liabilities and used to mitigate the risk embedded in those annuity products. Changes in the fair value of derivatives are included in current earnings.

    Statement of Cash Flows  For cash flow purposes, "investing activities" are defined as making and collecting loans and acquiring and disposing of debt or equity instruments and property and equipment. "Financing activities" include obtaining resources from owners and providing them with a return on their investments, borrowing money and repaying amounts borrowed. Annuity receipts, benefits and withdrawals are also reflected as financing activities. All other

    9

    AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

    NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED

     

    activities are considered "operating". Short-term investments having original maturities of three months or less when purchased are considered to be cash equivalents for purposes of the financial statements.

  3. Acquisitions and Sales of Subsidiaries
  4. Fidelity Excess and Surplus Insurance Company  In June 2003, AFC sold Fidelity Excess and Surplus Insurance Company, an inactive subsidiary, for $28.9 million, realizing a pretax gain of $4.3 million. AFC retained all liability for Fidelity's business related to the period AFC owned the company.

    Direct automobile insurance business  In April 2003, AFC sold two of its subsidiaries that market automobile insurance directly to customers for $32.2 million, realizing a pretax gain of $3.4 million on the sale. The transaction included the transfer of Great American Insurance's right to renew certain of its personal automobile insurance business written on a direct basis in selected markets. Premiums generated by the businesses sold were approximately $79 million in 2002.

    Infinity Property and Casualty Corporation  On December 31, 2002, AFC transferred to Infinity Property and Casualty Corporation ("Infinity", a newly formed subsidiary) the following subsidiaries involved primarily in the issuance of nonstandard auto policies: Atlanta Casualty Company, Infinity Insurance Company, Leader Insurance Company and Windsor Insurance Company. Effective January 1, 2003, Great American Insurance Company, an AFC subsidiary, transferred to Infinity its personal insurance business written through independent agents. In February 2003, AFC sold 61% of Infinity in a public offering for net proceeds of $186.3 million, realizing a pretax loss of $39.4 million on the sale. In addition, AFC realized a $5.5 million tax benefit related to its basis in Infinity stock. The businesses transferred generated aggregate net written premiums of approximately $690 million in 2002.

    New Jersey private passenger automobile insurance business  In September 2002, an AFC subsidiary entered into an agreement under which Palisades Safety and Insurance Association and Palisades Insurance Company will assume the subsidiary's obligations to renew its private passenger automobile insurance business written in New Jersey. As of September 9, 2002, AFC no longer accepts any new private passenger automobile insurance in that state.

    Manhattan National Life Insurance  On June 28, 2002, GAFRI acquired Manhattan National Life Insurance Company ("MNL") from Conseco, Inc. for $48.5 million in cash. At December 31, 2002, MNL reinsured 90% of its in-force business.

  5. Segments of Operations   AFC's property and casualty group writes primarily specialized commercial products for businesses through a highly diversified group of specialty business units. Some of the more significant areas are inland and ocean marine, California workers' compensation, agricultural-related coverages, executive and professional liability, fidelity and surety bonds, collateral protection, and umbrella and excess coverages. In February 2003, AFC sold a substantial portion of its Personal segment; see Note B - "Acquisitions and Sales of Subsidiaries." The Personal group wrote nonstandard and preferred/standard private passenger auto and other personal insurance coverage. AFC's annuity, life and health business markets primarily retirement products as well as life and supplemental health insurance.

10

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED

 

The following table (in thousands) shows AFC's revenues and operating profit (loss) by significant business segment. Operating profit (loss) represents total revenues less operating expenses.

 

Three months ended 

Six months ended     

 

      June 30,      

       June 30,        

 

2003 

2002 

2003 

2002 

Revenues (a)

       

Property and casualty insurance:

       

  Premiums earned:

       

    Specialty

$391,458 

$370,286 

$  819,306 

$  726,701 

    Personal

21,043 

248,617 

135,981 

495,820 

    Other lines

      (1)

      32 

        (2)

       322 

 

412,500 

618,935 

955,285 

1,222,843 

  Investment and other income

 131,897 

  75,678 

   251,947 

   175,937 

 

544,397 

694,613 

1,207,232 

1,398,780 

Annuities, life and health (b)

228,603 

207,620 

449,549 

425,042 

Other (d)

   6,041 

  17,844 

   (35,049)

    21,869 

 

$779,041 

$920,077 

$1,621,732 

$1,845,691 

         

Operating Profit (Loss)

       

Property and casualty insurance:

       

  Underwriting:

       

    Specialty

$ 17,173 

$  7,377 

$   26,694 

$   12,671 

    Personal

(1,432)

(2,654)

3,780 

(7,893)

    Other lines (c)

 (44,951)

 (11,514)

   (45,306)

   (20,840)

 

(29,210)

(6,791)

(14,832)

(16,062)

  Investment and other income

  83,396 

  32,923 

   154,686 

    96,174 

 

54,186 

26,132 

139,854 

80,112 

Annuities, life and health

13,241 

11,108 

28,804 

33,089 

Other (d)

  (8,354)

  (6,451)

   (64,285)

   (25,827)

 

$ 59,073 

$ 30,789 

$  104,373 

$   87,374 

         

(a)  Revenues include sales of products and services as well as other

     income earned by the respective segments.

(b)  Investment income comprises approximately three-fifths of these revenues.

(c)  Represents development of lines in "run-off" and includes a 2003 second

     quarter pretax charge of $43.8 million for an arbitration decision relating

     to a 1995 property claim from a discontinued business; AFC has ceased

     underwriting new business in these operations.

(d)  Other revenues for the six months ended June 30, 2003, includes the loss on

     the public offering of Infinity. Operation profit (loss) includes holding

     company expenses.

  1. Investment in Investees Investment in investee corporations reflects AFC's ownership of 7.9 million shares (38%) of Infinity common stock and a $55 million 8.5% note receivable from Infinity which was repaid in July 2003. The market value of the investment in Infinity stock was $185 million at June 30, 2003, and $203 million at August 1, 2003. Prior to AFC's sale of 12.5 million shares of Infinity in February 2003, AFC beneficially owned 100% of Infinity (see Note B). Infinity is a national provider of personal automobile insurance with an emphasis on the nonstandard market.
  2. 11

    AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

    NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED

     

    Summarized financial information for Infinity is shown below for the six months ended June 30, 2003 (in millions).

    Earned premiums

    $331.4

    Total revenues

    361.3

    Net earnings

    23.8

       

    Equity in net earnings (losses) of investees for the first six months of 2002 represents AFC's share of the losses from two start-up manufacturing businesses that were formerly subsidiaries. One of these businesses was sold in the fourth quarter of 2002; equity in the net loss of the remaining business was $707,000 for the second quarter and $1.6 million for the first six months of 2003.

  3. Goodwill  Effective January 1, 2002, goodwill is no longer amortized but is subject to annual impairment testing under a two step process. Under the first step, an entity's net assets are classified by reporting units and compared to their fair value. Fair value is estimated based primarily on the present value of expected future cash flows. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. The second step of the initial impairment test, measuring the amount of impairment loss, was completed in the fourth quarter with a resulting $40.4 million impairment charge, net of tax, reported by restating first quarter 2002 results for the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle. The impairment charge included $21.2 million (pretax) for the annuities and life insurance segm ent related to a decrease in estimated future earnings based upon lower forecasted new business sales over the next few years and $39.6 million (pretax) for the personal lines segment related primarily to planned future reductions in new business volume written through the direct channel.
  4. Substantially all of the $79.4 million decrease in goodwill during the first six months of 2003 related to the sale of subsidiaries in AFC's Personal segment.

    Included in deferred acquisition costs in AFC's Balance Sheet are $66.2 million and $66.8 million at June 30, 2003, and December 31, 2002, respectively, representing the present value of future profits ("PVFP") related to acquisitions by AFC's annuity and life business. The PVFP amounts are net of $61.6 million and $57.3 million of accumulated amortization. Amortization of the PVFP was $2.1 million in the second quarter and $4.3 million in the first six months of 2003 and $1.9 million in the second quarter and $3.6 million in the first six months of 2002. During each of the next five years, the PVFP is expected to decrease at a rate of approximately 13% of the balance at the beginning of each respective year.

  5. Payable to American Financial Group  Payable to AFG represents the net amount owed by AFC to AFG under a reciprocal Master Credit Agreement between various AFG holding companies under which these companies make funds available to each other for general corporate purposes. Amounts borrowed under the Master Credit Agreement generally bear interest at 1% over LIBOR. In 2003, AFC agreed to guarantee the obligations of AFG with respect to $571 million of AFG senior debentures, in consideration of a payment of approximately $350,000 and an increase in the interest rate which AFG pays AFC under the Master Credit Agreement to 1.125% over LIBOR.
  6. 12

    AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

    NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED

     

  7. Long-Term Debt  The carrying value of long-term debt consisted of the following (in thousands):
  8.  

    June 30,

    December 31,

     

        2003 

           2002 

    Holding Companies:

       

      AFC notes payable under bank line

    $   -    

    $248,000 

      APU 10-7/8% Subordinated Notes due May 2011

    11,465 

    11,498 

      Other

       8,293 

       8,014 

         
     

    $ 19,758 

    $267,512 

    Subsidiaries:

       

      GAFRI 6-7/8% Senior Notes due June 2008

    $100,000 

    $100,000 

      GAFRI notes payable under bank line

    112,600 

    148,600 

      Notes payable secured by real estate

    27,343 

    35,610 

      Other

      11,821 

      12,561 

         
     

    $251,764 

    $296,771 

         

    At June 30, 2003, scheduled principal payments on debt for the balance of 2003 and the subsequent five years were as follows (in millions):

     

    Holding 

       
     

    Companies 

    Subsidiaries 

     Total 

    2003

    $  -  

    $  1.0   

    $  1.0 

    2004

    -  

    114.6   

    114.6 

    2005

    -  

    11.2   

    11.2 

    2006

    -  

    19.4   

    19.4 

    2007

    5.4  

    .1   

    5.5 

    2008

    -  

    100.1   

    100.1 

    AFC may borrow up to $280 million under its credit agreement. The line consists of two facilities: a 364-day revolving facility, extendable annually, for one-third of the total line and a three-year revolving facility for the remaining two-thirds. Amounts borrowed bear interest at rates ranging from 1.25% to 2.25% over LIBOR based on AFG's credit rating. In addition, GAFRI has an unsecured credit agreement under which it can borrow up to $155 million at floating rates based on prime or Eurodollar rates through December 2004.

  9. Minority Interest  Minority interest in AFC's balance sheet is comprised of the following (in thousands):

 

June 30,

December 31,

 

    2003 

       2002 

Interest of AFG (parent) and

   

  noncontrolling shareholders in

   

  subsidiaries' common stock

$371,963 

$351,559 

Preferred securities issued by

   

  subsidiary trusts

 177,913 

 142,913 

 

$549,876 

$494,472 

     

Subsidiary Preferred Securities  See Minority Interest in Note A - "Accounting Policies." Wholly-owned subsidiary trusts of AFC have issued preferred securities and, in turn, purchased a like amount of subordinated debt which provides interest and principal payments to fund the respective trusts' obligations. The preferred securities must be redeemed upon maturity or redemption of the subordinated debt. AFC effectively provides unconditional guarantees of its trusts' obligations.

13

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED

 

The preferred securities consisted of the following (in thousands):

Date of

 

Amount Outstanding

Optional             

Issuance     

Issue (Maturity Date)     

6/30/03   12/31/02

Redemption Dates     

November 1996

GAFRI  9-1/4% TOPrS (2026)

$72,913    $72,913

Currently redeemable 

March 1997

GAFRI  8-7/8% Pfd   (2027)

70,000     70,000

On or after 3/1/2007 

May 2003

GAFRI   7.35% Pfd   (2033)

20,000       -   

On or after 5/15/2008

May 2003

Variable Rate Pfd   (2033)

15,000       -   

On or after 5/23/2008

In May 2003, GAFRI issued $20 million liquidation value of trust preferred securities for proceeds of $20 million before issue costs of approximately $600,000. Until May 2008, these securities pay interest quarterly at an annual rate of 7.35%, after which the interest rate will reset quarterly to an annual rate of LIBOR plus 4.1%.

In May 2003, a subsidiary of Great American Insurance issued $15 million liquidation value of variable rate trust preferred securities for proceeds of $15 million before issue costs of $456,000. These securities pay interest quarterly at an annual rate of LIBOR plus 4.2%.

Minority Interest Expense  Minority interest expense is comprised of (in thousands):

 

Six months ended  

 

     June 30,      

 

2003 

2002 

Interest of AFG (parent) and noncontrolling

   

  shareholders in earnings of subsidiaries

$ 7,337 

$ 7,167 

Accrued distributions by subsidiaries

   

  on preferred securities, net of tax

  4,331 

  4,212 

 

$11,668 

$11,379 

     

  1. Shareholders' Equity  At June 30, 2003, and December 31, 2002, American Financial Group beneficially owned all of the outstanding shares of AFC's Common Stock.

Preferred Stock   See Note K - "Subsequent Event." Under provisions of both the Nonvoting (4.0 million shares authorized) and Voting (4.0 million shares authorized) Cumulative Preferred Stock, the Board of Directors may divide the authorized stock into series and set specific terms and conditions of each series. At June 30, 2003, and December 31, 2002, the outstanding voting shares of AFC's Preferred Stock consisted of the following:

Series J, no par value; $25.00 liquidating value per share; annual dividends per share $2.00; redeemable at AFC's option at $25.75 per share beginning December 2005 declining to $25.00 at December 2007 and thereafter; 2,886,161 shares (stated value $72.2 million) outstanding at June 30, 2003, and December 31, 2002.

  1. Commitments and Contingencies  There have been no significant changes to the matters discussed and referred to in Note L "Commitments and Contingencies" of AFC's Annual Report on Form 10-K for 2002.
  1. Subsequent Event In July 2003, AFC entered into a merger agreement with its parent, AFG. This transaction is subject to approval by Series J preferred shareholders and certain other conditions. If approved, AFC Series J preferred shareholders will receive $25.00 (plus an amount equal to accrued dividends) in AFG common stock in exchange for each share of Series J Preferred Stock. In addition, the merger will eliminate approximately $170 million in deferred tax liabilities associated with AFC's holding of AFG stock. These changes are expected to result in a 12% to 15% increase in AFG's shareholders' equity. AFG and AFC hope to complete the merger in the third quarter of 2003.

14

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

ITEM 2

Management's Discussion and Analysis

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

GENERAL

AFC and American Premier are organized as holding companies with almost all of their operations being conducted by subsidiaries. These parent corporations, however, have continuing cash needs for administrative expenses, the payment of principal and interest on borrowings, shareholder dividends, and taxes. Therefore, certain analyses are best done on a parent only basis while others are best done on a total enterprise basis. In addition, since most of its businesses are financial in nature, AFC does not prepare its consolidated financial statements using a current-noncurrent format. Consequently, certain traditional ratios and financial analysis tests are not meaningful.

Forward-Looking Statements  The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor for forward-looking statements. Some of the forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as "anticipates", "believes", "expects", "estimates", "intends", "plans", "seeks", "could", "may", "should", "will" or the negative version of those words or other comparable terminology. Examples of such forward-looking statements include statements relating to: expectations concerning market and other conditions and their effect on future premiums, revenues, earnings and investment activities; recoverability of asset values; expected losses and the adequacy of reserves for asbestos, environmental pollution and mass tort claims; rate increases, improved loss experience and expected expense savings resulting from recent initiatives.

Actual results could differ materially from those contained in or implied by such forward-looking statements for a variety of factors including:

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

 

15

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

Management's Discussion and Analysis

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Significant accounting policies are summarized in Note A to the financial statements. The preparation of financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that can have a significant effect on amounts reported in the financial statements. As more information becomes known, these estimates and assumptions could change and thus impact amounts reported in the future. Management believes that the establishment of insurance reserves, especially asbestos and environmental-related reserves, and the determination of "other than temporary" impairment on investments are the two areas where the degree of judgment required to determine amounts recorded in the financial statements make the accounting policies critical. For further discussion of these policies, see "Liquidity and Capital Resources - Investments" and "Liquidity and Capital Resources - Uncertainties."

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Ratios  AFC's debt to total capital ratio at the parent holding company level (excluding amounts due AFG) was approximately 1% at June 30, 2003, and 13% at December 31, 2002. Including amounts due AFG, the ratio was 19% at June 30, 2003, and 25% at December 31, 2002.

AFC's ratio of earnings to fixed charges including annuity benefits as a fixed charge, excluding and including preferred dividends, was 1.51 and 1.48 for the six months ended June 30, 2003, and 1.48 and 1.46 for the entire year of 2002, respectively. Excluding annuity benefits, this ratio was 3.81 and 3.42 for the six months of 2003 and 3.36 and 3.09 for the year 2002, respectively. Although the ratio excluding interest on annuities is not required or encouraged to be disclosed under Securities and Exchange Commission rules, it is presented because interest credited to annuity policyholder accounts is not always considered a borrowing cost for an insurance company.

Sources of Funds  Management believes the parent holding companies have sufficient resources to meet their liquidity requirements, primarily through funds generated by their subsidiaries' operations. If funds provided by subsidiaries through dividends and tax payments are insufficient to meet fixed charges in any period, the holding companies would be required to generate cash through borrowings, sales of securities or other assets, or similar transactions.

AFC may borrow up to $280 million under a bank credit line. The line consists of two facilities: a 364-day revolving facility, extendable annually, for one-third of the total line and a three-year revolving facility for the remaining two-thirds. Amounts borrowed bear interest at rates ranging from 1.25% to 2.25% over LIBOR based on AFG's credit rating. This credit agreement provides ample liquidity and can be used to obtain funds for operating subsidiaries or, if necessary, for the parent companies. In June 2003, borrowings from AFG under the Master Credit Agreement were used to pay down the bank line. At June 30, 2003, there were no borrowings under the line.

Investments  AFC's investment portfolio at June 30, 2003, contained $11.7 billion in "Fixed maturities" and $311.4 million in "Other stocks", all carried at market value with unrealized gains and losses reported as a separate component

of shareholders' equity on an after-tax basis. At June 30, 2003, AFC had pretax net unrealized gains of $649.0 million on fixed maturities and $144.0 million on other stocks. The increase in the general level of interest rates during July caused the fixed maturity amount to decline by approximately two-thirds.

16

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

Management's Discussion and Analysis

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

 

Approximately 94% of the fixed maturities held by AFC at June 30, 2003, were rated "investment grade" (credit rating of AAA to BBB) by nationally recognized rating agencies. Investment grade securities generally bear lower yields and

lower degrees of risk than those that are unrated and noninvestment grade. Management believes that a high quality investment portfolio is more likely to generate a stable and predictable investment return.

Individual portfolio securities are sold creating gains or losses as market opportunities exist. Since all of these securities are carried at market value in the balance sheet, there is virtually no effect on liquidity or financial condition upon the sale and ultimate realization of unrealized gains and losses.

Summarized information for the unrealized gains and losses recorded in AFC's balance sheet at June 30, 2003, is shown in the following table (dollars in millions). Approximately $144 million of "Fixed maturities" and $20 million of "Other stocks" had no unrealized gains or losses at June 30, 2003.

 

Securities 

Securities 

 

With    

With    

 

Unrealized 

Unrealized 

 

   Gains   

  Losses   

Fixed Maturities

   

  Market value of securities

$10,562 

$1,019 

  Amortized cost of securities

$ 9,868 

$1,064 

  Gross unrealized gain (loss)

$   694 

($   45)

  Market value as % of amortized cost

107%

96%

  Number of security positions

1,822 

183 

  Number individually exceeding

   

    $2 million gain or loss

38 

  Concentration of gains (losses) by

   

    type or industry (exceeding 5% of

   

    unrealized):

   

      Mortgage-backed securities

$ 134.8 

($  3.4)

      Electric services

61.3 

(1.4)

      Banks and savings institutions

51.1 

(.2)

      U.S. government and government agencies

44.2 

(1.1)

      State and municipal

40.8 

(3.9)

      Asset-backed securities

22.2 

(6.8)

      Air transportation (generally collateralized)

4.8 

(14.3)

  Percentage rated investment grade

95%

79%

     

Other Stocks

   

  Market value of securities

$   267 

$   24 

  Cost of securities

$   122 

$   25 

  Gross unrealized gain (loss)

$   145 

($    1)

  Market value as % of cost

219%

96%

  Number individually exceeding

   

    $2 million gain or loss

16 

17

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

Management's Discussion and Analysis

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

 

AFC's investment in equity securities of Provident Financial Group, a Cincinnati-based commercial banking and financial services company, represents $115 million of the $145 million in unrealized gains on other stocks at June 30, 2003.

The table below sets forth the scheduled maturities of fixed maturity securities at June 30, 2003, based on their market values. Asset backed securities and other securities with sinking funds are reported at average maturity. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain securities may be called or prepaid by the issuers.

 

Securities 

Securities 

 

With    

With    

 

Unrealized 

Unrealized 

 

   Gains   

  Losses   

Maturity

   

  One year or less

3%    

1%    

  After one year through five years

22     

41     

  After five years through ten years

30     

30     

  After ten years

 10     

 11     

 

65     

83     

  Mortgage-backed securities

 35     

 17     

 

100%    

100%    

AFC realized aggregate losses of $4 million during the first six months of 2003 on $36.1 million in sales of fixed maturity securities (7 issues/issuers) that had individual unrealized losses greater than $500,000 at December 31, 2002. Market values of five of the issues increased an aggregate of $4.7 million from December 31 to date of sale. The market value of the remaining two securities decreased $316,000 from December 31 to the sale date.

Although AFC had the ability to continue holding these investments, its intent to hold them changed due primarily to deterioration in the issuers' creditworthiness, decisions to lessen exposure to a particular credit or industry, or to modify asset allocation within the portfolio.

The table below (dollars in millions) summarizes the unrealized gains and losses on fixed maturity securities by dollar amount.

       
     

Market 

 

Aggregate 

Aggregate 

Value as 

 

Market 

Unrealized 

% of Cost 

 

    Value 

Gain (Loss) 

    Basis 

Fixed Maturities at June 30, 2003             

     

Securities with unrealized gains:

     

  Exceeding $500,000 (475 issues)

$ 6,264 

$517 

109.0%

  Less than $500,000 (1,347 issues)

  4,298 

 177 

104.3 

 

$10,562 

$694 

107.0%

    

     

Securities with unrealized losses:

     

  Exceeding $500,000 (24 issues)

$   253 

($ 30)

89.4%

  Less than $500,000 (159 issues)

    766 

 (15)

98.1 

 

$ 1,019 

($ 45)

95.8%

    

     

18

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

Management's Discussion and Analysis

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

 

The following table summarizes (dollars in millions) the unrealized loss for all fixed maturity securities with unrealized losses by issuer quality and length of time those securities have been in an unrealized loss position.

       
     

Market 

 

Aggregate 

Aggregate 

Value as 

 

Market 

Unrealized 

% of Cost 

 

    Value 

Gain (Loss) 

    Basis 

Fixed Maturities with Unrealized

     

  Losses at June 30, 2003           

     

    

     

Investment grade with losses for:

     

  Less than 6 months (37 issues)

$551 

($ 5)

99.1%

  7 to 12 months (59 issues)

207 

(5)

97.6 

  Greater than 12 months (15 issues)

  51 

  (8)

86.4 

 

$809 

($18)

97.8%

    

     

Non-investment grade with losses for:

     

  Less than 6 months (13 issues)

$ 25 

($ 2)

92.6%

  7 to 12 months (17 issues)

27 

(3)

90.0 

  Greater than 12 months (42 issues)

 158 

(22)

87.7 

 

$210 

($27)

88.6%

    

     

When a decline in the value of a specific investment is considered to be "other than temporary," a provision for impairment is charged to earnings (accounted for as a realized loss) and the cost basis of that investment is reduced. The determination of whether unrealized losses are "other than temporary" requires judgment based on subjective as well as objective factors. A listing of factors considered and resources used is contained in the discussion of "Investments" under Management's Discussion and Analysis in AFC's 2002 Form 10-K.

Based on its analysis, management believes (i) AFC will recover its cost basis in the securities with unrealized losses and (ii) that AFC has the ability and intent to hold the securities until they mature or recover in value. Should either of these beliefs change with regard to a particular security, a charge for impairment would likely be required. While it is not possible to accurately predict if or when a specific security will become impaired, charges for other than temporary impairment could be material to results of operations in a future period. Management believes it is not likely that future impairment charges will have a significant effect on AFC's liquidity.

Uncertainties  As more fully explained in the following paragraphs, management believes that the areas posing the greatest risk of material loss are the adequacy of its insurance reserves and American Premier's contingencies arising out of its former operations.

Property and Casualty Insurance Reserves  The liabilities for unpaid claims and for expenses of investigation and adjustment of unpaid claims are based upon: (a) the accumulation of case estimates for losses reported prior to the close of the accounting periods on direct business written; (b) estimates received from ceding reinsurers and insurance pools and associations; (c) estimates of unreported losses based on past experience; (d) estimates based on experience of expense for investigating and adjusting claims; and (e) the current state of law and coverage litigation. Using these items as well as historical trends adjusted for changes in underwriting standards, policy provisions, product mix

19

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

Management's Discussion and Analysis

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

 

and other factors, company actuaries determine a single or "point" estimate which management utilizes in recording its best estimate of the liabilities. Ranges of loss reserves are not developed by company actuaries.

Estimating the liability for unpaid losses and LAE is inherently judgmental and is influenced by factors which are subject to significant variation. Through the use of analytical reserve development techniques, management utilizes items such as the effect of inflation on medical, hospitalization, material, repair and replacement costs, general economic trends and the legal environment.

Quarterly reviews of unpaid loss and LAE reserves are prepared using standard actuarial techniques. These may include: Case Incurred Development Method; Paid Development Method; Bornhuetter-Ferguson Method; and Incremental Paid LAE to Paid Loss Methods. Generally, data is segmented by major product or coverage within product using countrywide data; however, in some situations data may be reviewed by state for large volume states.

Asbestos and Environmental-related ("A&E") Reserves  Establishing reserves for A&E claims relating to policies and participations in reinsurance treaties and former operations is subject to uncertainties that are significantly greater than those presented by other types of claims. For this group of claims, traditional actuarial techniques that rely on historical loss development trends cannot be used. Case reserves and expense reserves are established by the claims department as specific policies are identified. In addition to the case reserves established for known claims, management establishes additional reserves for claims not yet known or reported and for possible development on known claims. These additional reserves are management's best estimate based on its review of industry trends and other industry information about such claims, with due consideration to individual claim situations lik e the A.P. Green case discussed below. Estimating ultimate liability for asbestos claims presents a unique and difficult challenge to the insurance industry due to, among other things, inconsistent court decisions, an increase in bankruptcy filings as a result of asbestos-related liabilities, novel theories of coverage, and judicial interpretations that often expand theories of recovery and broaden the scope of coverage. The casualty insurance industry is engaged in extensive litigation over these coverage and liability issues as the volume and severity of claims against asbestos defendants continue to increase.

While management believes that AFC's reserves for A&E claims are a reasonable estimate of ultimate liability for such claims, actual results may vary materially from the amounts currently recorded due to the difficulty in predicting the number of future claims and the impact of recent bankruptcy filings, and unresolved issues such as whether coverage exists, whether policies are subject to aggregate limits on coverage, whether claims are to be allocated among triggered policies and implicated years, and whether claimants who exhibit no signs of illness will be successful in pursuing their claims.

In February 2003, Great American Insurance Company entered into an agreement for the settlement of asbestos related coverage litigation under insurance polices issued during the 1970's and 1980's to Bigelow-Liptak Corporation and related companies, subsequently known as A.P. Green Industries, Inc. ("A.P. Green"). Management believes that this settlement will enhance financial certainty and provides resolution to litigation that represents AFC's largest known asbestos-related claim and the only such claim that management believes to be material.

20

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

Management's Discussion and Analysis

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

 

The settlement is for $123.5 million (Great American has the option to pay in cash or over time with 5.25% interest), all of which is covered by reserves established prior to 2003, and anticipated reinsurance recoverables for this matter. The agreement allows up to 10% of the settlement to be paid in AFG common stock.

The settlement is subject to a number of contingencies, including the approval of the bankruptcy court supervising the reorganization of A.P. Green and subsequent confirmation of a plan of reorganization that includes an injunction prohibiting the assertion against Great American of any present or future asbestos personal injury claims under policies issued to A.P. Green and related companies. This process could take a year or more and no assurance can be made that all of these consents and approvals will be obtained; no payments are required until completion of the process. If not obtained, the outcome of this litigation will again be subject to the complexities and uncertainties associated with a Chapter 11 proceeding and asbestos coverage litigation.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

General  Results of operations as shown in the accompanying financial statements are prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Many of the line items in the Statement of Earnings are not comparable due to the sale of Infinity in mid-February 2003. Operating earnings before income taxes increased $28.3 million in the second quarter of 2003 compared to the same period in 2002 due primarily to a $73.1 million improvement in realized gains which more than offset a $43.8 million charge for an arbitration decision relating to a 1995 property claim. Property and casualty underwriting results improved $21.4 million (excluding the arbitration charge) in the second quarter of 2003 and AFC's annuity operations recorded a $12.5 million charge related to the narrowing of spreads on fixed annuities.

Six-month pretax operating earnings improved $17.0 million compared to 2002 reflecting a $53.7 million increase in realized gains and $45.0 million increase in property and casualty underwriting results (excluding the arbitration charge) which more than offset the second quarter arbitration charge, a $43.4 million decrease in investment income due primarily to the sale of Infinity and lower yields on fixed maturity securities, and the second quarter charge in the annuity operations.

Property and Casualty Insurance - Underwriting  AFC's property and casualty group has consisted of two major business groups: Specialty and Personal. See Note B, "Acquisitions and Sales of Subsidiaries," to the Financial Statements for a discussion of the sale of nearly all of the Personal group.

The Specialty group includes a highly diversified group of business lines. Some of the more significant areas are inland and ocean marine, California workers' compensation, agricultural-related coverages, executive and professional liability, fidelity and surety bonds, collateral protection, and umbrella and excess coverages.

The Personal group wrote nonstandard and preferred/standard private passenger auto insurance and, to a lesser extent, homeowners' insurance. Nonstandard automobile insurance covers risk not typically accepted for standard automobile coverage because of an applicant's driving record, type of vehicle, age or other criteria.

21

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

Management's Discussion and Analysis

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

 

Performance measures such as segment underwriting profit or loss and related combined ratios are often used by property and casualty insurers to help users of their financial statements better understand the company's performance. See Note C - "Segments of Operations" for the detail of AFC's operating profit by significant business segment.

Underwriting profitability is measured by the combined ratio which is a sum of the ratios of underwriting losses, loss adjustment expenses, underwriting expenses and policyholder dividends to premiums. When the combined ratio is

under 100%, underwriting results are generally considered profitable; when the ratio is over 100%, underwriting results are generally considered unprofitable. The combined ratio does not reflect investment income, other income or federal income taxes.

Premiums and combined ratios for AFC's property and casualty insurance subsidiaries were as follows (dollars in millions):

 

Three months ended 

Six months ended  

 

      June 30,     

       June 30,     

 

2003 

2002 

2003 

2002 

Gross Written Premiums (GAAP)

       

  Specialty

$806.4 

$648.5 

$1,483.2 

$1,211.3 

  Personal (a)

57.7 

328.4 

238.8 

675.9 

  Other lines

    -  

    -  

      -  

      .3 

 

$864.1 

$976.9 

$1,722.0 

$1,887.5 

   

       

Net Written Premiums (GAAP)

       

  Specialty

$450.4 

$393.8 

$  889.2 

$  780.5 

  Personal (a)

18.4 

244.9 

136.3 

501.3 

  Other lines

    -  

    -  

      -  

      .3 

 

$468.8 

$638.7 

$1,025.5 

$1,282.1 

   

       

Combined Ratios (GAAP)

       

  Specialty

95.7%

98.0%

96.8%

98.3%

  Personal

106.8 

101.1 

97.2 

101.6 

  Aggregate (including

       

    discontinued lines)(b)

107.1 

101.1 

101.5 

101.4 

   

    (a)  Includes the operations of Infinity through the sale date
         in mid-February 2003 and the direct auto business through its
         sale at the end of April 2003. In 2003, gross written premiums
         includes personal lines business written by Great American Insurance
         and ceded to Infinity.

    (b)  Includes 10.6 points and 4.6 points for the second quarter and
         six months of 2003, respectively, for the effect of an arbitration
         decision relating to a claim arising from a discontinued business.

22

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

Management's Discussion and Analysis

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

 

Specialty  The Specialty group's gross written premiums increased 24% for the second quarter and 22% for the first six months of 2003 over the comparable 2002 periods, reflecting the impact of continuing rate increases in most of its businesses. Specialty rate increases averaged approximately 25% during the first six months of 2003 and should be about 20% for the remainder of 2003. Net written premiums increased 14% for the second quarter and first six months over the comparable 2002 periods. Strong growth in gross written premiums was offset primarily by the impact of a reinsurance agreement put into place in the fourth quarter of 2002.

The Specialty group reported an underwriting profit of $17.2 million for the 2003 second quarter with a combined ratio of 95.7% and $26.7 million for the first six months with a combined ratio of 96.8%, improvements of 2.3 and 1.5 points, respectively, over the comparable 2002 periods.

Personal  The Personal group results represent primarily Infinity's underwriting results through the public offering in mid-February 2003 and the direct-to-consumer auto business, which was sold in April 2003. AFC's ongoing personal lines business is limited to two subsidiaries that generated less than $35 million in net written premiums in 2002 and certain direct-to-consumer business in run-off that had approximately $28 million in net written premiums in 2002. AFC's 38% continuing ownership interest in Infinity is accounted for as an investee corporation. Accordingly, AFC's share of Infinity's earnings following the mid-February public offering is included in equity in net earnings (losses) of investees in the Statement of Earnings.

Arbitration Settlement  The property and casualty group's overall results include a $43.8 million pretax charge in the second quarter of 2003 for the effect of an arbitration decision resulting from its share of a 1995 property fire and business interruption claim.

Investment Income  The decrease in investment income for the second quarter and six months of 2003 compared to the 2002 periods reflects lower average investment balances (due to the mid-February sale of Infinity) as well as lower average yields on fixed maturity investments.

Realized Gains  Realized capital gains have been an important part of the return on investments. Individual assets are sold creating gains and losses as market opportunities exist.

Gains (Losses) on Securities  Realized gains (losses) on securities include provisions for other than temporary impairment of securities still held as follows: second quarter of 2003 and 2002 - $15.7 million and $70.1 million; six months of 2003 and 2002 - $50.6 million and $88.4 million, respectively. Increased impairment charges in recent years reflect a rise in corporate defaults in the marketplace. Impairment charges in 2003 reflect primarily the downturn in the airline industry and writedowns of certain asset-backed securities. Impairment charges in the first six months of 2002 are primarily related to investments in the telecommunications industry and asset-backed security writedowns.

Realized losses on securities include gains of $701,000 in the second quarter of 2003 and net losses of $3.8 million in the first six months of 2003 compared to gains of $3.7 million (second quarter) and $660,000 (six months) in the 2002 periods to adjust the carrying value of AFC's investment in warrants to market value.

23

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

Management's Discussion and Analysis

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

 

Gains (Losses) on Sales of Subsidiaries  During the first six months of 2003, AFC recognized (i) a $4.3 million pretax gain on the sale of an inactive insurance subsidiary in June, (ii) a $3.4 million pretax gain on the sale in April of two subsidiaries that marketed automobile insurance directly to customers and (iii) a $39.4 million pretax loss on the public offering of 12.5 million shares of Infinity in February.

Real Estate Operations  AFC's subsidiaries are engaged in a variety of real estate operations including hotels, apartments, office buildings and recreational facilities; they also own several parcels of land. Revenues and expenses of these operations, including gains and losses on disposal, are included in AFC's Statement of Earnings as shown below (in millions).

 

Three months ended 

Six months ended 

 

      June 30,     

     June 30,    

 

2003 

2002 

2003 

2002 

Other income

$26.4 

$29.6 

$42.4 

$44.9 

Other operating and general expenses

18.7 

17.7 

34.8 

32.2 

Interest charges on borrowed money

.7 

.7 

1.3 

1.3 

Minority interest expense, net

.2 

.5 

.2 

.5 

         

Other income includes net pretax gains on the sale of real estate assets of $4.7 million in the second quarter and the first six months of 2003 compared to $7.5 million and $7.6 million for the 2002 periods.

Other Income  Other income increased $7.2 million (12%) for the second quarter and $14.1 million (13%) for the first six months of 2003 compared to 2002 due primarily to increased revenues earned by the Specialty group's growing warranty business and higher fee income in certain other specialty insurance operations, partially offset by lower income from the sale of real estate.

Annuity Benefits  Annuity benefits reflect amounts accrued on annuity policyholders' funds accumulated. Annuity benefits in the second quarter and first six months of 2003 increased compared to the 2002 periods primarily due to a charge recorded in the second quarter of 2003 related to the negative effect of lower interest rates on GAFRI's fixed annuity operations.

The majority of GAFRI's fixed annuity products permit GAFRI to change the crediting rate at any time subject to minimum interest rate guarantees (as determined by applicable law). Approximately 45% of the annuity benefits accumulated relate to policies that have a minimum guarantee of 3%; the balance have a guarantee of 4%. Virtually all new sales of GAFRI's fixed annuities offer

a minimum interest rate of 3%. GAFRI has begun to seek regulatory approvals to modify products to be issued in the future to include a 1.5% minimum crediting rate. Historically, management has been able to react to changes in market interest rates and maintain a desired interest rate spread. The recent interest rate environment has resulted in spread compression which could continue at least through the remainder of 2003.

On its deferred annuities (annuities in the accumulation phase), GAFRI generally credits interest to policyholders' accounts at their current stated interest rates. Furthermore, for "two-tier" deferred annuities (annuities under which a higher interest amount can be earned if a policy is annuitized rather than surrendered), GAFRI accrues an additional liability to provide for expected deaths and annuitizations. Changes in crediting rates, actual surrender, death

24

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

Management's Discussion and Analysis

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

 

and annuitization experience or modifications in actuarial assumptions can affect this accrual. Significant changes in projected investment yields could result in charges (or credits) to earnings in the period such projections are modified.

Annuity and Life Acquisition Expenses  Annuity and life acquisition expenses include amortization of annuity and life, accident and health deferred policy acquisition costs ("DPAC") as well as a portion of commissions on sales of insurance products. Annuity and life acquisition expenses also include amortization of the present value of future profits of businesses acquired.

The increase in annuity and life acquisition expenses in the second quarter and first six months of 2003 compared to 2002 reflects a $6 million write-off of GAFRI's fixed annuity DPAC balance in the second quarter of 2003 as well as amortization costs associated with GAFRI's purchase of MNL in June 2002.

The vast majority of GAFRI's DPAC asset relates to its fixed annuity, variable annuity and life insurance lines of business. Continued spread compression, decreases in the stock market and adverse mortality could lead to further write-offs of DPAC in the future. However, absent significant deterioration in those factors, GAFRI does not anticipate any additional material write-offs in the foreseeable future.

Interest on Borrowed Money  Changes in interest expense result from fluctuations in market rates as well as changes in borrowings. AFC has generally financed its borrowings on a long-term basis which has resulted in higher current costs. Interest expense decreased in 2003 due primarily to lower average indebtedness.

Other Operating and General Expenses  Other operating and general expenses decreased slightly for the second quarter of 2003 and increased $5.3 million (3%) for the six months compared to 2002 as higher expenses in the Specialty group's growing warranty business were more than offset in the quarter and partially offset in the six months by the absence of expenses from Infinity (following its sale in mid-February).

Income Taxes  The 2003 provision for income taxes reflects $5.5 million in first quarter tax benefits related to AFC's basis in Infinity stock. The 2002 provision for income taxes includes a $16 million first quarter tax benefit for the reduction of previously accrued amounts due to the resolution of certain tax matters.

Investee Corporations

Infinity Property and Casualty Corporation  Following AFC's sale of 61% of Infinity in the mid-February offering, AFC's proportionate share of Infinity's earnings is included in equity in net earnings (losses) of investees. In 2003, Infinity reported net earnings for the second quarter of $12.3 million and $23.8 million for the first six months, including $17.7 million subsequent to the offering.

Start-up Manufacturing Businesses  Equity in earnings (losses) of investees also includes losses of two start-up manufacturing businesses (see Note D). Equity in net earnings (losses) of investees includes $707,000 in the second quarter and $1.6 million in the first six months of 2003 compared to $914,000 in the second quarter and $1.8 million for the first six months of 2002 in losses of one of these businesses. Investee losses in 2002 include $1.4 million in the second quarter and $3.3 million in the first six months in losses of the other manufacturing business, which sold substantially all of its assets in December 2002.

25

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

Management's Discussion and Analysis

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

 

Cumulative Effect of Accounting Change  Effective January 1, 2002, AFC implemented Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets", under which goodwill is no longer amortized, but is subject to an impairment test at least annually. The initial impairment testing resulted in a first quarter 2002 charge of $40.4 million (net of minority interest and taxes) for the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle.

Recent Accounting Standards

Interpretation No. 46  In January 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Interpretation No.46, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities ("FIN 46"). This interpretation will require companies to consolidate entities without sufficient equity based on ownership of expected gains and losses. FIN 46 is effective immediately to variable interest entities acquired after January 31, 2003. For entities acquired before that date, the guidance becomes effective for periods beginning after June 15, 2003.

AFC is currently assessing the application of FIN 46 as it relates to its investments in two collateralized debt obligations ("CDOs"), for which AFC also acts as investment manager. Under the CDOs, securities were issued in various senior and subordinate classes and the proceeds were invested primarily in bank loans, and to a lesser extent, high yield bonds, all of which serve as collateral for the securities issued by the CDOs. None of the collateral was purchased from AFC. The market value of the collateral at June 30, 2003, was approximately $835 million.

AFC's investments in the two CDOs are subordinate to the senior classes (approximately 92% of the total securities) issued by the CDOs. To the extent there are defaults and unrecoverable losses on the underlying collateral resulting in reduced cash flows, AFC's class would bear losses first. Holders of the CDO debt securities have no recourse against AFC for the liabilities of the CDOs; accordingly, AFC's exposure to loss on these investments is limited to its investment. AFC's investments in the CDOs are carried at estimated market value of $10.5 million at June 30, 2003, and are included in fixed maturities in AFC's balance sheet.

SFAS No. 150  SFAS No. 150, which was issued in the second quarter of 2003 and is effective for quarters beginning after June 15, 2003, establishes new standards for the classification of certain financial instruments with characteristics of both liabilities and equity. Under SFAS No. 150, AFC will reclassify its trust-issued preferred securities from minority interest to a separate line item included in liabilities. In addition, future distributions on these securities will be recorded as interest expense rather than minority interest expense. Implementation of this standard will have no effect on AFC's shareholders' equity or net earnings.

SOP 03-1  Statement of Position 03-1, "Accounting and Reporting by Insurance Enterprises for Certain Nontraditional Long-Duration Contracts and Separate Accounts," was issued in July 2003 and is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2003, with earlier adoption encouraged. When adopted, SOP 03-1 will be accounted for as a cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle. If adopted in 2003, the adjustment would be recorded as of January 1, 2003, with restatement of previously reported 2003 results. SOP 03-1 provides additional accounting and reporting guidance for variable and fixed annuities.

26

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

Management's Discussion and Analysis

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

 

GAFRI's variable annuity contracts contain a guaranteed minimum death benefit ("GMDB") (which may exceed the value of the policyholder's account) to be paid if the annuityholder dies before the annuity payout period commences. Liabilities for any difference between the GMDB and the related account balance is borne by GAFRI and expensed when paid. In periods of declining equity markets, the GMDB difference increases as the variable annuity account value decreases. At June 30, 2003, the aggregate GMDB values (assuming every policyholder died on that date) exceeded the market value of the underlying variable annuities by $193 million. Industry practice varies, but GAFRI does not establish GAAP reserves for this mortality risk. Under SOP 03-1, GAFRI would be required to record a liability for the present value of expected GMDB payments. Initial recognition of a GAAP liability is estimated to be less than $5 million at June 30, 2003. Death benefits paid in excess of the variable annu ity account balances were about $1.0 million in the first six months of 2003 and $1.1 million in all of 2002.

The impact of SOP 03-1 on accounting for GAFRI's fixed annuities has not yet been determined.

 

ITEM 3

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure of Market Risk

As of June 30, 2003, there were no material changes to the information provided in AFC's Form 10-K for 2002 under the caption "Exposure to Market Risk" in Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

 

 

 

ITEM 4

Controls and Procedures

AFC's chief executive officer and chief financial officer, with assistance from management, have evaluated AFC's disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, they concluded that the controls and procedures are effective. There have been no significant changes in AFC's internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect these controls subsequent to the date of their evaluation.

 

27

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

PART II

OTHER INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1

Legal Proceedings

Please refer to Item 3 "Legal Proceedings" of the AFC 2002 Form 10-K. In February 2003, Great American Insurance Company entered into an agreement for the settlement of litigation brought by certain parties referred to as A.P. Green. The initial settlement agreement was submitted for approval of the Bankruptcy Court supervising the A.P. Green reorganization shortly after its execution. Certain parties objected to the settlement agreement and the Company, the objecting parties and A.P. Green agreed to revise it; there was no change in the financial terms and conditions of the settlement agreement. All parties have now agreed to settlement terms and conditions and the revised settlement agreement has been submitted, with no objections from any party, for Bankruptcy Court approval which is expected shortly. The revised settlement agreement is conditioned upon Bankruptcy Court approval and subsequent confirmation of a plan of reorganization that includes an injunction prohibiting the asser tion against Great American of any present or future asbestos personal injury claims under policies issued to A.P. Green and related companies. No assurance can be made that all conditions will be met; no payments are required until completion of the process. If the conditions are not met, the outcome of this litigation will again be subject to the complexities and uncertainties associated with a Chapter 11 proceeding and asbestos coverage litigation.

 

ITEM 6

Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

(a) Exhibit 12    - Computation of ratios of earnings to fixed charges.

    Exhibit 31(a) - Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to
                    section 302(a) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

    Exhibit 31(b) - Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to
                    section 302(a) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

    Exhibit 32    - Certification of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief
                    Financial Officer pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-
                    Oxley Act of 2002.

(b) Reports on Form 8-K:

Date of Report

Item Reported

   

July 7, 2003

Press Release regarding AFC/AFG Merger Agreement.

   
   

28

AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q

Signature

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, American Financial Corporation has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned duly authorized.

 

American Financial Corporation

   
   
   
   

August 11, 2003

BY: s/Fred J. Runk                      

 

    Fred J. Runk

 

    Senior Vice President and Treasurer

29