UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

 

 

FORM 10-K

 

 

Commission File Number: 1-14094

Meadowbrook Insurance Group, Inc.

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (248) 358-1100

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

 

Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes o     No þ

 

Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.  Yes o     No þ

 

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 þ     No o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes o     No o

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of Registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  o

 

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

 

(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes o     No þ

 

The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common stock held by non-affiliates computed by reference to the price at which the common equity was last sold, or the average bid and asked price of such common equity, as of June 30, 2009 was $347,543,421. As of March 10, 2010, there were 55,201,542 shares of the Company’s common stock ($.01 par value) outstanding.

 

Documents Incorporated by Reference

 

Certain portions of the Registrant’s Proxy Statement for the 2010 Annual Shareholders’ Meeting scheduled for May 18, 2010 are incorporated by reference into Part III of this report.

 

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

PART I

 

 

The Company

 

Meadowbrook Insurance Group, Inc. (“We,” “Our,” “Us,” or “Meadowbrook”) (NYSE: MIG) is a holding company organized as a Michigan corporation in 1985. Meadowbrook was founded in 1955 as Meadowbrook Insurance Agency and was subsequently incorporated in Michigan in 1965. Our principal executive offices are located at 26255 American Drive, Southfield, Michigan 48034-6112 (telephone number: (248) 358-1100.

 

We serve as a holding company for our wholly owned subsidiary Star Insurance Company (“Star”), and Star’s wholly owned subsidiaries, Savers Property and Casualty Insurance Company (“Savers”), Williamsburg National Insurance Company (“Williamsburg”), and Ameritrust Insurance Corporation (“Ameritrust”), as well as, American Indemnity Insurance Company, Ltd. (“American Indemnity”). We also serve as a holding company for Meadowbrook, Inc. (“Meadowbrook”), Crest Financial Corporation, and their respective subsidiaries. In addition, as described below, we also serve as a holding company for ProCentury Corporation (“ProCentury”) and its wholly owned subsidiaries. ProCentury’s wholly owned subsidiaries consist of Century Surety Company (“Century”) and its wholly owned subsidiary ProCentury Insurance Company (“PIC”). In addition, ProCentury Risk Partners Insurance Co. (“Propic”) is a wholly owned subsidiary of ProCentury.

 

Star, Savers, Williamsburg, Ameritrust, Century, and PIC are collectively referred to as the Insurance Company Subsidiaries.

 

Pursuant to accounting guidance, Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 810 — Consolidations (“ASC 810”), we do not consolidate our subsidiaries, Meadowbrook Capital Trust I and II (the “Trusts”), as they are not variable interest entities and we are not the primary beneficiary of the Trusts. Our consolidated financial statements, however, include the equity earnings of the Trusts. In addition and in accordance with ASC 810, we do not consolidate our subsidiary American Indemnity. While we and our subsidiary Star are the common shareholders, neither are the primary beneficiaries of American Indemnity. Our consolidated financial statements, however, include the equity earnings of American Indemnity. The equity earnings in our Trusts and American Indemnity are reflected in our Consolidated Statement of Income as equity earnings of unconsolidated subsidiaries.

 

ProCentury Merger

 

On July 31, 2008, the merger of Meadowbrook Insurance Group, Inc. and ProCentury Corporation (“ProCentury”) was completed (“Merger”). Under the terms of the merger agreement, ProCentury shareholders were entitled to receive, for each ProCentury common share, either $20.00 in cash or Meadowbrook common stock based on a 2.5000 exchange ratio, subject to adjustment as described within the merger agreement. In accordance with the merger agreement, the stock price used in determining the final cash and share consideration portion of the purchase price was based on the volume-weighted average sales price of a share of Meadowbrook common stock for the 30-day trading period ending on the sixth trading day before the completion of the Merger, or $5.7326. Based upon the proration, the total purchase price was $227.2 million, of which $99.1 million consisted of cash, $122.7 million in newly issued common stock, and approximately $5.4 million in transaction related costs. The total number of common shares issued for purposes of the stock portion of the purchase price was 21.1 million shares. Refer to Note 2 — ProCentury Merger in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional discussion of the Merger and a pro forma presentation of financial results for the combined company.

 

ProCentury is a specialty insurance company, which primarily underwrites general liability, commercial property, environmental, garage, commercial multi-peril, commercial auto, surety, and marine insurance primarily in the excess and surplus lines, or “non-admitted,” market through a select group of general agents.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

The excess and surplus lines market provides insurance coverage for customers with hard-to-place risks that standard or admitted insurers typically choose not to insure.

 

Five months of earnings of ProCentury are included in our financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2008. Twelve months of earnings are included for the year ended December 31, 2009.

 

Since the completion of the Merger, we have been executing on numerous revenue enhancement opportunities and leveraging the infrastructure as summarized below:

 

 

 

 — offering a surplus lines market for an existing workers’ compensation partner in New England; and

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Significant Acquisitions

 

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

 

Recent Equity Investment

 

In July 2009, our subsidiary, Star, purchased a 28.5% ownership interest in an insurance holding limited liability company for $14.8 million in cash. We are not required to consolidate this investment as we are not the primary beneficiary of the business. Our ownership interest is significant, but is less than a majority ownership and, therefore, we are accounting for this investment under the equity method of accounting. Therefore, Star will recognize 28.5% of the profits and losses as a result of this equity interest ownership.

 

Employees

 

At March 5, 2010, we employed approximately 918 associates to service our clients and provide management services to our Insurance Company Subsidiaries as described below. We believe we have good relationships with our associates.

 

Overview and Operational Structure

 

For over thirty years, we have specialized in providing full service risk management and insurance solutions for our clients. By forming risk-sharing partnerships, we align our financial objectives with our clients. By utilizing our products and services, small to medium-sized client groups gain access to more sophisticated risk management techniques previously available only to larger corporations. This enables our clients to control insurance costs and achieve more predictable underwriting results.

 

We were founded in 1955 as a retail insurance agency.  We earn commission revenue through the operation of our retail property and casualty insurance agencies, located in Michigan, California, and Florida.

 

We define our business segments as specialty insurance operations and agency operations. These two distinct business operations derive revenue from the following sources:

 

 

 

 

 

Our specialty insurance operations and agency operations are entirely supported by our full-service processing capabilities, which provide the essential functions necessary in a risk management organization.

 

Specialty Insurance Operations

 

Our specialty insurance operations provide underwriting and insurance administration services. We market and underwrite specialty property and casualty insurance programs and products on both an admitted and non-admitted basis through a broad and diverse network of independent retail, wholesale program administrators and general agents, who value service, specialized knowledge, and focused expertise. Our primary focus is on niche or specialty products and program business and risk management solutions for our customers. The services and coverages we provide are tailored to meet specific requirements of defined client groups and their members, which may include specialty program underwriting; admitted and excess and surplus lines insurance products; alternative risk transfer solutions, and insurance administration services. Program business refers to an aggregation of individually underwritten risks that have some unique characteristic and are distributed through a select group of general agencies, retail agencies and program administrators. We provide various

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

types of property and casualty insurance coverage, primarily to associations or similar groups of members and to the specified classes of business of our agents. With our specialty programs and products, we seek to combine profitable underwriting, investment returns and efficient capital management to deliver consistent long-term growth in shareholder value.

 

As an admitted carrier we provide a market for more traditional lines of business and coverages that are offered by standard markets. Traditional admitted markets typically serve businesses that:

 

 

As an excess and surplus lines provider we market to customers with hard-to-place risks, for which standard or admitted insurers typically choose not to insure. In the excess and surplus lines market, we serve businesses that are unable to obtain coverage from standard or admitted carriers for a variety of reasons, including the following:

 

 

Our insurance programs are diversified geographically, by class and line of business, type of insured and distribution. Within the workers’ compensation line of business, we have a regional focus in California and New England. Within the commercial auto and commercial multiple peril line of business, we have a regional focus in the Southeast and California. Within the general liability line of business we have a focus in Texas. Our fee-for-service business is managed on a regional basis with an emphasis in the Midwest, New England, and southeastern regions of the United States. Our corporate strategy emphasizes a regional focus and diverse sources of revenue between underwritten premiums, service fee revenue, and commissions. This allows us to leverage fixed costs over a larger revenue base and take advantage of new opportunities.

 

We recognize revenue related to the services and coverages from our specialty insurance operations within seven categories: net earned premiums, management fees, claims fees, loss control fees, reinsurance placement, investment income, and net realized gains (losses).

 

Specialty Insurance Operations Programs and Products

 

The admitted programs that we write as part of our specialty insurance operations are characterized by risks that are homogeneous within programs but have a diverse geographic profile. Generally, the average account premium is small and due to the specialized nature of the program and distribution style, our admitted programs have high premium retention levels. This helps create stability in our business amid the cyclicality of the insurance industry. Two examples of admitted programs we write are coverages for picture framers and music equipment stores. We seek to write rollover programs that have a history of proven profitable

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

performance. The admitted programs that we write and retain are the result of long-term, stable relationships with distribution partners that have a targeted and specialized distribution style.

 

The excess and surplus lines business we write is characterized by broad classes of “Main Street” commercial risks that are ineligible for coverage by the standard market. Similar to our admitted programs, the average account premium size for the excess and surplus lines risks we write is small. Two examples of markets we serve with our excess and surplus lines offering are restaurants and habitational classes, such as apartments and hotels. The excess and surplus lines regulatory environment allows rate and form freedom, which gives us the flexibility to design tailored coverage forms that are often more restrictive than those available in the admitted market. The high degree of flexibility contributes to heightened competition during soft markets and creates the potential for rapid expansion during hard markets.

 

The non-admitted programs we write have characteristics that are similar to our admitted programs, however, the commercial risks we provide coverage for are ineligible for coverage by the standard or admitted market. With this focus on non-admitted program underwriting, we are able to provide coverage for start-up organizations and relatively low volume programs that other markets are unable or unwilling to serve. Two examples of non-admitted programs we offer are coverages for pet-sitters and oil and gas contractors.

 

We also offer coverage for specialty markets, where specific and unique underwriting expertise is required. We develop solutions for specific market segments that may leverage either our admitted market or non-admitted market product capabilities, or both, depending on the market need. The specific and unique underwriting expertise that is required to write business profitably in the segments we serve creates barriers to entry for new competitors. Two examples of specialty markets we serve are the transportation and environmental markets.

 

Description of Specialty Insurance Operations

 

Based upon the particular risk management goals of our clients, market conditions and our assessment of the opportunity for operating profit, our specialty insurance operations offer solutions on a fully-insured basis, a risk-sharing basis, or a managed basis, in response to a specific market opportunity. In a managed program, we earn service fee revenue by providing certain operational functions and other services to a client’s risk-bearing entity, but generally do not share in the operating results. In a risk-sharing program, we share the operating results with the client through a reinsurance agreement with an insurance company, captive, or rent-a-captive. In a profit-sharing structure, we pay an agent a commission that is adjusted based on the operating results of the program. These structures, other than the profit-sharing commission structure, are licensed insurance or reinsurance companies and are accounted for in accordance with accounting guidance as it relates to reinsurance and insurance products. In risk-sharing programs, we derive revenue from net earned premiums, fee-for-service revenue and commissions, and investment income. In addition, we may benefit from the fees our risk management subsidiary earns for services we perform on behalf of our Insurance Company Subsidiaries. These fees are eliminated upon consolidation. However, the fees associated with the captive’s portion of the program are reimbursed through a ceding commission. For a fully-insured program, we provide insurance products without a risk-bearing mechanism and derive revenue from net earned premiums and investment income.

 

Fully-Insured Programs and Products:

 

With a fully-insured program, we provide our insurance products and derive revenue from net earned premiums and investment income. Fully-insured programs are generally developed in response to specific market opportunities and may evolve into a risk-sharing relationship.

 

Risk-Sharing Programs:

 

Quota Sharing:  With a client risk-sharing program, our Insurance Company Subsidiaries underwrite individual primary insurance policies for members of a group or association, or a specific industry and then

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

share the operating results with the client or client group through a reinsurance agreement with an insurance company, captive, or rent-a-captive. In some instances, a captive owned by a client or client group reinsures a portion of the risk on a quota-share basis. A captive is an insurance company or reinsurance company, which is formed for the purpose of insuring or reinsuring risks related to the businesses of its shareholders or members. A rent-a-captive allows organizations to obtain the benefits of a captive insurance company, without the initial costs and capital investment required to form their own captive. This is often an interim step utilized by groups and associations prior to forming their own captive. As part of its participation in a rent-a-captive, the client group purchases redeemable preferred stock of our unconsolidated subsidiary. These shares entitle the client group to participate in profits and losses of the program through a dividend or additional capital contribution. Dividends or additional capital contributions are determined and accrued on the basis of underwriting profits or losses plus investment income on trust accounts less costs. These structures are licensed insurance or reinsurance companies, which have a self-sustaining integrated set of activities and assets, and are in the reinsurance business for the purpose of providing a return to their investors, who are the shareholders (“primary beneficiaries”) of the captive company. The primary beneficiaries have their own equity at risk, decision making authority, and the ability to absorb losses. The transactions associated with these structures are accounted for in accordance with accounting guidance as it relates to reinsurance and insurance products.

 

In addition to premium revenue and investment income from the net retained portion of our operating results, we may also be compensated through the receipt of fees for policy issuance services and acquisition costs, captive administration, reinsurance placement, loss prevention services, and claims administrative and handling services. However, the fees associated with the captive’s portion of the program are reimbursed through a ceding commission. For financial reporting purposes, ceding commissions are treated as a reduction in underwriting expenses. In addition, we may benefit from the fees our risk management subsidiary earns for services we perform on behalf of our Insurance Company Subsidiaries. These fees are eliminated upon consolidation.

 

Our experience has been that the number of claims and the cost of losses tend to be lower in risk-sharing programs than with traditional forms of insurance. We believe that client risk-sharing motivates participants to focus on underwriting selection, loss prevention, risk control measures and adherence to stricter underwriting guidelines.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

The following schematic illustrates the basic elements in many of our client risk-sharing programs.

 

QUOTA SHARE REINSURANCE RISK-SHARING STRUCTURE

 

 

 

 

The captive’s shareholders, which may or may not include the insured, and its board of directors make the decision to form the captive or terminate the captive, based upon either their own analysis or the analysis performed by an independent third party consultant they hire. The shareholders of the captive make the decision whether to invest and how much to invest in the captive. This decision may be based upon advice from third party consultants.

 

The agent of the business will make the decision to submit the risk to the insurance company for underwriting and the policyholders make the decision to purchase the quoted policy.

 

The captive administrator provides administrative services to the captive in exchange for a fee. This fee is usually a fixed amount, but can be a variable amount based upon premium volume, and is negotiated on an annual basis with the captive’s board of directors. Such services may include bookkeeping, providing regulatory information, and other administrative services. We also may provide loss prevention, claims handling, underwriting, and other insurance services directly to certain of our captives. However, our risk management services subsidiary provides these services to our Insurance Company Subsidiaries for a fee, which is eliminated upon consolidation. The costs associated with these services are included within the premium quoted to the policyholder.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

In accordance with ASC 810, our variable interest in the captive is limited to administrative fees based upon a fixed amount or a percentage of premiums and the credit risk associated with any reinsurance recoverables recognized.

 

The captives are generally capitalized with common stock and may use preferred stock in isolated instances. The captive’s variability is: (1) created based upon the experience of their portion of business directly written through our Insurance Company Subsidiaries and ceded to the captive on a quota share basis; and (2) absorbed by the captive’s shareholders.

 

In general, the captive’s common and/or preferred shareholders are either the agents or producers of the business, a sponsoring group or association, a group of policyholders, a policyholder, or a general agent. The captive’s shareholders are not related parties of ours pursuant to related accounting guidance.

 

By design, the capital base of the captive is structured to absorb the projected losses of the program, and the captive’s shareholders bear the risk of loss. Through a trust agreement, we protect ourselves from potential credit risk related to reinsurance recoverables from the captive by a collateral requirement of up to 110% of the estimated reserves for losses and unearned premiums. In addition, we monitor the capital adequacy and financial leverage ratios of the captive to mitigate future credit risk.

 

In another variation of client risk-sharing, we establish retrospectively rated programs for individual accounts. With this type of program, we work with the client to develop the appropriate self-insured retention and loss fund amount and then help arrange for excess-of-loss reinsurance. The client reimburses us for all claim payments within the client’s retention. We generally earn a management fee (which includes claims and loss control fees). In most of these programs, we also share in the operating results with the client and receive a ceding commission in the excess-of-loss reinsurance contract to reimburse us for expenses, including a fee for services.

 

Profit-Sharing:  In a profit-sharing commission program, we provide our agent the opportunity to accept an upfront provisional commission rate that is then adjusted either upward or downward, based on the actual underwriting results as compared to predetermined metrics.

 

Managed Programs:

 

With a fee-for-service or managed program, we earn revenue by providing certain operational and administrative functions and other services to a client’s risk-bearing entity, but generally do not share in the operating results of the program. We believe our fee-for-service or managed programs provide a consistent source of revenue, as well as opportunities for revenue growth without a proportionate increase in capital requirements. Revenue growth may occur through the sale of existing products to additional members of the group, the expansion of coverages and services provided to existing programs and the creation of programs for new client groups.

 

Services for which we receive revenue from fee-for-service or managed programs include:

 

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

 

 

The fees we receive from these managed programs are generally either a fixed amount or based on a percentage of premium serviced or by claim count.

 

We also provide insurance management services to public entity associations and currently provide services to public entity pools and other insurance entities, which provide insurance coverage for participants, including city, county, township, villages and other quasi governmental entities in three states, as well as other diverse industry groups.

 

Description of Major Specialty Insurance Services

 

Our risk management subsidiary provides the following services to our fee-for-service clients and to our Insurance Company Subsidiaries for a fee. The fees associated with services provided to our Insurance Company Subsidiaries are eliminated upon consolidation. The costs associated with these services are charged to our insureds in the form of premiums.

 

Program and Product Design.  Before implementing a new program, we generally review: (1) financial projections for the contemplated program, (2) historical loss experience, (3) actuarial studies of the underlying risks, (4) the credit worthiness of the potential agent or client, and (5) the availability of reinsurance. Our senior management team and associates representing each of the risk-management disciplines work together to design, market, and implement new programs. Our due diligence process is structured to provide a risk assessment of the program and how the program fits within our entity wide business plan and risk profile.

 

Underwriting Risk Selection and Policy Issuance.  Through our risk management subsidiary, we perform underwriting services for our Insurance Company Subsidiaries that meet our corporate underwriting guidelines. We retain ultimate underwriting authority and monitor adherence to our corporate underwriting guidelines through periodic audits. Our underwriting personnel help develop the proper criteria for selecting risks, while actuarial and reinsurance personnel evaluate and recommend the appropriate levels of rate and risk retention. The program is then tailored according to the requirements and qualifications of each client. With managed programs, we may also perform underwriting services based upon the profile of the specific program for a fee.

 

Claims Administration and Handling.  Through our risk management subsidiary, we provide substantially all claims management and handling services for workers’ compensation and most other lines, such as property, professional liability, and general liability. Our claims handling standards are set by our corporate claims department and are monitored through self-audits, corporate claim audits, internal controls, and other executive oversight reports. We handle substantially all claims functions for the majority of the programs we manage. Our involvement in claims administration and handling provides feedback to program managers in assessing the client’s risk environment and the overall structure of the program.

 

Loss Prevention and Control.  Through our risk management subsidiary, we provide loss control services, which are designed to help clients prevent or limit the impact of certain loss events. Through an evaluation of the client’s workplace environment, our loss control specialists assist the client in planning and implementing a loss prevention program and, in certain cases, provide educational and training programs. With our managed programs, we provide these same services for a fee based upon the profile of the specific program.

 

Administration of Risk-Bearing Entities.  We generate fee revenue by assisting in the formation and administration of risk-bearing entities for clients and agents. Through our subsidiaries in Bermuda and Washington D.C., we provide administrative services for certain captives and/or rent-a-captives.

 

Reinsurance Placement. Through our reinsurance intermediary subsidiary, we earn commissions from placing excess-of-loss reinsurance and insurance coverage with high deductibles for insurance companies, captives, and managed self-insured programs. Reinsurance is also placed for clients who do not have other business relationships with us.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

Sales, Marketing, and Public Relations.  We market our programs and services to associations, professional and trade groups, local, regional and national insurance agents, and insurance consultants. Sales and marketing efforts include personal contact through independent agents, direct mail, telemarketing, association publications/newsletters, advertising, Internet-based marketing including our corporate website (www.meadowbrook.com), and subsidiary branch/division websites. We access or manage a range of distribution systems and regional agency networks on a program-specific basis.

 

Business Processing Technology Platform.  We provide a select set of internet-based business processing systems to our agents to automate the capability to rate, quote, bind and service insurance policies in a timely and efficient manner. Advantage is a processing system for quoting and binding workers’ compensation insurance policies. CenturyOnLine (COL) is a processing system for quoting and binding general liability, property and garage insurance policies underwritten by our excess and surplus lines facility, Century. Further, we provide additional systems on a network-accessible basis for processing select package and commercial auto programs. In addition to reducing our internal administrative processing costs, these systems enhance underwriting practices by automating risk selection criteria.

 

We also participate in seminars, trade and industry conventions such as Target Markets Program Administrators Association, American Association of Managing General Agents, American Society of Association Executives, Self Insurance Institute of America, National Association of Professional Surplus Lines Offices, Public Risk Management Association, and various individual state independent agent associations.

 

Agency Operations

 

Our agency operations segment earns commission revenue through the operation of its retail property and casualty insurance agencies, located in Michigan, California, and Florida. These agencies produce commercial, personal lines, life and accident and health insurance, with more than fifty unaffiliated insurance carriers. These agencies produce an immaterial amount of business for our affiliated Insurance Company Subsidiaries.

 

Customer Concentration

 

In our opinion, no material part of our business is dependent upon a single customer or group of customers. The loss of any one customer would not have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition. No one customer or group of affiliated customers accounts for 10% or more of the Company’s consolidated revenues.

 

Objective and Strategy

 

Our corporate objective is to generate predictable earnings across the market cycle, with a long term targeted return on average equity range of 10%-17%. Our strategy is to maximize the unique characteristics of our balanced business model to:

 

 — Generate profitable underwriting results from our insurance operations;

 

 

 — Leverage invested assets to equity;

 

 

Our overall objectives and strategies may be influenced by interest rates, insurance market cycle conditions, and general economic conditions.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

Approach on Underwriting Discipline

 

As an underwriter, we underwrite for predictability and profitability by adhering to the following business practices as they relate to our corporate underwriting discipline:

 

 — Re-underwrite excess and surplus lines business for accuracy and completeness;

 

 — Limit exposure to catastrophe-prone areas and purchase reinsurance;

 

 — Our associates have a broad and deep underwriting experience and expertise;

 

 — Our actuarial team supports underwriting with pricing and loss analysis;

 

 — New opportunities undergo a thorough new business due diligence process;

 

 — Robust program controls help monitor all programs for performance; and

 

 — We maintain long-term agent relationships, which are matched with high quality reinsurance partners.

 

Insurance Company Subsidiaries

 

Our Insurance Company Subsidiaries issue insurance policies. Through our Insurance Company Subsidiaries, we provide specialty insurance programs and products where we market and underwrite specialty property and casualty insurance products on both an admitted and non-admitted basis through a broad and diverse network of independent retail, wholesale program administrators and general agents. Our Insurance Company Subsidiaries primarily focus is on specialty products and program business for our customers, which consist of select independent, general agents, and wholesale agents with either a defined geographic specialty and / or product specialty. These programs are generally designed specifically for trade groups and associations, whose members are homogeneous in nature. Members are typically small-to-medium sized businesses. We compensate our distribution network primarily on a flat commission rate based upon premiums written, or other risk-sharing mechanism, as previously described.

 

Through our excess and surplus lines insurance carriers, we provide coverage for risks that either do not fit the underwriting criteria of standard carriers with which the retail agent has a direct relationship, or they are of a class or risk that the standard market generally avoids since the regulated nature of that market does not allow for customized terms or rates. Non-standard risks can be underwritten profitably, however, by the excess and surplus market, by using highly specific coverage forms with terms based on individual risk assessment, rather than the risk profile of the most desirable members of the class. When a certain risk has been excluded from the standard market, the retail agents need quick placement with the excess and surplus lines market in order to maintain coverage for the insured. As a result, the primary basis for competition within the excess and surplus lines industry can be focused more on service and availability rather than rate.

 

Our programs focus on select classes of property and casualty business which, through our due diligence process, we believe have demonstrated a fundamentally sound prospect for generating underwriting profits. We occasionally do offer our programs on a multi-state basis; but more generally, our programs operate on a regional or state-specific basis. We provide underwriting authority to our regional offices based upon underwriting guidelines established by our corporate underwriting department, which we monitor through underwriting audits and a series of executive underwriting and rate monitor reports. We seek to avoid geographic concentration of risks that might lead to aggregation of exposure to losses from natural or intentionally caused catastrophic events. We also handle the majority of our claims through our regional offices based upon standards set forth by our corporate claims office and monitored through a series of self-audits and corporate claims audit, internal control audits, and executive claims monitoring reports. American Indemnity, a Bermuda-based insurance company which offers our clients a captive or rent-a-captive option, complements our Insurance Company Subsidiaries.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

In addition, we may at times place risks directly with third party insurance carriers and participate in the risk as a reinsurer. Such arrangements typically generate management fee revenue and provide a means to manage premium leverage ratios.

 

Our Insurance Company Subsidiaries primarily offer workers’ compensation, commercial multiple peril, general liability, marine and other liability coverages on both an admitted and non-admitted basis. Our Insurance Company Subsidiaries maintain a variety of licenses in order for us to write on an admitted and / or a non-admitted basis in all fifty states, including the District of Columbia.

 

Our insurance operations are subject to various leverage tests (e.g., premium to statutory surplus ratios), which are evaluated by regulators and rating agencies. Our targets for gross and net written premium to statutory surplus are 2.75 to 1.0 and 2.25 to 1.0, respectively. As of December 31, 2009, on a statutory consolidated basis, gross and net premium leverage ratios were 2.0 to 1.0 and 1.6 to 1.0, respectively.

 

The following table summarizes gross written premiums, net earned premiums, and net written premiums for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, and 2005 (in thousands):

 

 

 

 

As previously indicated, the Merger with ProCentury was completed following the close of business on July, 31, 2008. Therefore, the above table includes only five months of premium for ProCentury for the year ended December 31, 2008 and twelve months for the year ended December 31, 2009.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

In 2009, we had an increase in our premium writings specific to our workers’ compensation line of business, which was primarily related to our new relationship with a general agent who specializes in non-contractors workers’ compensation in the Midwest, California, and other western states, as well as new programs which included a general agent that focuses on the food service industry and a general agent who focuses on heterogeneous workers’ compensation in the Southeast region of the United States. For 2009, our workers’ compensation rates were down approximately 2.5%, which was primarily due to declines in mandated rate levels in select states.

 

Prior to 2008, we had a shift in our mix of business, which was intended to diversify our product line and produce more predictable and stable results. We had a decline in workers’ compensation premium from 2005 primarily because we exited a limited number of small programs that were no longer meeting our underwriting standards. Also, we experienced an overall reduction in audit-related premiums, and a decline in the amount of residual market assignments we receive relative to workers’ compensation premiums. The residual market assignments are in essence a form of a “tax” whereby any workers’ compensation risk that cannot be written in the voluntary market is assigned to carriers underwriting workers’ compensation business in that state. In addition, workers’ compensation declined over the past few years due to a reduction in premium writings because of competition and past mandatory rate deceases, specifically in Florida, Massachusetts and Nevada.

 

The Merger with ProCentury contributed to the overall diversification of our business mix. Specifically within our other liability line of business which accounted for 25% and 26% in 2009 and 2008, respectively, compared to less than 10% in the prior years, as noted above. The majority of our other liability line of business is primarily related to shorter tail classes of business, such as habitational risks of hotels, motels and apartments, and mercantile operations. The majority of our primary liability insurance policies have limits between $500,000 and $1.0 million.

 

Additionally, prior to the Merger we had relatively low property related premium and exposure to property perils. Historically, approximately 35% of ProCentury’s production was property related. Property classes include fire and allied lines, non-liability portions of commercial multi-peril, and inland and ocean marine. Our property business has an inherently short tail, but has exposure to catastrophe perils. The majority of the property business has limits of less than $2.0 million. Through the use of treaty, automatic facultative and certificate facultative reinsurance, we retain the first $1.0 million of each risk up to $4.0 million for any one loss occurrence. We attempt to minimize catastrophic risk through reinsurance and geographic diversification. We write a limited amount of property coverage for the peril of wind on fixed properties in Florida, counties along the Gulf of Mexico and in states along the eastern seaboard.

 

Overall, we had growth in new business from programs implemented in 2008 and 2009. The increase in premium volume in lines other than workers’ compensation has been driven by new programs we have implemented with both existing and new program agents, all of which have a history of profitability and for which we believe we are receiving adequate pricing to produce our targeted return on equity. Rates in other lines of business declined by only less than 1% and our excess and surplus lines rates were down by approximately 4%. While the market for excess and surplus lines remained competitive in 2009, our Century operations traditional business production was only down slightly.

 

A.M. Best Company (“A.M. Best”), which rates insurance companies based on factors of concern to policyholders, maintains a letter scale rating system ranging from “A++” (Superior) to “F” (In Liquidation). In evaluating a company’s financial and operating performance, A.M. Best reviews the company’s profitability, leverage and liquidity, as well as its book of business, the adequacy and soundness of its reinsurance, the quality and estimated market value of its assets, the adequacy of its loss and loss expense reserves, the adequacy of its surplus, its capital structure, the experience and competence of its management and its market presence. A.M. Best ratings are directed toward the concerns of policyholders and insurance agencies and are not intended for the protection of investors or as a recommendation to buy, hold or sell securities. Currently our financial strength rating by A.M. Best for our Insurance Company Subsidiaries is an “A−” (Excellent) rating.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

Reserves

 

The following table shows the development of reserves for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses (“LAE”) from 2000 through 2009 for our Insurance Company Subsidiaries, and the deconsolidation impact of American Indemnity. Development on the ProCentury acquired reserves is not included for the years prior to 2008, which was the year of the Merger. The lower portion of the table reflects the impact of reinsurance for the years 2000 through 2009, reconciling the net reserves shown in the upper portion of the table to gross reserves.

 

Additional information relating to our reserves is included within the Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses and Reinsurance Recoverables section of Note 1 — Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 5 — Liability for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, as well as to the Critical Accounting Policies section and the Reserves section of Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

 

Analysis of Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Development (1)

 

 

 

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

 

The following table sets forth the difference between generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) reserves for loss and loss adjustment expenses and statutory reserves for loss and loss adjustment expenses at December 31 (in thousands):

 

 

 

 

For the year ended December 31, 2009, we reported a decrease of $32.2 million in gross ultimate loss estimates for accident years 2008 and prior, or 3.6% of $885.7 million of gross loss and LAE reserves at January 1, 2009. We reported a $28.7 million decrease in net ultimate loss and LAE estimates for accident years 2008 and prior, or 4.6% of $625.3 million of net loss and LAE reserves at January 1, 2009.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2008, we reported a decrease of $103,000 in gross ultimate loss estimates for accident years 2007 and prior, or 0.02% of $540.0 million of gross losses and LAE reserves at January 1, 2008. The gross development excludes development on ProCentury reserves acquired on August 1, 2008. We reported an $11.1 million decrease in net ultimate loss and LAE estimates for accident years 2007 and prior, or 3.3% of $341.5 million of Meadowbrook only net loss and LAE reserves at January 1, 2008, because the table reflects reserves as of January 1, 2008, which was pre-Merger. The ProCentury acquired reserves of $247.7 million had prior year favorable development of $5.7 million. Thus, total net development on prior accident year reserves is $16.8 million.

 

Reinsurance

 

Information relating to our reinsurance structure and treaty information is included within Note 6 — Reinsurance of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Investments

 

Information relating to our investment portfolio is included within Note 3 — Investments of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and the Investments section of Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis, as well as Item 7A Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.

 

Competition and Pricing

 

We compete with other providers of specialty insurance programs, products, and risk management services, as well as, with traditional providers of commercial insurance. Both the specialty program segment and the traditional property and casualty insurance markets are highly competitive. Our specialty programs, products and services compete with products and services offered by insurance companies, other providers of insurance services (including domestic and foreign insurers and reinsurers and insurance agents), as well as with self-insurance plans, captives managed by others, and a variety of other risk-financing vehicles and mechanisms. These competitive products are offered by other companies that may have greater financial resources than we do. Our agency operations compete with other local, regional, and national insurance agencies for individual client insurance needs.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

The market for specialty insurance programs, products and services is significantly influenced by market conditions affecting the traditional property and casualty insurance industry. Insurance market conditions historically have been subject to significant variability due to premium rate competition, natural disasters and other catastrophic events, judicial trends, changes in the investment and interest rate environment, regulation, general economic conditions, and unemployment rates. Pricing is a primary means of competition in the commercial insurance market. Competition is also based on the availability and quality of products, quality and speed of service (including claims service), financial strength, ratings, distribution systems and technical expertise. The primary basis for competition among risk management providers varies with the financial and insurance needs and resources of each potential insured. Principal factors that are considered by insureds include an analysis of the net present-value (after-tax) of the cost of financing the insured’s expected level of losses; the amount of excess coverage provided in the event losses exceed expected levels; cash flow and tax planning considerations; and the expected quality and consistency of the services to be provided. We believe that we are able to compete based on our experience, the quality of our products and services, our processing technology platforms, and our program-oriented approach. However, our ability to successfully compete is dependent upon a number of factors, including market and competitive conditions, many of which are outside of our control.

 

Regulation

 

Insurance Company Regulation

 

Our Insurance Company Subsidiaries are subject to regulation in the states where they conduct business. State insurance regulations generally are designed to protect the interests of policyholders, state insurance consumers or claimants rather than shareholders or other investors. The nature and extent of such state regulation varies by jurisdiction, but generally involves:

 

 

In addition, state regulatory examiners perform periodic examinations of insurance companies. The results of these examinations can give rise to regulatory orders requiring remedial, injunctive or other corrective action.

 

Insurance Holding Company Regulation

 

We operate as an insurance holding company system and are subject to regulation in the jurisdictions in which we conduct business. These regulations require that each insurance company in the system register with

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

the insurance department of its state of domicile and furnish information concerning the operations of companies within the holding company system that may materially affect the operations, management or financial condition of the insurers within the system domiciled in that state. The insurance laws similarly provide that all transactions among members of a holding company system must be fair and reasonable. Transactions between insurance subsidiaries and their parents and affiliates generally must be disclosed to the state regulators, and prior approval of the applicable state insurance regulator generally is required for any material or extraordinary transaction. In addition, a change of control of a domestic insurer or of any controlling person requires the prior approval of the state insurance regulator. Generally, any person who acquires ten percent or more of the outstanding voting securities of the insurer or its parent company is presumed to have acquired control of the domestic insurer.

 

Various State and Federal Regulation

 

Insurance companies are also affected by a variety of state and federal legislative and regulatory measures and judicial decisions that define and extend the risks and benefits for which insurance is sought and provided. These include redefinition of risk exposure in areas such as product liability, environmental damage, and workers’ compensation. In addition, individual state insurance departments may prevent premium rates for some classes of insureds from reflecting the level of risk assumed by the insurer for those classes. Such developments may adversely affect the profitability of various lines of insurance. In some cases, these adverse effects on profitability can be minimized through repricing, if permitted by applicable regulations, of coverages or limitations or cessation of the affected business.

 

Reinsurance Intermediary

 

Our reinsurance intermediary is also subject to regulation. Under applicable regulations, the intermediary is responsible, as a fiduciary, for funds received on account of the parties to the reinsurance transaction and is required to hold such funds in appropriate bank accounts subject to restrictions on withdrawals and prohibitions on commingling.

 

Licensing and Agency Contracts

 

We, or certain of our designated employees, must be licensed to act as agents by state regulatory authorities in the states in which we conduct business. Regulations and licensing laws vary in individual states and are often complex.

 

Insurance licenses are issued by state insurance regulators upon application and may be of perpetual duration or may require periodic renewal. We must apply for and obtain appropriate new licenses before we can expand into a new state on an admitted basis or offer new lines of insurance that require separate or additional licensing.

 

Insurers operating on an admitted basis must file premium rate schedules and policy or coverage forms for review and approval by the insurance regulators. In many states, rates and policy forms must be approved prior to use, and insurance regulators have broad discretion in judging whether an insurer’s rates are adequate, not excessive and not unfairly discriminatory.

 

The applicable licensing laws and regulations in all states are subject to amendment or reinterpretation by state regulatory authorities, and such authorities are vested in most cases with relatively broad discretion as to the granting, revocation, suspension and renewal of licenses. The possibility exists that we, or our employees, could be excluded, or temporarily suspended, from continuing with some or all of our activities in, or otherwise subjected to penalties by, a particular state.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

Insurance Regulation Concerning Change or Acquisition of Control

 

Star, Williamsburg, and Ameritrust are domestic property and casualty insurance companies organized under the insurance laws (the “Insurance Codes”) of Michigan, while Savers, Century, PIC, and Propic are organized under the Insurance Codes of Missouri, Ohio, Texas, and Washington D.C., respectively. The Insurance Codes provide that acquisition or change of control of a domestic insurer or of any person that controls a domestic insurer cannot be consummated without the prior approval of the relevant insurance regulatory authority. A person seeking to acquire control, directly or indirectly, of a domestic insurance company or of any person controlling a domestic insurance company must generally file with the relevant insurance regulatory authority an application for change of control (commonly known as a “Form A”) containing information required by statute and published regulations and provide a copy of such Form A to the domestic insurer. In Michigan and Missouri, control is generally presumed to exist if any person, directly or indirectly, owns, controls, holds with the power to vote or holds proxies representing ten percent or more of the voting securities of the company.

 

In addition, many state insurance regulatory laws contain provisions that require pre-notification to state agencies of a change in control of a non-domestic admitted insurance company in that state. While such pre-notification statutes do not authorize the state agency to disapprove the change of control, such statutes do authorize issuance of a cease and desist order with respect to the non-domestic admitted insurer if certain conditions exist, such as undue market concentration.

 

Any future transactions that would constitute a change in control would also generally require prior approval by the Insurance Departments of Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, Texas, and Washington D.C. and would require pre-acquisition notification in those states that have adopted pre-acquisition notification provisions and in which the insurers are admitted. Such requirements may deter, delay or prevent certain transactions that could be advantageous to our shareholders.

 

Membership in Insolvency Funds and Associations and Mandatory Pools

 

Most states require admitted property and casualty insurers to become members of insolvency funds or associations, which generally protect policyholders against the insolvency of such insurers. Members of the fund or association must contribute to the payment of certain claims made against insolvent insurers. Maximum contributions required by law in any one year vary between 1% and 2% of annual premium written by a member in that state. For 2009, 2008, and 2007, assessments from insolvency funds were $491,000, $196,000, and $156,000, respectively. Most of these payments are recoverable through future policy surcharges and premium tax reductions. Except for New Jersey, business written on a surplus lines basis is not subject to state guaranty fund assessments.

 

Our Insurance Company Subsidiaries are also required to participate in various mandatory insurance facilities or in funding mandatory pools, which are generally designed to provide insurance coverage for consumers who are unable to obtain insurance in the voluntary insurance market. Among the pools participated in are those established in certain states to provide windstorm and other similar types of property coverage. These pools typically require all companies writing applicable lines of insurance in the state for which the pool has been established to fund deficiencies experienced by the pool based upon each company’s relative premium writings in that state, with any excess funding typically distributed to the participating companies on the same basis. To the extent that reinsurance treaties do not cover these assessments, they may adversely affect us. For 2009, 2008, and 2007, total assessments paid to all such facilities were $2.7 million, $2.4 million, and $2.6 million, respectively.

 

Restrictions on Dividends and Risk-Based Capital

 

For information on Restrictions on Dividends and Risk-based Capital which affect us please refer to Note 10 — Regulatory Matters and Rating Issues of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and the Regulatory and Rating Issues section within Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

NAIC-IRIS Ratios

 

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ (“NAIC”) Insurance Regulatory Information System (“IRIS”) was developed by a committee of state insurance regulators and is primarily intended to assist state insurance departments in executing their statutory mandates to oversee the financial condition of insurance companies operating in their respective states. IRIS identifies thirteen industry ratios and specifies “usual values” for each ratio. Departure from the usual values on four or more ratios generally leads to inquiries or possible further review from individual state insurance commissioners. Refer to the Regulatory and Rating Issues section of Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

 

Effect of Federal Legislation

 

The Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002 (“TRIA”) established a program under which the United States federal government will provide governmental support for businesses that suffer damages from certain acts of international terrorism. In 2007, TRIA was extended through December 31, 2014. The terms of the legislation enacted now also include domestic terrorist acts. TRIA serves as an additional high layer of reinsurance against losses that may arise from a terrorist incident. The impact to us resulting from TRIA is minimal as we generally do not underwrite risks that are considered targets for terrorism, avoid concentration of exposures in both property and workers’ compensation, and have terrorism coverage included in our reinsurance treaties to cover the most likely exposure.

 

Update on SEC Investigation

 

On April 2, 2008, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) requested that ProCentury voluntarily provide information relating to its construction defect reserves for the fiscal years 2003 through 2006. ProCentury produced information and related documents in response to this request and follow-up requests, as well as executed tolling agreements. On August 10, 2009, the SEC notified in writing the Company, Century and certain of Century’s current and former officers that it had completed its investigation and that it did not intend to recommend the filing of any enforcement action.

 

Available Information

 

Our Internet address is www.meadowbrook.com. There we make available, free of charge, our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, Statements of Beneficial Ownership (Forms 3, 4, and 5), and any amendments to those reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish to, the SEC. You may read and copy materials we file with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington D.C., 20549. You may obtain information about the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. In addition, the SEC maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy statements, and other information that we file at www.sec.gov. Our SEC reports can also be accessed through the investor relations section of our website. The information found on our website is not part of this or any other report we file with, or furnished to the SEC. The Charters of the Nominating and Governance Committee, the Compensation Committee, the Audit Committee, the Finance Committee, and the Investment Committee of our Board of Directors are also available on our website, or available in print to any shareholder who requests this information. In addition, our Corporate Governance documents, Code of Conduct, and our Business Conduct Policy are available on our website, or in print to any shareholder who requests this information.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

 

If our estimates of reserves for losses and loss adjustment expenses are not adequate, we will have to increase our reserves, which would result in reductions in net income, retained earnings, statutory surplus, liquidity, and may limit our ability to pay future dividends and service debt.

 

We establish reserves for losses and expenses related to the adjustment of losses for the insurance policies we write. In many cases, several years may elapse between the occurrence of an insured loss, the reporting of the loss to us and our payment of the loss. We determine the amount of these reserves based on our best estimate and judgment of the losses and costs we will incur on existing insurance policies. While we believe our reserves are adequate, we base these reserves on assumptions about past and future events. The following factors could have a substantial impact on our future loss experience:

 

 

Actual losses and the costs we incur related to the adjustment of losses under insurance policies could exceed, perhaps substantially, the amount of reserves we establish. When we increase reserves, our pre-tax income for the period will decrease by a corresponding amount. An increase in reserves may also require us to write off a portion of our deferred acquisition costs asset, which would cause a further reduction of pre-tax income in that period.

 

If our financial strength ratings are reduced, we may be adversely impacted.

 

Insurance companies are subject to financial strength ratings produced by external rating agencies. Higher ratings generally indicate greater financial stability and a stronger ability to pay claims. Ratings are assigned by rating agencies to insurers based upon factors they believe are important to policyholders. Ratings are not recommendations to buy, hold, or sell our securities.

 

Our ability to write business is most influenced by our rating from A.M. Best. A.M. Best ratings are designed to assess an insurer’s financial strength and ability to meet continuing obligations to policyholders. Currently, our financial strength rating from A.M. Best is “A−” (Excellent) for our Insurance Company Subsidiaries. There can be no assurance that A.M. Best will not change this rating in the future. A rating downgrade from A.M. Best could materially adversely affect the business we write and our results of operations.

 

If market conditions cause our reinsurance to be more costly or unavailable, we may be required to bear increased risks or reduce the level of our underwriting commitments.

 

As part of our overall risk and capacity management strategy, we purchase reinsurance for significant amounts of risk underwritten by our Insurance Company Subsidiaries, especially for the excess-of-loss and severity risks. Market conditions beyond our control determine the availability and cost of the reinsurance we purchase, which may affect the level of our business and profitability. Our reinsurance facilities are generally subject to annual renewal. We may be unable to maintain our current reinsurance facilities or to obtain other reinsurance in adequate amounts and at favorable rates. Increases in the cost of reinsurance would adversely affect our profitability. In addition, if we are unable to renew our expiring facilities or to obtain new reinsurance on favorable terms, either our net exposure to risk would increase or, if we are unwilling to bear an increase in net risk exposures, we would have to reduce the amount of risk we underwrite.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

The current economic downturn and continuing volatility in the financial market could materially and adversely affect our business.

 

In 2008 and 2009, the capital and credit markets experienced unprecedented volatility. While economic conditions have recently improved, this trend may not continue and therefore, there can be no assurance that we will not experience an adverse effect, which may have a material impact on our overall financial condition and results of operations.

 

We are subject to credit risk with respect to the obligations of our reinsurers and risk-sharing partners. The inability of our reinsurers or risk-sharing partners to meet their obligations could adversely affect our profitability.

 

We purchase reinsurance by transferring part of the risk we have assumed (known as ceding) to a reinsurance company in exchange for part of the premium we receive in connection with the risk under pro rata and excess-of-loss contracts. These reinsurance arrangements diversify our business and reduce our exposure to large losses or from hazards of an unusual nature. Although reinsurance makes the reinsurer liable to us to the extent the risk is transferred, the ceding of insurance does not discharge us of our primary liability to our policyholder. If all or any of the reinsuring companies fail to pay or pay on a timely basis, we would be liable for such defaulted amounts. Therefore, we are subject to credit risk with respect to the obligations of our reinsurers. If our reinsurers fail to pay us or fail to pay on a timely basis, our financial results and financial condition could be adversely affected. In order to minimize our exposure to significant losses from reinsurer insolvencies, we evaluate the financial condition of our reinsurers and monitor the economic characteristics of the reinsurers on an ongoing basis and, if appropriate, we may require trust agreements to collateralize the reinsurers financial obligation to us.

 

In addition, with our risk-sharing programs, we are subject to credit risk with respect to the payment of claims by our clients’ captive, rent-a-captive, large deductible programs and indemnification agreements, as well as on the portion of risk either ceded to captives or retained by our clients. The capitalization and creditworthiness of prospective risk-sharing partners is one of the factors we consider upon entering into and renewing risk-sharing programs. Generally, we collateralize balances due from our risk-sharing partners through funds withheld trusts or stand-by letters of credit issued by highly rated banks. No assurance can be given regarding the future ability of any of our risk-sharing partners to meet their obligations. The inability of our risk-sharing partners to meet their obligations could adversely affect our profitability.

 

Severe weather conditions and other catastrophes may result in an increase in the number and amount of claims incurred.

 

The majority of our property business is exposed to the risk of severe weather conditions and other catastrophes. Catastrophes can be caused by various events, including natural events, such as hurricanes, winter weather, tornadoes, windstorms, earthquakes, hailstorms, severe thunderstorms and fires, and other events, such as explosions, terrorist attacks and riots. The incidence and severity of catastrophes and severe weather conditions are inherently unpredictable. Severe weather conditions and catastrophes can cause losses in the lines of business acquired with the Merger. Generally these losses result in an increase in the number of claims incurred as well as the amount of compensation sought by claimants. In 2008, we recorded $5.4 million of net after tax losses related to catastrophe losses. In 2009, we did not have any catastrophic related losses. Currently, we purchase catastrophe reinsurance to cover for a potential catastrophe. However, it is possible that a catastrophic event or multiple catastrophic events could cause our loss and loss adjustment expense reserves to increase and our liquidity and financial condition to decline. Refer to Note 6 — Reinsurance for a detailed description of our reinsurance treaties and structure.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

We face competitive pressures in our business that could cause our revenues to decline and adversely affect our profitability.

 

We compete with a large number of other companies in our selected lines of business. We compete, and will continue to compete, with major United States, foreign and other regional insurers, as well as mutual companies, specialty insurance companies, underwriting agencies and diversified financial services companies. Many of our competitors have greater financial and marketing resources than we do. Our profitability could be adversely affected if we lose business or any of our agents to competitors offering similar or better products at or below our prices.

 

A number of new, proposed or potential legislative or industry developments could further increase competition in our industry. These developments include:

 

 

These developments could make the property and casualty insurance marketplace more competitive by increasing the supply of insurance capacity. In that event, the current market softens further, and it may negatively influence our ability to maintain or increase rates. Accordingly, these developments could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Our results may fluctuate as a result of many factors, including cyclical changes in the insurance industry.

 

The results of companies in the property and casualty insurance industry historically have been subject to significant fluctuations and uncertainties. Our industry’s profitability can be affected by:

 

 

The demand for property and casualty insurance can also vary significantly, rising as the overall level of economic activity increases and falling as that activity decreases. The property and casualty insurance industry historically is cyclical in nature, with periods of reduced underwriting capacity and favorable premium rates alternating with periods of excess underwriting capacity and flat or falling premium rates. These fluctuations in demand and supply could produce underwriting results that would have a negative impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

 

Our geographic concentration ties our performance to the business, economic, natural perils, man made perils, and regulatory conditions within our concentrated regions.

 

One of our predominate lines of business is workers’ compensation (30.4% of net earned premiums in 2009), which is concentrated in California (35.7% of 2009 workers’ compensation net earned premiums) and

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

New England (13.9% of 2009 workers’ compensation net earned premiums). Accordingly, unfavorable business, economic or regulatory conditions in these states could negatively impact our business. In addition, California and some of the New England states are exposed to climate and environmental changes, natural perils such as earthquakes, water supplies, and the possibility of pandemics or terrorist acts. Accordingly, we could suffer losses as a result of catastrophic events in these states. In addition, general economic conditions affecting these regions could have an adverse effect on the business we write within these states. Because our business is concentrated in this manner, we may be exposed to economic and regulatory risks or risk from natural perils that are greater than the risks associated with greater geographic diversification. Refer to Note 6 — Reinsurance for further information regarding our reinsurance structure related to workers’ compensation business.

 

Our success depends on our ability to appropriately price the risks we underwrite.

 

Our financial results depend on our ability to underwrite and collect adequate premium rates for a wide variety of risks. Rate adequacy is necessary to generate sufficient premiums to pay losses, loss expenses and underwriting expenses and to earn a profit. In order to price our products accurately, we must collect and properly analyze a substantial amount of data, develop, test and apply appropriate rating formulas, closely monitor and timely recognize changes in trends and project both severity and frequency of losses with reasonable accuracy. Our ability to undertake these efforts successfully and price our products accurately is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, some of which are outside our control. These uncertainties include:

 

 

Consequently, we could underprice risks, which would negatively affect our profit margins, or we could overprice risks, which could reduce our sales volume and competitiveness. In either event, our profitability could be materially and adversely affected.

 

The failure of any of the loss limitation methods we employ could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

 

We seek to limit our loss exposure by writing a number of our insurance and reinsurance contracts on an excess-of-loss basis. Excess-of-loss insurance and reinsurance indemnifies the insured against losses in excess of a specified amount. In addition, we limit program size for each client and purchase third-party reinsurance for our own account. In the case of our assumed proportional reinsurance treaties, we seek per occurrence limitations or loss and loss adjustment expense ratio caps to limit the impact of losses ceded by the client. In proportional reinsurance, the reinsurer shares a proportional part of the premiums and losses of the reinsured. We also seek to limit our loss exposure by geographic diversification. Various provisions of our policies, such as limitations or exclusions from coverage or choice of forum negotiated to limit our risks, may not be enforceable in the manner we intend. As a result, one or more catastrophic or other events could result in claims that substantially exceed our expectations, which could have an adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition. Likewise, for catastrophe events and for per risk events we buy a limited amount of reinsurance coverage that we believe is adequate to reimburse for our large losses with a very high degree of probability, should the unlikely event occur that exceeds our reinsurance coverage then the amounts in excess of our reinsurance coverage could adversely impact our financial condition or results of operations.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

Our investment results and, therefore, our financial condition may be impacted by changes in the business, financial condition or operating results of the entities in which we invest, as well as changes in government monetary policies, general economic conditions and overall capital market conditions, all of which impact interest rates.

 

Our results of operations depend, in part, on the performance of our investments. Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors, including governmental monetary policies and domestic and international economic and political conditions. Fluctuations in interest rates affect our returns on and the fair value of our fixed-maturity and equity securities. In addition, market volatility can make it difficult to value certain of our securities if trading becomes less frequent. Interest rates in the United States are currently at historical lows. Increases in interest rates may reduce the fair value of our investments in available for sale fixed-maturity and equity securities. In addition, defaults by third parties who fail to pay or perform obligations could reduce our investment income and could result in further investment losses in our portfolio.

 

Our fixed-maturity and equity investments are subject to:

 

 

Our fixed-maturity investment portfolio includes mortgage-backed and other asset-backed securities. As with other fixed-maturity investments, the fair value of these securities fluctuates depending on market and other general economic conditions and the interest rate environment. Changes in interest rates can expose us to prepayment risks on these investments. When interest rates fall, mortgage-backed securities are prepaid more quickly than expected and the holder must reinvest the proceeds at lower interest rates. Our mortgage-backed securities currently consist of securities with features that reduce the risk of prepayment, but there is no guarantee that we will not invest in other mortgage-backed securities that lack this protection. In periods of increasing interest rates, mortgage-backed securities are prepaid more slowly, which may require us to receive interest payments that are below the prevailing interest rates for longer than expected.

 

Our investment portfolio also includes equity securities. These investments are in preferred and common stocks of individual companies, which are subject to economic loss from the decline in preferred and common share prices. As a result, the fair value of these investments will be determined by the specific financial prospects of these individual companies, as well as the equity markets in general.

 

As of the result of the risks described above, the value of our investment portfolio could decrease, we could experience reduced net investment income, and we could incur realized investment losses, which could adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition, cash flows, and liquidity.

 

We could be forced to sell investments to meet our liquidity requirements.

 

We believe we maintain adequate amounts of cash and short-term investments to pay claims, and do not expect to have to sell securities prematurely for such purposes. We may, however, decide to sell securities as a result of changes in interest rates, credit quality, the rate or repayment or other similar factors. A significant increase in market interest rates could result in a situation in which we are required to sell securities at depressed prices to fund claims payments. Since the securities within our investment portfolio are carried at fair value, we expect these securities would be sold with no material impact on our net equity, although it could result in net realized losses. If these securities are sold, future net investment income may be reduced if we are unable to reinvest in securities with similar yields.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

If our businesses do not perform well, we may be required to recognize an impairment of our goodwill, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

 

Goodwill represents the excess of the amounts we paid to acquire subsidiaries and other businesses over the fair value of their net assets at the date of acquisition. We evaluate existing goodwill for impairment on an annual basis as of October 1st, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. Goodwill impairment is performed at the reporting unit level. To test goodwill for impairment, we are required to estimate the fair value of each reporting unit. Since quoted market prices in an active market are not available for our reporting units, other valuation techniques are used. We have developed a model to estimate the fair value of our reporting units utilizing a discounted cash flow valuation technique (“DCF model”). A DCF model is selected to be comparable to what would be used by market participants to estimate fair value. The impairment test incorporates estimates of future cash flows; allocations of certain assets, liabilities and cash flows among reporting units; future growth rates; terminal value amounts; and the applicable weighted-average cost of capital used to discount those estimated cash flows. These estimates are based on our judgment. If it is determined that the goodwill has been impaired, we would be required to write down the goodwill by the amount of the impairment, with a corresponding charge to net income. Such impairments could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial position.

 

Acquisitions and integration of acquired businesses may result in operating difficulties, which may prevent us from achieving the expected benefits.

 

At times, we may investigate and pursue acquisition opportunities if we believe such opportunities are consistent with our long-term objectives and that the expected benefits exceed the risks. Achieving such benefits is subject to a number of uncertainties, including whether the combined businesses are integrated in an efficient and effective manner, as well as general competitive factors in the marketplace. We conduct due diligence, however, the process of integrating an acquired company or business can potentially be complex and costly. Sometimes we can be confronted with unexpected issues that may present significant risks, which could materially impact our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. In addition, we could potentially pay more for an acquisition than its actual worth, which could materially impact our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.

 

Because we are heavily regulated by the states in which we operate, we may be limited in the way we operate.

 

We are subject to extensive supervision and regulation in the states in which we operate. The supervision and regulation relate to numerous aspects of our business and financial condition. The primary purpose of the supervision and regulation is to maintain compliance with insurance regulations and to protect policyholders and not our shareholders. The extent of regulation varies, but generally is governed by state statutes. These statutes delegate regulatory, supervisory and administrative authority to state insurance departments. This system of regulation covers, among other things:

 

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

 

The regulations of the state insurance departments may affect the cost or demand for our products and may impede us from obtaining rate increases or taking other actions we might wish to take to increase our profitability. Furthermore, we may be unable to maintain all required licenses and approvals and our business may not fully comply with the wide variety of applicable laws and regulations or the relevant authority’s interpretation of the laws and regulations. Also, regulatory authorities have relatively broad discretion to grant, renew or revoke licenses and approvals. If we do not have the requisite licenses and approvals or do not comply with applicable regulatory requirements, the insurance regulatory authorities could stop or temporarily suspend us from conducting some or all of our activities or monetarily penalize us.

 

Although the United States federal government does not directly regulate the insurance business, changes in federal legislation, regulation, and / or administrative policies in several areas, including changes in financial services regulation (e.g.; the repeal of the McCarran-Ferguson Act) and federal taxation, can significantly harm the insurance industry.

 

Litigation may have an adverse effect on our business

 

We are subject at times to various claims, lawsuits and proceedings relating principally to alleged errors or omissions in the placement of insurance, claims administration, consulting services and other business transactions arising in the ordinary course of business. Where appropriate, we vigorously defend such claims, lawsuits and proceedings. Some of these claims, lawsuits and proceedings seek damages, including consequential, exemplary or punitive damages, in amounts that could, if awarded, be significant. Most of the claims, lawsuits and proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business are covered by the policy at issue, errors and omissions insurance or other appropriate insurance. In terms of deductibles associated with such insurance, we have established provisions against these items, which are believed to be adequate in light of current information and legal advice. With the assistance of outside counsel, we adjust such provisions according to new developments or changes in the strategy in dealing with such matters. On the basis of current information, we do not expect the outcome of the claims, lawsuits and proceedings to which we are subject to, either individually, or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition. However, it is possible that future results of operations or cash flows for any particular quarter or annual period could be materially affected by an unfavorable resolution of any such matters.

 

Our reliance on producers subjects us to their credit risk.

 

With respect to our agency billed premiums generated by our Insurance Company Subsidiaries, producers collect premiums from the policyholders and forward them to us. In certain jurisdictions, when the insured pays premium for these policies to producers for payment, the premium might be considered to have been paid under applicable insurance laws and the insured will no longer be liable to us for those amounts, whether or not we have actually received the premium from the producer. Consequently, we assume a degree of credit risk associated with producers. Although producers’ failures to remit premiums to us have not caused a material adverse impact on us to date, there may be instances where producers collect premium but do not remit it to us and we may be required under applicable law to provide the coverage set forth in the policy despite the actual lack of collection of the premium by us. Current economic conditions arising since 2008 have increased the risk of agent insolvency. Because the possibility of these events is dependent in large part upon the financial condition and internal operations of our producers, we may not be able to quantify any potential exposure presented by the risk. If we are unable to collect premium from our producers in the future, our financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

 

Provisions of the Michigan Business Corporation Act, our articles of incorporation and other corporate governing documents and the insurance laws of Michigan and Missouri may discourage takeover attempts.

 

The Michigan Business Corporation Act contains “anti-takeover” provisions. Chapter 7A (the “Fair Price Act”) of the Business Corporation Act applies to us and may have an anti-takeover effect and may delay, defer

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

or prevent a tender offer or takeover attempt that a shareholder might consider in their best interest, including those attempts that might result in shareholders receiving a premium over market price for their shares.

 

The Fair Price Act provides that a supermajority vote of ninety percent of the shareholders and no less than two-thirds of the votes of non interested shareholders must approve a “business combination.” The Fair Price Act defines a “business combination” to encompass any merger, consolidation, share exchange, sale of assets, stock issue, liquidation, or reclassification of securities involving an “interested shareholder” or certain “affiliates.” An “interested shareholder” is generally any person who owns ten percent or more of the outstanding voting shares of the company. An “affiliate” is a person who directly or indirectly controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with, a specified person. The supermajority vote required by the Fair Price Act does not apply to business combinations that satisfy certain conditions. These conditions include, among others: (i) the purchase price to be paid for the shares of the company in the business combination must be at least equal to the highest of either (a) the market value of the shares or (b) the highest per share price paid by the interested shareholder within the preceding two-year period or in the transaction in which the shareholder became an interested shareholder, whichever is higher; and (ii) once becoming an interested shareholder, the person may not become the beneficial owner of any additional shares of the company except as part of the transaction that resulted in the interested shareholder becoming an interested shareholder or by virtue of proportionate stock splits or stock dividends.

 

Our articles of incorporation allow our Board of Directors to issue one or more classes or series of preferred stock with voting rights, preferences and other privileges as the Board of Directors may determine. The possible issuance of preferred shares could adversely affect the holders of our common stock and could prevent, delay, or defer a change of control.

 

We are also subject to the laws of Michigan, Ohio, Texas, Washington D.C., and Missouri, which govern insurance holding companies. Under these laws, a person generally must obtain the applicable Insurance Department’s approval to acquire, directly or indirectly, five to ten percent or more of the outstanding voting securities of our Insurance Company Subsidiaries. An Insurance Department’s determination of whether to approve an acquisition would be based on a variety of factors, including an evaluation of the acquirer’s financial stability, the competence of its management, and whether competition in that state would be reduced. These laws may prevent, delay or defer a change of control of us or our Insurance Company Subsidiaries.

 

Most states assess our Insurance Company Subsidiaries to provide funds for failing insurance companies and those assessments could be material.

 

Our Insurance Company Subsidiaries are subject to assessments in most states where we are licensed for the provision of funds necessary for the settlement of covered claims under certain policies provided by impaired, insolvent or failed insurance companies. Maximum contributions required by law in any one year vary by state, and have historically been less than one percent of annual premiums written. We cannot predict with certainty the amount of future assessments. Significant assessments could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

 

We may require additional capital in the future, which may not be available or may only be available on unfavorable terms.

 

Our future capital requirements depend on many factors, including our ability to write new business successfully and to establish premium rates and reserves at levels sufficient to cover losses. To the extent that our present capital is insufficient to meet future operating requirements and/or cover losses, we may need to raise additional funds through financings. If we had to raise additional capital, equity or debt financing may not be available or may be on terms that are not favorable to us. In the case of equity financings, dilution to our shareholders could result, and in any case such securities may have rights, preferences and privileges that are senior to those of the shares currently outstanding. If we cannot obtain adequate capital on favorable terms or at all, our business, operating results and financial condition could be adversely affected.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

Our status as an insurance holding company with no direct operations could adversely affect our ability to meet our debt obligations and pay shareholder dividends.

 

We are a holding company that transacts the majority of our business through our Insurance Company Subsidiaries. Our ability to meet our obligations on our outstanding debt, and to pay our expenses and shareholder dividends, may depend upon the surplus and earnings of our Insurance Company Subsidiaries and their ability to pay dividends to us. Payments of dividends to us by our Insurance Company Subsidiaries are restricted by state insurance laws, including laws establishing minimum solvency and liquidity thresholds, and could be subject to revised restrictions in the future. As a result, at times, we may not be able to receive dividends from our Insurance Company Subsidiaries and we may not receive dividends in amounts necessary to meet our debt obligations or to pay shareholder dividends on our capital stock. In addition, the payment of shareholder dividends by us is within the discretion of our Board of Directors and depends on numerous factors, including our results of operations, financial condition, competition, market conditions, capital requirements and other factors that our Board of Directors considers relevant.

 

Our performance is dependent on the continued services and performance of our senior management and other key personnel.

 

The success of our business is dependent on our ability to retain and motivate our senior management and key management personnel and their efforts. The loss of the services of any of our executive officers or other key employees could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. We have existing employment or severance agreements with Robert S. Cubbin, Christopher J. Timm, Karen M. Spaun, Michael G. Costello, and other senior executives. We maintain a “key person” life insurance policy on Robert S. Cubbin, our President and CEO. The loss of any of these officers or other key personnel could cause our ability to implement our business strategies to be delayed or hindered.

 

Our future success also will depend on our ability to attract, train, motivate and retain other highly skilled technical, managerial, marketing, and customer service personnel. Competition for these employees is strong and we may not be able to successfully attract, integrate or retain sufficiently qualified personnel. In addition, our future success depends on our ability to attract, retain and motivate our agents and other producers. Our failure to attract and retain the necessary personnel and producers could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.

 

Although we have paid cash dividends in the past, we may not pay cash dividends in the future.

 

The declaration and payment of dividends is subject to the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, cash requirements, future prospects, regulatory and contractual restrictions on the payment of dividends by our Insurance Company Subsidiaries and other factors deemed relevant by our Board of Directors. There is no requirement that we must, and we cannot assure you that we will, declare and pay any dividends in the future. Our Board of Directors may determine to retain such capital for general corporate or other purposes.

 

We rely on our information technology and telecommunications systems to conduct our business.

 

Our business is dependent upon the uninterrupted functioning of our information technology and telecommunication systems. We rely upon our systems, as well as the systems of our vendors, to underwrite and process our business, make claim payments, provide customer service, provide policy administration services, such as endorsements, cancellations and premium collections, comply with insurance regulatory requirements and perform actuarial and other analytical functions necessary for pricing and product development. Our operations are dependent upon our ability to timely and efficiently process our business and protect our information and telecommunications systems from physical loss, telecommunications failure or other similar catastrophic events, as well as from security breaches. While we have implemented business contingency plans and other reasonable and appropriate internal controls to protect our systems from

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

interruption, loss or security breaches, a sustained business interruption or system failure could adversely impact our ability to process our business, provide customer service, pay claims in a timely manner or perform other necessary business functions. Likewise, a security breach of our computer systems could also interrupt or damage our operations or harm our reputation in the event confidential customer information is disclosed to third parties. In addition, the cost to remedy a severe security breach could also be substantial. These circumstances could have a material adverse effect upon our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, or reputation.

 

Managing technology initiatives and obtaining the efficiencies anticipated with technology implementation may present significant challenges.

 

While technological enhancements and initiatives can streamline several business processes and ultimately reduce the costs of operations, these initiatives can present short-term costs and implementation risks. Projections of associated costs, implementation timelines, and the benefits of those results may be inaccurate and such inaccuracies could increase over time. In addition, there are risks associated with not achieving the anticipated efficiencies from technology implementation that could impact our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.

 

 

None.

 

 

In 1998, we purchased land in Southfield, Michigan for a cost of $3.2 million. In 2004, the construction of our corporate headquarters was completed on half of this land and in December 2004 we relocated to the new office building. Our corporate headquarters are approximately 72,000 square feet. The total construction cost of the building approximated $12.0 million, which was paid in full at the closing on January 19, 2005.

 

In 2003, we entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement, whereby we agreed to sell the remaining portion of the land to an unaffiliated third party for the purpose of constructing an office building adjacent to our corporate headquarters. Under the Purchase and Sale Agreement, the third party agreed to pay $2.1 million for the land, $1.2 million for their share of the costs related to the common areas of the building, and other related costs of approximately $226,000. In May 2005, we closed on the transaction.

 

The unaffiliated third party had until July 2007 to pay the principal balance, however we negotiated an extension through May 1, 2009. Subsequent to the expiration of the extension, it has been determined the unaffiliated third party does not intend to pay the remaining principal balance. Therefore, we intend to foreclose on the property in 2010.

 

With the ProCentury merger, we assumed the lease of their corporate headquarters, an approximately 44,000 square foot office building located in Westerville, Ohio. The lease agreement for this building has an initial term of ten years, which expires in 2013.

 

We are also a party to various leases, including other leases acquired from ProCentury, for other locations in which we have offices. We do not consider any of these leases to be material.

 

 

We are subject at times to various claims, lawsuits and proceedings relating principally to alleged errors or omissions in the placement of insurance, claims administration, consulting services and other business transactions arising in the ordinary course of business. Where appropriate, we vigorously defend such claims, lawsuits and proceedings. Some of these claims, lawsuits and proceedings seek damages, including consequential, exemplary or punitive damages, in amounts that could, if awarded, be significant. Most of the claims, lawsuits and proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business are covered by the policy at issue, errors

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

and omissions insurance or other appropriate insurance. In terms of deductibles associated with such insurance, we have established provisions against these items, which are believed to be adequate in light of current information and legal advice. In accordance with accounting guidance, if it is probable that an asset has been impaired or a liability has been incurred as of the date of the financial statements and the amount of loss is estimable, an accrual for the costs to resolve these claims is recorded in our consolidated financial statements. Period expenses related to the defense of such claims are included in other operating expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. With the assistance of outside counsel, we adjust such provisions according to new developments or changes in the strategy in dealing with such matters. On the basis of current information, we do not expect the outcome of the claims, lawsuits and proceedings to which we are subject to, either individually, or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition. However, it is possible that future results of operations or cash flows for any particular quarter or annual period could be materially affected by an unfavorable resolution of any such matters.

 

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

PART II

 

 

 

Shareholder Relations and Form 10-K

 

A copy of our 2009 Annual Report and Form 10-K, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, may be obtained upon written request to our Financial Reporting Department at our corporate headquarters, or contact:

 

Karen M. Spaun, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(248) 204-8178 karen.spaun@meadowbrook.com

 

Direct Investment Plan

 

Our Shareholder Investment Plan (“Plan”) offers a simple and systematic way to purchase our common stock without paying brokerage fees or commissions. With the Plan’s many flexible features, an account may be customized to reflect individual financial and investment objectives. If you would like additional information including a prospectus and an application, please contact:

 

BNY Mellon Shareowner Services
1-800- 442-8134

 

Or visit their website at www.bnymellon.com/shareowner/isd

 

Share Price and Dividend Information

 

Our common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “MIG.” The following table sets forth the high and low closing sale prices of our common shares as reported by the NYSE and our quarterly dividends declared for each period shown:

 

 

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

 

For additional information regarding dividend restrictions, refer to the Liquidity and Capital Resources section of Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

 

When evaluating the declaration of a dividend, our Board of Directors considers a variety of factors, including but not limited to, our cash flow, liquidity needs, results of operations strategic plans, industry conditions, our overall financial condition and other relevant factors. As a holding company, the ability to pay cash dividends is partially dependent on dividends and other permitted payments from our subsidiaries. In 2009 and 2008, the Insurance Company Subsidiaries paid dividends to our holding company of $39.5 million and $46.2 million, respectively.

 

Shareholders of Record

 

As of March 10, 2010, there were approximately 264 shareholders of record of our common stock. For purposes of this determination, Cede & Co., the nominee for the Depositary Trust Company is treated as one holder.

 

Purchase of Equity Securities by the Issuer

 

In July 2008, our Board of Directors authorized management to purchase up to 3.0 million shares of our common stock in market transactions for a period not to exceed twenty-four months. Recently, on February 12, 2010, our Board of Directors authorized us to purchase up to 5.0 million shares of our common stock in market transactions for a period not to exceed twenty-four months. This share repurchase plan replaced the existing share repurchase plan authorized in July 2008.

 

The following table presents information with respect to repurchases of our common stock made during the quarterly period ended December 31, 2009:

 

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

Performance Graph

 

The following graph sets forth, for the five year period ended December 31, 2009, the cumulative total stockholder return for the Company’s common stock, the Russell 2000 Index, and a Peer Group index. The graph assumes the investment of $100 on December 31, 2004 in Common Stock of the Company, the Russell 2000 Index, and a Peer Group index. The stock price performance represented on the following graph is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance.

 

The performance graph shall not be deemed “soliciting material” or to be “filed” with the Securities and Exchange Commission, nor shall such information be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any future filing of the Company under the Securities Exchange Act of 1933 or Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each as amended, except to the extent the Company specifically incorporates it by reference into such filing.

 

Comparison of Five Year Cumulative Total Return

 

 

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

 

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

 

 

Unconsolidated GAAP data — Ratio Calculation Table:

 

 

As previously indicated, the Merger with ProCentury was completed following the close of business on July, 31, 2008. Therefore, the above table includes only five months of financial results for ProCentury for the year ended December 31, 2008 and twelve months of financial results for the year ended December 31, 2009.

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

 

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

This Form 10-K may provide information including certain statements which constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These include statements regarding the intent, belief, or current expectations of management, including, but not limited to, those statements that use the words “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” or similar expressions. You are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve a number of risks and uncertainties, and results could differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. Among the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements are: the frequency and severity of claims; uncertainties inherent in reserve estimates; catastrophic events; a change in the demand for, pricing of, availability or collectibility of reinsurance; increased rate pressure on premiums; ability to obtain rate increases in current market conditions; investment rate of return; changes in and adherence to insurance regulation; actions taken by regulators, rating agencies or lenders; attainment of certain processing efficiencies; changing rates of inflation; general economic conditions and other risks identified in our reports and registration statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We are not under any obligation to (and expressly disclaim any such obligation to) update or alter our forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

 

Business Overview

 

We are a publicly traded specialty insurance underwriter and insurance administration services company. We market and underwrite specialty property and casualty insurance programs and products on both an admitted and non-admitted basis through a broad and diverse network of independent retail, wholesale program administrators and general agents, who value service, specialized knowledge, and focused expertise. We primarily focus on niche or specialty products and program business and risk management solutions for agents, professional and trade associations, pools, trusts, and small to medium-sized insureds. These solutions include specialty program underwriting; excess and surplus lines insurance products; alternative risk transfer solutions; agency operations; and insurance administration services. Program business refers to an aggregation of individually underwritten risks that have some unique characteristic and are distributed through a select group of general agencies, retail agencies and program administrators. We define our business segments as specialty insurance operations and agency operations.

 

Our insurance programs are diversified geographically, by class and line of business, type of insured and distribution. Within the workers’ compensation line of business, we have a regional focus in California and New England. Within the commercial auto and commercial multiple peril line of business, we have a regional focus in the Southeast and California. Within the general liability line of business we have a focus in Texas. Our fee-for-service business is managed on a regional basis with an emphasis in the Midwest, New England, and southeastern regions of the United States. Our corporate strategy emphasizes a regional focus and diverse sources of revenue between underwritten premiums, service fee revenue, and commissions. This allows us to leverage fixed costs over a larger revenue base and take advantage of new opportunities.

 

On July 31, 2008, the merger of Meadowbrook Insurance Group, Inc. and ProCentury Corporation (“ProCentury”) was completed (“Merger”). Under the terms of the merger agreement, ProCentury shareholders were entitled to receive, for each ProCentury common share, either $20.00 in cash or Meadowbrook common stock based on a 2.5000 exchange ratio, subject to adjustment as described within the merger agreement. In accordance with the merger agreement, the stock price used in determining the final cash and share consideration portion of the purchase price was based on the volume-weighted average sales price of a share

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS — continued

 

of Meadowbrook common stock for the 30-day trading period ending on the sixth trading day before the completion of the Merger, or $5.7326. Based upon the proration, the total purchase price was $227.2 million, of which $99.1 million consisted of cash, $122.7 million in newly issued common stock, and approximately $5.4 million in transaction related costs. The total number of common shares issued for purposes of the stock portion of the purchase price was 21.1 million shares.

 

ProCentury is a specialty insurance company, which primarily underwrites general liability, commercial property, environmental, garage, commercial multi-peril, commercial auto, surety, and marine insurance primarily in the excess and surplus lines, or “non-admitted,” market through a select group of general agents. The excess and surplus lines market provides insurance coverage for customers with hard-to-place risks that standard or admitted insurers typically choose not to insure.

 

Five months of earnings of ProCentury are included in our financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2008. Twelve months of earnings are included as of and for the year ended December 31, 2009.

 

Since the completion of the Merger, we have been executing on numerous revenue enhancement opportunities and leveraging the infrastructure as summarized below:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Specialty Insurance Operations

 

Our specialty insurance operations segment, which includes insurance company specialty programs and fee-for-service specialty or managed programs, focuses on specialty or niche insurance business. Our specialty insurance operations provide services and coverages tailored to meet specific requirements of defined client groups and their members. These services include risk management consulting, claims administration and handling, loss control and prevention, and reinsurance placement, along with various types of property and casualty insurance coverage, including workers’ compensation, commercial multiple peril, general liability, commercial auto liability, excess and surplus lines, environmental, garage, surety, legal, professional liability, errors and omissions, inland marine, and other lines of business, where we see a market need and a profit potential. Insurance coverage is provided primarily to associations or similar groups of members and to specified classes of business of our agents. We recognize revenue related to the services and coverages the

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS — continued

 

specialty insurance operations provides within seven categories: net earned premiums, management fees, claims fees, loss control fees, reinsurance placement, investment income, and net realized gains (losses).

 

We included the results of operations related to ProCentury within the specialty insurance operations. Therefore, specialty insurance operations include five months of results for ProCentury for the year ended December 31, 2008 and twelve months of results for the year ended December 31, 2009.

 

In addition, our subsidiary, Star, purchased a 28.5% ownership interest in an insurance holding limited liability company. This ownership interest is significant, but is less than a majority ownership and, therefore, is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Star, therefore, will recognize 28.5% of the profits and losses as a result of this equity interest ownership. For segment reporting purposes, the equity earnings related to this investment is shown gross of tax. Equity earnings of affiliates, relates to our proportionate share of this investment, which we consider to be consistent with our specialty insurance operations and, therefore, we have included the respective equity earnings within the specialty insurance operations segment.

 

With a fee-for-service or managed program, we earn revenue by providing certain operational and administrative functions and other services to a client’s risk-bearing entity, but generally do not share in the operating results of the program. The fees we receive from these programs are generally either a fixed amount or based on a percentage of premium serviced or claim count.

 

Based upon the particular risk management goals of our clients, market conditions and our assessment of the opportunity for operating profit, our specialty insurance operations offer solutions on a fully-insured basis, a risk-sharing basis, or a managed basis, in response to a specific market opportunity. In a managed program, we earn service fee revenue by providing certain operational functions and other services to a client’s risk-bearing entity, but generally do not share in the operating results. In a risk-sharing program, we share the operating results with the client through a reinsurance agreement with an insurance company, captive, or rent-a-captive. In a profit-sharing structure, we pay an agent a commission that is adjusted based on the operating results of the program. These structures, other than the profit-sharing commission structure, are licensed insurance or reinsurance companies and are accounted for in accordance with accounting guidance as it relates to reinsurance and insurance products. In risk-sharing programs, we derive revenue from net earned premiums, fee-for-service revenue and commissions, and investment income. In addition, we may benefit from the fees our risk management subsidiary earns for services we perform on behalf of our Insurance Company Subsidiaries. These fees are eliminated upon consolidation. However, the fees associated with the captive’s portion of the program are reimbursed through a ceding commission. For a fully-insured program, we provide insurance products without a risk-bearing mechanism and derive revenue from net earned premiums and investment income. For further descriptions of our insurance programs and products refer to the Business section.

 

In addition to premium revenue and investment income from our net retained portion of the operating results, we may also be compensated through the receipt of fees for policy issuance services and acquisition costs, captive administration, reinsurance placement, loss prevention services, and claims administrative and handling services. In addition, we may benefit from the fees our risk management subsidiary earns for services we perform on behalf of our Insurance Company Subsidiaries. These fees are eliminated upon consolidation. However, the fees associated with the captive’s portion of the program are reimbursed through a ceding commission. For financial reporting purposes, ceding commissions are treated as a reduction in underwriting expenses.

 

With fully insured programs, we provide our insurance products without a risk-bearing mechanism and derive revenue from net earned premiums and investment income. Fully insured programs are generally developed in response to specific market opportunities and may evolve into a risk-sharing arrangement.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS — continued

 

Agency Operations

 

We earn commission revenue through the operation of our retail property and casualty insurance agencies, located in Michigan, California, and Florida. The agency operations produce commercial, personal lines, life, and accident and health insurance, for more than fifty unaffiliated insurance carriers. The agency produces an immaterial amount of business for our affiliated Insurance Company Subsidiaries.

 

In recent years, we have derived our revenue from the following sources (in thousands):

 

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

General

 

In certain circumstances, we are required to make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported in our consolidated financial statements and related footnotes. We evaluate these estimates and assumptions on an on-going basis based on a variety of factors. There can be no assurance, however, the actual results will not be materially different than our estimates and assumptions, and that reported results of operation will not be affected by accounting adjustments needed to reflect changes in these estimates and assumptions. We believe the following policies are the most sensitive to estimates and judgments.

 

Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses

 

Significant periods of time can elapse between the occurrence of a loss, the reporting of the loss to the insurer, and the insurer’s payment of that loss. To recognize liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses (“LAE”), insurers establish reserves as balance sheet liabilities representing estimates of amounts needed to pay reported and unreported net losses and LAE.

 

We establish a liability for losses and LAE, which represents case based estimates of reported unpaid losses and LAE and actuarial estimates of incurred but not reported losses (“IBNR”) and LAE. Such liabilities, by necessity, are based upon estimates and, while we believe the amount of our reserves is adequate, the ultimate liability may be greater or less than the estimate. As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, we have accrued $949.2 million and $885.7 million of gross loss and LAE reserves, respectively.

 

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

 

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS — continued

 

Components of Losses and Loss Adjustment Expense

 

The following table sets forth our gross and net reserves for losses and LAE based upon an underlying source of data, at December 31, 2009 (in thousands):