NOTES TO UNAUDITED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1. Basis of Presentation
The words "Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our” refer to Selective Insurance Group, Inc. (the "Parent") and its subsidiaries, except as expressly indicated or the context requires otherwise. We have prepared our interim unaudited consolidated financial statements (“Financial Statements”) in conformity with (i) United States ("U.S.") generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), and (ii) the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) regarding interim financial reporting. These require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported financial statement balances and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ from those estimates. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated in consolidation.
Our Financial Statements reflect all adjustments that, in our opinion, are normal, recurring, and necessary for a fair presentation of our results of operations and financial condition. Our Financial Statements cover the second quarters ended June 30, 2024 (“Second Quarter 2024”) and June 30, 2023 (“Second Quarter 2023”), and the six-month periods ended June 30, 2024 ("Six Months 2024") and June 30, 2023 ("Six Months 2023"). Our Financial Statements do not include all information and disclosures required by GAAP and the SEC for audited annual financial statements. Because interim period results of operations are not necessarily indicative of full-year results, our Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 (“2023 Annual Report”) filed with the SEC.
NOTE 2. Adoption of Accounting Pronouncements
In June 2022, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2022-03, Fair Value Measurement of Equity Securities Subject to Contractual Sale Restrictions (“ASU 2022-03”). ASU 2022-03 clarifies that a contractual sales restriction on an equity security is not considered when determining the security's fair value. This ASU was issued to eliminate diversity in practice by clarifying that contractual arrangements restricting an entity's ability to sell the security for a certain period of time is a characteristic of the reporting entity and should not be contemplated when determining the security's fair value. ASU 2022-03 requires new disclosures that provide investors with information about the restriction, including the nature and remaining duration of the restriction. The ASU is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2023, including interim periods within those annual periods. We adopted this guidance on January 1, 2024 and it did not have a material impact to our financial condition, results of operations, or disclosures.
In March 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-02, Investments — Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323): Accounting for Investments in Tax Credit Structures Using the Proportional Amortization Method ("ASU 2023-02"). This ASU allows companies to elect to account for qualifying tax equity investments, regardless of the tax credit program from which the income tax credits are received, using the proportional amortization method if certain conditions are met. Companies were previously permitted to apply the proportional amortization method only to qualifying tax equity investments in low income housing tax credit structures. ASU 2023-02 extends the application of the proportional amortization method to qualifying tax equity investments that generate tax credits through other programs. It also requires new disclosures that provide a better understanding of the nature of the tax equity investments and the effect the tax equity investments and related income tax credits and other income tax benefits have on a company's financial position and results of operations. The ASU is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2023, including interim periods within those fiscal years. We adopted ASU 2023-02 on January 1, 2024 and it did not have a material impact to our financial condition, results of operations, or disclosures.
Pronouncements to be effective in the future
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures ("ASU 2023-07"). ASU 2023-07 amends disclosure requirements for segment reporting by modifying and adding disclosure requirements. The additional disclosure requirements include the following on both an interim and annual basis: (i) significant segment expenses that are regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker ("CODM"); (ii) amounts for "other segment items" by reportable segment and a description of its composition; and (iii) the title and position of the CODM and an explanation of how the CODM uses the reported measure(s) of segment profit or loss in assessing segment performance and deciding how to allocate resources. In addition, ASU 2023-07 requires all annual disclosures about a reportable segment’s profit or loss and assets currently required by Topic 280, Segment Reporting, to now be disclosed in interim periods. ASU 2023-07 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. As it only requires additional disclosure, ASU 2023-07 will not have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures (“ASU 2023-09”). ASU 2023-09 amends disclosure requirements to provide greater transparency on income taxes. The following additional disclosures
are required annually: (i) specific required categories in the rate reconciliation, (ii) additional information for reconciling items that meet a quantitative threshold, (iii) the amount of income taxes paid disaggregated by jurisdiction, and (iv) income tax expense (or benefit) from continuing operations disaggregated by federal, state, and foreign. ASU 2023-09 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. Amendments can be applied on a prospective basis; however, retrospective application is permitted. Early adoption is permitted. As it only requires additional disclosure, ASU 2023-09 will not have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.
NOTE 3. Statements of Cash Flows
Supplemental cash flow information was as follows:
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
Cash paid (received) during the period for:
Interest
$
14,209
14,164
Federal income tax
46,000
34,000
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from operating leases
3,884
4,038
Operating cash flows from financing leases
65
20
Financing cash flows from finance leases
1,266
1,231
Non-cash items:
Corporate actions related to fixed income securities, available-for-sale ("AFS")1
10,250
23,150
Corporate actions related to equity securities1
29,250
—
Assets acquired under finance lease arrangements
5,947
—
Assets acquired under operating lease arrangements
10,257
4,509
Non-cash purchase of property and equipment
9
—
1Examples of corporate actions include like-kind exchanges, non-cash acquisitions, and stock splits.
The following table provides a reconciliation of cash and restricted cash reported within the Consolidated Balance Sheets that equate to the amount reported in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows:
($ in thousands)
June 30, 2024
December 31, 2023
Cash
$
160
180
Restricted cash
10,748
13,092
Total cash and restricted cash shown in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
$
10,908
13,272
Amounts in restricted cash represent cash received from the National Flood Insurance Program ("NFIP") that can only be used to pay flood claims under the Write Your Own program.
NOTE 4. Investments
(a) Information regarding our AFS securities as of June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, were as follows:
June 30, 2024
Cost/ Amortized Cost
Allowance for Credit Losses
Unrealized Gains
Unrealized Losses
Fair Value
($ in thousands)
AFS fixed income securities:
U.S. government and government agencies
$
170,819
—
56
(19,907)
150,968
Foreign government
10,687
(26)
—
(1,427)
9,234
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
558,455
(639)
770
(33,151)
525,435
Corporate securities
2,987,824
(15,950)
17,803
(143,725)
2,845,952
Collateralized loan obligations ("CLO") and other asset-backed securities ("ABS")
Current Provision for Securities without Prior Allowance
Initial Allowance for Purchased Credit Deteriorated Assets with Credit Deterioration
Increase (Decrease) on Securities with Prior Allowance, excluding intent (or Requirement) to Sell Securities
Reductions for Securities Sold
Reductions for Securities Identified as Intent (or Requirement) to Sell during the Period
Ending Balance
($ in thousands)
Foreign government
$
284
—
—
(250)
—
—
34
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
1,024
67
—
(239)
(83)
—
769
Corporate securities
30,330
4,141
—
(14,884)
(3,387)
(51)
16,149
CLO and other ABS
2,375
677
—
(127)
(10)
—
2,915
RMBS
11,597
8
—
174
(229)
—
11,550
CMBS
111
1
—
39
(143)
—
8
Total AFS fixed income securities
$
45,721
4,894
—
(15,287)
(3,852)
(51)
31,425
During Six Months 2024 and Six Months 2023, we had no write-offs or recoveries of our AFS fixed income securities.
For information on our methodology and significant inputs used to measure expected credit losses, our accounting policy for recognizing write-offs of uncollectible amounts, and our treatment of accrued interest, refer to Note 2. "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" in Item 8. "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data." of our 2023 Annual Report. Accrued interest on AFS securities was $70.1 million as of June 30, 2024, and $64.6 million as of December 31, 2023. We did not record any write-offs of accrued interest in Six Months 2024 and Six Months 2023.
(b) Quantitative information about unrealized losses on our AFS portfolio follows:
June 30, 2024
Less than 12 months
12 months or longer
Total
($ in thousands)
Fair Value
Unrealized Losses
Fair Value
Unrealized Losses
Fair Value
Unrealized Losses
AFS fixed income securities:
U.S. government and government agencies
$
33,667
(52)
107,306
(19,855)
140,973
(19,907)
Foreign government
—
—
9,234
(1,427)
9,234
(1,427)
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
128,665
(1,644)
329,528
(31,507)
458,193
(33,151)
Corporate securities
358,779
(3,477)
1,477,738
(140,248)
1,836,517
(143,725)
CLO and other ABS
368,307
(6,432)
798,783
(63,472)
1,167,090
(69,904)
RMBS
385,794
(6,133)
878,915
(105,287)
1,264,709
(111,420)
CMBS
75,052
(779)
550,901
(38,599)
625,953
(39,378)
Total AFS fixed income securities
$
1,350,264
(18,517)
4,152,405
(400,395)
5,502,669
(418,912)
December 31, 2023
Less than 12 months
12 months or longer
Total
($ in thousands)
Fair Value
Unrealized Losses
Fair Value
Unrealized Losses
Fair Value
Unrealized Losses
AFS fixed income securities:
U.S. government and government agencies
$
77,698
(188)
108,578
(18,073)
186,276
(18,261)
Foreign government
1,552
(87)
8,251
(1,215)
9,803
(1,302)
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
137,031
(962)
290,964
(27,965)
427,995
(28,927)
Corporate securities
263,423
(6,369)
1,439,422
(131,519)
1,702,845
(137,888)
CLO and other ABS
278,940
(7,120)
984,175
(78,885)
1,263,115
(86,005)
RMBS
351,976
(4,765)
757,914
(81,086)
1,109,890
(85,851)
CMBS
130,189
(2,995)
471,256
(42,135)
601,445
(45,130)
Total AFS fixed income securities
$
1,240,809
(22,486)
4,060,560
(380,878)
5,301,369
(403,364)
We currently do not intend to sell any of the securities summarized in the tables above, nor do we believe we will be required to sell any of them. Considering these factors and our review of these securities under our credit loss policy as described in Note 2. "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" in Item 8. "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data." of our 2023 Annual Report, we have concluded that no additional allowance for credit loss is required on these balances beyond the allowance for credit loss recorded as of June 30, 2024. This conclusion reflects our current judgment about the financial position and future prospects of the entities that issued the investment security and underlying collateral.
(c) AFS and held-to-maturity ("HTM") fixed income securities at June 30, 2024, by contractual maturity are shown below. The maturities of RMBS, CMBS, CLO and other ABS securities were calculated using each security's estimated average life. Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.
AFS
HTM
($ in thousands)
Fair Value
Carrying Value
Fair Value
Due in one year or less
$
587,352
820
810
Due after one year through five years
3,507,774
14,209
13,662
Due after five years through 10 years
2,827,999
4,467
4,084
Due after 10 years
745,908
—
—
Total fixed income securities
$
7,669,033
19,496
18,556
(d) The following table summarizes our alternative investment portfolio by strategy:
June 30, 2024
December 31, 2023
($ in thousands)
Carrying Value
Remaining Commitment
Maximum Exposure to Loss
Carrying Value
Remaining Commitment
Maximum Exposure to Loss
Alternative Investments
Private equity
$
319,236
148,558
467,794
301,759
131,885
433,644
Private credit
52,106
98,417
150,523
54,500
89,401
143,901
Real assets
43,438
42,336
85,774
39,520
33,040
72,560
Total alternative investments
$
414,780
289,311
704,091
395,779
254,326
650,105
We are contractually committed to make additional investments up to the remaining commitments stated above. We did not provide any non-contractual financial support during 2024 or 2023.
The following table shows gross summarized financial information for our alternative investments portfolio, including the portion we do not own. As the majority of these investments report results to us on a one quarter lag, the summarized financial statement information is for 3- and 6-month periods ended March 31:
Income Statement Information
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in millions)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Net investment income (loss)
$
242.4
(70.6)
$
(103.6)
(141.3)
Realized gains
1,554.2
922.0
3,385.1
2,644.3
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)
2,850.2
3,754.0
6,669.2
5,197.8
Net income
$
4,646.8
4,605.4
$
9,950.7
7,700.8
Alternative investment income included in "Net investment income earned" on our Consolidated Statements of Income
$
10.5
11.4
$
17.4
19.2
(e) We have pledged certain AFS fixed income securities as collateral related to our borrowing relationships with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis ("FHLBI") and the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York ("FHLBNY"). In addition, we had certain securities on deposit with various state and regulatory agencies at June 30, 2024 to comply with insurance laws. We retain all rights regarding all securities pledged as collateral.
The following table summarizes the market value of these securities at June 30, 2024:
($ in millions)
FHLBI Collateral
FHLBNY Collateral
State and Regulatory Deposits
Total
U.S. government and government agencies
$
—
—
19.9
19.9
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
—
—
4.2
4.2
RMBS
64.2
23.2
—
87.4
CMBS
2.1
8.3
—
10.4
Total pledged as collateral
$
66.3
31.5
24.1
121.9
(f) We did not have exposure to any credit concentration risk of a single issuer greater than 10% of our stockholders' equity, other than to certain U.S. government agencies, as of June 30, 2024, or December 31, 2023.
(g) The components of pre-tax net investment income earned were as follows:
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Fixed income securities
$
93,935
83,916
$
188,037
164,003
Commercial mortgage loans ("CMLs")
3,145
2,199
5,939
4,164
Equity securities
1,877
2,236
6,785
3,441
Short-term investments
4,680
2,892
8,199
7,542
Alternative investments
10,517
11,396
17,398
19,164
Other investments
118
188
381
231
Investment expenses
(5,630)
(5,131)
(10,248)
(9,343)
Net investment income earned
$
108,642
97,696
$
216,491
189,202
The increase in net investment income earned in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods was primarily driven by higher interest rates, active portfolio management, and operating and investing cash flow deployment.
(h) The following table summarizes net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses for the periods indicated:
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Gross gains on sales
$
4,387
1,156
$
6,522
4,940
Gross losses on sales
(1,251)
(11,952)
(3,216)
(24,882)
Net realized gains (losses) on disposals
3,136
(10,796)
3,306
(19,942)
Net unrealized gains (losses) on equity securities
(93)
4,925
599
8,173
Net credit loss benefit (expense) on fixed income securities, AFS
(1,233)
864
(3,883)
10,393
Net credit loss benefit (expense) on CMLs
(32)
(78)
136
(61)
Losses on securities for which we have the intent to sell
(481)
(341)
(496)
(645)
Net realized and unrealized investment gains (losses)
$
1,297
(5,426)
$
(338)
(2,082)
Net unrealized gains and losses recognized in income on equity securities, as reflected in the table above, included the following:
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Unrealized gains (losses) recognized in income on equity securities:
On securities remaining in our portfolio at end of period
$
2,617
2,784
$
2,906
2,685
On securities sold in period
(2,710)
2,141
(2,307)
5,488
Total unrealized gains (losses) recognized in income on equity securities
$
(93)
4,925
$
599
8,173
NOTE 5. Fair Value Measurements
The financial assets in our investment portfolio are primarily measured at fair value as disclosed on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The following table presents the carrying amounts and fair values of our financial liabilities as of June 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023:
For discussion regarding the fair value techniques of our financial instruments, refer to Note 2. "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" in Item 8. "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data." of our 2023 Annual Report.
The following tables provide quantitative disclosures of our financial assets that were measured and recorded at fair value at June 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023:
June 30, 2024
Fair Value Measurements Using
($ in thousands)
Assets Measured at Fair Value
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets/ Liabilities (Level 1)
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Description
Measured on a recurring basis:
AFS fixed income securities:
U.S. government and government agencies
$
150,968
33,453
117,515
—
Foreign government
9,234
—
9,234
—
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
525,435
—
517,781
7,654
Corporate securities
2,845,952
—
2,552,239
293,713
CLO and other ABS
1,916,120
—
1,652,400
263,720
RMBS
1,503,952
—
1,499,066
4,886
CMBS
717,372
—
717,023
349
Total AFS fixed income securities
7,669,033
33,453
7,065,258
570,322
Equity securities:
Common stock1
190,141
34,815
—
1,067
Preferred stock
1,823
1,823
—
—
Total equity securities
191,964
36,638
—
1,067
Short-term investments
417,346
400,906
16,440
—
Total assets measured at fair value
$
8,278,343
470,997
7,081,698
571,389
December 31, 2023
Fair Value Measurements Using
($ in thousands)
Assets Measured at Fair Value
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets/Liabilities (Level 1)
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Description
Measured on a recurring basis:
AFS fixed income securities:
U.S. government and government agencies
$
205,035
34,056
170,979
—
Foreign government
9,803
—
9,803
—
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
585,965
—
578,131
7,834
Corporate securities
2,711,239
—
2,413,907
297,332
CLO and other ABS
1,834,827
—
1,589,514
245,313
RMBS
1,477,483
—
1,477,483
—
CMBS
674,845
—
674,489
356
Total AFS fixed income securities
7,499,197
34,056
6,914,306
550,835
Equity securities:
Common stock1
185,339
20,582
—
854
Preferred stock
1,816
1,816
—
—
Total equity securities
187,155
22,398
—
854
Short-term investments
309,317
308,512
805
—
Total assets measured at fair value
$
7,995,669
364,966
6,915,111
551,689
1Investments amounting to $154.3 million at June 30, 2024, and $163.9 million at December 31, 2023, were measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its practical expedient) and have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy. These investments are not redeemable and the timing of liquidations of the underlying assets is unknown at each reporting period. The fair value amounts in this table are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to total assets measured at fair value.
The following tables provide a summary of Level 3 changes in Six Months 2024 and Six Months 2023:
June 30, 2024
($ in thousands)
Obligations of States and Political Subdivisions
Corporate Securities
CLO and Other ABS
RMBS
CMBS
Common Stock
Total
Fair value, December 31, 2023
$
7,834
297,332
245,313
—
356
854
551,689
Total net gains (losses) for the period included in:
Other comprehensive income (loss) ("OCI")
(112)
1,203
969
—
(2)
—
2,058
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses)
—
218
39
—
—
213
470
Net investment income earned
—
(494)
(7)
—
(1)
—
(502)
Purchases
—
5,261
30,119
4,886
—
—
40,266
Sales
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Issuances
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Settlements
(68)
(7,269)
(4,726)
—
(4)
—
(12,067)
Transfers into Level 3
—
28,896
19,537
—
—
—
48,433
Transfers out of Level 3
—
(31,434)
(27,524)
—
—
—
(58,958)
Fair value, June 30, 2024
$
7,654
293,713
263,720
4,886
349
1,067
571,389
Change in unrealized gains (losses) for the period included in earnings for assets held at period end
—
226
39
—
—
213
478
Change in unrealized gains (losses) for the period included in OCI for assets held at period end
(112)
850
969
—
(2)
—
1,705
June 30, 2023
($ in thousands)
Obligation of state and Political Subdivisions
Corporate Securities
CLO and Other ABS
CMBS
Common Stock
Total
Fair value, December 31, 2022
$
6,661
187,980
153,342
375
897
349,255
Total net gains (losses) for the period included in:
OCI
(7)
1,857
(1,168)
64
—
746
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses)
62
251
17
—
(235)
95
Net investment income earned
—
112
(20)
(263)
—
(171)
Purchases
—
58,586
39,713
—
—
98,299
Sales
—
—
—
—
—
—
Issuances
—
—
—
—
—
—
Settlements
—
(5,535)
(3,153)
(21)
—
(8,709)
Transfers into Level 3
—
2,238
14,148
2,848
—
19,234
Transfers out of Level 3
—
—
(953)
(2,626)
—
(3,579)
Fair value, June 30, 2023
$
6,716
245,489
201,926
377
662
455,170
Change in unrealized gains (losses) for the period included in earnings for assets held at period end
62
251
17
—
(235)
95
Change in unrealized gains (losses) for the period included in OCI for assets held at period end
(7)
1,846
(1,168)
64
—
735
The following tables present quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurements of Level 3 assets at June 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023:
1Other is comprised of broker quotes or other third-party pricing for which there is a lack of transparency into the inputs used to develop the valuations. The quantitative details of these unobservable inputs are neither provided to us, nor reasonably available to us, and therefore are not included in the tables above.
For the securities in the tables above valued using a discounted cash flow analysis, we apply an illiquidity spread in our determination of fair value. An increase in this assumption would result in a lower fair value measurement.
The following tables provide quantitative information about our financial assets and liabilities that were not measured at fair value, but were disclosed as such at June 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023:
June 30, 2024
Fair Value Measurements Using
($ in thousands)
Assets/ Liabilities Disclosed at Fair Value
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets/ Liabilities (Level 1)
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Financial Assets
HTM:
Corporate securities
$
18,556
—
18,556
—
Total HTM fixed income securities
18,556
—
18,556
—
CMLs
$
209,041
—
—
209,041
Financial Liabilities
Long-term debt:
7.25% Senior Notes
$
51,301
—
51,301
—
6.70% Senior Notes
99,393
—
99,393
—
5.375% Senior Notes
283,037
—
283,037
—
3.03% borrowings from FHLBI
57,638
—
57,638
—
Total long-term debt
$
491,369
—
491,369
—
December 31, 2023
Fair Value Measurements Using
($ in thousands)
Assets/ Liabilities Disclosed at Fair Value
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets/ Liabilities (Level 1)
NOTE 6. Allowance for Credit Losses on Premiums Receivable
The following table provides a roll forward of the allowance for credit losses on our premiums receivable balance for the indicated periods:
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Balance at beginning of period
$
20,000
17,100
$
18,900
16,100
Current period change for expected credit losses
2,488
1,515
4,272
3,425
Write-offs charged against the allowance for credit losses
(1,720)
(1,047)
(2,776)
(2,211)
Recoveries
332
332
704
586
Allowance for credit losses, end of period
$
21,100
17,900
$
21,100
17,900
For a discussion of the methodology used to evaluate our estimate of expected credit losses on premiums receivable, refer to Note 2. "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" in Item 8. "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data." of our 2023 Annual Report.
NOTE 7. Reinsurance
We evaluate and monitor the financial condition of our reinsurers under voluntary reinsurance arrangements to minimize our exposure to significant losses from reinsurer insolvencies. The following tables provide (i) a disaggregation of our reinsurance recoverable balance by financial strength rating, and (ii) an aging analysis of our past due reinsurance recoverable balances as of June 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023:
The following table provides a roll forward of the allowance for credit losses on our reinsurance recoverable balance for the periods indicated:
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Balance at beginning of period
$
1,700
2,300
$
1,700
1,600
Current period change for expected credit losses
—
(500)
—
200
Write-offs charged against the allowance for credit losses
—
—
—
—
Recoveries
—
—
—
—
Allowance for credit losses, end of period
$
1,700
1,800
$
1,700
1,800
For a discussion of the methodology used to evaluate our estimate of expected credit losses on our reinsurance recoverable balance, refer to Note 2. "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" in Item 8. "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data." of our 2023 Annual Report.
The following table lists direct, assumed, and ceded reinsurance amounts for premiums written, premiums earned, and loss and loss expense incurred for the indicated periods. For more information about reinsurance, refer to Note 9. “Reinsurance” in Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.” of our 2023 Annual Report.
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Premiums written:
Direct
$
1,399,738
1,232,496
$
2,715,649
2,365,256
Assumed
6,413
5,577
12,398
10,971
Ceded
(180,050)
(153,166)
(345,325)
(291,552)
Net
1,226,101
1,084,907
2,382,722
2,084,675
Premiums earned:
Direct
1,242,696
1,073,498
2,448,064
2,105,726
Assumed
5,779
5,968
11,970
12,258
Ceded
(168,244)
(137,316)
(328,859)
(273,498)
Net
1,080,231
942,150
2,131,175
1,844,486
Loss and loss expense incurred:
Direct
1,009,819
698,994
1,763,386
1,312,223
Assumed
5,058
5,678
11,039
10,933
Ceded
(89,329)
(58,542)
(144,585)
(109,588)
Net
$
925,548
646,130
$
1,629,840
1,213,568
The increase in direct loss and loss expense incurred in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods was primarily due to (i) unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development of $176.0 million in Second Quarter 2024, compared to $3.5 million of favorable development in Second Quarter 2023, and (ii) unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development of $211.0 million in Six Months 2024, compared to $16.5 million of favorable development in Six Months 2023.
The table below provides a roll forward of the reserve for loss and loss expense for beginning and ending reserve balances:
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
Gross reserve for loss and loss expense, at beginning of period
$
5,336,911
5,144,821
Less: reinsurance recoverable on unpaid loss and loss expense, at beginning of period
618,601
757,513
Net reserve for loss and loss expense, at beginning of period
4,718,310
4,387,308
Incurred loss and loss expense for claims occurring in the:
Current year
1,442,719
1,221,635
Prior years
187,121
(8,067)
Total incurred loss and loss expense
1,629,840
1,213,568
Paid loss and loss expense for claims occurring in the:
Current year
347,501
320,026
Prior years
753,658
720,314
Total paid loss and loss expense
1,101,159
1,040,340
Net reserve for loss and loss expense, at end of period
5,246,991
4,560,536
Add: Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid loss and loss expense, at end of period
656,534
616,487
Gross reserve for loss and loss expense, at end of period
$
5,903,525
5,177,023
Prior year reserve development in Six Months 2024 was unfavorable by $187.1 million, consisting of $211.0 million of unfavorable casualty reserve development, partially offset by $23.9 million of favorable property reserve development. The unfavorable casualty reserve development was driven by our Standard Commercial Lines segment, which included (i) $216.0 million in our general liability line of business, primarily driven by increased severities in accident years 2020 through 2023, (ii) $10.0 million in our commercial automobile line of business, partially offset by (iii) $15.0 million of favorable casualty reserve development in our workers compensation line of business.
Additionally, in our Standard Personal Lines segment, we had unfavorable casualty reserve development of $5.0 million in our personal automobile line of business, offset by favorable development of $5.0 million in our homeowners line of business.
Prior year reserve development in Six Months 2023 was favorable by $8.1 million, consisting of $16.5 million of favorable casualty reserve development, partially offset by $8.4 million of unfavorable property reserve development. The favorable casualty reserve development included $17.5 million in our workers compensation line of business and $5.0 million in our Excess and Surplus ("E&S") casualty lines of business, partially offset by $6.0 million of unfavorable casualty reserve development in our personal automobile line of business.
NOTE 9. Segment Information
We evaluate the results of our four reportable segments as follows:
•Our Standard Commercial Lines, Standard Personal Lines, and E&S Lines are evaluated on (i) before and after-tax underwriting results (net premiums earned, incurred loss and loss expense, policyholder dividends, policy acquisition costs, and other underwriting expenses), (ii) their return on equity ("ROE") contribution, and (iii) their combined ratios.
•Our Investments segment is primarily evaluated on after-tax net investment income and its ROE contribution. After-tax net realized and unrealized gains and losses are also included in our Investments segment results.
In computing each segment's results, we do not make adjustments for interest expense or corporate expenses. No segment has a separate investment portfolio or allocated assets.
The following summaries present revenues (net investment income and net realized and unrealized gains and losses on investments in the case of the Investments segment) and pre-tax income for the individual segments:
Revenue by Segment
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Standard Commercial Lines:
Net premiums earned:
General liability
$
280,097
254,510
$
553,512
497,859
Commercial automobile
260,652
225,067
512,372
442,438
Commercial property
168,511
141,348
330,064
276,640
Workers compensation
82,316
88,746
170,093
172,930
Businessowners' policies
41,641
34,385
81,562
67,556
Bonds
12,468
11,619
24,556
23,016
Other
7,808
7,034
15,444
13,885
Miscellaneous income
5,214
5,568
12,348
7,749
Total Standard Commercial Lines revenue
858,707
768,277
1,699,951
1,502,073
Standard Personal Lines:
Net premiums earned:
Personal automobile
57,544
48,230
114,504
93,144
Homeowners
46,055
36,902
90,168
71,915
Other
2,822
2,038
5,595
3,981
Miscellaneous income
594
536
1,235
989
Total Standard Personal Lines revenue
107,015
87,706
211,502
170,029
E&S Lines:
Net premiums earned:
Casualty lines
73,887
62,151
145,525
122,968
Property lines
46,430
30,120
87,780
58,154
Miscellaneous income
27
—
53
—
Total E&S Lines revenue
120,344
92,271
233,358
181,122
Investments:
Net investment income earned
108,642
97,696
216,491
189,202
Net realized and unrealized investment gains (losses)
Underwriting income (loss), before federal income tax
$
(160,881)
22,146
$
(150,500)
61,067
Underwriting income (loss), after federal income tax
(127,096)
17,495
(118,895)
48,243
Combined ratio
118.8
%
97.1
108.9
95.9
ROE contribution
(18.4)
2.8
(8.6)
4.1
Standard Personal Lines:
Underwriting income (loss), before federal income tax
$
(19,301)
(23,060)
$
(24,636)
(36,133)
Underwriting income (loss), after federal income tax
(15,248)
(18,217)
(19,462)
(28,545)
Combined ratio
118.1
%
126.5
111.7
121.4
ROE contribution
(2.2)
(2.9)
(1.4)
(2.4)
E&S Lines:
Underwriting income (loss), before federal income tax
$
6,501
(612)
$
20,486
12,723
Underwriting income (loss), after federal income tax
5,136
(483)
16,184
10,051
Combined ratio
94.6
%
100.7
91.2
93.0
ROE contribution
0.7
(0.1)
1.2
0.8
Investments:
Net investment income earned
$
108,642
97,696
$
216,491
189,202
Net realized and unrealized investment gains (losses)
1,297
(5,426)
(338)
(2,082)
Total investments segment income, before federal income tax
109,939
92,270
216,153
187,120
Tax on investments segment income
22,652
18,745
44,518
37,901
Total investments segment income, after federal income tax
$
87,287
73,525
$
171,635
149,219
ROE contribution of after-tax net investment income earned
12.5
12.6
12.5
12.5
Reconciliation of Segment Results to Income (Loss) Before Federal Income Tax
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Underwriting income (loss)
Standard Commercial Lines
$
(160,881)
22,146
$
(150,500)
61,067
Standard Personal Lines
(19,301)
(23,060)
(24,636)
(36,133)
E&S Lines
6,501
(612)
20,486
12,723
Investment income
109,939
92,270
216,153
187,120
Total all segments
(63,742)
90,744
61,503
224,777
Interest expense
(7,202)
(7,258)
(14,383)
(14,424)
Corporate expenses
(9,154)
(9,329)
(24,652)
(21,437)
Income (loss), before federal income tax
$
(80,098)
74,157
$
22,468
188,916
Preferred stock dividends
(2,300)
(2,300)
(4,600)
(4,600)
Income (loss) available to common stockholders, before federal income tax
$
(82,398)
71,857
$
17,868
184,316
NOTE 10. Retirement Plans
The primary pension plan for our employees is the Retirement Income Plan for Selective Insurance Company of America (the “Pension Plan”). The plan is closed to new entrants, and benefits ceased accruing under the Pension Plan after March 31, 2016. For more information about Selective Insurance Company of America's ("SICA") retirement plans, see Note 15. “Retirement Plans” in Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.” of our 2023 Annual Report.
The following tables provide information about the Pension Plan:
Pension Plan
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Net Periodic Pension Cost (Benefit):
Interest cost
$
3,888
3,866
$
7,776
7,732
Expected return on plan assets
(5,383)
(5,772)
(10,765)
(11,545)
Amortization of unrecognized net actuarial loss
955
750
1,910
1,501
Total net periodic pension cost (benefit)1
$
(540)
(1,156)
$
(1,079)
(2,312)
1The components of net periodic pension cost (benefit) are included within "Loss and loss expense incurred" and "Other insurance expenses" on the Consolidated Statements of Income.
Effective interest rate for calculation of interest cost
4.91
5.09
Expected return on plan assets
6.40
6.90
NOTE 11. Comprehensive Income (Loss)
The components of comprehensive income (loss), both gross and net of tax, for Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 and Second Quarter 2023 and Six Months 2023 were as follows:
Second Quarter 2024
($ in thousands)
Gross
Tax
Net
Net income (loss)
$
(80,098)
(16,779)
(63,319)
Components of OCI:
Unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities:
Unrealized holding gains (losses) during the period
(8,347)
(1,753)
(6,594)
Unrealized gains (losses) on securities with credit loss recognized in earnings
(3,705)
(778)
(2,927)
Amounts reclassified into net income (loss):
Net realized (gains) losses on disposals and intent-to-sell AFS securities
43
10
33
Credit loss (benefit) expense
1,233
258
975
Total unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities
(10,776)
(2,263)
(8,513)
Defined benefit pension and post-retirement plans:
Amounts reclassified into net income (loss):
Net actuarial (gain) loss
967
203
764
Total defined benefit pension and post-retirement plans
967
203
764
Other comprehensive income (loss)
(9,809)
(2,060)
(7,749)
Comprehensive income (loss)
$
(89,907)
(18,839)
(71,068)
Second Quarter 2023
($ in thousands)
Gross
Tax
Net
Net income (loss)
$
74,157
15,549
58,608
Components of OCI:
Unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities:
Unrealized holding gains (losses) during the period
(60,681)
(12,744)
(47,937)
Unrealized gains (losses) on securities with credit loss recognized in earnings
(6,030)
(1,266)
(4,764)
Amounts reclassified into net income (loss):
Net realized (gains) losses on disposals and intent-to-sell AFS securities
9,383
1,970
7,413
Credit loss (benefit) expense
(864)
(181)
(683)
Total unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities
(58,192)
(12,221)
(45,971)
Defined benefit pension and post-retirement plans:
Amounts reclassified into net income (loss):
Net actuarial (gain) loss
757
159
598
Total defined benefit pension and post-retirement plans
Unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities:
Unrealized holding gains (losses) during the period
(23,907)
(5,020)
(18,887)
Unrealized gains (losses) on securities with credit loss recognized in earnings
(6,837)
(1,436)
(5,401)
Amounts reclassified into net income (loss):
Net realized (gains) losses on disposals and intent-to-sell AFS securities
(35)
(7)
(28)
Credit loss (benefit) expense
3,883
815
3,068
Total unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities
(26,896)
(5,648)
(21,248)
Defined benefit pension and post-retirement plans:
Amounts reclassified into net income (loss):
Net actuarial (gain) loss
1,934
406
1,528
Total defined benefit pension and post-retirement plans
1,934
406
1,528
Other comprehensive income (loss)
(24,962)
(5,242)
(19,720)
Comprehensive income (loss)
$
(2,494)
(1,973)
(521)
Six Months 2023
($ in thousands)
Gross
Tax
Net
Net income (loss)
$
188,916
37,734
151,182
Components of OCI:
Unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities:
Unrealized holding gains (losses) during the period
5,244
1,102
4,142
Unrealized gains (losses) on securities with credit loss recognized in earnings
16,401
3,444
12,957
Amounts reclassified into net income (loss):
Net realized (gains) losses on disposals and intent-to-sell AFS securities
15,487
3,252
12,235
Credit loss (benefit) expense
(10,393)
(2,183)
(8,210)
Total unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities
26,739
5,615
21,124
Defined benefit pension and post-retirement plans:
Amounts reclassified into net income (loss):
Net actuarial (gain) loss
1,514
318
1,196
Total defined benefit pension and post-retirement plans
1,514
318
1,196
Other comprehensive income (loss)
28,253
5,933
22,320
Comprehensive income (loss)
$
217,169
43,667
173,502
The balances of, and changes in, each component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) ("AOCI") (net of taxes) as of June 30, 2024, were as follows:
June 30, 2024
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Investment Securities
Defined Benefit Pension and Post-Retirement Plans
Total AOCI
($ in thousands)
Credit Loss Related1
All Other
Investments Subtotal
Balance, December 31, 2023
$
(84,442)
(194,628)
(279,070)
(93,931)
(373,001)
OCI before reclassifications
(5,401)
(18,887)
(24,288)
—
(24,288)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI
3,068
(28)
3,040
1,528
4,568
Net current period OCI
(2,333)
(18,915)
(21,248)
1,528
(19,720)
Balance, June 30, 2024
$
(86,775)
(213,543)
(300,318)
(92,403)
(392,721)
1Represents change in unrealized gains (losses) on securities with credit loss recognized in earnings.
The reclassifications out of AOCI were as follows:
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
Affected Line Item in the Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Income
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Net realized (gains) losses on disposals and intent-to-sell AFS securities
Net realized (gains) losses
$
43
9,383
$
(35)
15,487
Net realized and unrealized investment gains (losses)
Tax (benefit) expense
(10)
(1,970)
7
(3,252)
Total federal income tax expense (benefit)
Net of taxes
33
7,413
(28)
12,235
Net income (loss)
Credit loss related
Credit loss (benefit) expense
1,233
(864)
3,883
(10,393)
Net realized and unrealized investment gains (losses)
Tax (benefit) expense
(258)
181
(815)
2,183
Total federal income tax expense (benefit)
Net of taxes
975
(683)
3,068
(8,210)
Net income (loss)
Defined benefit pension and post-retirement life plans
Net actuarial loss
223
173
445
348
Loss and loss expense incurred
Net actuarial loss
744
584
1,489
1,166
Other insurance expenses
Total
967
757
1,934
1,514
Income (loss) before federal income tax
Tax (benefit) expense
(203)
(159)
(406)
(318)
Total federal income tax expense (benefit)
Net of taxes
764
598
1,528
1,196
Net income (loss)
Total reclassifications for the period
$
1,772
7,328
$
4,568
5,221
Net income (loss)
NOTE 12. Earnings per Common Share
The following table presents the calculations of earnings per common share ("EPS") on a basic and diluted basis:
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Net income (loss) available to common stockholders:
$
(65,619)
56,308
$
14,599
146,582
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic
60,897
60,614
60,862
60,575
Effect of dilutive securities - stock compensation plans
—
323
382
343
Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted
60,897
60,937
61,244
60,918
EPS:
Basic
$
(1.08)
0.93
$
0.24
2.42
Diluted
(1.08)
0.92
0.24
2.41
There were 0.4 million common stock equivalents related to our stock compensation plans in Second Quarter 2024 that were not included in the computation of diluted EPS, as we recorded a net loss available to common stockholders in the quarter and the effect of these items would have been anti-dilutive to our EPS computation.
NOTE 13. Litigation
As of June 30, 2024, we do not believe we are involved in any legal action that could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.
In the ordinary course of conducting business, we are parties in various legal actions. Most are claims litigation involving our ten insurance subsidiaries (collectively referred to as "Insurance Subsidiaries") as (i) liability insurers defending or providing indemnity for third-party claims brought against our customers, (ii) insurers defending first-party coverage claims brought against them, or (iii) liability insurers seeking declaratory judgment on our insurance coverage obligations. We account for such activity by establishing unpaid loss and loss expense reserves. Considering potential losses and defense costs reserves, we expect that any potential ultimate liability for ordinary course claims litigation will not be material to our consolidated financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.
All our commercial property and businessowners' policies require direct physical loss of or damage to property by a covered cause of loss. All our standard lines commercial property and businessowners' policies also include or attach an exclusion that states all loss or property damage caused by or resulting from any virus, bacterium, or other microorganism that induces or is capable of inducing physical distress, illness, or disease is not a covered cause of loss ("Virus Exclusion"). Whether COVID-19-related contamination, the existence of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the resulting COVID-19-related government
shutdown orders cause physical loss of or damage to property is the subject of much public debate and first-party coverage litigation against some insurers, including us. The Virus Exclusion is also the subject of first-party coverage litigation against some insurers, including us. To date, insurers (including us) have prevailed in the majority of these suits, with most decisions holding that COVID-19 does not cause physical loss of or damage to property and the Virus Exclusion is valid. Nonetheless, these two matters continue to be litigated in trial courts, are subject to review by state and federal appellate courts, and their ultimate outcome cannot be assured.
From time to time, our Insurance Subsidiaries also are named as defendants in other legal actions, some asserting claims for substantial amounts. Plaintiffs may style these actions as class actions and seek judicial certification of a state or national class for allegations involving our business practices, such as improper medical provider reimbursement under workers compensation and personal and commercial automobile insurance policies or improper reimbursement for automobile parts. Similarly, our Insurance Subsidiaries can be named defendants in individual actions seeking extra-contractual damages, punitive damages, or penalties, often alleging bad faith in handling insurance claims. We believe that we have valid defenses to these allegations and account for such activity by establishing unpaid loss and loss expense reserves. Considering estimated losses and defense costs reserves, we expect that any potential ultimate liability for these other legal actions will not be material to our consolidated financial condition. Litigation outcomes are inherently unpredictable and the amounts sought in certain actions are large or indeterminate, so adverse outcomes could potentially have a material adverse effect on our consolidated results of operations or cash flows in particular quarterly or annual periods.
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.
Forward-Looking Statements
The terms "Company," "we," "us," and "our" refer to Selective Insurance Group, Inc. (the "Parent"), and its subsidiaries, except as expressly indicated or the context otherwise requires. Certain statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, including information incorporated by reference, are “forward-looking statements” defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 ("PSLRA"). The PSLRA provides a forward-looking statement safe harbor under the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These statements discuss our intentions, beliefs, projections, estimations, or forecasts of future events and financial performance. They involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause our or our industry's actual results, activity levels, or performance to materially differ from those in or implied by the forward-looking statements. In some cases, forward-looking statements include the words "may," "will," "could," "would," "should," "expect," "plan," "anticipate," "attribute," "confident," "strong," "target," "project," "intend," "believe," "estimate," "predict," "potential," "pro forma," "seek," "likely," "continue," or comparable terms. Our forward-looking statements are only predictions; we cannot guarantee or assure that such expectations will prove correct. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements for any reason except as may be required by law.
We discuss the factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from our projections, forecasts, or estimates in forward-looking statements in Item 1A. "Risk Factors." in Part II. "Other Information" of this Form 10-Q. These risk factors may not be exhaustive. We operate in a constantly changing business environment, and new risk factors may emerge at any time. We can neither predict these new risk factors nor assess their impact, if any, on our businesses or the extent to which any factor or combination of factors may cause actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statements. Given these risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, the forward-looking events we discuss in this report might not occur.
Introduction
We classify our business into four reportable segments:
•Standard Commercial Lines;
•Standard Personal Lines;
•Excess and Surplus Lines ("E&S Lines"); and
•Investments.
For more details about these segments, refer to Note 9. "Segment Information" in Item 1. "Financial Statements." of this Form 10-Q and Note 12. "Segment Information" in Item 8. "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data." of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 ("2023 Annual Report").
We write our Standard Commercial and Standard Personal Lines products and services through nine of our insurance subsidiaries, some of which participate in the federal government's National Flood Insurance Program's ("NFIP") Write Your Own Program. We write our E&S products through another subsidiary, Mesa Underwriters Specialty Insurance Company, a
nationally-authorized non-admitted platform for customers who generally cannot obtain coverage in the standard marketplace. Collectively, we refer to our ten insurance subsidiaries as the "Insurance Subsidiaries."
The following is Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) of our financial condition and consolidated results of operations, including an evaluation of the amounts and certainty of cash flows from operations and outside sources, trends, and uncertainties that may have a material impact in future periods. Investors should read the MD&A in conjunction with Item 1. "Financial Statements." of this Form 10-Q and the consolidated financial statements in our 2023 Annual Report filed with the United States ("U.S.") Securities and Exchange Commission.
In the MD&A, we will discuss and analyze the following:
•Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates;
•Financial Highlights of Results for the second quarters ended June 30, 2024 (“Second Quarter 2024”) and June 30, 2023 (“Second Quarter 2023”); and the six-month periods ended June 30, 2024 ("Six Months 2024") and June 30, 2023 ("Six Months 2023");
•Results of Operations and Related Information by Segment;
•Federal Income Taxes;
•Liquidity and Capital Resources; and
•Ratings.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Our unaudited interim consolidated financial statements include amounts for which we have made informed estimates and judgments for transactions not yet completed. Such estimates and judgments affect the reported amounts in the consolidated financial statements. As outlined in our 2023 Annual Report, those estimates and judgments most critical to the preparation of the consolidated financial statements involved the following: (i) reserve for loss and loss expense; (ii) investment valuation and the allowance for credit losses on available-for-sale ("AFS") fixed income securities; and (iii) reinsurance. These estimates and judgments require our use of assumptions about highly uncertain matters, making them subject to change as facts and circumstances develop. If different estimates and judgments had been applied, materially different amounts might have been reported in the financial statements. For additional information regarding our critical accounting policies and estimates, refer to pages 39 through 47 of our 2023 Annual Report.
Financial Highlights of Results for Second Quarter and Six Months 2024 and Second Quarter and Six Months 20231
($ and shares in thousands, except per share amounts)
Quarter ended June 30,
Change % or Points
Six Months ended June 30,
Change % or Points
2024
2023
2024
2023
Financial Data:
Revenues
$
1,196,005
1,040,524
15
%
$
2,360,964
2,040,344
16
%
After-tax net investment income
86,262
77,812
11
171,902
150,864
14
After-tax underwriting income (loss)
(137,208)
(1,206)
11,277
(122,174)
29,749
(511)
Net income (loss) before federal income tax
(80,098)
74,157
(208)
22,468
188,916
(88)
Net income (loss)
(63,319)
58,608
(208)
19,199
151,182
(87)
Net income (loss) available to common stockholders
(65,619)
56,308
(217)
14,599
146,582
(90)
Key Metrics:
Combined ratio
116.1
100.2
15.9
pts
107.3
98.0
9.3
pts
Invested assets per dollar of common stockholders' equity
$
3.31
3.29
1
%
$
3.31
3.29
1
%
Annualized after-tax yield on investment portfolio
3.9
3.9
—
pts
3.9
3.8
0.1
pts
Return on common equity ("ROE")
(9.5)
9.1
(18.6)
1.1
12.1
(11.0)
Net premiums written ("NPW") to statutory surplus
$
1.64
1.52
8
%
1.64
1.52
8
%
Per Common Share Amounts:
Diluted net income (loss) per share
$
(1.08)
0.92
(217)
%
$
0.24
2.41
(90)
%
Book value per share
44.74
40.81
10
44.74
40.81
10
Dividends declared per share to common stockholders
0.35
0.30
17
0.70
0.60
17
Non-GAAP Information:
Non-GAAP operating income (loss)2
$
(66,644)
60,595
(210)
%
$
14,866
148,227
(90)
%
Non-GAAP operating income (loss) per diluted common share2
(1.10)
0.99
(211)
0.24
2.44
(90)
Non-GAAP operating ROE2
(9.6)
9.8
(19.4)
pts
1.1
12.2
(11.1)
pts
Adjusted book value per common share2
$
49.67
47.34
5
%
$
49.67
47.34
5
%
1Refer to the Glossary of Terms attached to our 2023 Annual Report as Exhibit 99.1 for definitions of terms used in this Form 10-Q.
2Non-GAAP operating income (loss), non-GAAP operating income (loss) per diluted common share, and non-GAAP operating ROE are measures comparable to net income (loss) available to common stockholders, net income (loss) available to common stockholders per diluted common share, and ROE, respectively, but exclude after-tax net realized and unrealized gains and losses on investments included in net income (loss). Adjusted book value per common share is a measure comparable to book value per common share, but excludes total after-tax unrealized gains and losses on investments included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). These non-GAAP measures are important financial measures used by us, analysts, and investors because the timing of realized and unrealized investment gains and losses on securities in any given period is largely discretionary. In addition, net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses on investments could distort the analysis of trends.
Reconciliations of our GAAP to non-GAAP measures are provided in the tables below:
Reconciliation of net income (loss) available to common stockholders to non-GAAP operating income (loss)
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Net income (loss) available to common stockholders
$
(65,619)
56,308
$
14,599
146,582
Net realized and unrealized investment (gains) losses included in net income (loss), before tax
(1,297)
5,426
338
2,082
Tax on reconciling items
272
(1,139)
(71)
(437)
Non-GAAP operating income (loss)
$
(66,644)
60,595
$
14,866
148,227
Reconciliation of net income (loss) available to common stockholders per diluted common share to non-GAAP operating income (loss) per diluted common share
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
2024
2023
2024
2023
Net income (loss) available to common stockholders per diluted common share
$
(1.08)
0.92
$
0.24
2.41
Net realized and unrealized investment (gains) losses included in net income (loss), before tax
(0.02)
0.09
—
0.04
Tax on reconciling items
—
(0.02)
—
(0.01)
Non-GAAP operating income (loss) per diluted common share
Net realized and unrealized investment (gains) losses included in net income (loss), before tax
(0.2)
0.9
—
0.1
Tax on reconciling items
0.1
(0.2)
—
—
Non-GAAP operating ROE
(9.6)
%
9.8
1.1
%
12.2
Reconciliation of book value per common share to adjusted book value per common share
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
2024
2023
2024
2023
Book value per common share
$
44.74
40.81
$
44.74
40.81
Total unrealized investment (gains) losses included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), before tax
6.25
8.27
6.25
8.27
Tax on reconciling items
(1.32)
(1.74)
(1.32)
(1.74)
Adjusted book value per common share
$
49.67
47.34
$
49.67
47.34
The components of our ROE and non-GAAP operating ROE are as follows:
ROE and non-GAAP operating ROE Components
Quarter ended June 30,
Change Points
Six Months ended June 30,
Change Points
2024
2023
2024
2023
Standard Commercial Lines Segment
(18.4)
%
2.8
(21.2)
(8.6)
%
4.1
(12.7)
Standard Personal Lines Segment
(2.2)
(2.9)
0.7
(1.4)
(2.4)
1.0
E&S Lines Segment
0.7
(0.1)
0.8
1.2
0.8
0.4
Total insurance operations
(19.9)
(0.2)
(19.7)
(8.8)
2.5
(11.3)
Investment income
12.5
12.6
(0.1)
12.5
12.5
—
Net realized and unrealized investment gains (losses)
0.1
(0.7)
0.8
—
(0.1)
0.1
Total investments segment
12.6
11.9
0.7
12.5
12.4
0.1
Other
(2.2)
(2.6)
0.4
(2.6)
(2.8)
0.2
ROE
(9.5)
9.1
(18.6)
1.1
12.1
(11.0)
Net realized and unrealized investment (gains) losses, after tax
(0.1)
0.7
(0.8)
—
0.1
(0.1)
Non-GAAP operating ROE
(9.6)
9.8
(19.4)
1.1
12.2
(11.1)
Our Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 operating and non-GAAP operating ROEs in both current-year periods were below our 12% target. The decrease in our non-GAAP operating ROE in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods was driven by a reduction in after-tax underwriting income. We recorded an after-tax underwriting loss of $137.2 million in Second Quarter 2024 compared to a loss of $1.2 million in Second Quarter 2023, resulting in a reduction to non-GAAP operating ROE of 19.7 points. In Six Months 2024, we recorded an after-tax underwriting loss of $122.2 million, compared to after-tax underwriting income of $29.7 million in Six Months 2023, resulting in a reduction to non-GAAP operating ROE of 11.3 points.
The underwriting income decrease in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods was primarily attributable to unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development, and to a lesser extent, an increase in current year loss costs. We believe that current market conditions and environmental factors, most notably social inflation, are impacting us and the industry more than they have historically. As a commercial-lines focused underwriter with a higher mix of casualty business, we recognize this social inflationary environment has increased loss severities. In response to these external trends and the data we observed in our in-depth quarterly reserve review process, we recorded $176.0 million of unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development in Second Quarter 2024 and $211.0 million in Six Months 2024, compared to favorable prior year casualty reserve development of $3.5 million in Second Quarter 2023 and $16.5 million in Six Months 2023.
The unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development in Second Quarter 2024 impacted our Standard Commercial Lines segment, with $166.0 million recorded in our general liability line of business and $10.0 million in our commercial automobile line of business. Six Months 2024 development was further impacted by $15.0 million of favorable development in our workers compensation line of business. The $166.0 million primarily relates to accident years 2020 through 2023, similar to the unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development we recorded last quarter. Unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development we recorded at the end of 2023 was primarily associated with accident years 2020 and prior. As older years continue to mature, we gain greater confidence in our estimates, and further development on accident years 2019 and prior has been modest. This increases our confidence in the adjustments we are now making to accident years 2020 and subsequent,
which puts us in a stronger overall reserve position. For additional qualitative discussion on prior year casualty reserve development, refer to the insurance segment sections below.
Outlook
Although our Six Months 2024 financial results were challenging, our capital position and the quality of our underwriting portfolio remain strong. Given the consistency in our underwriting appetite and risk profile over time, our corrective actions are primarily focused on achieving higher price levels, with a continued emphasis on prudent underwriting. Our pricing discipline, strong relationships with our distribution partners, and sophisticated analytical tools have enabled us to effectively balance our pricing and retention objectives over the long term, which we seek to continue achieving going forward.
We will continue to balance growth and profitability, with a goal to consistently achieve a 95% combined ratio across our three insurance segments by:
•Standard Commercial Lines
◦Achieving overall Standard Commercial Lines renewal pure price increases that reflect forward loss trend expectations. Our overall Standard Commercial Lines renewal pure price increase was 7.9% in Second Quarter 2024, up from 7.6% last quarter. In addition, our general liability renewal pure price increase was 7.6% in Second Quarter 2024, up from 6.5% last quarter, and 5.7% in the fourth quarter of 2023. We expect that our general liability pricing will further increase in the second half of 2024;
◦Continuing to expand our Standard Commercial Lines market share by (i) increasing our share towards our 12% target of our agents' premiums, (ii) strategically appointing new agents, and (iii) maximizing new business growth in the small business market through the use of our enhanced small business platform; and
◦Expanding our geographic footprint. In April 2024, we added West Virginia and Maine to our footprint, now covering 32 states. Subject to regulatory approvals, we expect to add Nevada, Washington, and Oregon later this year, with Kansas, Montana, and Wyoming to follow. Over time, we plan to expand our Standard Commercial Lines footprint to be near national.
•E&S Lines
◦Achieving E&S Lines renewal pure price increases in both our casualty and property lines of business that reflect forward loss trend expectations. Our E&S Lines renewal pure price increase was 6.4% in Second Quarter 2024, up from 5.2% in the first quarter of 2024; and
◦Continuing to invest in product expansion, risk evaluation, and operational efficiency for small and middle market E&S accounts.
•Standard Personal Lines
◦Taking actions to improve the profitability of our Standard Personal Lines segment by:
▪Prioritizing additional rate filings on a state-by-state basis and further refining our pricing factors. These filed rate increases began to take effect early in 2023, increasing in number and magnitude throughout 2023, have continued into 2024, and are expected to continue throughout the year. Our Standard Personal Lines renewal pure price increase was 20.7% in Second Quarter 2024, up from 14.3% in the first quarter of 2024, and 8.9% in the fourth quarter of 2023;
▪Seeking to improve our homeowners line of business profitability through the introduction of new policy terms and conditions, including (i) coverage for older roofs based on depreciation schedules rather than replacement cost, and (ii) implementing mandatory wind/hail deductibles in states exposed to severe convective storms, where allowed by law; and
▪Continuing the migration of our Standard Personal Lines products and services towards customers in the mass affluent market, where we believe we can be more competitive with our strong coverage and servicing capabilities.
For 2024, we increased our expected GAAP combined ratio to 101.5%. The change reflects unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development, elevated catastrophe losses in the first half of the year, and increased current year loss costs. Full-year expectations are as follows:
•A GAAP combined ratio of 101.5%, up five points from our prior guidance of 96.5%. Our combined ratio estimate includes net catastrophe losses of 5.5 points, up from prior guidance of 5.0 points. Our combined ratio estimate assumes no additional prior year casualty reserve development;
•After-tax net investment income of $360 million that includes $32 million from alternative investments;
•An overall effective tax rate of approximately 21.0%, which assumes an effective tax rate of 20.5% for net investment income and 21% for all other items; and
•Weighted average shares of 61.5 million on a fully diluted basis, which assumes no share repurchases we may make under our authorization.
Results of Operations and Related Information by Segment
Insurance Operations
The following table provides quantitative information for analyzing the combined ratio:
All Lines
Quarter ended June 30,
Change % or Points
Six Months ended June 30,
Change % or Points
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Insurance Operations Results:
NPW
$
1,226,101
1,084,907
13
%
$
2,382,722
2,084,675
14
%
Net premiums earned (“NPE”)
1,080,231
942,150
15
2,131,175
1,844,486
16
Less:
Loss and loss expense incurred
925,548
646,130
43
1,629,840
1,213,568
34
Net underwriting expenses incurred
327,310
295,697
11
651,677
589,640
11
Dividends to policyholders
1,054
1,849
(43)
4,308
3,621
19
Underwriting income (loss)
$
(173,681)
(1,526)
11,281
%
$
(154,650)
37,657
(511)
%
Combined Ratios:
Loss and loss expense ratio
85.7
%
68.6
17.1
pts
76.5
%
65.8
10.7
pts
Underwriting expense ratio
30.3
31.4
(1.1)
30.6
32.0
(1.4)
Dividends to policyholders ratio
0.1
0.2
(0.1)
0.2
0.2
—
Combined ratio
116.1
100.2
15.9
107.3
98.0
9.3
The NPW growth of 13% in Second Quarter 2024 and 14% in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods reflected (i) overall renewal pure price increases, and (ii) higher direct new business, as shown in the following table:
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in millions)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Direct new business premiums
$
267.4
241.6
$
528.2
458.5
Renewal pure price increases
9.1
%
6.4
8.6
%
6.6
Our NPW growth in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 also benefited from stable retention and exposure growth on renewal policies.
The increase in NPE in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods resulted from the same impacts to NPW described above.
The loss and loss expense ratio increased 17.1 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 10.7 points in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, primarily due to the following:
Second Quarter 2024
Second Quarter 2023
($ in millions)
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Loss and Loss Expense Ratio
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Loss and Loss Expense Ratio
Change in Ratio
Net catastrophe losses
$
90.5
8.4
pts
$
100.0
10.6
pts
(2.2)
pts
(Favorable) unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development
176.0
16.3
(3.5)
(0.4)
16.7
Non-catastrophe property loss and loss expenses
185.5
17.2
157.2
16.7
0.5
Total
$
452.0
41.9
$
253.7
26.9
15.0
Six Months 2024
Six Months 2023
($ in millions)
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Loss and Loss Expense Ratio
Loss and Loss Expense
Incurred
Impact on Loss and Loss Expense Ratio
Change in Ratio
Net catastrophe losses
$
145.8
6.8
pts
$
155.3
8.4
pts
(1.6)
pts
(Favorable) unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development
211.0
9.9
(16.5)
(0.9)
10.8
Non-catastrophe property loss and loss expenses
356.7
16.7
305.4
16.6
0.1
Total
$
713.5
33.4
$
444.2
24.1
9.3
Details of the prior year casualty reserve development were as follows:
(Favorable)/Unfavorable Prior Year Casualty Reserve Development
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in millions)
2024
2023
2024
2023
General liability
$
166.0
—
$
216.0
—
Commercial automobile
10.0
—
10.0
—
Workers compensation
—
(7.5)
(15.0)
(17.5)
Total Standard Commercial Lines
176.0
(7.5)
211.0
(17.5)
Homeowners
—
—
(5.0)
—
Personal automobile
—
4.0
5.0
6.0
Total Standard Personal Lines
—
4.0
—
6.0
E&S
—
—
—
(5.0)
Total (favorable) unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development
$
176.0
(3.5)
$
211.0
(16.5)
(Favorable) unfavorable impact on loss ratio
16.3
pts
(0.4)
9.9
pts
(0.9)
The unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development of (i) $166.0 million in Second Quarter 2024 and $216.0 million in Six Months 2024 in our general liability line of business was driven by severities in accident years 2020 through 2023 that continued to show higher emergence than expected, and (ii) $10.0 million in Second Quarter 2024 in our commercial automobile line of business was driven by increased severities in accident year 2023. The unfavorable development in Six Months 2024 was partially offset by favorable workers compensation development of $15.0 million. For additional qualitative discussion on prior year casualty reserve development, refer to the insurance segment sections below.
In addition, the loss and loss expense ratio was adversely impacted by an increase in current year casualty loss costs of 2.1 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 1.3 points in Six Months 2024, compared to the same prior-year periods, primarily due to increased loss trend expectations and higher prior-year severity assumptions attributable to social inflationary impacts in our general liability line of business.
Net catastrophe losses were lower in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, but remain higher than our historical average. Severe convective storms across our footprint drove our catastrophe losses in the quarter.
Underwriting Expenses
The underwriting expense ratio decreased 1.1 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 1.4 points in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, primarily due to a decrease in profit-based compensation to our employees and distribution
partners, coupled with premium growth outpacing the growth in underwriting expenses.
Standard Commercial Lines Segment
Quarter ended June 30,
Change % or Points
Six Months ended June 30,
Change % or Points
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Insurance Segments Results:
NPW
$
963,129
870,145
11
%
$
1,894,806
1,683,461
13
%
NPE
853,493
762,709
12
1,687,603
1,494,324
13
Less:
Loss and loss expense incurred
747,954
495,507
51
1,303,787
942,833
38
Net underwriting expenses incurred
265,366
243,207
9
530,008
486,803
9
Dividends to policyholders
1,054
1,849
(43)
4,308
3,621
19
Underwriting income (loss)
(160,881)
22,146
(826)
$
(150,500)
61,067
(346)
Combined Ratios:
Loss and loss expense ratio
87.6
%
65.0
22.6
pts
77.2
%
63.1
14.1
pts
Underwriting expense ratio
31.1
31.9
(0.8)
31.4
32.6
(1.2)
Dividends to policyholders ratio
0.1
0.2
(0.1)
0.3
0.2
0.1
Combined ratio
118.8
97.1
21.7
108.9
95.9
13.0
NPW growth of 11% in Second Quarter 2024 and 13% in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods reflected (i) renewal pure price increases, (ii) higher direct new business, and (iii) strong retention as shown in the table below. In addition, NPW growth benefited from strong exposure growth on renewal policies.
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in millions)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Direct new business premiums
$
168.4
159.1
$
340.4
306.8
Retention
85
85
85
%
84
Renewal pure price increases
7.9
6.7
7.8
6.9
The increase in NPE in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods resulted from the same impacts to NPW described above.
The loss and loss expense ratio increased 22.6 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 14.1 points in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, primarily driven by the following:
Second Quarter 2024
Second Quarter 2023
($ in millions)
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Loss and Loss Expense Ratio
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Loss and Loss Expense Ratio
Change in Ratio
Net catastrophe losses
$
50.9
6.0
pts
$
62.6
8.2
(2.2)
pts
Non-catastrophe property loss and loss expenses
124.5
14.6
111.4
14.6
—
(Favorable) unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development
176.0
20.6
(7.5)
(1.0)
21.6
Total
$
351.4
41.2
$
166.5
21.8
19.4
Six Months 2024
Six Months 2023
($ in millions)
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Loss and Loss Expense Ratio
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Loss and Loss Expense Ratio
Change in Ratio
Net catastrophe losses
$
89.4
5.3
pts
$
97.7
6.5
(1.2)
pts
Non-catastrophe property loss and loss expenses
239.5
14.2
216.8
14.5
(0.3)
(Favorable) unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development
211.0
12.5
(17.5)
(1.2)
13.7
Total
$
539.9
32.0
$
297.0
19.8
12.2
Prior year casualty reserve development was unfavorable by $176.0 million, or 20.6 points, in Second Quarter 2024, compared to $7.5 million, or 1.0 point, of favorable development in Second Quarter 2023. Prior year casualty reserve development was unfavorable by $211.0 million, or 12.5 points, in Six Months 2024, compared to $17.5 million, or 1.2 points, of favorable development in Six Months 2023.
Despite increasing our expected loss trend in recent years, loss severities continued to show higher emergence than expected in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 in the general liability line of business. In response to these unfavorable trends, we
recorded unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development in our general liability line of business of $166.0 million in Second Quarter 2024 and $216.0 million in Six Months 2024, primarily driven by increased severities in accident years 2020 through 2023. In addition, we recorded $10.0 million of unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development in our commercial automobile line of business in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024, primarily driven by increased severities in accident year 2023. The unfavorable development in Six Months 2024 was partially offset by $15.0 million of favorable workers compensation development.
In addition, the loss and loss expense ratio was adversely impacted by an increase in current year casualty loss costs of 3.4 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 2.1 points in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, primarily due to increased loss trend expectations and higher prior-year severity assumptions attributable to impacts from social inflation in the general liability line of business.
Refer to the line of business sections below for qualitative discussion on the significant drivers of unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development and current year loss costs.
The underwriting expense ratio decreased 0.8 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 1.2 points in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, primarily due to a decrease in profit-based compensation to our employees and distribution partners, coupled with premium growth outpacing the growth in underwriting expenses.
The following is a discussion of our most significant Standard Commercial Lines of business:
General Liability
Quarter ended June 30,
Change
% or
Points1
Six Months ended June 30,
Change
% or
Points1
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
NPW
$
319,955
292,846
9
%
$
627,399
564,972
11
%
Direct new business
50,293
48,409
n/a
100,522
93,140
n/a
Retention
86
%
86
n/a
86
%
85
n/a
Renewal pure price increases
7.6
5.2
n/a
7.0
5.3
n/a
NPE
$
280,097
254,510
10
%
$
553,512
497,859
11
%
Underwriting income (loss)
(166,109)
32,626
(609)
(195,550)
59,752
(427)
Combined ratio
159.3
%
87.2
72.1
pts
135.3
%
88.0
47.3
pts
% of total Standard Commercial Lines NPW
33
34
33
34
1n/a: not applicable.
NPW grew 9% in Second Quarter 2024 and 11% in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, benefiting from renewal pure price increases, exposure growth on renewal policies, strong retention, and higher direct new business.
The combined ratio increased 72.1 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 47.3 points in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, primarily driven by unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development as follows:
Second Quarter 2024
Second Quarter 2023
($ in millions)
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Combined Ratio
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Combined Ratio
Change in Ratio
(Favorable) unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development
$
166.0
59.3
pts
$
—
—
59.3
pts
Six Months 2024
Six Months 2023
($ in millions)
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Combined Ratio
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Combined Ratio
Change in Ratio
(Favorable) unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development
$
216.0
39.0
pts
$
—
—
39.0
pts
This line of business has experienced a long-term historical trend of meaningful severity increases, which have been partially offset by decreases in claim frequencies. Prior-year severities have developed adversely, previously impacting the pre-pandemic period but now extending into the more recent accident years. We attribute the increased severities to elevated social inflation, which we see as an industry dynamic characterized by higher propensity for attorney representation and litigation, longer settlement times, and higher settlement values. Certain jurisdictions with expanded liability theories and higher damage awards pose heightened challenges. We are closely monitoring these jurisdictions and the broader trends across our business.
The unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 was primarily due to
the impact of social inflation, which resulted in higher severity assumptions embedded in our initial loss ratio estimates in recent years. Despite planning for higher expected loss trends, claim emergence in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 continued to exceed our expectations. In response to these continued unfavorable trends, we recorded unfavorable prior year development of $166.0 million in Second Quarter 2024 and $216.0 million in Six Months 2024, primarily in accident years 2020 through 2023. There was no prior year casualty reserve development in Second Quarter 2023 and Six Months 2023.
Additionally, the combined ratio was adversely impacted by an increase in current year casualty loss costs of 13.6 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 9.0 points in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, primarily driven by an increase to our loss trend expectations and higher prior-year severity assumptions attributable to increases in social inflationary impacts.
We believe that social inflation and elevated loss trends are an industry dynamic, and may lead to an acceleration of rate increases in this line of business for the industry and us. Our renewal pure price increase in this line of business was 7.6% in Second Quarter 2024, up from 6.5% last quarter, and 5.7% for the fourth quarter of 2023. We expect increases in our general liability pricing to accelerate in the coming months.
Partially offsetting the unfavorable combined ratio drivers mentioned above was a decrease in the underwriting expense ratio of 0.6 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 0.9 points in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, as discussed in the "Standard Commercial Lines Segment" section above.
Commercial Automobile
Quarter ended June 30,
Change
% or
Points1
Six Months ended June 30,
Change
% or
Points1
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
NPW
$
297,293
257,266
16
%
$
582,894
497,449
17
%
Direct new business
45,253
39,905
n/a
93,048
76,881
n/a
Retention
86
%
86
n/a
86
%
85
n/a
Renewal pure price increases
10.8
9.5
n/a
10.6
9.8
n/a
NPE
$
260,652
225,067
16
%
$
512,372
442,438
16
%
Underwriting income (loss)
(1,196)
(4,182)
71
(934)
(15,923)
94
Combined ratio
100.5
%
101.9
(1.4)
pts
100.2
%
103.6
(3.4)
pts
% of total Standard Commercial Lines NPW
31
30
31
30
1n/a: not applicable.
NPW grew 16% in Second Quarter 2024 and 17% in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, benefiting from renewal pure price increases, higher direct new business, and strong retention. This higher new business and strong retention contributed to an 8% growth of in-force vehicle counts as of June 30, 2024 compared to June 30, 2023.
The combined ratio decreased 1.4 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 3.4 points in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, and included the following:
Second Quarter 2024
Second Quarter 2023
($ in millions)
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Combined Ratio
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Combined Ratio
Change in Ratio
Net catastrophe losses
$
2.6
1.0
pts
$
1.9
0.8
0.2
pts
Non-catastrophe property loss and loss expenses
39.1
15.0
42.5
18.9
(3.9)
(Favorable) unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development
10.0
3.8
—
—
3.8
Total
$
51.7
19.8
$
44.4
19.7
0.1
Six Months 2024
Six Months 2023
($ in millions)
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Combined Ratio
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Combined Ratio
Change in Ratio
Net catastrophe losses
$
4.0
0.8
pts
$
2.1
0.5
0.3
pts
Non-catastrophe property loss and loss expenses
83.5
16.3
89.1
20.1
(3.8)
(Favorable) unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development
10.0
2.0
—
—
2.0
Total
$
97.5
19.1
$
91.2
20.6
(1.5)
Non-catastrophe property loss and loss expenses in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 were lower compared to the same prior-year periods, primarily due to lower claim frequencies.
In addition, the combined ratio was reduced by the following:
•Decreases in current year casualty loss costs of 1.3 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 1.2 points in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, primarily driven by the earned impact of higher renewal pure price increases in both periods as highlighted above; and
•Decreases in the underwriting expense ratio of 0.3 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 0.7 points in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, as discussed in the "Standard Commercial Lines Segment" section above.
Offsetting the favorable combined ratio drivers mentioned above, was unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024, primarily due to increased severities in accident year 2023. There was no prior year casualty reserve development in Second Quarter 2023 and Six Months 2023.
Commercial Property1
Quarter ended June 30,
Change
% or
Points2
Six Months ended June 30,
Change
% or
Points2
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
NPW
$
195,440
167,665
17
%
$
369,952
319,269
16
%
Direct new business
40,756
37,317
n/a
79,296
72,073
n/a
Retention
84
%
84
n/a
84
%
84
n/a
Renewal pure price increases
9.8
9.3
n/a
10.3
9.4
n/a
NPE
$
168,511
141,348
19
%
$
330,064
276,640
19
%
Underwriting income (loss)
(3,029)
(24,410)
88
6,538
(14,332)
146
Combined ratio
101.8
%
117.3
(15.5)
pts
98.0
%
105.2
(7.2)
pts
% of total Standard Commercial Lines NPW
20
19
20
19
1includes Inland Marine.
2n/a: not applicable.
NPW grew 17% in Second Quarter 2024 and 16% in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, benefiting from renewal pure price increases, strong retention, exposure growth on renewal policies, and higher direct new business.
The combined ratio decreased 15.5 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 7.2 points in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, primarily driven by lower net catastrophe losses as shown in the following table:
Second Quarter 2024
Second Quarter 2023
($ in millions)
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Combined Ratio
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Combined Ratio
Change in Ratio
Net catastrophe losses
$
41.5
24.6
pts
56.1
39.7
(15.1)
pts
Non-catastrophe property loss and loss expenses
71.9
42.7
57.6
40.7
2.0
Total
$
113.4
67.3
113.7
80.4
(13.1)
Six Months 2024
Six Months 2023
($ in millions)
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Combined Ratio
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Combined Ratio
Change in Ratio
Net catastrophe losses
$
74.4
22.5
pts
83.8
30.3
(7.8)
pts
Non-catastrophe property loss and loss expenses
134.3
40.7
104.1
37.6
3.1
Total
$
208.7
63.2
187.9
67.9
(4.7)
Net catastrophe losses in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 were lower compared to the same prior-year periods, but remain higher than our historical average.
In addition, the combined ratio was favorably impacted by a decrease in the underwriting expense ratio of 2.5 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 2.6 points in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, as discussed in the "Standard Commercial Lines Segment" section above.
Offsetting the favorable combined ratio drivers mentioned above, was higher non-catastrophe property loss and loss expense ratios in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods. This change continues to reflect the variability from period to period that is normally associated with the commercial property line of business. We continue to manage our long-term profitability through (i) price increases, and (ii) targeted underwriting actions, including an ongoing focus on appropriate policy terms and conditions and achieving accurate insurance-to-value ratios.
NPW decreased 11% in Second Quarter 2024 and 3% in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, primarily due to renewal pure price decreases and a reduction in direct new business.
The combined ratio increased 9.5 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 2.7 points in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, primarily driven by reductions in favorable prior year casualty reserve development as follows:
Second Quarter 2024
Second Quarter 2023
($ in millions)
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Combined Ratio
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Combined Ratio
Change in Ratio
(Favorable) unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development
$
—
—
pts
$
(7.5)
(8.5)
8.5
pts
Six Months 2024
Six Months 2023
($ in millions)
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Combined Ratio
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Combined Ratio
Change in Ratio
(Favorable) unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development
$
(15.0)
(8.8)
pts
$
(17.5)
(10.1)
1.3
pts
The favorable prior year casualty reserve development in Six Months 2024 was primarily due to lower loss severities in accident years 2021 and prior. The favorable prior year casualty reserve development in Second Quarter 2023 and Six Months 2023 was primarily due to improved loss severities in accident years 2020 and prior.
In addition, the combined ratio was adversely impacted by an increase in current year casualty loss costs of 2.8 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 3.1 points in Six Months 2024, primarily driven by the negative rate environment that has been impacting this line for several years.
Offsetting the unfavorable combined ratio drivers mentioned above was a decrease in the underwriting expense ratio of 0.8 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 1.0 point in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, as discussed in the "Standard Commercial Lines Segment" section above.
Standard Personal Lines Segment
Quarter ended June 30,
Change % or Points
Six Months ended June 30,
Change % or Points
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Insurance Segments Results:
NPW
$
116,149
109,103
6
%
$
216,053
194,381
11
%
NPE
106,421
87,170
22
210,267
169,040
24
Less:
Loss and loss expense incurred
101,440
87,982
15
185,784
161,150
15
Net underwriting expenses incurred
24,282
22,248
9
49,119
44,023
12
Underwriting income (loss)
$
(19,301)
(23,060)
16
$
(24,636)
(36,133)
32
Combined Ratios:
Loss and loss expense ratio
95.3
%
101.0
(5.7)
pts
88.3
%
95.4
(7.1)
pts
Underwriting expense ratio
22.8
25.5
(2.7)
23.4
26.0
(2.6)
Combined ratio
118.1
126.5
(8.4)
111.7
121.4
(9.7)
NPW increased 6% in Second Quarter 2024 and 11% in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, due to
renewal pure price increases, exposure growth on renewal policies, and higher average policy sizes from our mass affluent market strategy, partially offset by reductions in direct new business and retention. New policy counts were down 48% in Second Quarter 2024 and 43% in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods. These reductions were anticipated given the level of rate increases we are implementing as part of our overall profit improvement plan.
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in millions)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Direct new business premiums1
$
22.0
32.5
$
43.3
58.8
Retention
78
%
88
80
%
87
Renewal pure price increases
20.7
3.4
17.7
2.7
1Excludes our Flood direct premiums written, which is 100% ceded to the NFIP and therefore, has no impact on our NPW.
We are taking aggressive actions to improve the profitability of this business by continuing to prioritize additional rate filings on a state-by-state basis to mitigate inflationary impacts, and refining our pricing factors. These filed rate increases began to take effect early in 2023, increasing in number and magnitude throughout 2023, have continued into 2024, and are expected to continue throughout the year. We achieved a 20.7% renewal pure price increase in Second Quarter 2024, a direct outcome of these actions. In addition, we are seeking to further improve profitability within our homeowners' line of business by introducing new policy terms and conditions, including (i) coverage for older roofs based on a schedule of factors rather than replacement cost, and (ii) implementing mandatory wind/hail deductibles in states exposed to severe convective storms, where allowed by law.
The increase in NPE in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods resulted from the same impacts to NPW described above.
The loss and loss expense ratio decreased 5.7 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 7.1 points in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, driven by the following:
Second Quarter 2024
Second Quarter 2023
($ in millions)
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Loss and Loss Expense Ratio
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Loss and Loss Expense Ratio
Change in Ratio
Net catastrophe losses
$
25.4
23.9
pts
$
21.2
24.3
(0.4)
pts
Non-catastrophe property loss and loss expenses
45.4
42.6
37.8
43.3
(0.7)
(Favorable) unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development
—
—
4.0
4.6
(4.6)
Total
$
70.8
66.5
$
63.0
72.2
(5.7)
Six Months 2024
Six Months 2023
($ in millions)
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Loss and Loss Expense Ratio
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Loss and Loss Expense Ratio
Change in Ratio
Net catastrophe losses
$
37.2
17.7
pts
$
35.8
21.2
(3.5)
pts
Non-catastrophe property loss and loss expenses
87.2
41.5
71.6
42.4
(0.9)
(Favorable) unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development
—
—
6.0
3.5
(3.5)
Total
$
124.4
59.2
$
113.4
67.1
(7.9)
In Six Months 2024, we experienced (i) favorable prior year casualty reserve development on our homeowners line of business of $5.0 million, primarily due to lower loss severities in accident years 2021 and prior, offset by (ii) $5.0 million of unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development on our personal automobile line of business, primarily driven by increased loss severities in accident years 2021 through 2023. The unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development in Second Quarter 2023 and Six Months 2023 was primarily due to increased loss severities in accident year 2022 on our personal automobile line of business.
In addition, lower net catastrophe losses in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods lowered our loss and loss expense ratio, but net catastrophe losses remain higher than our historical average.
The loss and loss expense ratio was also adversely impacted by a 1.0-point increase in current year casualty loss costs in Six Months 2024 compared to Six Months 2023, primarily due to an expected increase in automobile claim frequencies in the current year.
The underwriting expense ratio decreased 2.7 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 2.6 points in Six Months 2024 compared to
the same prior-year periods, primarily due to a decrease in profit-based compensation to our employees and distribution partners, coupled with premium growth outpacing the growth in underwriting expenses in both periods.
E&S Lines Segment
Quarter ended June 30,
Change % or Points
Six Months ended June 30,
Change % or Points
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Insurance Segments Results:
NPW
$
146,823
105,659
39
%
$
271,863
206,833
31
%
NPE
120,317
92,271
30
233,305
181,122
29
Less:
Loss and loss expense incurred
76,154
62,641
22
140,269
109,585
28
Net underwriting expenses incurred
37,662
30,242
25
72,550
58,814
23
Underwriting income (loss)
6,501
(612)
1,162
20,486
12,723
61
Combined Ratios:
Loss and loss expense ratio
63.3
%
67.9
(4.6)
pts
60.1
%
60.5
(0.4)
pts
Underwriting expense ratio
31.3
32.8
(1.5)
31.1
32.5
(1.4)
Combined ratio
94.6
100.7
(6.1)
91.2
93.0
(1.8)
NPW grew 39% in Second Quarter 2024 and 31% in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, reflecting renewal pure price increases and higher direct new business as shown in the table below. In addition, NPW growth in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 benefited from both property and casualty exposure growth on renewal policies, driven by higher rate per exposure and higher new business production. In addition, our property lines exposure growth on renewal policies was reflective of increased property values.
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in millions)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Direct new business premiums
$
77.0
50.0
$
144.5
92.9
Renewal pure price increases
6.4
%
7.5
5.9
%
7.4
The increase in NPE in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods resulted from the same impacts to NPW described above.
The loss and loss expense ratio decreased 4.6 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 0.4 points in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, and included the following:
Second Quarter 2024
Second Quarter 2023
($ in millions)
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Loss and Loss Expense Ratio
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Loss and Loss Expense Ratio
Change in Ratio
Net catastrophe losses
$
14.3
11.9
pts
$
16.3
17.6
(5.7)
pts
Non-catastrophe property loss and loss expenses
15.6
13.0
8.1
8.8
4.2
Total
$
29.9
24.9
$
24.4
26.4
(1.5)
Six Months 2024
Six Months 2023
($ in millions)
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Loss and Loss Expense Ratio
Loss and Loss Expense Incurred
Impact on Loss and Loss Expense Ratio
Change in Ratio
Net catastrophe losses
$
19.2
8.2
pts
$
21.9
12.1
(3.9)
pts
Non-catastrophe property loss and loss expenses
29.9
12.8
17.0
9.4
3.4
(Favorable) unfavorable prior year casualty reserve development
—
—
(5.0)
(2.8)
2.8
Total
$
49.1
21.0
$
33.9
18.7
2.3
While the frequency of wind and thunderstorm events remained largely consistent, the severity of these events was lower in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, resulting in a decrease in net catastrophe losses in both periods.
In addition, the loss and loss expense ratio was favorably impacted by a decrease in current year casualty loss costs of 3.1 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 2.7 points in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, primarily due to the mix of business between our property and casualty lines of business. Our E&S property line of business, which has a lower loss ratio compared to our E&S casualty line of business, represented a larger portion of this segment in Second Quarter 2024 and Six
Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, resulting in a lower blended current year loss cost in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024.
These decreases to the loss and loss expense ratio were offset by the following:
•Higher non-catastrophe property loss and loss expenses in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, primarily due to several large fires, reflecting the continued variability from period to period that is normally associated with our E&S property line of business; and
•No prior year casualty reserve development in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 compared to favorable prior year casualty reserve development in Six Months 2023. The 2023 development was primarily due to lower severities in accident years 2021 and prior.
The decrease in the underwriting expense ratio of 1.5 points in Second Quarter 2024 and 1.4 points in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, was primarily due to premium growth outpacing the growth in underwriting expenses in both periods.
Reinsurance
We successfully completed negotiations of our July 1, 2024 excess of loss treaties, which cover our Standard Commercial Lines, Standard Personal Lines, and E&S Lines.
We renewed the Casualty Excess of Loss Treaty ("Casualty Treaty") with substantially the same structure as the expiring treaty with a co-participation of 17.5% on the first $3 million in excess of $2 million layer, but with the benefit of additional reinstatements on several of the layers. The treaty year 2024 deposit premium increased, reflecting (i) higher projected subject earned premium due to growth in our book of business, including pure renewal rate increases; and (ii) higher anticipated losses in the excess layers, partially offset by (iii) the introduction of the first layer co-participation.
We renewed the Property Excess of Loss Treaty (“Property Treaty”) with substantially the same structure as the expiring treaty and an additional reinstatement on the second layer of the program. The treaty year deposit premium increased, reflecting higher projected subject earned premium due to growth in our book of business.
The following table summarizes the Property Treaty and Casualty Treaty arrangements covering our Insurance Subsidiaries:
Treaty Name
Reinsurance Coverage
Terrorism Coverage
Property Treaty (covers all insurance operations)
There are three layers covering 100% of $65 million in excess of $5 million. Losses other than Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act ("TRIPRA") certified losses are subject to the following reinstatements and annual aggregate limits:
- $5 million in excess of $5 million layer provides 15
reinstatements, $80 million in aggregate limits;
- $20 million in excess of $10 million layer provides four
reinstatements, $100 million in aggregate limits; and
- $40 million in excess of $30 million layer provides two
reinstatements, $120 million in aggregate limits.
All nuclear, biological, chemical, and radioactive ("NBCR") losses are excluded regardless of whether or not they are certified under the TRIPRA. For non-NBCR losses, the treaty distinguishes between acts committed on behalf of foreign persons or foreign interests ("Foreign Terrorism") and those that are not. The treaty provides annual aggregate limits for Foreign Terrorism (other than NBCR) acts of $15 million for the first layer, $60 million for the second layer, and $40 million for the third layer. Non-Foreign Terrorism losses (other than NBCR) are covered to the same extent as non-terrorism losses.
Casualty Treaty (covers all insurance operations)
There are six layers covering $88 million in excess of $2 million. Losses other than terrorism losses are subject to the following:
- 82.5% of $3 million in excess of $2 million layer provides 71
reinstatements, $216 million annual aggregate limit;
- 100% of $7 million in excess of $5 million layer provides 12 reinstatements, $91 million annual aggregate limit;
- 100% of $9 million in excess of $12 million layer provides three reinstatements, $36 million annual aggregate limit;
- 100% of $9 million in excess of $21 million layer provides one reinstatement, $18 million annual aggregate limit;
- 100% of $20 million in excess of $30 million layer provides one reinstatement, $40 million annual aggregate limit; and
- 100% of $40 million in excess of $50 million layer provides one reinstatement, $80 million annual aggregate limit.
All NBCR losses are excluded. All other losses stemming from the acts of terrorism are subject to the following:
- 82.5% of $3 million in excess of $2 million layer with $15 million net annual terrorism aggregate limit;
- 100% of $7 million in excess of $5 million layer with $28 million net annual terrorism aggregate limit;
- 100% of $9 million in excess of $12 million layer with $27 million net annual terrorism aggregate limit;
- 100% of $9 million in excess of $21 million layer with $18 million net annual terrorism aggregate limit;
- 100% of $20 million in excess of $30 million layer with $40 million net annual terrorism aggregate limit; and
- 100% of $40 million in excess of $50 million layer with $80 million net annual terrorism aggregate limit.
Our investment portfolio's objectives are to maximize after-tax net investment income and generate long-term growth in book value per share by maximizing the overall total return of the portfolio by investing the premiums we receive from our insurance operations and the amounts generated through our capital management strategies, which may include debt and equity security issuances. We balance those objectives against prevailing market conditions, capital preservation considerations, and our enterprise risk-taking appetite. We maintain (i) a well-diversified portfolio across issuers, sectors, and asset classes and (ii) a high credit quality fixed income securities portfolio with a duration and maturity profile at an acceptable risk level that provides ample liquidity.
The effective duration of our fixed income and short-term investments was 3.9 years as of June 30, 2024. The effective duration is monitored and managed to maximize yield while managing interest rate risk at an acceptable level. Purchases and sales are made with the intent of maximizing investment returns in the current market environment, while balancing capital preservation.
Our fixed income and short-term investments (i) represented 92% of our invested assets, (ii) had a weighted average credit rating of "AA-", and (iii) had investment grade holdings representing 96% of the total fixed income and short-term investments portfolio as of June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.
For further details on the composition, credit quality, and various risks to which our portfolio is subject, see Item 7A. “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.” of our 2023 Annual Report.
Total Invested Assets
($ in thousands)
June 30, 2024
December 31, 2023
Change
Total invested assets
$
9,021,820
8,693,729
4
%
Invested assets per dollar of common stockholders' equity
3.31
3.16
5
Components of unrealized gains (losses) – before tax:
Fixed income securities
(380,149)
(353,253)
8
%
Equity securities
4,679
4,079
15
Net unrealized gains (losses) – before tax
(375,470)
(349,174)
8
Components of unrealized gains (losses) – after tax:
Fixed income securities
(300,318)
(279,070)
8
Equity securities
3,696
3,223
15
Net unrealized gains (losses) – after tax
(296,622)
(275,847)
8
Invested assets increased $328.1 million at June 30, 2024, compared to December 31, 2023, reflecting our active investment of operating and investing cash flows. Operating cash flows during Six Months 2024 were 16% of NPW.
Net Investment Income
The components of net investment income earned were as follows:
Quarter ended June 30,
Change % or Points
Six Months ended June 30,
Change % or Points
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Fixed income securities
$
93,935
83,916
12
%
$
188,037
164,003
15
%
Commercial mortgage loans ("CMLs")
3,145
2,199
43
5,939
4,164
43
Equity securities
1,877
2,236
(16)
6,785
3,441
97
Short-term investments
4,680
2,892
62
8,199
7,542
9
Alternative investments
10,517
11,396
(8)
17,398
19,164
(9)
Other investments
118
188
(37)
381
231
65
Investment expenses
(5,630)
(5,131)
10
(10,248)
(9,343)
10
Net investment income earned – before tax
108,642
97,696
11
216,491
189,202
14
Net investment income tax expense
(22,380)
(19,884)
13
(44,589)
(38,338)
16
Net investment income earned – after tax
$
86,262
77,812
11
$
171,902
150,864
14
Effective tax rate
20.6
%
20.4
0.2
pts
20.6
%
20.3
0.3
pts
Annualized after-tax yield on fixed income investments
3.9
3.9
—
3.9
3.8
0.1
Annualized after-tax yield on investment portfolio
After-tax net investment income earned increased 11% in Second Quarter 2024 and 14% in Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods, primarily driven by higher interest rates, active portfolio management, and operating and investing cash flow deployment.
Realized and Unrealized Gains and Losses
When evaluating securities for sale, our general philosophy is to reduce our exposure to securities and sectors based on economic evaluations of whether (i) the fundamentals for that security or sector have deteriorated or (ii) the timing is appropriate to opportunistically trade for other securities with better economic-return characteristics. Net realized and unrealized gains and losses for the indicated periods were as follows:
Quarter ended June 30,
Change
%
Six Months ended June 30,
Change %
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Net realized gains (losses) on disposals
$
3,136
(10,796)
(129)
%
$
3,306
(19,942)
(117)
%
Net unrealized gains (losses) on equity securities
(93)
4,925
(102)
599
8,173
(93)
Net credit loss benefit (expense) on fixed income securities, AFS
(1,233)
864
(243)
(3,883)
10,393
(137)
Net credit loss benefit (expense) on CMLs
(32)
(78)
(59)
136
(61)
(323)
Losses on securities for which we have the intent to sell
(481)
(341)
41
(496)
(645)
(23)
Total net realized and unrealized investment gains (losses)
$
1,297
(5,426)
(124)
$
(338)
(2,082)
(84)
Federal Income Taxes
The following table provides information regarding federal income taxes and reconciles federal income tax at the corporate rate to the effective tax rate:
Quarter ended June 30,
Six Months ended June 30,
($ in thousands)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Tax at statutory rate
$
(16,821)
15,573
$
4,718
39,672
Tax-advantaged interest
(354)
(538)
(756)
(1,258)
Dividends received deduction
(79)
(68)
(117)
(137)
Executive compensation
634
528
1,957
1,269
Stock-based compensation
(15)
(111)
(1,454)
(1,724)
Other
(144)
165
(1,079)
(88)
Federal income tax expense (benefit)
$
(16,779)
15,549
$
3,269
37,734
Income before federal income tax, less preferred stock dividends
$
(82,398)
71,857
$
17,868
184,316
Effective tax rate
20.4
%
21.6
18.3
%
20.5
The federal income tax expense decrease in Second Quarter 2024 and Six Months 2024 compared to the same prior-year periods was primarily due to underwriting losses in both periods, partially offset by an increase in net investment income. Refer to "Insurance Operations" above for more information.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Capital resources and liquidity reflect our ability to generate cash flows from business operations, borrow funds at competitive rates, and raise new capital to meet our operating and growth needs.
Liquidity
We manage liquidity by generating sufficient cash flows to meet our business operations' short-term and long-term cash requirements. As discussed further below, we adjust our liquidity requirements based on economic conditions, market conditions, and future cash flow commitments.
Sources of Liquidity
Sources of cash for the Parent historically have consisted of dividends from the Insurance Subsidiaries, the investment portfolio held at the Parent, borrowings under third-party lines of credit, intercompany revolving demand loan agreements with certain Insurance Subsidiaries, and the issuance of equity (common or preferred) and debt securities. We continue to monitor these sources, considering our short-term and long-term liquidity and capital preservation strategies.
The Parent's cash and components of its investment portfolio were as follows:
($ in thousands)
June 30, 2024
December 31, 2023
Fixed income securities
$
325,730
421,089
Equity securities
55,351
50,920
Short-term investments
50,522
17,671
Alternative investments
17,581
18,134
Cash
160
180
Total investments and cash
$
449,344
507,994
Short-term investments have historically been maintained in “AAA” rated money market funds and fixed income securities are comprised of high-quality, liquid government and corporate securities.
The amount and composition of the Parent's investment portfolio may change over time based on various factors, including the amount and availability of dividends from our Insurance Subsidiaries, investment income, expenses, other Parent cash needs, such as dividends payable to stockholders, asset allocation investment decisions, inorganic growth opportunities, debt retirement, and share repurchases. Our target is for the Parent to maintain liquid investments of at least twice its expected annual net cash outflow needs, or $210 million.
Insurance Subsidiary Dividends
The Insurance Subsidiaries generate liquidity through insurance float, created by collecting premiums and earning investment income before paying claims. The period of float can extend over many years. Our investment portfolio consists of securities with maturity dates that continually provide a source of cash flow for claims payments in the ordinary course of business. To protect our Insurance Subsidiaries' capital, we purchase reinsurance coverage for significantly large claims or catastrophes that may occur.
The Insurance Subsidiaries paid $44 million in total dividends to the Parent in Six Months 2024. As of December 31, 2023, our allowable ordinary maximum dividend is $316 million for 2024. All Insurance Subsidiary dividends to the Parent are (i) subject to the approval and/or review of its domiciliary state insurance regulator, and (ii) generally payable only from earned statutory surplus reported in its annual statements as of the preceding December 31. Although domiciliary state insurance regulators have historically approved dividends, there is no assurance they will approve future Insurance Subsidiary dividends.
New Jersey corporate law also limits the maximum amount of dividends the Parent can pay our stockholders if either (i) the Parent would be unable to pay its debts as they become due in the usual course of business, or (ii) the Parent’s total assets would be less than its total liabilities. The Parent’s ability to pay dividends to stockholders is also impacted by (i) covenants in its credit agreement that obligate it, among other things, to maintain a minimum consolidated net worth and a maximum ratio of consolidated debt to total capitalization, and (ii) the terms of our preferred stock that prohibit dividends from being declared or paid on our common stock if dividends are not declared and paid, or made payable, on all outstanding preferred stock for the latest completed dividend period.
For additional information regarding dividend restrictions and financial covenants, where applicable, see Note 11. "Indebtedness," Note 17. "Equity," and Note 22. "Statutory Financial Information, Capital Requirements, and Restrictions on Dividends and Transfers of Funds" in Item 8. "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data." of our 2023 Annual Report.
Line of Credit
On November 7, 2022, the Parent entered into a Credit Agreement with the lenders named therein (the “Lenders”) and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent ("Line of Credit"). Under the Line of Credit, the Lenders have agreed to provide the Parent with a $50 million revolving credit facility that can be increased to $125 million with the Lenders' consent. No borrowings were made under the Line of Credit in Six Months 2024. The Line of Credit will mature on November 7, 2025, and has a variable interest rate based on the Parent’s debt ratings. We expect to continue to maintain a credit facility for liquidity purposes. For additional information regarding the Line of Credit and corresponding representations, warranties, and covenants, refer to Note 11. "Indebtedness" in Item 8. "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data." of our 2023 Annual Report. We met all covenants under our Line of Credit as of June 30, 2024.
Four Insurance Subsidiaries are members of Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") branches, as shown in the following table. Membership requires the ownership of branch stock and includes the right to access liquidity. All Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis ("FHLBI") and Federal Home Loan Bank of New York ("FHLBNY") borrowings are required to be secured by investments pledged as collateral. For additional information regarding collateral outstanding, refer to Note 4. "Investments" in Item 1. "Financial Statements." of this Form 10-Q.
Branch
Insurance Subsidiary Member
FHLBI
Selective Insurance Company of South Carolina1
Selective Insurance Company of the Southeast1
FHLBNY
Selective Insurance Company of America
Selective Insurance Company of New York ("SICNY")
1These subsidiaries are jointly referred to as the "Indiana Subsidiaries" because they are domiciled in Indiana.
The Line of Credit permits aggregate borrowings from the FHLBI and the FHLBNY up to 10% of the respective member company’s admitted assets for the previous year. SICNY is domiciled in New York, which limits its FHLBNY borrowings to the lesser of 5% of admitted assets for the most recently completed fiscal quarter or 10% of the previous year-end's admitted assets. As of June 30, 2024, we had remaining capacity of $529.4 million for FHLB borrowings, with a $21.3 million additional stock purchase requirement to allow the member companies to borrow their remaining capacity amounts.
Short-term Borrowings
We did not make any short-term borrowings from FHLB branches during Six Months 2024.
Intercompany Loan Agreements
The Parent has lending agreements with the Indiana Subsidiaries, approved by the Indiana Department of Insurance, that provide the Parent with additional intercompany liquidity. Like the Line of Credit, these lending agreements limit the Parent’s borrowings from the Indiana Subsidiaries to 10% of the admitted assets of the respective Indiana Subsidiary. The outstanding balance on these intercompany loans was $60.0 million as of June 30, 2024, and $67.0 million as of December 31, 2023. The remaining capacity under these intercompany loan agreements was $121.5 million as of June 30, 2024, and $114.5 million as of December 31, 2023. Additionally, we have other insurance regulator-approved intercompany agreements in place that facilitate liquidity management between the Parent and the Insurance Subsidiaries to enhance flexibility.
Capital Market Activities
The Parent had no private or public stock issuances during Six Months 2024. In addition, we had no common stock share repurchases during Six Months 2024 under our existing share repurchase program. We had $84.2 million of remaining capacity under our share repurchase program as of June 30, 2024. For additional information on the share repurchase program, refer to Note 17. “Equity” in Item 8. "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data." of our 2023 Annual Report.
Uses of Liquidity
The Parent uses the liquidity generated from the sources discussed above to pay dividends to our stockholders, among other things. Dividends on shares of the Parent's common and preferred stock are declared and paid at the discretion of the Board based on our operating results, financial condition, capital requirements, contractual restrictions, and other relevant factors. Our Board declared:
•A quarterly cash dividend on common stock of $0.35 per common share that is payable September 3, 2024, to holders of record on August 15, 2024; and
•A quarterly cash dividend of $287.50 per share on our 4.60% Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series B (equivalent to $0.28750 per depository share) payable on September 16, 2024, to holders of record as of August 30, 2024.
Our ability to meet our interest and principal repayment obligations on our debt and our ability to continue to pay dividends to our stockholders is dependent on (i) liquidity at the Parent, (ii) the ability of the Insurance Subsidiaries to pay dividends, if necessary, and/or (iii) the availability of other sources of liquidity to the Parent. Our next borrowing principal repayment is $60 million to FHLBI due on December 16, 2026.
Restrictions on the ability of the Insurance Subsidiaries to declare and pay dividends, without alternative liquidity options, could materially affect our ability to service debt and pay dividends on common and preferred stock.
Capital Resources
Capital resources ensure we can pay policyholder claims, furnish the financial strength to support the business of underwriting insurance risks, and facilitate continued business growth. At June 30, 2024, we had GAAP stockholders' equity of $2.9 billion
and statutory surplus of $2.7 billion. With total debt of $508.8 million at June 30, 2024, our debt-to-capital ratio was 14.8%. For additional information on our statutory surplus, see Note 22. "Statutory Financial Information, Capital Requirements, and Restrictions on Dividends and Transfers of Funds" in Item 8. "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data." of our 2023 Annual Report.
The following table summarizes certain contractual obligations we had at June 30, 2024, that may require us to invest additional amounts into our investment portfolio, which we would fund primarily with operating cash flows.
($ in millions)
Amount of Obligation
Alternative and other investments
$
289.3
Non-publicly traded collateralized loan obligations in our fixed income securities portfolio
96.3
Non-publicly traded common stock within our equity portfolio
25.5
CMLs
2.7
Privately-placed corporate securities
64.7
Total
$
478.5
There is no certainty (i) that any such additional investments will be required, and (ii) about the timing of funding. We expect to have the capacity to fund these commitments through our normal operating and investing activities as they come due.
Our current and long-term material cash requirements associated with (i) loss and loss expense reserves, (ii) contractual obligations under operating and financing leases for office space and equipment, and (iii) notes payable, funded primarily with operating cash flows, have not materially changed since December 31, 2023. The Insurance Subsidiaries' net loss and loss expense reserves duration was 3.1 years at December 31, 2023.
Our other cash requirements include, without limitation, dividends to stockholders, capital expenditures, and other operating expenses, including commissions to our distribution partners, labor costs, premium taxes, general and administrative expenses, and income taxes.
As of June 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, we had no (i) material guarantees on behalf of others and trading activities involving non-exchange traded contracts accounted for at fair value, (ii) material transactions with related parties other than those disclosed in Note 18. “Related Party Transactions” in Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.” of our 2023 Annual Report, and (iii) material relationships with unconsolidated entities or financial partnerships, such as structured finance or special purpose entities, established to facilitate off-balance sheet arrangements or other contractually narrow or limited purposes. Consequently, we are not exposed to any material financing, liquidity, market, or credit risk related to off-balance sheet arrangements.
We continually monitor our cash requirements and the capital resources we maintain at the holding company and Insurance Subsidiary levels. As part of our long-term capital strategy, we strive to maintain capital metrics that support our targeted financial strength relative to the macroeconomic environment. Based on our analysis and market conditions, we may take a variety of actions, including, without limitation, contributing capital to the Insurance Subsidiaries, issuing additional debt and/or equity securities, repurchasing existing debt, repurchasing shares of the Parent’s common stock, and adjusting common stockholders’ dividends.
Our capital management strategy is intended to protect the interests of the policyholders of the Insurance Subsidiaries and our stockholders and enhance our financial strength and underwriting capacity. We have a solid capital base and high-quality underwriting portfolio, positioning us well to take advantage of potential market opportunities.
Book value per common share decreased 1% to $44.74 as of June 30, 2024, from $45.42 as of December 31, 2023, driven by $0.70 in dividends to our common stockholders and a $0.36 increase in unrealized losses on our fixed income securities portfolio, partially offset by $0.24 in net income (loss) available to common stockholders per diluted common share. The increase in net unrealized losses on our fixed income securities was primarily driven by an increase in benchmark U.S. Treasury rates. Our adjusted book value per share, which is book value per share excluding total after-tax unrealized gains or losses on investments included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), decreased to $49.67 as of June 30, 2024, from $50.03 as of December 31, 2023.
Cash Flows
Net cash provided by operating activities increased to $380.3 million in Six Months 2024, compared to $293.6 million in Six Months 2023, primarily driven by higher levels of cash received for premiums. For more information on our underwriting results, refer to "Insurance Operations" above in this MD&A.
Net cash used in investing activities increased to $333.3 million in Six Months 2024, compared to $253.6 million in Six Months 2023, as a result of investing more cash from operating activities. Operating cash flows were 16% of NPW in Six Months 2024 compared to 14% of NPW in Six Months 2023.
Net cash used in financing activities remained relatively flat at $49.4 million in Six Months 2024, compared to $44.0 million in Six Months 2023.
On February 28, 2024, S&P reaffirmed our "A" rating with a "stable" outlook. In taking this rating action, S&P cited our (i) strong financial and business risk profiles, (ii) sound underwriting process that produces profitable operating performance, and (iii) very strong capital adequacy.
On May 14, 2024, Fitch reaffirmed our "A+" rating with a "stable" outlook. In taking this rating action, Fitch cited our (i) business profile as having favorable competitive positioning within our core standard lines businesses with strong independent agency relationships, (ii) continued profitable underwriting, (iii) strong capitalization, and (iv) very strong debt service.
On June 26, 2024, Moody's reaffirmed our "A2" rating and changed our rating outlook to "stable" from "positive." In taking this rating action, Moody's cited our (i) strong regional franchise focused on low-to-medium hazard and small-to-midsize commercial accounts, (ii) strong independent agency relationships, (iii) long record of underwriting profitability, and (iv) conservative investment portfolio. In addition, Moody's cited our narrower market presence relative to national peers, contributing to the rating outlook change.
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.
There have been no material changes in the information about market risk set forth in our 2023 Annual Report.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.
Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)), as of the end of the period covered by this report. In performing this evaluation, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control – Integrated Framework ("COSO Framework")in 2013. Based on this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of such period are (i) effective in recording, processing, summarizing, and reporting information on a timely basis that we are required to disclose in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act, and (ii) effective in ensuring that information that we are required to disclose in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is appropriately accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, to allow timely decisions about required disclosure. No changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Exchange Act) occurred during Second Quarter 2024 that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.
Incidental to our insurance operations, we are routinely engaged in legal proceedings with inherently unpredictable outcomes that could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated results of operations or cash flows in particular quarterly or annual periods. For additional information regarding our legal risks, refer to Note 13. "Litigation" in Item 1. "Financial Statements." of this Form 10-Q and Item 1A. “Risk Factors.” below in Part II. “Other Information.” As of June 30, 2024, we have no material
pending legal proceedings that could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS.
Certain risk factors can significantly impact our business, liquidity, capital resources, results of operations, financial condition, and debt ratings. These risk factors might affect, alter, or change our actions in executing our long-term capital strategy. Examples include, without limitation, contributing capital to any or all of the Insurance Subsidiaries, issuing additional debt and/or equity securities, repurchasing our existing debt and/or equity securities, or increasing or decreasing common stockholders' dividends. We operate in a continually changing business environment, and new risk factors that we cannot predict or assess may emerge at any time. Consequently, we can neither predict such new risk factors nor assess the potential future impact on our business. There have been no material changes from the risk factors disclosed in Item 1A. “Risk Factors.” in our 2023 Annual Report.
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS.
The following table provides information regarding our purchases of our common stock in Second Quarter 2024:
Period
Total Number of
Shares Purchased1
Average Price Paid per Share
Total Number of
Shares Purchased
as Part of Publicly
Announced Programs2
Approximate Dollar Value of
Shares that May Yet
Be Purchased Under the Announced Programs
(in millions)2
April 1 – 30, 2024
250
$
103.07
—
$
84.2
May 1 – 31, 2024
58
96.41
—
84.2
June 1 – 30, 2024
—
—
—
84.2
Total
308
$
101.82
—
$
84.2
1We purchased these shares from employees to satisfy tax withholding obligations associated with the vesting of their restricted stock units.
2On December 2, 2020, we announced our Board of Directors ("Board") authorized a $100 million share repurchase program with no set expiration or termination date. Our repurchase program does not obligate us to acquire any particular amount of our common stock. Management will determine the timing and amount of any share repurchases under the authorization at its discretion based on market conditions and other considerations.
ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES.
None.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES.
Not applicable.
ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION.
During the three months ended June 30, 2024, no director or officer of the Company adopted, modified, or terminated any contract, instruction, or written plan for the purchase or sale of the Company’s securities that was intended to satisfy the affirmative defense conditions of Rule 10b5-1(c) (a “Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement") or any "non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement" (as defined in Item 408(c) of Regulation S-K).
Certification of Chief Financial Officer in accordance with Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
**101
The following financial statements from the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, formatted in Inline Extensible Business Reporting Language (iXBRL): (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) Consolidated Statements of Income, (iii) Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss), (iv) Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity, (v) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and (vi) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
**104
The cover page from the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, formatted in iXBRL.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
SELECTIVE INSURANCE GROUP, INC.
Registrant
Date:
July 26, 2024
By: /s/ John J. Marchioni
John J. Marchioni
Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer