<PAGE>
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
-----------------
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2000
Commission file number 000-23481
-----------------
ESG RE LIMITED
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
Bermuda Not Applicable
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation of organization) Identification No.)
16 Church Street
Hamilton HM11, Bermuda
(Address of executive offices, zip code)
Telephone (441) 295-2185
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
-----------------
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days. Yes /X/ No / /
The number of the Registrant's common shares (par value $1.00 per share)
outstanding as of November 9, 2000, was 11,787,108.
<PAGE>
ESG RE LIMITED
1.1 INDEX TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
<S> <C>
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2000
(unaudited) and December 31, 1999 3
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three
months and nine months ended September 30, 2000 and 1999 (unaudited) 4
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the nine
months ended September 30, 2000 and 1999 (unaudited) 5
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the three
months and nine months ended September 30, 2000 and 1999 (unaudited) 6
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) 7
Independent Accountants' Review Report 10
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
ESG RE LIMITED
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(U.S. DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS EXCEPT SHARE AND PER SHARE DATA)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
September 30, December 31,
2000 1999
------------- ------------
ASSETS (Unaudited)
<S> <C> <C>
Investments - available for sale, at fair value
(cost: $177,997 and $184,767) $ 175,299 $ 181,155
Cash and cash equivalents 19,589 28,278
Other investments 17,672 12,116
--------- ---------
Total investments and cash 212,560 221,549
Accrued investment income 2,983 3,367
Management fees receivable 593 1,303
Reinsurance balances receivable 238,748 276,112
Reinsurance recoverable on incurred losses 12,569 11,462
Funds retained by ceding companies 26,335 15,541
Prepaid reinsurance premiums 7,888 9,108
Deferred acquisition costs 55,248 57,807
Receivable for securities sold 2,240 --
Other assets ($707 due from related party in 2000) 6,206 6,071
Cash and cash equivalents held in a fiduciary capacity 3,224 3,364
--------- ---------
TOTAL ASSETS $ 568,594 $ 605,684
========= =========
LIABILITIES
Unpaid losses and loss expenses $ 153,732 $ 136,935
Unearned premiums 165,205 181,127
Acquisition costs payable 68,282 73,055
Reinsurance balances payable 41,474 26,025
Payable for securities purchased 5,831 241
Accrued expenses, accounts payable, and other
liabilities ($82 and $125 due to related parties) 13,719 8,122
Fiduciary liabilities 3,224 3,364
--------- ---------
Total liabilities 451,467 428,869
--------- ---------
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Preference shares, 50,000,000 shares authorized; no shares
issued and outstanding for 2000 and 1999 -- --
Class B common shares, 100,000,000 shares authorized; no
shares issued and outstanding for 2000 and 1999 -- --
Common shares, par value $1 per share; 100,000,000 shares
authorized; 11,787,108 shares issued and outstanding
for 2000 and 11,598,799 shares issued and outstanding for 1999 11,787 11,599
Additional paid-in capital 209,665 211,225
Accumulated other comprehensive income:
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax (4,844) (1,702)
Unrealized (losses) on securities, net of reclassification
adjustments and tax (2,698) (3,612)
--------- ---------
Accumulated other comprehensive income (7,542) (5,314)
--------- ---------
Retained (deficit) (94,540) (40,695)
--------- ---------
Deferred compensation (2,243) --
--------- ---------
Total shareholders' equity 117,127 176,815
--------- ---------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 568,594 $ 605,684
========= =========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the
consolidated financial statements.
3
<PAGE>
ESG RE LIMITED
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(U.S. DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS EXCEPT SHARE AND PER SHARE DATA)
(UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30, September 30, September 30,
2000 1999 2000 1999
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
REVENUES
Net premiums written $ 16,010 $ 59,748 $ 165,164 $ 243,618
Change in unearned premiums 23,746 7,707 8,849 (50,517)
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Net premiums earned 39,756 67,455 174,013 193,101
Management fee revenue 224 (252) 1,180 1,439
Net investment income 3,600 3,478 9,691 10,483
Gain on equity investments 23 -- 309 --
Net realized investment gain (loss) 472 (861) (599) (1,136)
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
44,075 69,820 184,594 203,887
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
EXPENSES
Losses and loss expenses 44,477 56,637 144,395 140,297
Acquisition costs 18,264 19,761 56,387 52,679
Administrative expenses 16,382 7,582 32,479 17,563
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
79,123 83,980 233,261 210,539
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
NET (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS
BEFORE TAXES (35,048) (14,160) (48,667) (6,652)
Income tax expense -- -- -- 311
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
NET (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS (35,048) (14,160) (48,667) (6,963)
INCOME (LOSS) FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS 750 (9,000) (5,178) (8,734)
NET (LOSS) $ (34,298) $ (23,160) $ (53,845) $ (15,697)
============ ============ ============ ============
PER SHARE DATA
Basic net (loss)/ per share from
continuing operations $ (2.97) $ (1.03) $ (4.14) $ (0.50)
Diluted net (loss) per share from
continuing operations $ (2.97) $ (1.03) $ (4.14) $ (0.50)
============ ============ ============ ============
Basic net (loss) per share $ (2.90) $ (1.68) $ (4.58) $ (1.13)
Diluted net (loss) per share $ (2.90) $ (1.68) $ (4.58) $ (1.13)
============ ============ ============ ============
Weighted average shares outstanding
Basic 11,817,349 13,792,450 11,746,066 13,879,235
Diluted 11,817,349 13,792,450 11,746,066 13,879,235
============ ============ ============ ============
Dividends declared per share $ 0.00 $ 0.08 $ 0.16 $ 0.24
============ ============ ============ ============
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the
consolidated financial statements.
4
<PAGE>
ESG RE LIMITED
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(U.S. DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
(UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Nine Months Ended
----------------------------------------
September 30, 2000 September 30, 1999
------------------ ------------------
<S> <C> <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities $ (44) $ 26,311
--------- ---------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Cost of fixed maturity investments acquired - available for sale (157,716) (257,974)
Proceeds from sale of fixed maturity investments - available for sale 162,580 269,586
Funding of other investments (8,740) (8,760)
Proceeds from other investments 800 --
Purchases of fixed assets (476) (2,002)
Purchases of intangible assets -- (1,076)
--------- ---------
Net cash used in investing activities (3,552) (226)
--------- ---------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Dividends paid (2,859) (3,342)
Repurchase of common shares (2,234) (5,947)
--------- ---------
Net cash used in financing activities (5,093) (9,289)
--------- ---------
Net (decrease) increase in cash (8,689) 16,796
Cash and cash equivalents at January 1 28,278 16,942
--------- ---------
Cash and cash equivalents at September 30 $ 19,589 $ 33,738
========= =========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the
consolidated financial statements.
5
<PAGE>
ESG RE LIMITED
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(U.S. DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30, September 30, September 30,
2000 1999 2000 1999
------------- ------------ ------------ -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net (loss) $(34,298) $(23,160) $(53,845) $(15,697)
-------- -------- -------- --------
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments (2,400) (141) (3,142) (660)
Unrealized gains on securities:
Unrealized holding (losses)/gains arising during
the period 1,527 (789) 315 (5,220)
Less reclassification adjustment for
losses/(gains) included in net income (472) 861 599 1,136
-------- -------- -------- --------
Other comprehensive income (1,345) (69) (2,228) (4,744)
Comprehensive (loss) $(35,643) $(23,229) $(56,073) $(20,441)
======== ======== ======== ========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the
consolidated financial statements.
6
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION
The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of ESG Re Limited
(together with its subsidiaries, the "Company") have been prepared in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America
("U.S. GAAP") except pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and
Exchange Commission which do not include all of the information and footnotes
required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial
statements. In the opinion of management, these unaudited financial statements
reflect all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of
financial position, results of operations and comprehensive income as of and for
the periods presented. The results of operations for any interim period are not
necessarily indicative of the results for a full year. These unaudited
consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited
consolidated financial statements, and related notes thereto, included in the
Company's 1999 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP requires
management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of
assets and liabilities and contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the
financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during
the reporting period as well as the disclosure of such amounts. Actual results
could materially differ from those estimates and assumptions.
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The Company's condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in
accordance with U.S. GAAP. The Company's significant accounting policies include
the following:
(A) PREMIUM REVENUES
Premiums written are estimated and recognized at the inception of the
reinsurance contract, based upon information received from intermediaries and
ceding companies. The Company compares estimated written premiums to actual
premiums as reported by ceding companies on a periodic basis. The timeliness and
frequency of ceding company reports vary considerably by ceding company, line of
business and geographic area, which means that the actual ultimate premium
written may not be known with certainty for prolonged periods. Differences
between such estimates and actual amounts as reported by ceding companies are
recorded in the period in which the actual amounts are determined.
The reinsurance contracts entered into by the Company are primarily of short
duration. Premiums written are recognized as earned over the coverage period in
proportion to the amount of protection provided. Unearned premium reserves are
established to cover the unexpired contract period.
(B) RESERVE FOR LOSSES AND LOSS EXPENSES
The reserve for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses includes an estimate
of reported case reserves and an estimate for losses incurred but not reported.
Case reserves are estimated based on ceding company reports and other data
considered relevant to the estimation process. The liability for losses incurred
but not reported is based to a large extent on the expectations of ceding
companies about ultimate loss ratios at the inception of the contracts,
supplemented by industry experience and the Company's specific historical
experience where available. As the Company has limited specific historical
experience on a significant number of its programs on which to base its estimate
of losses incurred but not reported, its reliance on ceding company expectations
and industry experience is necessarily increased, which increases the
uncertainty involved in the loss estimation process
The reserves, including legal reserves, as established by management are
reviewed periodically, and adjustments are made in the periods in which they
become known. Although management believes that an adequate provision has
been made for the liability for losses and loss expenses, and legal reserves
included in accrued expenses, based on all available information, there can
be no assurance that the ultimate losses will not differ significantly from
the amounts provided.
(C) INVESTMENTS
Fixed maturity securities are classified as available for sale and are reported
at estimated fair value. Investments that are available for sale are expected to
be held for an indefinite period but may be sold
7
<PAGE>
depending on interest rates and other considerations. Other investments over
which the Company exercises significant influence are accounted for under the
equity method. Other investments are accounted for at the lower of cost or
estimated realizable value. Unrealized investment gains and losses on
investments available for sale, net of applicable deferred income tax, are
reported as a separate component of "accumulated other comprehensive income".
Realized gains or losses on sale of investments are determined on the basis of
average cost. The carrying values of investments available for sale and other
investments are adjusted for impairments in value that are considered to be
other than temporary.
(D) USE OF ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
reporting period as well as the disclosure of such amounts. Actual results,
particularly for premiums written, premiums earned and loss reserves could
materially differ from those estimates and assumptions.
(E) FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The carrying value of the Company's investments approximates their fair value
and is based on quoted market prices. Due to the uncertainty with respect to
both the timing and amount of the proceeds to be realized from the Company's
other investments, it is not practicable to determine the fair value of these
other investments. The carrying value of other financial instruments, including
cash and cash equivalents, accrued investment income, and other receivables and
payables approximate their estimated fair value due to the short term nature of
the balances.
3. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
(A) EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS
The Company has entered into employment contracts with several employees for
terms of one to five years which have total minimum commitments of $5.0 million
excluding any performance bonuses that are determined by the Board of Directors
of the Company. The contracts include various non-compete clauses following
termination of employment.
(B) LEASE COMMITMENTS
The Company and its subsidiaries have various obligations under operating
leases. The future minimum commitments under lease and employment agreements are
as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Employment Lease
U.S. dollars in thousands Commitments Commitments Total
-------------------------- ----------- ----------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Years Ending December 31,
2000 $ 752 $ 264 $ 1,016
2001 2,596 918 3,514
2002 1,546 621 2,167
2003 120 421 541
2004 -- 311 311
Thereafter -- 743 743
------- ------- -------
Total $ 5,014 $ 3,278 $ 8,292
======= ======= =======
</TABLE>
8
<PAGE>
(C) LOAN COMMITMENTS
The Company and its subsidiaries have unfunded loan commitments outstanding of
$2.0 million to a third party which is a significant ceding company to ESG.
(D) LETTERS OF CREDIT
Letters of Credit, in the amount of $72.9 million at September 30, 2000, have
been issued in favor of ceding companies secured against the Company's
investment portfolio.
(E) PENSION OBLIGATIONS
Certain subsidiaries of the Company are obligated to make defined contributions
to pension plans for their employees. As of September 30, 2000, there were
outstanding liabilities for pension contributions of $515 thousand.
4. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
(A) HEALTH CARE DIVISION
On August 10, 2000, the Board of Directors approved a plan for the
divestiture of its Health Care Division. Implementation of that plan resulted
in the divestiture of VBB Bermuda Limited ("VBB") effective June 30, 2000, to
affiliates of the Chief Executive Officer and senior management of the Health
Care Division. The investors in VBB include the Company, affiliates of the
Chief Executive Officer of the Company (the "CEO"), Dr. Gerald Moeller,
previously a member of the board of ESG Re Limited and Chief
Executive-Healthcare Division and former management of the Health Care
Division. Terms comparable to those offered to affiliates of the CEO were
offered to non-related parties. The Company owns 8,000,000 convertible
preference shares in VBB, par value $1 per share, included in other investments.
Condensed summary operating results for the Health Care Division were as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,
U.S. dollars, in thousands 2000 1999 2000 1999
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Revenues $ -- $ 34 $ 343 $ 300
Expenses 750 (8,746) (5,328) (8,746)
----- -------- -------- --------
Net income/(loss) $ 750 $ (8,712) $ (4,985) $ (8,446)
===== ======== ======== ========
Net income (loss) per share $0.07 $ (0.64) $ (0.44) $ (0.63)
===== ======== ======== ========
</TABLE>
The income of $750 thousand for the three months ended September 30, 2000
represents a recovery by the Company in settlement of professional service fees.
(B) INVESTMENT IN INDONESIA
On August 10, 2000, the Board of Directors approved a plan to liquidate its
majority owned subsidiary in Indonesia. The Company does not expect to recover
any debt or equity contributions advanced to and, expensed by, this subsidiary,
in previous quarters. This operation contributed a net loss of $0.2 million in
2000.
5. RELATED PARTIES
Included in net investment income for the three months and nine months ended
September 30, 2000 were related party investment expenses of $82 thousand and
$327 thousand respectively.
The Company holds an investment in VBB as described in Note 4 above. The
Company had a receivable balance of $707 thousand at September 30, 2000 from
VBB, which has been subsequently repaid.
9
<PAGE>
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS' REVIEW REPORT
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of ESG Re Limited
We have reviewed the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet of ESG Re
Limited and subsidiaries as of September 30, 2000 and the related condensed
consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income and cash flows for
the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2000 and 1999. These
financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management.
We conducted our review in accordance with standards established by the American
Institute of Certified Public Accountants. A review of interim financial
information consists principally of applying analytical procedures to financial
data and of making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting
matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance
with generally accepted auditing standards, the objective of which is the
expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole.
Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.
Based upon our review, we are not aware of any material modifications that
should be made to such condensed consolidated financial statements for them to
be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United
States of America.
We have previously audited, in accordance with auditing standards generally
accepted in the United States of America, the consolidated balance sheet of ESG
Re Limited and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1999 and the related consolidated
statements of operations, comprehensive income, changes in shareholders' equity
and cash flows for the year then ended (not presented herein) and in our report
dated March 10, 2000, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated
financial statements. In our opinion, the information set forth in the
accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 1999 is
fairly stated, in all material respects, in relation to the consolidated balance
sheet from which it has been derived.
Deloitte & Touche
Chartered Accountants
Dublin, Ireland
November 13, 2000
10
<PAGE>
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.
THE FOLLOWING IS A DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF THE FINANCIAL CONDITION AS OF
SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 AND THE RESULTS OF OPERATIONS OF ESG RE LIMITED AND
SUBSIDIARIES (THE "COMPANY" OR "ESG") FOR THE THREE MONTHS AND NINE MONTHS ENDED
SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 AS COMPARED TO THE THREE MONTHS AND NINE MONTHS ENDED
SEPTEMBER 30, 1999. THIS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS SHOULD BE READ IN CONJUNCTION
WITH THE ATTACHED UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND NOTES THERETO
AND THE AUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF THE COMPANY AS OF AND FOR
THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999 AND NOTES THERETO INCLUDED IN THE COMPANY'S
ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999. THE
UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AS OF AND FOR THE THREE MONTHS AND
NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 AND FOR THE THREE MONTHS AND NINE MONTHS
ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1999 AND NOTES THERETO HAVE BEEN REVIEWED BY INDEPENDENT
ACCOUNTANTS IN ACCORDANCE WITH STANDARDS ESTABLISHED BY THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE
OF CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS.
THE RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND CASH FLOWS FOR ANY INTERIM PERIOD ARE NOT
NECESSARILY INDICATIVE OF RESULTS FOR THE FULL YEAR. IN ADDITION, THIS QUARTERLY
REPORT CONTAINS FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS REGARDING FUTURE PROFIT LEVELS,
PREMIUM GROWTH, CASH FLOWS AND OTHER MATTERS, WHICH INVOLVE RISKS AND
UNCERTAINTIES THAT MAY AFFECT THE ACTUAL RESULTS OF OPERATIONS OF THE COMPANY.
THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT FACTORS, AMONG OTHERS, COULD CAUSE ACTUAL RESULTS TO
DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THOSE SET FORTH IN THE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: CLAIMS
FREQUENCY, CLAIMS SEVERITY, ECONOMIC ACTIVITY, COMPETITIVE PRICING AND THE
REGULATORY ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH THE COMPANY OPERATES.
GENERAL
The Company previously operated two business segments, Reinsurance and Health
Care. The Reinsurance division is a specialty reinsurance enterprise providing
accident, medical, credit, life and special risk reinsurance to insurers and
selected reinsurers on a worldwide basis, and underwriting management services
to co-reinsurers. Effective June 30, 2000, the Company discontinued the
operations of its Health Care Division. Reference is made to Note 4 of Notes to
Financial Statements for a description of the sale transaction and summary
operating results.
11
<PAGE>
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
CONSOLIDATED RESULTS
Results from continuing operations for the three months ended September 30,
2000, were a loss of $35.0 million or $2.97 per share as compared to a loss
of $14.2 million or $1.03 per share for the corresponding period in the prior
year. For the nine months ended September 30, 2000, the loss from continuing
operations was $48.7 million or $4.14 per share compared to a prior year loss
of $7.0 million or $0.50 per share covering the same period. The current
period loss is primarily the result of reserve strengthening in respect of
business written for the 1998 and 1999 underwriting years. The Company is
continuing to take steps to mitigate further potential adverse development
from these books of business.
Discontinued operations contributed $750 thousand of income to the third
quarter this year representing the recovery of professional fees. For the
same period last year, discontinued operations reported a net loss of $9.0
million. Comparable amounts for the nine months ended September 30, 2000 and
1999 were net losses of $5.2 million and $8.7 million, respectively. For
additional information on the discontinued operations, reference is made to
Note 4 of Notes to the Financial Statements.
Consolidated results of operations for the three months and nine months ended
September 30, 2000, and 1999, are presented below.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,
U.S dollars in thousands except per share data 2000 1999 2000 1999
-------- -------- -------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Gross Managed Premium 33,423 63,166 199,582 266,356
-------- -------- -------- --------
Net Premium Written 16,010 59,748 165,164 243,618
-------- -------- -------- --------
Net Premium Earned 39,756 67,455 174,013 193,101
-------- -------- -------- --------
Less:
Losses & Loss Adjustment Expenses (44,477) (56,637) (144,395) (140,297)
Acquisition Costs (18,264) (19,761) (56,387) (52,679)
-------- -------- -------- --------
Total Underwriting Expenses (62,741) (76,398) (200,782) (192,976)
-------- -------- -------- --------
(Loss)/profit from Underwriting (22,985) (8,943) (26,769) 125
Administrative Expenses (16,382) (7,582) (32,479) (17,563)
Net Investment Income 3,600 3,478 9,691 10,483
Gain on equity investments 23 -- 309 --
Net realized investment gains/(losses) 472 (861) (599) (1,136)
Management Fee Revenue 224 (252) 1,180 1,439
-------- -------- -------- --------
Net (loss) from continuing operations before taxes (35,048) (14,160) (48,667) (6,652)
Income Tax Expense -- -- -- 311
-------- -------- -------- --------
Net (Loss) from continuing operations (35,048) (14,160) (48,667) (6,963)
(Loss) income from discontinued operations 750 (9,000) (5,178) (8,734)
-------- -------- -------- --------
Net (Loss) (34,298) (23,160) (53,845) (15,697)
(Loss) excluding realized investment gains (losses) (34,770) (22,299) (53,246) (14,561)
-------- -------- -------- --------
Basic net (loss)/income per common share from
continuing operations $ (2.97) $ (1.03) $ (4.14) $ (0.50)
Basic net (loss)/income per common share $ (2.90) $ (1.68) $ (4.58) $ (1.13)
======== ======== ======== ========
</TABLE>
CONTINUING OPERATIONS - REINSURANCE DIVISION
NET UNDERWRITING INCOME
Gross managed premium decreased by $29.7 million, or 47.1%, for the three
months ended September 30, 2000, compared to the corresponding prior year
period. The Company's office in North America wrote one large medical
contract for employers contract business in the current quarter, with managed
premium of $29.7 million. Additional premium of $7.7 million was added on the
2000 underwriting year. During the quarter, the Company recognized negative
adjustments to managed premium on certain prior year contracts in London and
North America as the premium development was below expectations. In the prior
quarter the Company wrote $17.9 million
12
<PAGE>
of US medical business through its London office. As the Company ceased writing
US medical business through this office in February 2000, none of these
contracts were renewed. In addition, in the prior quarter, the Company
recognized $20 million from a medical account in North America that provided for
the transition of group health insurance coverage sold through affinity groups
to alternate providers. This account ultimately provided $65 million in managed
premium throughout 1999.
Gross managed premium decreased by $66.8 million or 25.1% for the nine months
ended September 30, 2000, compared to the corresponding prior year period. A
medical account for the transition of group health insurance coverage sold
through affinity groups to alternative providers, that provided $65 million in
managed premium in the prior period, had a final premium of $13 million reported
in 2000. In addition, a loss making account in Europe, which contributed $12
million in premium in 1999, was not renewed. Management's decision in February
2000 to cease writing US medical business through its London office has also
impacted premium volumes in 2000 over the prior year.
The financial result for the quarter has indicated that on certain accounts,
contracts were under priced. Through the renewal season, the Company has been
and will continue to propose appropriate rate increases across all contracts. In
line with changes in the market place, the Company has scaled down the managed
premium targets across the business with an enhanced focus on writing selective
risks that are fully aligned with the Company's revised terms and conditions.
Underwriting results for the three months ended September 30, 2000 and 1999, by
line of business and in total were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three months ended Sept 30, 2000 Personal
U.S. dollars in thousands Medical Accident Credit Life Other Total
-------------------------------- --------- -------- --------- ---------- --------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Gross premiums written $ 28,314 $ 5,520 $ (2,039) $ 735 $ (698) $ 31,832
======== ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Net premiums written 13,987 4,301 (1,906) 559 (931) 16,010
======== ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Net premiums earned 26,647 11,908 (306) 1,288 219 39,756
Losses and loss expenses 26,589 16,066 (510) 1,862 470 44,477
Acquisition costs 11,772 5,000 732 534 226 18,264
Operating costs 10,081 4,603 100 498 85 15,367
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net underwriting (loss) $(21,795) $(13,761) $ (628) $ (1,606) $ (562) $(38,352)
======== ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three months ended Sept 30, 1999 Personal
U.S. dollars in thousands Medical Accident Credit Life Other Total
-------------------------------- --------- -------- --------- ---------- --------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Gross premiums written $ 58,080 $ 7,753 $ (8,623) $ 1,183 $ 2,390 $ 60,783
======== ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Net premiums written 57,383 7,485 (8,300) 1,141 2,039 59,748
======== ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Net premiums earned 50,970 11,942 (88) 2,821 1,810 67,455
Losses and loss expenses 44,908 9,027 14 2,293 395 56,637
Acquisition costs 15,798 2,920 7 487 549 19,761
Operating costs 5,372 1,296 (9) 306 196 7,161
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net underwriting income (loss) $(15,108) $ (1,301) $ (100) $ (265) $ 670 $(16,104)
======== ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
</TABLE>
Results of operations for the three months ended September 30, 2000 have been
disappointing, with losses reported in all of the regions in which the Company
operates. As the Company has limited specific historical experience on a
significant number of its programs on which to base its estimate of losses
incurred but not reported, its reliance on ceding company expectations and
industry experience is necessarily increased, which increases the uncertainty
involved in the loss estimation process. Continuing bad experience on the 1998
underwriting year has indicated that the development of this underwriting year
will be worse than previously anticipated, with a longer tail being evident in
certain markets than what was previously estimated by the Company. Furthermore,
although development is still relatively immature, the Company has identified
adverse development in the 1999 underwriting year of account due to a
combination of inadequate premium increases on renewal and poor results on
certain large accounts. The Company has consequently downgraded its profit
expectation on the 2000 underwriting year of account to reflect unprofitable
13
<PAGE>
pricing on certain material contracts. Included in operating costs is a legal
reserve of $9.1 million for costs associated with resolving disputes in respect
of certain of these contracts.
Medical underwriting results are impacted by $10.6 million of additional loss
and acquisition expenses due to the negative development on one major account in
Latin America across three underwriting years and two accounts in North America.
In addition, the U.S. medical portfolio written through the London office up to
February 2000 has continued to deteriorate with additional losses of $2.7
million recognized in the quarter.
Personal Accident underwriting results are impacted by $4.9 million of
additional loss and acquisition expenses on the Company's Norwegian portfolio
due to a longer than expected tail on loss development. In addition, a review in
the quarter of the Company's broker business in Asia following poor results in
the second quarter, has led to further loss recognition of $1.6 million on this
business stream.
Credit underwriting results are impacted by the strengthening of reserves on one
account in Latin America. In addition, premium was reduced by $1.6 million due
to the adjustment of stale receivable and claim reserve balances remaining from
the Company's 1997 underwriting year of account when the Company managed and
participated in reinsurance pools. In the prior period in 1999, the negative
premium was due to the cancellation of a large Latin American risk mid-term.
14
<PAGE>
Life underwriting results are impacted by a write-back of profits of $1.1
million taken in previous quarters on a portfolio of four policies written in
Latin America in 1998, due to negative claims development reported in the
quarter.
Other business represents Special Risks business and automobile warranty
business ceded by a German company in which ESG made a 10% equity investment in
1998. Underwriting results are impacted by losses of $0.4 million on a North
American Special Risk account, written in Europe, which has now been cancelled.
Underwriting results for the nine months ended September 30, 2000 and 1999, by
line of business and in total were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Nine months ended September 30, 2000 Personal
U.S. dollars in thousands Medical Accident Credit Life Other Total
------------------------------------ --------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Gross premiums written $ 129,557 $ 51,741 $ 1,982 $ 5,356 $ 3,131 $ 191,767
========= ========= ========= ========= ========= =========
Net premiums written 109,341 46,844 1,950 4,822 2,207 165,164
========= ========= ========= ========= ========= =========
Net premiums earned 118,080 42,828 5,910 4,593 2,602 174,013
Losses and loss expenses 97,138 39,110 2,032 3,505 2,610 144,395
Acquisition costs 36,435 13,411 3,626 1,571 1,344 56,387
Operating costs 19,638 7,988 767 869 708 29,970
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Net underwriting (loss) $ (35,131) $ (17,681) $ (515) $ (1,352) $ (2,060) $ (56,739)
========= ========= ========= ========= ========= =========
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Nine months ended September 30, 1999 Personal
U.S. dollars in thousands Medical Accident Credit Life Other Total
------------------------------------ --------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Gross premiums written $ 187,187 $ 55,029 $ (4,125) $ 5,110 $ 5,349 $ 248,550
========= ========= ========= ========= ========= =========
Net premiums written 184,295 53,440 (3,982) 4,954 4,911 243,618
========= ========= ========= ========= ========= =========
Net premiums earned 151,550 28,633 1,679 7,015 4,224 193,101
Losses and loss expenses 113,210 19,553 764 5,206 1,564 140,297
Acquisition costs 42,999 6,796 405 975 1,504 52,679
Operating costs 12,539 2,618 139 642 398 16,336
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Net underwriting income (loss) $ (17,198) $ (334) $ 371 $ 192 $ 758 $ (16,211)
========= ========= ========= ========= ========= =========
</TABLE>
Medical underwriting results are impacted by $13.1 million of additional loss
and acquisition expenses due to the negative development on one major account in
Latin America across three underwriting years and two accounts in North America.
In addition, the U.S. medical portfolio written through the London office up to
February 2000 has continued to deteriorate with losses of $0.6 million
recognized in the period.
Personal Accident underwriting results are impacted by negative development on
the Company's Norwegian portfolio. Continued late reporting of claims on the
1998 underwriting year of account has led to reserve strengthening on the
1998 year of account and bulk IBNR provisions on the 1999 and 2000 years to
allow for corresponding late negative development on these years of account in
future period. The Company's portfolio in Asia has reported losses of
$2.7 million to date in 1999 due to poor underwriting and claims management
procedures.
Other business represents Special Risks business and automobile warranty
business ceded by a German company in which ESG made a 10% equity investment in
1998. Underwriting results are impacted by losses of $1.2 million on a North
American Special Risk account, written in Europe across three underwriting
years.
15
<PAGE>
OPERATING RATIOS
The operating ratios for the three months ended September 30, 2000 and 1999, by
line of business and in total were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three months ended Personal
September 30, 2000 Medical Accident Credit Life Other Total
------------------ ------- -------- ------ -------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Loss ratio 99.8 % 134.9 % N/A 144.6 % 214.6 % 111.9 %
Acquisition expense ratio 44.2 % 42.0 % N/A 41.4 % 103.2 % 45.9 %
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
Loss and acquisition expense
Ratio 144.0 % 176.9 % N/A 186.0 % 317.8 % 157.8 %
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
Operating expense ratio 38.7 %
-----
Combined ratio 196.5 %
=====
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three months ended Personal
September 30, 1999 Medical Accident Credit Life Other Total
------------------ ------- -------- ------ -------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Loss ratio 88.1 % 75.6 % N/A 81.3 % 21.8 % 84.0 %
Acquisition expense ratio 31.0 % 24.4 % N/A 17.2 % 30.4 % 29.3 %
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
Loss and acquisition expense
Ratio 119.1 % 100.0 % N/A 98.5 % 52.2 % 113.3 %
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
Operating expense ratio 10.6 %
-----
Combined ratio 123.9 %
=====
</TABLE>
The operating ratios for the nine months ended September 30, 2000 and 1999, by
line of business and in total were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Nine months ended Personal
September 30, 2000 Medical Accident Credit Life Other Total
------------------ ------- -------- ------ -------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Loss ratio 82.3 % 91.3 % 34.4 % 76.3 % 100.3 % 83.0 %
Acquisition expense ratio 30.8 % 31.3 % 61.3 % 34.2 % 51.7 % 32.4 %
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
Loss and acquisition expense
Ratio 113.1 % 122.6 % 95.7 % 110.5 % 152.0 % 115.4 %
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
Operating expense ratio 17.2 %
-----
Combined ratio 132.6 %
=====
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Nine months ended Personal
September 30, 1999 Medical Accident Credit Life Other Total
------------------ ------- -------- ------ -------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Loss ratio 74.7 % 68.3 % 45.5 % 74.2 % 37.0 % 72.6 %
Acquisition expense ratio 28.4 % 23.7 % 24.1 % 13.9 % 35.6 % 27.3 %
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
Loss and acquisition expense
Ratio 103.1 % 92.0 % 69.6 % 88.1 % 72.6 % 99.9 %
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
Operating expense ratio 8.5 %
-----
Combined ratio 108.4 %
=====
</TABLE>
16
<PAGE>
The operating expense ratios for the three months and nine months ended
September 30, 2000 and 1999, respectively, were calculated by expressing total
administrative expenses net of corporate office expenses and expenses associated
with discontinued operations, as a percentage of net premiums earned. Total
operating expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2000 represent 96.0%
of net premiums written and 38.7% of net premiums earned, compared to 12.0% and
10.6%, respectively, for the prior year. Total operating expenses for the nine
months ended September 30, 2000 represent 18.1% of net premiums written and
17.2% of net premiums earned, compared to 6.7% and 8.5%, respectively, for the
prior year.
GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION
The distribution of gross written premiums for the three months ended September
30, 2000 and 1999 and for the year ended December 31, 1999, is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three months ended Three months ended Year ended
September 30, 2000 September 30, 1999 December 31, 1999
------------------ ------------------ -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Western Europe 1.8 % 8.7 % 21.2 %
North America 95.7 % 80.8 % 63.5 %
Latin America (9.4)% 0.8 % 9.8 %
Other 11.9 % 9.7 % 5.5 %
----- ----- -----
Total 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 %
----- ----- -----
</TABLE>
The Company wrote one large medical contract in North America which contributed
$28.2 million to gross written premium. The reduction in premium in Latin
America is due to premium adjustments primarily on the Company's main ceding
company which has contributed $48.8 million in premium over the three
underwriting years. Gross premiums written in Western Europe include a reduction
of $1 million on a personal accident account on the 1999 underwriting year
following receipt of the annual premium declaration. The increase in Other
region is primarily due to $2.8 million of premium written in Asia on two
personal accident contracts.
The distribution of gross written premiums for the nine months ended September
30, 2000 and 1999 and for the year ended December 31, 1999, is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Nine months ended Nine months ended Year ended
September 30, 2000 September 30, 1999 December 31, 1999
------------------ ------------------ -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Western Europe 20.1 % 26.7 % 21.2 %
North America 56.6 % 57.3 % 63.5 %
Latin America 18.7 % 8.6 % 9.8 %
Other 4.6 % 7.4 % 5.5 %
----- ----- -----
Total 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 %
----- ----- -----
</TABLE>
The percentage of business written in North America is consistent with prior
year. The Company's strategy to co-reinsure a larger share of its North American
account in the second half of 2000 will reduce the concentration of its exposure
in this market and negotiations are currently taking place, with the intention
of having the co-reinsurance program retroactive to July 1, 2000. The decline in
Western Europe is primarily due to the non-renewal of a loss making account of
$12 million and the impact of a long-term medical account written in the three
months ended June 30, 1999 of $10.9 million.
The Company experienced significant growth in Latin America business in the
first quarter of 2000 associated with growth in the portfolio of its principal
ceding company in the region.
17
<PAGE>
PRODUCT MIX
The distribution of gross premiums written by line of business for the three
months ended September 30, 2000 and 1999, and for the year ended December 31,
1999 was as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three months ended Three months ended Year ended
September 30, 2000 September 30, 1999 December 31, 1999
------------------ ------------------ -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Medical 88.9 % 95.6 % 75.7 %
Personal Accident 17.4 % 12.8 % 19.9 %
Credit (6.4)% (14.2)% 0.6 %
Life 2.3 % 1.9 % 2.1 %
Other (2.2)% 3.9 % 1.7 %
----- ----- -----
Total 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0%
----- ----- -----
</TABLE>
The distribution of gross premiums written by line of business for the nine
months ended September 30, 2000 and 1999, and for the year ended December 31,
1999 was as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Nine months ended Nine months ended Year ended
September 30, 2000 September 30, 1999 December 31, 1999
------------------ ------------------ -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Medical 67.6 % 75.3 % 75.7 %
Personal Accident 27.0 % 22.1 % 19.9 %
Credit 1.0 % (1.7)% 0.6 %
Life 2.8 % 2.1 % 2.1 %
Other 1.6 % 2.2 % 1.7 %
----- ----- -----
Total 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0%
----- ----- -----
</TABLE>
Through co-reinsurance of the North American medical portfolio and the expansion
of credit and life programs, the Company expects to continue to reduce the
proportion of medical business in the portfolio going forward.
Exposure Management
The Company manages its underwriting risk exposures through geographic
distribution, an excess of loss reinsurance program, and co-reinsurance. The
Company's excess liability insurance policy generally provides limits up to a
maximum of $30 million per occurrence, with a minimum attachment point generally
of $1 million.
The Company's non-North American business is subject to co-reinsurance and
retrocessional reinsurance with two other reinsurance companies that have
participation with underwriting lines totaling 12.5%. The co-reinsurance
arrangements on North American business written through the Toronto office
changed effective January 1, 2000, with a reduction in external participation
from 15% to 5%.
MANAGEMENT FEE REVENUE
Management fee revenue for the quarter was $224 thousand, an increase of $476
thousand from the corresponding prior period. In the prior period, the Company
had a negative adjustment of $370 thousand in respect of a write-down of 1995
and 1996 profit commissions on pool underwriting years.
For the nine months ended September 30, 2000, management fee revenue was $1.2
million, a reduction of $0.2 million from the corresponding period in 1999, due
to the company retaining more business for its own account.
18
<PAGE>
Administrative Expenses
Total administrative expenses for continuing operations for the three months
ended September 30, 2000 were $16.4 million, compared to $7.6 million for the
three months ended September 30, 1999 and $8.7 million for the three months
ended June 30, 2000. Personnel expenses decreased by $0.3 million over the three
months ended June 30, 2000 due to an elimination of year end bonus reserve
following the poor results. Professional service fees increased by $7.8 million
for the three months ended September 30, 2000 from $2.6 million in the three
months ended June 30, 2000. The increase was due to the Company establishing a
legal reserve of $9.1 million for costs associated with resolving disputes in
respect of certain contracts. Travel expenses decreased by $0.3 million to $0.5
million for the three months ended September 30, 2000 from $0.8 million in the
three months ended June 30, 2000.
19
<PAGE>
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
Reference is made to Note 4 of Notes to Financial Statements concerning the
divestiture, effective June 30, 2000, of the Company's Health Care Division.
INVESTMENT RESULTS
The investment results for the three months ended September 30, 2000 and 1999
were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Net Annualized Net Realized
Three Months ended September 30, 2000 Average Investment Effective Investment
U.S dollars in thousands Investments Income(1) Yield Gains
------------------------------------- ----------- --------- ---------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Investments - available for sale $ 176,938 $ 3,105 7.0 % $ 472
Other investments 14,724 89 2.4 % --
Cash and cash equivalents 18,006 256 5.7 % --
--------- ------- --- -----
Total $ 209,668 $ 3,450 6.6 % $ 472
--------- ------- --- -----
</TABLE>
(1) Net investment income is net of investment-related expenses and interest on
funds held by ceding companies.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Net Annualized Net Realized
Three Months ended September 30, 1999 Average Investment Effective Investment
U.S dollars in thousands Investments Income(1) Yield Losses
------------------------------------- ----------- --------- ---------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Investments - available for sale $ 197,352 $ 2,957 6.0 % (861)
Other investments 12,999 116 3.6 % --
Cash and cash equivalents 35,698 439 4.9 % --
--------- ------- --- -----
Total $ 246,049 $ 3,512 5.7 % (861)
--------- ------- --- -----
</TABLE>
(1) Net investment income is net of investment-related expenses.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Net Annualized Net Realized
Nine Months ended September 30, 2000 Average Investment Effective Investment
U.S dollars in thousands Investments Income(1) Yield Losses
------------------------------------- ----------- --------- ---------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Investments - available for sale $ 177,432 $ 8,610 6.5 % $(599)
Other investments) 13,287 345 3.5 % --
Cash and cash equivalents 22,490 586 3.5 % --
--------- ------- --- -----
Total $ 213,209 $ 9,541 6.0 % $(599)
--------- ------- --- -----
</TABLE>
(1) Net investment income is net of investment-related expenses and interest
on funds held by ceding companies.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Net Annualized Net Realized
Nine Months ended September 30, 1999 Average Investment Effective Investment
U.S dollars in thousands Investments Income(1) Yield Losses
------------------------------------- ----------- --------- ---------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Fixed maturity investments $ 201,937 $ 9,194 6.1 % (1,136)
Other investments 10,635 325 4.1 % --
Cash and cash equivalents 26,542 1,015 5.1 % --
--------- ------- --- ------
Total $ 239,114 $ 10,534 5.9 % (1,136)
--------- ------- --- ------
</TABLE>
(1) Net investment income is net of investment-related expenses
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
As of September 30, 2000, total investments and cash were $212.6 million
compared to $221.5 million at December 31, 1999. Cash flow from operating
activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2000 was negative $44
thousand. All fixed maturity securities in the Company's investment portfolio
are classified as available for sale and are carried at fair value.
Additionally, the Company holds $3.6 million in foreign currency equities
matched to
20
<PAGE>
liabilities related to a long-term European medical account. The fixed maturity
investment portfolio as of September 30, 2000 and December 31, 1999, were as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Average
As at September 30, 2000 Fair Duration Market Credit
U.S. dollars in thousands Value (Years) Yield Rating
------------------------- -------- -------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Corporate securities $ 75,248 3.5 7.1 % A+
U.S. treasury securities and obligations of
U.S. government corporations and agencies 34,887 3.2 6.3 % AAA
Mortgage & Asset backed securities 34,614 3.4 7.7 % AAA
Obligations of states and political
subdivisions 14,250 3.5 7.9 % AAA
Foreign currency debt securities 12,730 3.3 4.7 % AAA
--------- ---- ---- -----
Total $ 171,729 3.4 6.7 % AA
--------- ---- ---- -----
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Average
As at December 31, 1999 Fair Duration Market Credit
U.S. dollars in thousands Value (Years) Yield Rating
------------------------- -------- -------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Corporate securities $102,355 3.0 7.2 % A+
U.S. treasury securities and obligations of
U.S. government corporations and agencies 21,329 2.7 6.2 % AAA
Mortgage & Asset backed securities 23,486 1.0 7.8 % AAA
Obligations of states and political
subdivisions 16,281 2.3 7.1 % AA+
Foreign currency debt securities 13,719 3.7 4.7 % AAA
--------- ---- ---- -----
Total $ 177,170 2.7 7.0 % AA
--------- ---- ---- -----
</TABLE>
The Company's investment policy objective is to maximize long-term investment
returns while maintaining a liquid, high-quality portfolio. To this end, the
investment policy requires that the portfolio have an average credit quality
rating of AA, no more than 3% of the portfolio invested in the securities of a
single issuer (other than issues of sovereign governments with a rating of AA or
better), and a target duration of 2.75 years. The Company's investment portfolio
reflects its investment policy and guidelines.
The Company expects that its financial and operational needs for the foreseeable
future will be met by funds generated from operations and from liquidation of
portions of its investment portfolio as and when required. The Company expects
to remain highly capitalized after any near-term investment portfolio
liquidation.
Shareholders' equity as of September 30, 2000 was $117.1 million compared to
$176.8 million at December 31, 1999. The major factors contributing to the
decrease in shareholders' equity included $53.8 million of net losses, the
repurchase of common shares at a cost of $2.0 million and the Company's
payment of cumulative dividends of $0.24 per common share. The Board of
Directors declared no dividend in respect of the quarter ended September 30,
2000. Book value per common share decreased to $9.94 as of Septmber 30, 2000
from $15.24 as of December 31, 1999.
21
<PAGE>
CURRENT DEVELOPMENTS
The Company has notified Sphere Drake Insurance Ltd. (Odyssey Re) that it
intends to seek a judicial declaration to validate the Company's recission of
the 1998 Quota Share contract between European Specialty Reinsurance
(Ireland) Ltd. and Sphere Drake Insurance Ltd. (Odyssey Re). Also, the
Company continues to investigate its position regarding the 1999 Quota Share
contract regarding possible misrepresentation and failure to disclose
material facts. At this time, the Company is unable to determine the amount
of its exposure and the possible effect upon the Company's business,
financial condition or results of operations from these two contracts.
The Company has put out to tender a quota share of up to 50% of its North
American medical portfolio underwritten through its Toronto office. The
Company expects to effect this co-reinsurance retroactive to July 1, 2000.
On November 13, 2000, Standard & Poor's ("S&P") indicated that ESG's risk
bearing entities would be placed on credit watch with negative implications
citing concerns over poor operating results. On November 14, 2000, the
Company received notice from S&P that its long-term counter party credit and
insurer financial strength rating for its reinsurance subsidiaries would be
downgraded from BB+ to B+.
MARKET RISK
The Company is subject to market risk arising from the potential change in value
of its various financial instruments. These changes may be due to fluctuations
in interest rates or foreign exchange rates, or both in the case of foreign
currency investments. The Company monitors its exposure to interest rate and
currency rate risk on a quarterly basis and currently does not believe that the
use of derivatives to manage such risk is necessary. The Company intends to
reevaluate the need for a formal hedging strategy on a periodic basis, and may
determine that such a strategy, including the use of derivative instruments, is
appropriate in the future.
INTEREST RATE RISK
The largest source of market risk for the Company is interest rate risk on its
portfolio of fixed maturity investments, especially fixed rate instruments. In
addition, the credit worthiness of the issuer, relative values of alternative
investments, liquidity and general market conditions may affect fair values of
interest rate sensitive instruments.
The Company's general strategy with respect to fixed maturity securities is to
invest in high quality securities while maintaining diversification and to avoid
significant concentrations in individual issuers' industry segments or
countries.
FOREIGN CURRENCY RISK
The Company's functional currency is the U.S. dollar. However, the Company
writes reinsurance business in numerous geographic regions and currencies,
giving rise to the risk that the ultimate settlement of receivables and payables
on reinsurance transactions will differ from the amounts currently recorded as
assets and liabilities in the financial statements. The Company intends to hold
investments in currencies in which it will collect premiums and pay claims, thus
creating a partial natural hedge against exchange rate fluctuations. The Company
believes that its exposure to foreign currency risk is not material.
INFLATION
Inflation has not had a material impact on the Company's operations for the
periods presented. The Company has commenced writing reinsurance business in
Latin America, particularly in Brazil, which has experienced periods of high
inflation. The Company does not expect that future inflationary conditions will
significantly impact subsequent accounting periods.
THE EURO
On January 1, 1999, a single currency, the "euro" was adopted as the national
currency of the 11 participating countries in the European Monetary Union,
including Germany and Ireland, two of the countries in which the Company
operates and in which the Company maintains a significant presence. The
Company's German and Irish subsidiaries will not be required to use the euro for
accounting purposes prior to January 1, 2002. Due to uncertainties related to
the euro conversion, the impact of the conversion is not known. To date, the
impact of the conversion has had no material impact on the Company's operations,
accounting systems or financial reporting.
22
<PAGE>
PART II OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
There are no lawsuits pending, or to the knowledge of the Company threatened, to
which the Company or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates is a party or of
which any of their properties is subject other than the routine litigation
incidental to the business.
ITEM 2. CHANGES IN SECURITIES
Not applicable.
ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
Not applicable.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITIES HOLDERS
Not applicable.
ITEM 5. OTHER TRANSACTIONS
Edward A. Tilly, a member of the Company's Board of Directors since December
1997, has announced his retirement from the Board effective at the end of
November 2000. Mr. Tilly cited the time demands of his own business as the
reason for his retirement.
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORT ON FORM 8-K
(a) EXHIBITS
Exhibit 11.1 Computation of Earnings Per Share
Exhibit 15.1 Consent of Deloitte & Touche
Exhibit 27.1 Financial Data Schedule
(b) REPORT ON FORM 8-K
The Company filed one report on Form 8-K during the reporting period. The report
was filed on September 6, 2000 with regard to the divestiture of the Health Care
Division and the resignation of Gerald Moeller from the Board of Directors.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
Company has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
November 13, 2000 ESG RE LIMITED
By: /s/
-------------------------------
Name: Mark E. Oleksik
Title: Controller and Chief Accounting
Officer
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