<PAGE> 1
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington DC 20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
(X) QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 1998
OR
( ) TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Transition Period from to
---------- ----------
Commission File Number: 0-18786
PICO HOLDINGS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
CALIFORNIA 94-2723335
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
875 PROSPECT STREET., SUITE 301
LA JOLLA, CALIFORNIA 92037
(619) 456-6022
(Address and telephone number of principal executive offices)
Indicate by check mark whether 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 shares outstanding of the Registrant's Common Stock, $0.001 par
value, was 32,591,718 as of September 30, 1998. As of such date, 6,636,244
shares of common stock were held by the registrant and subsidiaries of the
registrant.
1
<PAGE> 2
PICO HOLDINGS, INC.
FORM 10-Q
<TABLE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
<CAPTION>
PAGE NO.
--------
<S> <C>
PART I: FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1: Financial Statements
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of 3
September 30, 1998 and December 31, 1997
Consolidated Statements of Income 4
for the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 1998 and 1997
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for 5
the Nine Months Ended September 30, 1998 and 1997
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 6
Item 2: Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial 10
Condition and Results of Operations
PART II: OTHER INFORMATION
Item 4: Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders 30
Item 6: Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K 30
Signature 31
</TABLE>
2
<PAGE> 3
PART I: FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM I: FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
<TABLE>
PICO HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)
(In thousands, except share data)
<CAPTION>
September 30, December 31,
1998 1997
------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Investments $131,769 $160,297
Cash and cash equivalents 70,959 56,436
Accrued investment income 1,817 1,722
Premiums and other receivables, net 9,704 20,682
Reinsurance receivables 70,378 75,026
Prepaid deposits and reinsurance premiums 11,201 2,235
Deferred policy acquisition costs 5,438 5,321
Surface, water, geothermal and mineral rights 76,816 75,177
Property and equipment, net 4,531 8,551
Deferred income taxes 9,562 2,965
Other assets 5,441 5,931
Net assets of discontinued operations 8,326 15,950
-------- --------
Total Assets $405,942 $430,293
======== ========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
LIABILITIES
Loss and loss adjustment expense, net of discount $169,473 $196,096
Unearned premiums 30,343 21,635
Reinsurance balance payable 11,897 8,076
Deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance 1,876 2,168
Integration liability 309 546
Other liabilities 17,584 15,381
Taxes payable 968
Excess of fair value of net assets aquired over purchase price 4,639 5,065
-------- --------
Total Liabilities 236,121 249,935
-------- --------
MINORITY INTEREST 61,394 68,207
-------- --------
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (NOTES 2, 5 AND 7)
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Preferred stock, $.01 par value, authorized 2,000,000 shares, none issued
Common stock, $.001 par value; authorized 100,000,000 shares,
issued 32,591,718 in 1998 and 1997 33 33
Additional paid-in capital 51,547 43,147
Retained earnings 84,602 83,718
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (7,926) (4,918)
Treasury stock, at cost (4,556,860 common shares at September 30, 1998;
2,492,631 common shares at December 31, 1997) (19,829) (9,829)
-------- --------
Total Stockholders' Equity 108,427 112,151
-------- --------
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity $405,942 $430,293
======== ========
</TABLE>
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
3
<PAGE> 4
<TABLE>
PICO HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share data)
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,
---------------------- ----------------------
1998 1997 1998 1997
------- ------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
REVENUES:
Premium income $ 8,805 $11,622 $26,398 $40,101
Investment income, net 2,201 2,407 7,382 8,509
Net realized gains on investments 35 27,054 2,509 29,999
Other income 1,140 2,725 3,280 3,430
------- ------- ------- -------
Total revenues 12,181 43,808 39,569 82,039
------- ------- ------- -------
EXPENSES:
Loss and loss adjustment expenses 5,737 9,956 19,398 31,494
Insurance underwriting and other expenses 6,444 9,092 18,960 20,314
------- ------- ------- -------
Total expenses 12,181 19,048 38,358 51,808
------- ------- ------- -------
Equity in losses of investee (184) (671)
------- ------- ------- -------
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes
and minority interest (184) 24,760 540 30,231
Provision (benefit) for federal, foreign and state income taxes (988) 8,181 (58) 9,840
------- ------- ------- -------
Income from continuing operations before minority interest 804 16,579 598 20,391
Minority interest in (income) loss of subsidiary (178) 537 28 447
------- ------- ------- -------
Income from continuing operations 626 17,116 626 20,838
Income from discontinued operations, net of federal income tax
provision (benefit) of $(6) and $622 for the three months and
$38 and $642 for the nine months in 1998 and 1997, respectively 103 744 258 838
------- ------- ------- -------
Net income $ 729 $17,860 $ 884 $21,676
======= ======= ======= =======
Net income per common share (basic):
Continuing operations $ 0.02 $ 0.51 $ 0.02 $ 0.64
Discontinued operations 0.00 0.02 0.01 0.03
------- ------- ------- -------
Net income per common share $ 0.02 $ 0.53 $ 0.03 $ 0.67
======= ======= ======= =======
Weighted average shares outstanding 31,049 33,870 32,076 32,515
======= ======= ======= =======
Net income per common share (diluted):
Continuing operations $ 0.02 $ 0.51 $ 0.02 $ 0.62
Discontinued operations 0.00 0.02 0.01 0.03
------- ------- ------- -------
Net income per common share $ 0.02 $ 0.53 $ 0.03 $ 0.65
======= ======= ======= =======
Weighted average shares outstanding 33,286 33,883 34,992 33,430
======= ======= ======= =======
</TABLE>
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
4
<PAGE> 5
<TABLE>
PICO HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (unaudited)
(In thousands)
<CAPTION>
Nine Months Ended September 30,
-------------------------------
1998 1997
-------- --------
<S> <C> <C>
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net cash used in operating activities $(11,518) $(35,993)
-------- --------
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Investments purchased (6,848) (373,864)
Investments sold 21,568 168,422
Investments matured 25 281,303
Net sales of real estate 77 19
Sale of business 13,108
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment 3,945 8
Purchases of property and equipment (87) (713)
Investment in surface, water, geothermal and mineral rights (1,204)
Investment in affiliate (695)
Purchased cash from acquired subsidiary 18,108
Other (1,613) (2,885)
-------- --------
Net cash provided by investing activities 28,276 90,398
-------- --------
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Issuance of common stock 274
Purchase of treasury stock (1,600) (163)
-------- --------
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities (1,600) 111
-------- --------
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash (635) 66
-------- --------
NET INCREASE IN CASH 14,523 54,582
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD 56,436 54,916
-------- --------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD $ 70,959 $109,498
======== ========
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid for:
Income taxes $ 440 $ 14,259
======== ========
</TABLE>
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
5
<PAGE> 6
PICO HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements
of PICO Holdings, Inc. ("PICO") and Subsidiaries (collectively, the
"Company") have been prepared in accordance with the interim reporting
requirements of Form 10-Q, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the
United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). Accordingly,
they do not include all of the information and notes required by generally
accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements.
In the opinion of management, all adjustments and reclassifications
considered necessary for a fair and comparable presentation of financial
position as of September 30, 1998 and December 31, 1997 and results of
operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 1998 and 1997,
and cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 1998 and 1997, have
been included and are of a normal recurring nature. Operating results for
the three and nine months ended September 30, 1998 are not necessarily
indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December
31, 1998.
These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the
Company's audited financial statements and notes thereto, together with
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations and Risks and Uncertainties contained in the Company's Annual
Reports on Form 10-K and Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 1997
and Forms 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31 and June 30, 1998 as filed
with the SEC.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with 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 for
each reporting period. The significant estimates made in the preparation of
the Company's consolidated financial statements relate to the assessment of
the carrying value of unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses, future
policy benefits, deferred policy acquisition costs, deferred income taxes
and contingent liabilities. While management believes that the carrying
value of such assets and liabilities are appropriate as of September 30,
1998 and December 31, 1997, it is reasonably possible that actual results
could differ from the estimates upon which the carrying values were based.
Global Equity Corporation ("GEC") is included in the consolidated
balances of the Company as of September 30, 1998 and December 31, 1997 and
for the three and nine months ended September 30, 1998 and 1997 based on
PICO's increased ownership in GEC to 51.17% on August 19, 1997. PICO
accounted for GEC under the equity method of accounting prior to August 19,
1997. Amounts reported for the three and nine months ended September 30,
1997 include GEC's consolidated results of operations for the entire nine
month period ended September 30, 1997 and reflect the elimination of the
equity in earnings of investee and equity changes of investee company
related to GEC reported in the Company's consolidated financial statements
as of and for the three months ended March 31, 1997 and as of and for the
three and six months ended June 30, 1997. Also see NOTE 7, "PROPOSED
BUSINESS COMBINATION."
2. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
On June 16, 1997, PICO announced the signing of a definitive agreement
to sell the Company's life and health insurance subsidiary, American
Physicians Life Insurance Company ("APL") and its wholly-owned subsidiary,
Living Benefit Administrators Agency, Inc. The closing is subject to
certain closing conditions, including regulatory approval which is still
pending. The expected purchase price is approximately $17 million less any
dividends distributed by APL to its sole shareholder, The Physicians
Investment Company ("PIC"), prior to closing. On July 31, 1998, APL paid a
cash dividend to PIC in the amount of $8 million. This amount will be
subtracted from the expected purchase price paid for APL. It is expected
that the purchase price will be paid in cash.
Because APL and its subsidiary represent a major segment of the
Company's business, in accordance with Accounting Principles Board Opinion
No. 30 "Reporting the Results of Operations--Reporting the Effects of
Disposal of a Segment of a Business," APL's operations have been classified
as discontinued operations. The net assets of APL have been shown as a
single line item in the accompanying balance sheets as "Net assets of
discontinued operations." The book value assigned to such net assets at
December 31, 1997 of $15,949,989 and $8,326,179 as of September 30, 1998
was based upon the net book value of APL as of those dates as determined on
the basis of generally accepted accounting principles. The consolidated
statements of income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 1998
and 1997 and consolidated statements of cash flows for the nine months
ended September 30, 1998
6
<PAGE> 7
and 1997 reflect the discontinued operations. The primary remaining assets
and liabilities of APL as of those dates were investments, cash and cash
equivalents, and accident and health insurance reserves. The Company
expects to realize a small gain on the sale.
Following is an unaudited summary of APL's stand alone financial
results for the periods included in the statements of income as
discontinued operations in the accompanying financial statements:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
-------------------------------- -------------------------------
1998 1997 1998 1997
------ ------ ------ ------
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Total revenues $2,931 $1,262 $7,291 $4,041
Income before taxes 96 9 295 123
Net income 104 15 258 109
Net income per share-Basic and Diluted $ 0.00 $ 0.00 $ 0.00 $ 0.00
</TABLE>
3. EARNINGS PER SHARE
In February 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB")
issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 128,
"Earnings Per Share," effective for financial statements issued after
December 15, 1997. SFAS No. 128 requires dual presentation of "Basic" and
"Diluted" earnings per share ("EPS") by entities with complex capital
structures, replacing "Primary" and "Fully Diluted" EPS under Accounting
Principles Board ("APB") Opinion No. 15. Basic EPS excludes dilution from
common stock equivalents and is computed by dividing income available to
common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares
outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution
from common stock equivalents, similar to fully diluted EPS, but uses only
the average stock price during the period as part of the computation. The
Company adopted the new method of reporting EPS for the year ended December
31, 1997, and the September 30, 1997 financial statements have been
restated to reflect the change. Included in the options for the three and
nine months ended September 30, 1998 is the dilutive effect of the stock
options discussed in NOTE 8, "RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS".
Reconciliation of basic and diluted EPS is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
-------------------------------- -------------------------------
1998 1997 1998 1997
------- ------- ------- -------
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net income $ 729 $17,860 $ 884 $21,676
======= ======= ======= =======
Basic earnings per share $ 0.02 $ 0.53 $ 0.03 $ 0.67
======= ======= ======= =======
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding 31,049 33,870 32,076 32,515
Options 2,237 13 2,916 915
------- ------- ------- -------
Diluted weighted average common and
common equivalent shares outstanding 33,286 33,883 34,992 33,430
======= ======= ======= =======
Diluted earnings per share $ 0.02 $ 0.53 $ 0.03 $ 0.65
======= ======= ======= =======
</TABLE>
4. COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
In June 1997, the FASB issued SFAS No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive
Income." SFAS No. 130 established requirements for disclosure of
comprehensive income and is effective for the Company for the year ending
December 31, 1998. Comprehensive income includes such items as foreign
currency translation adjustments, unrealized holding gains and losses on
available for sale securities, and equity changes of investee company that
had only been presented by the Company as a component of stockholders'
equity.
7
<PAGE> 8
Reconciliation of net income as reported in the consolidated statements
of income to consolidated comprehensive income (loss) is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
-------------------------------- -------------------------------
1998 1997 1998 1997
------- -------- ------- --------
(in thousands) (in thousands)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Comprehensive income (loss):
Net income $ 729 $ 17,860 $ 884 $ 21,676
Net unrealized depreciation
on available for sale investments (1,524) (13,270) (1,200) (14,216)
Net change in cumulative foreign
currency adjustments (775) 529 (1,808) 199
------- -------- ------- --------
Total comprehensive income (loss) $(1,570) $ 5,119 $(2,124) $ 7,659
======= ======== ======= ========
</TABLE>
The income tax effects of items relating to other comprehensive income
(loss) were deferred income tax benefits of $0.8 million and $0.6 million
for the three and nine months ended September 30, 1998, respectively, and
$7 million and $7.7 million for the three and nine months ended September
30, 1997, respectively.
5. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
The Company is subject to various litigation which arises in the
ordinary course of its business. Based upon information presently
available, management is of the opinion that such litigation will not have
a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated financial position,
results of operations, or cash flows.
In connection with the purchase of PICO's interests in Nevada Land and
Resource Company, LLC ("NLRC") from the former members, a limited
partnership agreed to act as consultant to NLRC in connection with the
maximization of the development, sales, leasing, royalties or other
disposition of land, water, mineral and oil and gas rights with respect to
the Nevada property. In exchange for these services, the partnership will
receive from NLRC a consulting fee calculated as 50% of any net proceeds
that NLRC actually receives from the sale, leasing or other disposition of
all or any portion of the Nevada property or refinancing of the Nevada
property provided that NLRC has received such net proceeds in a threshold
amount equal to the aggregate of: (i) the capital investment by GEC and the
Company in the Nevada property (ii) a 20% cumulative return on such capital
investment, and (iii) a sum sufficient to pay the United States federal
income tax liability, if any, of NLRC in connection with such capital
investment. Either party may terminate this consulting agreement in April
2002 if the partnership has not received or become entitled to receive by
that time any amount of the consulting fee. No payments have been made
under this agreement. By letter dated March 13, 1998, NLRC gave notice of
termination of the consulting agreement based on NLRC's determination of a
default by the partnership under the terms of the agreement. By letter
dated March 20, 1998, legal counsel for the partnership wrote to NLRC and
stated that the partnership was not in default under the terms of the
consulting agreement. NLRC has informed the partnership that it continues
to consider the partnership to be in default under the terms of the
agreement and thus that the consulting agreement is terminated. No other
substantive activity has occurred.
On September 30, 1998, PICO announced that it and its wholly-owned
subsidiary, Physicians Insurance Company of Ohio ("Physicians"), signed an
agreement on September 23, 1998 with PC Quote, Inc. ("PC Quote"). The
agreement provides for the conversion of Physicians' $2.5 million PC Quote
subordinated convertible debenture into PC Quote Series A 5% Convertible
Preferred Stock and for the conversion of PICO's $3.3 million working
capital loan in return for PC Quote Series B 5% Convertible Preferred
Stock. The agreement is subject to completion of certain conditions,
including approval by PC Quote's shareholders.
If consummated, this transaction will increase the Company's ownership
of the outstanding voting shares of PC Quote from approximately 18% to
approximately 40%. In conjunction with this increase in voting ownership of
PC Quote shares, the Company will change its accounting for its common
stock investment from fair value accounting as prescribed by SFAS No. 115
to equity accounting under the provisions of APB No. 18. Among other
things, APB No. 18 requires the common stock investment account, results of
operations, and retained earnings to be adjusted retroactively to reflect
application of the equity method of accounting. The common stock warrants
and the Series A and B Preferred stock will be accounted for at cost as the
securities are not traded on a listed securities exchange. The Company is
currently determining the impact of this potential change on its financial
position and results of operations.
On October 7, 1998, PICO signed an agreement guaranteeing payment of
Vidler Water Company's ("Vidler") obligations under
8
<PAGE> 9
an agreement with a third party to participate in a 1 million acre-foot
underground water storage program. The water storage banking program has
been operating for approximately two years. The agreement gives Vidler an
18.5% interest in the storage operation. The maximum obligation under this
guarantee is $3.2 million, adjusted annually by a specific consumer price
index. The guarantee expires October 7, 2008.
6. RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT
In June 1997, the FASB issued SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments
of an Enterprise and Related Information." SFAS No. 131 established
standards for disclosure about operating segments in annual statements and
selected information in interim financial reports. It also established
standards for related disclosures about products and services, geographic
areas and major customers. This statement supersedes SFAS No. 14,
"Financial Reporting for Segments of a Business Enterprise." The new
standard is effective for the Company for the year ending December 31,
1998, and requires that comparative information from earlier years be
restated to conform to the requirements of this standard. The Company does
not expect this pronouncement to materially change the Company's current
reporting and disclosures.
7. PROPOSED BUSINESS COMBINATION
On May 8, 1998, PICO and GEC jointly announced their consideration of a
proposal pursuant to which GEC would become a wholly-owned subsidiary of
PICO. This would be accomplished through a "Plan of Arrangement" whereby
current GEC shareholders would exchange their shares for a direct interest
in the common stock of PICO. GEC's board of directors established a special
committee of directors who are independent of PICO to consider any proposed
transaction from the perspective of GEC's public minority shareholders. On
June 19, 1998, PICO and GEC jointly announced their intentions to proceed
with the Plan of Arrangement, the terms and conditions, and the exchange
ratio of .4628 of a share of PICO for each share of GEC. Completion of the
Plan of Arrangement is subject to regulatory and shareholder approval.
On September 22, 1998, PICO and GEC jointly announced that on September
18, 1998, they filed with the SEC their Joint Proxy Statement in connection
with their proposed business combination. The Plan of Arrangement will be
voted upon by shareholders at PICO and GEC shareholders' meetings to be
held on November 20, 1998 in La Jolla, California.
8. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
On July 23, 1998, Guinness Peat Group plc ("GPG") sold 3,362,585
unregistered shares of PICO common stock to several institutional
investors, representing substantially all of GPG's holdings in PICO. In
addition, PICO acquired 2,064,229 of its own shares from GPG at a cost of
$1.6 million. In return, PICO agreed to assume GPG's obligations under call
option agreements covering 2,064,229 shares of PICO common stock having an
aggregate exercise price of $1.6 million. These options expire on November
23, 2003 and are held by Ronald Langley and John R. Hart, chairman of the
board and president and chief executive officer of PICO, respectively. As a
result of this transaction, treasury stock increased by $10 million and
additional paid-in capital increased by $8.4 million.
The Company has an agreement with its president and chief executive
officer to defer a portion of his regular compensation in a Rabbi Trust
account held in the name of the Company. The asset and liability related to
these deferrals are included within the Company's consolidated balance
sheet. Salary deferrals to the trust amounted to $0.2 million for the nine
months ended September 30, 1998.
On July 31, 1998, APL paid an $8.0 million dividend to its sole
shareholder PIC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Physicians. See NOTE 2,
"DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS".
9
<PAGE> 10
ITEM 2: MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS
This section of the Report contains forward-looking statements within the
meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
Discussion containing such forward-looking statements may be found in
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations under the captions "Results of Operations -Three and Nine Months
Ended September 30, 1998 and 1997," "Liquidity and Capital Resources," and "Risk
Factors and Uncertainties." Actual results for future periods could differ
materially from those discussed in this section as a result of the various risks
and uncertainties discussed herein. A comprehensive summary of such risks and
uncertainties can be found in the Company's registration statement on Form S-4
(File No. 333-06671), which was declared effective on October 3, 1996 and in the
PICO Holdings, Inc. and Global Equity Corporation Joint Management Information
Circular and Proxy Statement dated October 13, 1998.
INTRODUCTION
- ------------
The Company's objective is to use its resources and those of its
subsidiaries and affiliates to increase shareholder value through investments in
businesses that the Company believes are undervalued and through the profitable
operation of its operating subsidiaries. The Company's acquisition philosophy is
to make selective investments, predominantly in public companies, for the
purpose of enhancing and realizing additional value by means of appropriate
levels of shareholder influence and control. This could involve the
restructuring of the financing or management of the companies in which the
Company invests. It may also encompass initiating and facilitating mergers and
acquisitions within the relevant industry to achieve constructive
rationalization. This business strategy was adopted in late 1994, but was not
fully implemented until 1996. There can be no assurance that sufficient
opportunities will be found or that this business strategy will be successful.
This strategy may negatively impact the business and financial condition and
results of the Company.
On November 20, 1996, Citation Holdings, Inc., an Ohio corporation ("Sub"),
merged with and into Physicians Insurance Company of Ohio ("Physicians"), (the
"Merger") pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization (the "Merger
Agreement") dated as of May 1, 1996, as amended by and among Citation Insurance
Group, Physicians and Sub. Pursuant to the Merger, each outstanding share of
Class A Common Stock of Physicians (the "Physicians Stock") was converted into
the right to receive 5.0099 shares of PICO's common stock. As a result, (i) the
former shareholders of Physicians owned approximately 80% of the outstanding
common stock of PICO immediately after the Merger and controlled the Board of
Directors of PICO and (ii) Physicians became a wholly owned subsidiary of PICO.
Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, PICO also assumed all outstanding options to
acquire Physicians Stock.
As a result of the Merger, the business and operations of Physicians and its
subsidiaries became a substantial majority of the business and operations of the
Company.
Effective upon the Merger, PICO's name, which was previously "Citation
Insurance Group," was changed to "PICO Holdings, Inc." and the Nasdaq symbol for
the Company's stock was changed from "CITN" to "PICO."
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - THREE AND NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1998 AND 1997
SUMMARY
- -------
The Company reported net income of $729,000, or $0.02 per share, for the
three months ended September 30, 1998, compared with net income of $17.9
million, or $0.53 per share, during the same 1997 period. Per share amounts are
expressed as basic earnings per share. Net income for the first nine months of
1998 was $884,000, or $0.03 per share, versus $21.7 million, or $0.67 per share,
during the first three quarters of 1997. Net income for the third quarters of
1998 and 1997 included net income from discontinued operations of $0.1 million
and $0.7 million, respectively. Net income from discontinued operations included
in the first nine months of 1998 and 1997, was $0.3 million and $0.8 million,
respectively. Discontinued operations include the results of the Company's life
and health insurance subsidiary, APL in 1998 and 1997. In addition, the 1997
third quarter and nine months included the results of Global Equity
Corporation's ("GEC") discontinued Sri Lankan operations. SEE NOTE 2 OF NOTES TO
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, "DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS," for additional
information. Both 1997 periods included a realized investment gain of
approximately $27 million before tax from the sale of PICO's holdings in
Resource America, Inc.
10
<PAGE> 11
Net income for the 1998 third quarter principally included $1.1 million in
income from property and casualty ("P&C") insurance operations conducted by
Sequoia Insurance Company ("Sequoia") and Citation Insurance Company ("CIC") and
$0.4 million in income from GEC, a 51.2%-owned subsidiary active in strategic
investing and the development of surface, water, geothermal and mineral rights,
partially offset by a $1.0 million loss from Physicians, including a $2.2
million pre-tax write down of an investment. Major components of net income for
the first nine months of 1998 consisted of a loss of $1.4 million from
Physicians, income of $1.8 million from P&C operations, $0.2 million from GEC,
and $0.1 million from holding company operations.
Third quarter 1998 and 1997 revenues were $12.2 million and $43.8 million,
respectively. Excluding realized investment gains of $35,000 and $27.1 million
from the respective 1998 and 1997 periods, third quarter 1998 revenues declined
$4.7million. A $2.8 million, or 24% decline, in P&C insurance earned premiums
combined with a $1.6 million decrease in other income were primarily responsible
for this decline. P&C insurance premium writings have declined in 1998 primarily
due to more stringent underwriting of CIC's P&C insurance business since its
change in control, as well as continued aggressive competition for commercial
multiple peril insurance business within California. The reduction in other
income between the years principally resulted from the way GEC was added to the
consolidation in the third quarter of 1997 subsequent to the Company's increase
in holdings in GEC common stock to 51.2% on August 19, 1997. SEE NOTE 1 OF NOTES
TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, "BASIS OF PRESENTATION".
Revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 1998 were $39.6 million
compared to $82 million during the same 1997 period. Excluding realized
investment gains for the nine months which amounted to $2.5 million for 1998 and
$30 million for 1997, the primary difference in revenues between the two
nine-month periods was P&C premiums which decreased $13.2 million, or 33%, from
$39.8 million in 1997 to $26.6 million through September 30, 1998.
Realized investment gains for the third quarter and the first nine months
of 1998 included approximately $0.9 million from the sale of real estate held by
Physicians and the previously mentioned $2.2 million write down of an equity
security. The 1997 third quarter and nine months benefited from a $27 million
gain realized on the sale of Resource America, Inc. common stock. Included in
the 1998 third quarter and nine months realized investment gains were $1.2
million and $3.7 million, respectively, from the sale of GEC investments,
compared to none during the same 1997 periods.
Expenses for the 1998 third quarter of $12.2 million were down $6.9 million,
or 36%, from those of the comparable 1997 quarter as a result of significant
decreases in loss and loss adjustment expenses and in insurance underwriting and
other expenses. Loss and loss adjustment expenses for the 1998 third quarter of
$5.7 million were $4.2 million, or 42%, less than during the 1997 third quarter,
reflecting a 24% decline in P&C premiums, the shrinking level of Physicians'
medical professional liability claims outstanding, and improved P&C claims
experience. Insurance underwriting and other expenses declined $2.6 million, or
29%, compared to the 1997 third quarter, primarily as a result of a reduction in
new property and casualty insurance business due to increased selectivity at CIC
and increased competition.
Expenses for the first nine months of 1998 of $38.4 million were $13.5
million, or 26%, below those recorded during the same 1997 period of $51.8
million. Included in the 1998 total were loss and loss adjustment expenses of
$19.4 million, compared to $31.4 million during the same 1997 period,
representing an improvement of $12 million, or 38%. Insurance underwriting and
other expenses were $19 million and $20.3 million for the first nine months of
1998 and 1997, respectively. These improvements principally resulted from
reduced P&C premiums brought about by increased selectivity at CIC and increased
competition, the reduction in the level of Physicians' medical professional
liability claims outstanding, and improved P&C claims experience.
During the nine months ended September 30, 1998, assets decreased
approximately $24.4 million to $405.9 million. Most of this decline resulted
from the payment of insurance claims by Physicians and was reflected in
investments and cash and cash equivalent balances which decreased by
approximately $14 million during the nine months. Other receivables declined
approximately $11 million as a result of the receipt of proceeds from the sale
of GEC's Sri Lankan subsidiaries. Loss and loss adjustment expense reserves
dropped by more than $26.6 million. September 30, 1998 assets also include APL's
net assets of $8.3 million classified as "net assets of discontinued operations"
compared to $16 million at December 31, 1997. This change in net assets of
discontinued operations resulted from payment of an $8 million dividend from APL
to its sole owner, Physicians Investment Company ("PIC"), a wholly-owned
subsidiary of PICO.
11
<PAGE> 12
Shareholders' equity was $108.4 million at September 30, 1998, down $3.7
million from the December 31, 1997 level. However, shareholders' equity per
share calculated on an undiluted basis at September 30, 1998 increased to $3.87,
compared to $3.73 at December 31, 1997. The increase in book value per share
during the nine month period ended September 30, 1998 resulted primarily from
the purchase of 2,064,229 PICO treasury shares during the third quarter from
Guinness Peat Group plc ("GPG") for $1.6 million, an average cost of $0.78 per
share. These shares are being held in treasury subject to option agreements. SEE
NOTE 8 TO THE NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, "RELATED PARTY
TRANSACTIONS". Net income for the nine months increased equity by $0.9 million
and was partially offset by a decline in the market value of investments of $1.2
million, foreign currency translation adjustments of $1.8 million and $1.6
million from the purchase of the treasury shares from GPG.
The Company's ongoing operations are organized into five segments:
investing; surface, water, geothermal and mineral rights; property and casualty
insurance; medical professional liability insurance, and other operations. GEC's
investing results are shown separately below for consistency of presentation and
to simplify analysis since GEC's results were not consolidated with those of
PICO until the third quarter of 1997. Life and health insurance operations are
shown as discontinued operations based upon the pending sale of those
operations. SEE NOTE 2 OF NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS,
"DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS," FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.
Revenues (charges) and income (loss) before taxes and minority interests from
CONTINUING OPERATIONS, by business segment, are shown in the schedules that
follow.
Operating Revenues (Charges)--Continuing Operations:
- ----------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,
-------------------- --------------------
1998 1997 1998 1997
------ ------ ------ ------
(in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Investing $(1.2) $26.6 $(0.7) $30.4
Investing--Global Equity Corporation 1.7 2.6 5.0 2.6
Surface, Water, Geothermal and Mineral Rights 0.4 1.0
Property and Casualty Insurance 10.4 13.4 31.5 45.1
Medical Professional Liability Insurance 0.7 1.1 1.9 3.5
Other 0.2 0.1 0.9 0.4
----- ----- ----- -----
Total Revenues-Continuing Operations $12.2 $43.8 $39.6 $82.0
===== ===== ===== =====
</TABLE>
Income (Loss) Before Taxes and Minority Interest--Continuing Operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,
-------------------- --------------------
1998 1997 1998 1997
------ ------ ------ ------
(in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Investing $(1.8) $26.2 $(2.4) $29.0
Investing--Global Equity Corporation 0.8 (0.9) 2.3 (0.9)
Surface, Water, Geothermal and Mineral Rights (0.4) (1.1)
Property and Casualty Insurance 1.4 1.2 2.4 4.1
Medical Professional Liability Insurance (0.2) (1.6) (0.6) (1.5)
Other -- (0.1) (0.1) (0.5)
----- ----- ----- -----
Income (Loss) Before Tax and Minority Interest $(0.2) $24.8 $ 0.5 $30.2
===== ===== ===== =====
</TABLE>
12
<PAGE> 13
INVESTING
---------
Investing operations include strategic investing and passive investment
operations conducted primarily by PICO, Physicians, GEC and PIC. However, not
all investment activities are included within the investing business segment.
For example, investment revenues and realized investment gains or losses
generated by Physicians are first allocated to the medical professional
liability ("MPL") insurance segment equal to the amount of loss reserve discount
accretion recorded during the period. The remainder is shown as investing
revenue in the investing business segment. (See MPL segment discussion below.)
In addition, investment revenues and investment income generated by Sequoia's
and CIC's investment portfolios are included in the P&C business segment, those
from The Professionals Insurance Company ("PRO"), in the MPL segment, and not in
the investing segment.
Revenues and income or losses generated by PICO through its own portfolio
and other operational activities less expenses are assigned entirely to the
investing segment. GEC's investing segment results are shown separately in the
section following this one. GEC's investing operations exclude the results
attributable to the surface, water, geothermal and mineral rights segment.
Revenues attributable to the investing segment for the first nine months of
1998 excluding GEC, which is stated separately below, amounted to a negative
$0.7 million compared to revenues of $30.4 million during the first nine months
of 1997. Revenues for the three months ended September 30, 1998 were also
negative at $1.2 million compared to revenues of $26.6 million during the same
1997 three months. Revenues for the three and nine months ended September 30,
1997 included approximately $27 million in realized investment gains from the
sale of the Company's investment in the common stock of Resource America, Inc.
Included in investing revenues for the third quarter and nine months of 1998 was
a $2.2 million write down of the Company's investment in an equity investment,
partially offset by approximately $0.9 million in realized gains from the sale
of part of Physicians' real estate holdings.
Excluding realized investment gains, investment income attributed to the
investing segment of $0.6 million during the first nine months of 1998 equaled
that of the same 1997 period, but included an approximate $0.8 million increase
in investment income recorded during the first quarter of 1998 relating to the
elimination of a capitalized interest asset. Investment income from the
investing segment for the third quarter of 1998 excluding realized investment
gains and losses was zero compared to a charge of $0.4 million during the third
quarter of 1997. Investment income attributable to the investing segment is
reduced by the amount allocated to MPL operations. The allocation to MPL is
decreasing due to continually decreasing accretion of discount on MPL claims
reserves. The accretion of discount was $1.9 million and $2.7 million for the
first nine months of 1998 and 1997, respectively. Although investment income
from the investing segment in the third quarter and for the year-to-date was
equal to or better than those amounts reported for the comparable prior year
periods, the actual level of investment income has declined from that of 1997
excluding non-recurring adjustments and the allocation to MPL. This decrease is
due to reduced levels of interest- and dividend-paying securities and the
reduction in the size of Physicians' portfolio due to the payment of MPL claims.
Additional revenues from realized investment gains of $ 3.6 million and $
1.1million were recorded during the nine months and the third quarter of 1998,
respectively, and are included in the "Investing--Global Equity Corporation"
segment following.
Investing segment revenues (charges) are summarized below:
<TABLE>
INVESTING SEGMENT REVENUES (CHARGES)
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,
------------------ -----------------
1998 1997 1998 1997
---- ---- ---- ----
(in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Investing Revenues (Charges):
- -----------------------------
Realized Investment Gains (Losses) $(1.2) $27.0 $(1.3) $29.8
Investment Income (Charges) (0.4) 0.6 0.6
----- ----- ----- -----
Investing Revenues (Charges) $(1.2) $26.6 $(0.7) $30.4
===== ===== ===== =====
</TABLE>
13
<PAGE> 14
As shown below, investing segment operations, excluding those of GEC,
provided a pre-tax loss of $2.4 million during the first nine months of 1998 and
a loss of $1.8 million for the quarter. These amounts compare to income of $29.0
million and $26.2 million from the comparable 1997 periods, respectively. As
discussed under investing segment revenues, both 1997 periods included
approximately $27 million from the sale of Resource America Inc., before tax,
and both 1998 periods included a pre-tax $2.2 million investment write down. A
reduced level of interest- and dividend-paying securities compared to the
previous year, partially offset by the previously-discussed $0.8 million
reversal of a no longer needed capitalized interest asset account also played a
role in variances between years.
Investment income attributable to the investing segment varies greatly from
period to period, influenced to a large extent by the timing of the realization
of investment gains and losses. Consequently, future results cannot and should
not be predicted based upon past performance alone.
The breakdown of pre-tax operating income or losses from investing segment
operations follows:
<TABLE>
INVESTING SEGMENT PRE-TAX INCOME (LOSS)
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,
------------------ -----------------
1998 1997 1998 1997
----- ----- ----- -----
(in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Investing Income (Loss) Before Tax:
- -----------------------------------
PICO and Physicians $(1.8) $26.3 $(2.4) $29.0
Equity in Unconsolidated Subsidiaries (0.1)
----- ----- ----- -----
Investing Pre-Tax Income (Loss) $(1.8) $26.2 $(2.4) $29.0
===== ===== ===== =====
</TABLE>
INVESTING--GLOBAL EQUITY CORPORATION
- ------------------------------------
GEC is an international operating and investment company with offices in
Toronto, Ontario, Canada and in La Jolla, California. GEC holds a portfolio of
equity securities and convertible instruments in North American, Asian and
European companies, as well as operating ownership of a number of interests in
surface, water, geothermal and mineral rights in the western United States. Such
operations are reported below in a separate segment entitled "Surface, Water,
Geothermal and Mineral Rights," and are excluded from this discussion of GEC's
results.
Following is a breakdown of GEC's investing segment revenues and investing
segment pre-tax income (losses) before minority interest for the periods shown:
<TABLE>
INVESTING--GLOBAL EQUITY CORPORATION
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,
1998 1997 1998 1997
----- ----- ----- -----
(in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
GEC Investing Revenues:
- -----------------------
Realized Investment Gains $ 1.1 $ 3.6
Investment Income 0.2 $ 0.3 0.8 $ 0.3
Other Income 0.4 2.3 0.6 2.3
----- ----- ----- -----
GEC Investing Revenues $ 1.7 $ 2.6 $ 5.0 $ 2.6
===== ===== ===== =====
GEC Investing income (Loss) Before
- ----------------------------------
Tax and Minority Interest:
--------------------------
Global Equity Corporation $ 1.0 $(0.9) $ 3.0 $(0.9)
Equity in Unconsolidated Affiliates (0.2) (0.7)
Investing Income (Loss) Before Tax
----- ----- ----- -----
and Minority Interest $ 0.8 $(0.9) $ 2.3 $(0.9)
===== ===== ===== =====
</TABLE>
14
<PAGE> 15
As shown above, GEC produced investing segment revenues of $5.0 million and
$1.7 million during the first nine months and third quarter of 1998,
respectively, including realized investment gains of $3.6 million for the nine
months and $1.1 million for the quarter. This compares to $2.6 million in
investing segment revenues recorded during the first nine months and third
quarter of 1997. However, comparisons to the 1997 third quarter may not be
meaningful due to GEC first entering into the consolidation during the third
quarter of 1997. SEE NOTE 1 OF NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS,
"BASIS OF PRESENTATION". GEC's realized investment gains for the first nine
months of 1998 were comprised of $2.9 million from the sale of European equity
securities and $0.7 million on the sale of Asian equities.
As discussed in the following section, GEC's subsidiaries engaged in
surface, water, geothermal and mineral rights activities contributed additional
revenues to the Company and an additional loss before tax and minority interest.
As of September 30, 1998, on a stand-alone basis, approximately 48% of GEC's
total assets consisted of investments in debt and equity instruments, real
estate, and cash and cash equivalents. An additional 48% of total assets
represents surface, water, geothermal and mineral rights operations.
GEC's investing segment operations contributed $2.3 million to income before
tax and minority interest to the first nine months and $0.8 million to the third
quarter of 1998. GEC added a $0.9 million loss to investing segment income
before taxes and minority interest during the third quarter and first nine
months of 1997. As previously discussed, the 1998 amounts included realized
investment gains of $3.6 million and $1.1 million for the first nine months and
third quarter, respectively.
The major components of GEC's income before tax and minority interest for
the nine months ended September 30, 1998, excluding the results of Vidler and
NLRC, were total revenues of $5.0 million comprised of realized investment gains
of $3.6 million, dividends received $0.2 million, interest earned of $0.6
million, realized foreign exchange gains of $0.4 million and other of $0.2
million. GEC earned equity in losses of an affiliate of $0.7 million from its
32% interest in Conex Continental Inc, whose major investment is a 60% interest
in a Canadian joint venture in China, Guizhou Jonyang Machinery Industry, which
manufactures wheeled and tracked excavators for the Chinese and export markets.
Total expenses were $2.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 1998.
SURFACE, WATER, GEOTHERMAL AND MINERAL RIGHTS
- ---------------------------------------------
Effective November 14, 1995, a wholly-owned subsidiary of GEC acquired all
the outstanding common stock of Vidler Water Company, Inc. ("Vidler"), a
Colorado corporation engaged in the water marketing and transfer business.
Vidler's business plan calls for Vidler to identify areas where water supplies
are in the greatest demand; to facilitate the transfer of water rights from
current ownership to Vidler; to develop water storage facilities; to reallocate
water to areas where needed through various distribution means; and to sell and
lease water supplies to municipalities, developers and others. Since its
acquisition, Vidler has purchased water rights and related assets in Colorado,
Nevada and Arizona. On April 23, 1997, GEC acquired a 74.77% membership interest
in NLRC and PICO acquired the remaining 25.23%. NLRC owns approximately 1.365
million acres of deeded land located in northern Nevada, together with
appurtenant water, geothermal and mineral rights. NLRC is actively engaged in
maximizing the property's value in relation to water rights, mineral rights,
geothermal resources, and land development.
Following is a breakdown of revenues and pre-tax losses before minority
interest from surface, water, geothermal and mineral rights operations for the
periods shown:
<TABLE>
SURFACE, WATER, GEOTHERMAL AND MINERAL RIGHTS
<CAPTION>
Three Months Nine Months
Ended Ended
September 30, September 30,
1998 1998
------------- -------------
(in millions)
<S> <C> <C>
Revenues: Surface, water, geothermal and mineral rights
- -------------------------------------------------------
Realized Gains $ 0.1 $ 0.1
Operating Revenues 0.3 0.8
Other 0.1
----- -----
Total Revenues $ 0.4 $ 1.0
===== =====
Loss Before Tax and Minority Interest:
- --------------------------------------
Vidler Water Company, Inc. $(0.4) $(0.7)
Nevada Land and Resources Company LLC (0.4)
----- -----
Loss Before Tax and Minority Interest $(0.4) $(1.1)
===== =====
</TABLE>
15
<PAGE> 16
As shown above, revenues from surface, water, geothermal and mineral rights
generated by Vidler and NLRC were approximately $1 million and $0.4 million
during the first nine months and third quarter of 1998, respectively. Nearly all
of these revenues were operating revenues. Revenues include land sales and
leases, principally for grazing, agricultural, communications and easements
purposes, water sales and leasing and other income. Operating and overhead
expenses exceeded revenues for both periods producing losses before taxes and
minority interests of $1.1 million and $0.4 million for the nine months and
third quarter, respectively. Revenues and income from the comparable prior year
periods for purposes of PICO consolidated revenues and income were insignificant
due to the inclusion of GEC in the consolidated results from August 19, 1997.
During the nine months ended September 30, 1998, Vidler has, through the
acquisition of additional agricultural water assets and the continued
development of its underground storage, established itself as the leader in the
private water development and storage business in the Southwestern United
States. With control over approximately 56,000 acre-feet of readily transferable
water rights in Arizona, Nevada, and Colorado, Vidler is the largest owner of
marketable water in this region. In addition, Vidler has an ability to develop
57,000 additional acre-feet of water rights in Nevada through ownership of
57,000 acre-feet of water rights applications. Vidler currently leases water
rights in Colorado and anticipates initiating leasing activity in Arizona and
Nevada within twelve months.
Vidler's Arizona groundwater recharge pilot program construction has been
completed and recharging began on schedule in October 1998. Accordingly, Vidler
has begun implementing the full-scale design and permitting process and will be
meeting with potential state and federal recharge customers. Vidler estimates
that the total storage capacity of the aquifer underlying Vidler's Arizona
property, is in excess of 1,000,000 acre-feet and the "put" and "take"
recharge/recovery capacity of the aquifer to be in excess of 100,000 acre-feet
per year. Vidler expects that it will be able to enter into agreements to lease
storage capacity to potential customers within twelve months after the
completion of the full-scale design and permitting process.
NLRC holds title to 1.365 million acres located in northern Nevada, at an
average cost of $39 per acre, and is the largest private landowner in the state.
NLRC anticipates that revenues will be generated from the asset by land sales,
exchanges and development and exploitation of mineral and water rights. In the
nine months ended September 30, 1998, NLRC has completed, or has in escrow,
sales of 8,393 acres with an average price of $355 per acre. As NLRC progresses
with its land assessment and is able to further prioritize properties, NLRC
anticipates increasing its land available for sale, exchange, or development.
NLRC's mineral exploitation strategy is to identify potential gold
discoveries (or other high unit resources), develop them to the point where a
meaningful data set can be established and then vend the properties to advanced
stage exploration or production companies. To date, exploration work continues
to advance over a dozen areas that have been identified as containing anomalous
gold values. Several companies have expressed an interest in receiving data
packages from NLRC for the purpose of analyzing potential mineral exploration
opportunities. In addition, Santa Fe Pacific Gold Corporation has leased 4,320
acres from NLRC, which includes a 3.5% net smelter royalty on production.
PROPERTY AND CASUALTY INSURANCE
- -------------------------------
Sequoia and CIC account for all of the ongoing P&C insurance revenues. These
companies write predominately light commercial and multiple peril insurance
coverage in central and northern California. Sequoia and CIC are continually
seeking ways to realize savings and take advantage of synergies and to combine
operations, wherever possible. To this end, Sequoia and CIC consolidated their
home office operations in Monterey, California in July 1997.
As shown below, earned premiums made up most of the P&C revenues. Premiums
are earned pro-rata throughout the year according to the coverage dates of the
underlying policies.
16
<PAGE> 17
Revenues and pre-tax income from property and casualty operations for the
periods shown were as follows:
<TABLE>
PROPERTY AND CASUALTY INSURANCE
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,
------------------ ------------------
1998 1997 1998 1997
----- ----- ----- -----
P & C Revenues: (in millions)
- ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Earned Premiums - Sequoia $ 4.4 $ 8.4 $13.4 $23.7
Earned Premiums - Citation 4.4 3.2 13.2 16.1
Investment Income 1.4 1.5 4.1 4.4
Realized Investment Gains 0.2 0.2
Other 0.2 0.3 0.6 0.7
----- ----- ----- -----
Total P&C Revenues $10.4 $13.4 $31.5 $45.1
===== ===== ===== =====
P & C Income Before Taxes:
- --------------------------
Sequoia Insurance Company $ 0.9 $ 1.0 $ 1.3 $ 3.0
Citation Insurance Company 0.5 0.2 1.1 1.1
----- ----- ----- -----
Total P&C Income Before Tax $ 1.4 $ 1.2 $ 2.4 $ 4.1
===== ===== ===== =====
</TABLE>
Total P&C insurance revenues for the first nine months of 1998 were $31.5
million, down $13.6 million from those of the same 1997 period. As shown above,
declining earned premiums accounted for $13.2 million of this decrease,
principally as a result of continuing increased underwriting selectivity of
CIC's business and aggressive competition for commercial multiple peril business
in California. Much of the decline in Sequoia's earned premiums resulted from a
reinsurance pooling agreement effective January 1, 1998 which provides for the
pooling of all insurance premiums, losses, loss adjustment expenses ("LAE") and
administrative and other insurance operating expenses between Sequoia and CIC.
The reinsurance pooling agreement calls for these items to be split equally
between the two companies. All new P&C insurance applications and policies
coming up for renewal are now being processed through Sequoia and subjected to
Sequoia's underwriting standards which are much tighter than those previously
employed by CIC. As a result, a significant portion of CIC's prior book of
business has not been renewed.
As compared to the third quarter of 1997, third quarter 1998 P&C revenues of
$10.4 million declined $3 million. This $3 million decline was principally
attributable to a $2.8 million reduction in earned premiums. As discussed above,
all of CIC's business is now being processed through Sequoia and is subjected to
much tighter underwriting standards resulting in fewer new policies and fewer
renewals than written in the past by CIC. In addition, competition within
California for commercial P&C insurance business continues at a heightened
level.
P&C insurance operations provided $2.4 million in income before taxes for
the first nine months of 1998 compared to $4.1 million during the same 1997
period. As shown above, the entire decline was attributable to Sequoia,
principally due to higher loss and LAE and expense ratios. See GAAP industry
ratios below. Higher expense ratios have resulted from the reduced level of
premiums, resulting in a higher ratio of overhead expenses to earned premiums.
The recent "El Nino" phenomenon also had a significant impact on 1998 results.
Sequoia and CIC management estimates the cost of storm losses incurred by the
companies as a result of the 1998 El Nino phenomenon to be approximately $1.0
million.
P&C insurance pre-tax income for the third quarter of 1998 of $1.4 million
was approximately $0.2 million greater than the $1.2 million recorded during the
1997 third quarter. Part of this improvement was due to significant reductions
in loss and LAE ratios of both CIC and Sequoia during the third quarter of 1998,
indicative of the much improved loss experience. See GAAP industry ratios below.
As shown above, Sequoia's pre-tax income decreased approximately $0.1 million
during the 1998 third quarter as compared to the 1997 third quarter, while CIC's
increased $0.3 million. Much of CIC's improvement resulted from the reinsurance
pooling agreement previously discussed, producing a corresponding decline in
Sequoia's individual company results.
17
<PAGE> 18
Industry ratios as determined on the basis of generally accepted accounting
principles ("GAAP") for CIC for the periods shown were as follows:
<TABLE>
CIC'S GAAP INDUSTRY RATIO
-------------------------
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,
------------------ -----------------
1998 1997 1998 1997
----- ----- ----- -----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Loss and LAE Ratio 66.7% 100.5% 72.2% 86.0%
Underwriting Expense Ratio 44.6% 26.0% 41.9% 28.3%
----- ----- ----- -----
Combined Ratio 111.3% 126.4% 114.1% 114.3%
===== ===== ===== =====
</TABLE>
Industry ratios as determined on a GAAP basis for Sequoia for the periods
shown were as follows:
<TABLE>
SEQUOIA'S GAAP INDUSTRY RATIOS
------------------------------
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,
------------------ -----------------
1998 1997 1998 1997
---- ---- ----- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Loss and LAE Ratio 49.1% 54.9% 61.6% 57.5%
Underwriting Expense Ratio 44.8% 42.3% 44.3% 38.7%
---- ---- ----- ----
Combined Ratio 93.9% 97.2% 105.9% 96.2%
==== ==== ===== ====
</TABLE>
Loss and LAE Ratios, Underwriting Expense Ratios and Combined Ratios are
calculated using net earned premiums as a denominator. Theoretically, a combined
ratio of less than 100% indicates that the insurance company is making a profit
on its base insurance business before consideration of investment income,
realized investment gains or losses, extraordinary items, taxes and other
non-insurance items.
The resulting increase in storm losses from this year's "El Nino" phenomenon
was the principal cause of the increase in the loss and LAE ratios for Sequoia
during the first nine months of 1998 as compared to 1997. The improvement in
CIC's loss and LAE ratios during the first nine months of 1998 was primarily due
to the reinsurance pooling agreement with Sequoia effective January 1, 1998
(Sequoia's loss and LAE ratios were much better than those of CIC prior to the
reinsurance pooling agreement). The increase in underwriting expense ratios of
both Sequoia and CIC for the third quarter and first nine months of 1998 as
compared to those of the same 1997 periods principally resulted from fixed
overhead expenses being spread over a smaller 1998 premium base. The improvement
in Sequoia's and CIC's loss and LAE ratios for the three months ended September
30, 1998 as compared to 1997 was principally a result of improved claims
experience.
Sequoia and CIC continue to identify and take advantage of synergies and
other cost savings and to lessen the companies' exposure to undue risk. However,
there can be no assurance that Sequoia and CIC will be successful in reducing
their policies with higher loss ratios or that their loss ratios and/or expense
ratios will improve in the future.
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY OPERATIONS
- -----------------------------------------
Physicians' and PRO's MPL insurance business was sold to Mutual Assurance
Inc. ("Mutual") on August 28, 1995. All new and renewal MPL insurance business
written between July 16 and December 31, 1995 was 100% reinsured by Mutual.
Physicians and PRO ceased writing new and renewal MPL insurance policies
effective January 1, 1996. Physicians continues to administer and adjust the
remaining claims and LAE reserves. Based upon careful analysis of various
alternative scenarios for handling the runoff of the remaining claims reserves,
management determined that the best option was to process the existing claims
internally with existing staff, rather than through a third party administrator
or through an outright sale of the claims and LAE reserves. In addition, it is
expected that shareholders' equity may be better served by retaining the
investments necessary to fund the payment of these claims and LAE reserves,
managing them along with the rest of the Company's investment holdings, as
opposed to selling or fully reinsuring these reserves and giving up the
corresponding funds. However, there can be no assurance that funds generated by
such retained investments will exceed claims. Accordingly, although the
companies effectively ceased writing MPL insurance in 1995, MPL is treated as a
separate business segment of continuing operations due to the continued
management of claims and associated investments. Physicians and PRO ceased
writing MPL business in 1995.
18
<PAGE> 19
Physicians' and PRO's assets are not designated on an individual security
basis as belonging either to the MPL or the investing business segment.
Consequently, Physicians' invested assets produce income in both the MPL and
investing segments. All of Pro's revenues and pre-tax income are assigned to the
MPL segment. Physicians' investment revenues and pre-tax income are assigned to
the investing segment except for an amount equal to Physicians' claims reserve
discount accretion for the period, which remains in the MPL segment. Claims
reserve discount accretion is estimated to be roughly equivalent to the
investment income allocable to the assets necessary to fund Physicians' claims
reserves during the period being analyzed.
Revenues (charges) and pre-tax losses from MPL operations included the
following:
<TABLE>
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,
------------------ -----------------
1998 1997 1998 1997
----- ----- ----- -----
(in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
MPL Revenues:
- -------------
Earned Premiums $(0.2) $ 0.3
Investment Income, Net of Expenses $ 0.7 $ 1.1 2.1 3.2
----- ----- ----- -----
MPL Revenues $ 0.7 $ 1.1 $ 1.9 $ 3.5
===== ===== ===== =====
MPL Loss Before Tax: $(0.2) $(1.6) $(0.6) $(1.5)
- -------------------- ===== ===== ===== =====
</TABLE>
Since the withdrawal of Physicians and PRO from their personal automobile
and homeowners lines of business in the late 1980's, MPL has, for all intents
and purposes, been these two companies' only sources of insurance premiums.
MPL insurance revenues amounted to $1.9 million for the first nine months of
1998, approximately $1.6 million less than those of the comparable 1997 period.
As shown above, approximately $0.5 million of this $1.6 million swing resulted
from adjustments to premiums earned on policies written in prior years. The
remaining $1.1 million decline was attributable to investment income. Investment
income decreased compared to 1997 principally as a result of the reduced level
of MPL claims and the associated reduced level of invested assets allocated to
the MPL insurance business segment. MPL revenues for the 1998 third quarter were
$0.7 million, down $0.4 million from the $1.1 million recorded during the same
1997 quarter due entirely to the reduced level of investment income allocated to
MPL.
MPL operations produced a pre-tax loss of approximately $0.6 million during
the first nine months of 1998 compared to a pre-tax loss of $1.5 million during
the same 1997 period and losses of $0.2 million and $1.6 million during the
third quarters of 1998 and 1997, respectively. Both the third quarter and nine
months of 1997 include a $2.0 million pre-tax addition to loss reserves based
upon actuarial indications as of June 30, 1997. Differences in premium
adjustments and investment income as discussed above accounted for the remaining
variances between periods.
Physicians' claims department staff continues to process the runoff of the
remaining MPL loss and loss adjustment expense claims which is progressing
routinely. At September 30, 1998, MPL reserves totaled approximately $ 62.1
million, net of reinsurance and discount. This compares to $77.5 million at
December 31, 1997. MPL loss and LAE reserves continue to decline as a result the
disposition of claims.
<TABLE>
MPL INSURANCE -- LOSS AND LAE RESERVES
<CAPTION>
September 30, December 31,
1998 1997
------------- ------------
(in millions)
<S> <C> <C>
Direct Reserves $101.9 $121.4
Ceded Reserves (32.6) (34.8)
Discount of Net Reserves (7.2) (9.1)
------ ------
Net MPL Reserves $ 62.1 $ 77.5
====== ======
</TABLE>
19
<PAGE> 20
Although MPL reserves are certified annually by two independent actuaries,
as required by Ohio insurance regulations, significant fluctuations in reserve
levels can occur based upon a number of variables used in actuarial projections
of ultimate incurred losses and LAE.
OTHER OPERATIONS
- ----------------
Other operations consist principally of the operations of PICO's subsidiary,
Summit Global Management, Inc. ("Summit"). Also included are the activities of
Raven Development Company ("Raven"), a real estate development subsidiary which
is winding down its operations, and CLM Agency, Inc ("CLM"), an independent
California insurance agency with minimal activity.
Revenues (charges) and pre-tax losses from other operations are summarized
below for the periods shown:
<TABLE>
OTHER OPERATIONS
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,
------------------ -----------------
1998 1997 1998 1997
----- ----- ----- -----
(in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Revenues from Other Operations:
- -------------------------------
Investment Management Services $ 0.3 $ 0.2 $ 0.9 $ 0.8
Less: Intercompany Portfolio Mgmt. Charges (0.1) (0.1) (0.3) (0.4)
Other 0.3
----- ----- ----- -----
Revenue from Other Operations $ 0.2 $ 0.1 $ 0.9 $ 0.4
===== ===== ===== =====
Other Operations-Loss Before Tax:
- ---------------------------------
Investment Management Services $ 0.1 $ 0.1 $ 0.2
Less: Intercompany Portfolio Mgmt. Charges (0.1) $(0.1) (0.3) (0.4)
Other 0.1 (0.3)
----- ----- ----- -----
Other Operations-Loss Before Tax $ -- $(0.1) $(0.1) $(0.5)
===== ===== ===== =====
</TABLE>
Revenues from other operations increased $0.5 million for the first nine
months of 1998 to $0.9 million compared to $0.4 million during the same 1997
period. These 1998 revenues included approximately $0.6 million in Summit's
investment management fees, excluding those billed to related parties, compared
to $0.4 million during the first three quarters of 1997. In addition, revenues
included $0.1 million in real estate sales generated by Raven and $0.2 million
in insurance commissions recorded by CLM during the first nine months of 1998
for prior periods. There were no real estate sales or commission income recorded
by Raven and CLM during the first nine months of 1997. Revenues from other
operations for the third quarter of 1998 of $0.2 million increased $0.1 million
over the third quarter of 1997 due to increased investment management fees.
Pre-tax, other operations showed a $0.1 million loss for the first nine
months and broke even for the third quarter of 1998 compared to a $0.5 million
loss during the nine months of 1997 and a $0.1 million loss during the third
quarter of 1997. The improvement in the performance of other operations during
the first nine months of 1998 compared to 1997 was attributable to approximately
$0.1 million in income from CLM in 1998 versus none in 1997 and a small amount
of income from Stonebridge Partners AG (a Swiss affiliate which was deactivated
in 1997) compared to a $0.3 million loss during the first nine months of 1997.
The improvement in second quarter 1998 operations as compared to 1997 of $0.1
million was due to increased Summit fees.
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
- -----------------------
Discontinued operations consist of the operations of APL. APL, Physicians'
wholly-owned life insurance subsidiary, produced revenues of $7.3 million and
pre-tax income of approximately $0.2 million during the first nine months of
1998. This compares to $4 million in revenues and no pre-tax income in 1997.
Third quarter 1998 revenues were $2.9 million versus $1.3 million in 1997.
Pre-tax income for the third quarter of 1998 was $0.1 million compared to no
income in the 1997 third quarter.
20
<PAGE> 21
APL has been concentrating its efforts on its unique critical illness
product "Survivor Key" during the past several years. This life insurance
product combines the benefits of a lump sum cash payout upon the diagnosis of
certain critical illnesses with a death benefit. Gross written premiums for
Survivor Key continually increased from 1994 through 1997.
On June 16, 1997, Physicians announced the signing of a binding agreement to
sell APL subject to certain closing conditions including regulatory approval,
which is still pending. SEE NOTE 2 TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS,
"DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS," regarding the pending sale of APL and its wholly
owned subsidiary.
The net assets of discontinued operations are shown as one line on the
balance sheets as net assets of discontinued operations.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES -- SEPTEMBER 30, 1998 AND 1997
PICO is a holding company whose assets principally consist of the stock of
its subsidiaries. The Company continually evaluates its existing operations and
searches for new opportunities in order to maximize shareholder value. This
business strategy causes the cash needs of the Company and its subsidiaries to
vary considerably from period to period. When an opportunity arises, the Company
may need to liquidate securities, take advances from subsidiaries, and require
subsidiaries to make direct purchases, or borrow funds. In addition, it may
become necessary and/or advantageous for the Company to offer stock or debt
through a public or private offering. At times the Company may have excess of
cash. The Company attempts to invest such cash to provide maximum returns within
the constraint of remaining liquid enough to meet expected cash requirements.
The Company's primary sources of funds are its available cash, cash from
operations, the liquidation of its assets, bank borrowings, public and private
debt and equity offerings, and management and other fees.
Each company within the group is operated to sustain its own operations
without the need for long-term borrowings or additional capital infusions from
within the Company, with the possible exceptions of additional capital
requirements of Sequoia and CIC to maintain or improve their Best ratings or to
meet minimum capital requirements. Physicians contributed an additional $5.5
million to Sequoia in 1997 for this purpose. Nevertheless, funds may be needed
to cover short-term operating shortfalls (i.e. timing differences) or to expand
the Company's operations (principally through investments or acquisitions) both
at the subsidiary and parent company level.
Insurance has always been and continues to be a major source of funds for
the Company. Physicians initially provided virtually all the funding necessary
for the Company to execute its revised business strategy. Since the acquisition
of Sequoia in 1995, management has made significant strides in improving
Sequoia's operating performance. Management has taken a number of steps to
improve CIC's profitability and cash flow since its acquisition in November
1996, including the June 1997 sale of its workers' compensation business and its
subsidiary, Citation National Insurance Company. During the past several years,
Physicians' cash flows had the greatest impact on the consolidated group and
should continue to do so for the foreseeable future due to the wind down of the
MPL business. At September 30, 1998, Physicians, Sequoia and Citation had a
combined cash and cash equivalent balance of $60 million compared to $46.5
million at December 31, 1997. Due to the relatively short lag period between the
receipt of premiums and payment of claims in the commercial property and
casualty insurance business lines written by Sequoia and Citation, a significant
amount of their investment balances is in cash and cash equivalents.
As a result of ceasing to write MPL insurance, Physicians' operating cash
flows have become negative and should continue to be negative for the
foreseeable future. Positive cash flows from other sources within Physicians,
primarily reinsurance recoveries, and the sale of invested assets may partially
or fully offset such uses of cash. Major cash outflows most likely will include
the funding of claims and loss adjustment expenses, investment purchases, and
operating costs.
As of December 31, 1995, when Physicians and PRO ceased writing MPL,
Physicians and PRO reported discounted unpaid loss and loss adjustment expense
reserves of approximately $136.2 million, net of reinsurance. Based upon
projections from past actuarial information, more than 75%, or $102 million, of
these reserves is expected to be settled by the end of the year 2000. Past
experience indicates that funding requirements should be greatest in the first
through third years (1996 through 1998), accounting for more than 60% of the
total eventual reserve and loss adjustment expense payments. As expected, loss
and LAE reserves at December 31, 1996 declined more than 17.1% to $112.9 million
after payment of more than $30 million in claims and LAE. During 1997, MPL
reserves decreased $35.4 million, or 31.4%, to $77.5 million as of December 31,
1997 after payment of more than $38 million in losses and LAE. MPL reserves
declined $15.4 million during the first nine months of 1998 to $62.1 million.
This represents a 54% decline in net discounted loss and LAE reserves since
December 31, 1995.
21
<PAGE> 22
The Company's insurance subsidiaries attempt to structure the duration of
invested assets to match the cash flows required to settle the related unpaid
claims liabilities. Invested assets provide adequate liquidity to fund projected
claims and LAE payments for the coming years. The Ohio and California Insurance
Departments monitor and set guidelines for the insurance companies' investments.
The Ohio and California Insurance Departments also set minimum levels of
policyholder capital and surplus and monitor these levels through various means.
To the extent that funds necessary for settling claims and paying operating
expenses are not provided by existing cash and cash equivalents, investment
income, reinsurance recoveries, and rental and other income, then invested
assets will be liquidated. Short term and fixed maturity investments are managed
to mature according to projected cash flow needs. Equity securities will be
converted to cash, as additional funds are required, with an anticipated maximum
liquidation lead-time of approximately six months.
At September 30, 1998, the investment portfolios of Physicians and PRO
contained invested assets of approximately $121.3 million, plus cash and cash
equivalents of $10.1 million. These invested assets are in excess of the present
value of expected future payouts of losses and loss adjustment expenses
(discounted at 4%) of approximately $62.1 million. Physicians is in the process
of selling APL, its life and health insurance subsidiary.
Management hopes to maximize the return on all assets, including those
needed to fund the eventual wrap-up of the MPL reserves through, among other
things, value investing and managing the invested assets internally rather than
liquidating assets to pay a third party to oversee the runoff of the existing
claims. Management also elected to handle the runoff of the MPL claims
internally to continue to maintain a high standard of claims handling and to
maximize shareholder values. While management expects that certain of the
Company's current and future investments may increase in value, offsetting some
of the decline in assets during the period of runoff, the impact of future
market fluctuations on the value of the Company's invested assets cannot be
accurately predicted. Although assets will be managed to mature or liquidate
according to expected payout projections, at times, in response to abnormal
funding demands, some invested assets may need to be sold at inopportune times
during periods of decline in the stock market or declines in the market values
of the individual securities. Such forced sales are expected to occur
infrequently and only under extreme circumstances; however, this cannot be
guaranteed.
The Company's active P&C insurance subsidiaries, Sequoia and CIC, should
provide cash flows from operations once industry combined ratios (See the
discussion of industry ratios under "Property and Casualty Insurance.")
stabilize below 100% and premium writings remain at a constant or increasing
level. At times it may be necessary to liquidate invested assets to provide the
additional funds necessary to cover operating cash needs. Summit has been
producing positive cash flows from operations and is expected to continue to do
so in the future.
The Company anticipates that Vidler and NLRC will continue to incur
operating losses until they are able to generate significant revenues from
development of projects, including water storage and supply programs, leases,
royalties, and property sales. Further, Vidler and NLRC may require funding for
acquisitions of surface, water, geothermal and mineral rights, and other
activities. These additional cash needs may require debt or equity funding from
sources outside the Company.
As shown in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows,
operating activities used cash of $11.5 million during the first nine months of
1998 compared to $36 million used during the same 1997 period. The primary use
of operating cash flow during 1998 was for the MPL and P&C operations.
Specifically, Physicians and PRO used cash flow in operations of approximately
$8.7 million due to the payment of claims and operating expenses in excess of
investment and other income. Additionally, principally as a result of reduced
premium levels, Sequoia and CIC used approximately $4.1 million in operations
during the same period. GEC provided $6.7 million of cash flows from operations
for 1998. During the first nine months of 1997, the operations of Physicians and
PRO used $33.5 million, and the combined use of cash from Citation and Sequoia
was $2.5 million. GEC had no material contribution in 1997. The favorable $24.5
million improvement in operating cash flows from 1997 primarily results from the
$6.7 million cash provided by GEC, and a $12.2 million reduction in the amount
of federal income taxes paid in 1998. Federal income taxes paid in 1997
principally arose from realized investment gains recorded in the fourth quarter
of 1996. Federal income tax deposits on 1997 taxable income were for the most
part paid in 1997 since the large realized investment gain from the sale of the
Company's Resource America Inc. common stock during the third quarter of 1997.
Cash flow from investing activities during the first nine months of 1998
provided $28.3 million compared to $90.4 million provided during the comparable
1997 period. For the nine months ended September 30, 1998 investing cash flows
included $13 million of cash received as deposits and advances related to the
sale of APL. In addition, Physician's sold its former home office building,
which generated approximately $5 million. The cash provided by investing
activities in 1997 resulted primarily from $75 million of cash provided by net
investment transactions, and $18.1 million of cash provided by consolidation of
GEC. Significant uses of investment cash in 1997 include the purchase of NLRC,
and the $11.4 million and $25.3 million used in the July 30, 1997 and August 19,
1997 acquisitions, respectively of GEC common stock.
22
<PAGE> 23
Financing activities during the nine months of 1998 used $1.6 million to
purchase shares of its common stock as discussed in NOTE 8 TO NOTES TO
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, "RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS." During the same
period in 1997, financing activities provided $0.1 million.
At September 30, 1998, the Company had no significant commitment for future
capital expenditures, other than in the ordinary course of business and as
discussed herein. The Company is committed to maintaining Sequoia's capital and
statutory policyholder surplus at a minimum of $7.5 million. At September 30,
1998, Sequoia was well above this level. The Company is also committed to
maintain Sequoia's Best Rating at or above the "B++" (Very Good) level, which
may at some time in the future require additional capital infusions into
Sequoia. SEE NOTE 5 TO NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, "COMMITMENTS
AND CONTINGENCIES".
As discussed in NOTE 7 TO NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS,
"PROPOSED BUSINESS COMBINATION," PICO and GEC have announced their intent to
proceed with a "Plan of Arrangement" whereby GEC shareholders would receive
.4628 of a share of PICO for each share of GEC ("the Business Combination"). GEC
would then become a wholly-owned subsidiary of PICO. While the Plan of
Arrangement, if approved by shareholders and regulatory bodies, will
significantly increase the number of PICO shares outstanding and the number of
shares treated as treasury shares, cash resources should only be affected by the
expenses to implement the Business Combination and any cash needed to pay
dissenting shareholders.
CAPITAL RESOURCES
- -----------------
The Company's principal sources of funds are its available cash resources,
operating cash flow, liquidation of non-essential investment holdings,
borrowings, public and private debt and equity offerings, funds from
consolidated tax savings, and investment management and other fees. At September
30, 1998, the Company had $71 million in cash and cash equivalents compared to
$56.4 million at December 31, 1997.
YEAR 2000 ISSUE
The Company's State of Readiness
- --------------------------------
The Company continues to progress in its efforts to define the scope and
magnitude of the Year 2000 ("Y2K") problem and to execute its plans to ensure
information technology and non-information technology systems are Y2K ready.
There is an evolving plan to achieve compliance that is currently divided into
four phases. As the project has proceeded, overlap of the different phases has
occurred.
The initial phase of planning, inventorying and evaluating all information
technology systems, and non-information technology systems and their components,
for Y2K compliance is approximately 85% - 90% complete. The remaining systems,
which are not deemed "mission critical" to the Company's operations, should be
evaluated by the end of 1998. The evaluation has not disclosed any significant
Y2K processing difficulties or concerns. The focus is primarily on the insurance
operations of the Company because of the custom applications software used to
process insurance policies, policy claims, and insurance underwriting. After
internal review and communication with system vendors, the majority of the
non-insurance information and non-information technology systems are Y2K
compliant and do not require any significant alterations. The focus of
remediation is on the insurance specific applications.
The secondary phase of the project, which primarily includes implementing
corrections to remedy Y2K deficiencies, is approximately 75% complete. As noted
above, the insurance systems software has been the primary focus of such
efforts. To renovate the insurance systems to a Y2K ready state, the Company's
internal information systems staff is in the process of re-writing lines of
existing code to function with a four-digit date field. The Company also
replaced existing DOS software with a current Y2K compliant version. Completion
of this phase is estimated to be June 30, 1999.
Testing and validation of each system comprises phase three. As hardware and
software changes are made to the systems, they are tested for compliance. The
Company has validated compliance through internal review and communication with
system vendors. This phase, however, will continue as insurance specific
applications are reprogrammed and tested. Final completion of phase three is
planned for the second quarter of 1999. Despite the best efforts by management,
problems will arise requiring the Company to quickly respond while there is
still time. Phase four, when completed, will set forth contingency plans
addressing potential business interruption and failure, is expected to be
finalized during the last half of 1999.
23
<PAGE> 24
Third Party Relationships
- -------------------------
The Company has relationships with several banks and other financial
institutions and service providers that provide business information on a
regular basis. In addition, the Company reports financial results on a regular
basis to state and federal agencies. While these relationships are important to
the Company's business, should any third parties be adversely affected by the
Y2K problem, the resulting risk of business interruption should not be
significant to the Company. The Company however, has no means of ensuring that
these parties will be Year 2000 ready. The inability of those parties to
complete their Y2K readiness process could materially impact the Company.
The Costs to Address the Company's Year 2000 Issues
- ---------------------------------------------------
The financial impact of making the required systems changes has not been
material, nor is it expected to be material, to the Company's consolidated
financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Through September 30,
1998 the Company has incurred approximately $65,000 for hardware and computer
programming. The Company expects to incur another $60,000 - $80,000 to complete
the project.
The Risks of the Company's Year 2000 Issues and Contingency Plans
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
A reasonable, most likely worst case scenario of the Y2K impact would be a
slow down in internal and external reporting, and insurance related processing
of policies, claims and underwriting functions. It is unlikely the Company would
experience any material business cessation or significant business disruption.
The Company is completing its specific plans to continue operations in case
of unexpected delays in completing remediation or if Y2K problems impact the
Company in unforeseen ways. It appears many business systems could function
manually for a limited amount of time. The Company anticipates completing its
contingency plan by the end of the second quarter of 1999. Overall, the Company
is approximately 75% complete in its Y2K project.
ADDITIONAL RISK FACTORS AND UNCERTAINTIES
- -----------------------------------------
The statements contained in this report that are not purely historical,
including statements regarding the Company's expectations, beliefs, intentions,
plans or strategies, are forward-looking statements. These forward -looking
statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, including the risks and
uncertainties discussed below. All forward-looking statements included in this
document are based upon information available to the Company on the date hereof,
and the Company assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking
statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any such
forward-looking statements. In addition to the risks and uncertainties discussed
in the preceding sections of "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations," the following risk factors are also
inherent in the Company's business operations:
CHANGE IN STRATEGIC DIRECTION. In late 1994, the Company began the process
of changing its strategic direction from the operation of an MPL insurance
business to investing in businesses which management believes are undervalued or
will benefit from additional capital, restructuring of operations or management
or improved competitiveness through operational efficiencies with existing
operations. Accordingly, in January 1995, the Company reactivated its investment
advisory subsidiary, Summit; in August 1995 acquired Sequoia and entered new
lines of property and casualty insurance; in August 1995 sold its MPL insurance
business; in September 1995 purchased 38.2% of GEC, a Canadian corporation
active in international investments, agricultural services, water rights, and
other businesses; in November 1996 acquired control of Citation Insurance Group
("CIG") pursuant to the Merger; in April 1997 acquired 25.23% ownership of
Nevada Land and Resource Company which owns approximately 1.365 million acres of
deeded land in northern Nevada; in June 1997 sold its workers' compensation
business; and in July and August 1997, increased its ownership in GEC to 51.2%.
On May 8 and June 19, 1998, the PICO and GEC jointly announced their intentions
to combine through a "Plan of Arrangement". Due to the Company's limited
experience in the operation of the businesses of each of these subsidiaries,
which currently constitute a substantial portion of the Company's operations,
there can be no assurance as to the future operating results of the Company or
acquired businesses of the Company.
24
<PAGE> 25
The Company will continue to evaluate and make selective investments for the
purpose of enhancing and realizing additional value by means of appropriate
levels of shareholder influence and control. This could involve the
restructuring of the financing or management of the entities in which the
Company invests and initiating and facilitating mergers and acquisitions. This
business strategy has been implemented gradually during the past three to four
years. For this reason and others, including but not limited to the variability
of the securities markets and the uncertainties associated with trying to
predict future results based upon past performance, the Company's historical
financial statements are not indicative of the possible future results of this
new business strategy. Shareholders are relying on the experience and judgment
of the Company's management to locate, select and develop new acquisition and
investment opportunities. There can be no assurance that sufficient
opportunities will be found or that this business strategy will be successful.
Failure to successfully implement this strategy may negatively impact the
business and financial condition and results of operations and cash flows of the
Company.
Application of the Company's new strategy since 1995 has resulted in a
greater concentration of equity investments held by the Company. Market values
of equity securities are subject to changes in the stock market, which will
cause the Company's shareholders' equity to fluctuate from period to period. At
times the Company may hold securities of companies for which no market exists or
which may be subject to restrictions on resale. As a result, periodically, a
portion of the Company's assets may not be readily marketable, which would
restrict the Company's ability to liquidate its interests in these entities.
ADDITIONAL RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH ACQUISITIONS AND INVESTMENTS. Any
acquisition, depending on its size, could result in the use of a significant
portion of the Company's available cash or, if such acquisition is made
utilizing the Company's securities, could result in significant dilution to PICO
shareholders, and could result in the incurrence of significant
acquisition-related charges to earnings. Acquisitions by the Company may result
in the incurrence or the assumption of liabilities, including liabilities that
are unknown or not fully known at the time of acquisition, which could have a
material adverse effect on the Company. Furthermore, there can be no assurance
that the Company will obtain the anticipated or desired benefits of such
transactions.
Market values of equity securities are subject to changes in the stock
market, which may cause shareholders' equity to fluctuate from period to period.
At times, the Company may come to hold securities of companies for which no
market exists or which may be subject to restrictions on resale. As a result,
periodically, a portion of the Company's assets may not be readily marketable.
PICO and GEC through NLRC and Vidler have committed a significant portion of
their assets to surface, water, geothermal and mineral rights. There can be no
assurance that the market value of these assets will increase over time. In
addition, there are a number of risks associated with the successful development
of the Company's and GEC's water rights business including, but not limited to,
water price volatility; environmental concerns; political opposition;
uncertainty of future demand / revenues; concentration of revenue sources in a
limited number of assets; and dependence on key personnel. There can be no
assurance that Vilder and NLRC will be successful in developing their surface,
water, geothermal and mineral rights assets.
The Company faces significant risks associated with its recent acquisitions
(including the acquisition of NLRC). There can be no assurance that the Company
will realize the desired benefits of these transactions. In order to
successfully manage these companies, the Company must, among other things,
continue to attract and retain key management and other personnel. The diversion
of the attention of management from the day-to-day operations of the Company, or
difficulties encountered in the integration process, could have a material
adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition, results of
operations and cash flows.
VARIABILITY OF QUARTERLY OPERATING RESULTS. The Company's results of
operations have been subject to significant fluctuations, particularly on a
quarterly basis, and the Company's future results of operations could fluctuate
significantly form quarter to quarter and from year to year. Causes of such
fluctuations may include the inclusion on consolidation of operating earnings
from newly acquired investment operations or the exclusion on consolidation of
operating earnings from investment operations that have been disposed of, the
acquisition of investment operations that, on acquisition, exhibit low operating
earnings but have a high degree of expectation of capital gains due to the
Company's ability to restructure operations or management.
DEPENDENCE ON KEY PERSONNEL. The Company has several key executive officers,
the loss of whom could have a significant adverse effect on the Company. In
particular, Ronald Langley, PICO's Chairman, and John R. Hart, PICO's President
and Chief Executive Officer, play key roles in the Company's and GEC's
investment decisions. Messrs. Langley and Hart have entered into employment
agreements with PICO and a wholly-owned subsidiary of GEC as of December 31,
1997, all for a period of four years. Messrs. Langley and Hart are key to the
implementation of the Company's new strategic focus, and the ability of the
Company to implement its current strategy is dependent on its ability to retain
the services of Messrs. Langley and Hart. The success of GEC depends to a large
extent on its ability to retain the services of its senior management, in
particular Messrs. Langley and Hart and, to a certain extent, upon the
management of companies in which GEC has an investment. The inability to retain
the services of these persons could potentially affect GEC's operations and
profitability.
25
<PAGE> 26
RISKS REGARDING PHYSICIANS: CONTINUING MPL LIABILITY. In August 1995, the
MPL insurance business and related liability insurance business of Physicians
and PRO were sold. Physicians and PRO retained all assets and liabilities
related to insurance policies written prior to the sale of the recurring book of
business. Physicians and PRO will continue to administer claims and loss
adjustment expenses under MPL insurance policies issued or renewed prior to July
16, 1995. Cash flow needed to fund the day-to-day operations and the payment of
claims and claims expenses will be provided by investment income, lease income,
and proceeds from the sale or maturity of securities.
Under the terms of the Company's MPL policies, these policies have an
extended reporting period for claims. Under Ohio law the statute of limitations
is one year after the cause of action accrues. Also, under Ohio law there is a
four-year statutory time bar; however, this has been construed judicially to be
unconstitutional in situations where the plaintiff could not have reasonably
discovered the injury in that four-year period. Claims of minors must be brought
within one year of the date of majority. As a result, some claims may be
reported a number of years following the expiration of the MPL policy period.
Physicians and PRO have established reserves to cover losses and loss adjustment
expense on claims incurred under the MPL policies issued or renewed to date
including not only those claims reported to date, but also those incurred but
not yet reported. The amounts established and to be established by Physicians
and PRO for loss and LAE reserves are estimates of future costs based on various
assumptions and, in accordance with Ohio law, have been discounted (adjusted to
reflect the time value of money). These estimates are based on actual and
industry experience and assumptions and projections as to claims frequency,
severity and inflationary trends and settlement payments. In accordance with
Ohio law, Physicians and PRO annually obtain a certification from an independent
actuary that respective reserves for losses and LAE are adequate. Physicians and
PRO also obtain a concurring actuarial opinion.
Physicians' and PRO's reserves for losses and LAE for prior years developed
favorably in 1994, and these reserves were decreased by $12.7 million in 1994.
Reserves also developed favorably in 1995; however, accretion of reserve
discount exceeded the amount of favorable development and retroactive
reinsurance, resulting in a $3.2 million increase in liabilities for prior
years' claims. As a result of continued favorable claims experience, reserves
for prior years' claims were further reduced in the first and fourth quarters of
1996. However, based upon actuarial indications from data through June 30, 1997,
Physicians' MPL claims reserves were increased by $2 million during the third
quarter of 1997 due to somewhat deteriorated claims experience during the first
six months of 1997. At the same time, favorable development of Physicians' and
PRO's discontinued personal lines reserves (automobile, homeowner, etc.) allowed
reserve reductions of $0.8 million during the third quarter of 1997. Due to the
inherent uncertainties in the reserving process there is a risk that Physicians'
and PRO's reserves for losses and LAE could prove to be inadequate which could
result in a decrease in earnings and shareholders' equity. Adverse reserve
development can reduce statutory policyholders' surplus or otherwise limit the
growth of such policyholders' surplus and, correspondingly, shareholders'
equity.
LOSS RESERVE EXPERIENCE. The inherent uncertainties in estimating loss
reserves are greater for some insurance products than for others, and are
dependent on the length of the reporting tail associated with a given product,
the diversity of historical development patterns among various aggregations of
claims, the amount of historical information available during the estimation
process, the degree of impact that changing regulations and legal precedents may
have on open claims, and the consistency of reinsurance programs over time,
among other things. Because MPL and commercial casualty claims may not be fully
paid for several years or more, estimating reserves for such claims can be more
uncertain than estimating reserves in other lines of insurance. As a result,
precise reserve estimates cannot be made for several years following a current
accident year for which reserves are initially established.
There can be no assurance that the insurance subsidiaries in the group have
established reserves adequate to meet the ultimate cost of losses arising from
such claims. It has been necessary, and will over time continue to be necessary,
for the insurance companies to review and make appropriate adjustment to
reserves for estimated ultimate losses, LAE, future policy benefits, claims
payables, and annuity and other policyholder funds. To the extent reserves prove
to be inadequate, the insurance companies would have to adjust their reserves
and incur a charge to earnings, which could have a material adverse effect on
the financial results of the Company.
REINSURANCE RISKS. Prior to the June 30, 1997 sale of Citation National
Insurance Company ("CNIC"), all of CNIC's existing insurance risks and claims
liabilities, except for those insuring workers' compensation, were transferred
to CIC through reinsurance treaties in order to effect the sale of CNIC and the
Company's workers' compensation business. As with other P & C insurers, CIC's
and Sequoia's operating results and financial condition can be adversely
affected by volatile and unpredictable natural and man-made disasters, such as
hurricanes, windstorms, earthquakes, fires, and explosions. CIC and Sequoia
generally seek to reduce their exposure to such events through individual risk
selection and the purchase of reinsurance. CIC's and Sequoia's estimates of
their exposures depend on their views of the possibility of a catastrophic event
in a given area and on the probable maximum loss to the insurance companies
should such an event occur. While CIC and Sequoia attempt to limit their
exposure to acceptable levels, it is possible that an actual catastrophic event
or multiple catastrophic events could significantly exceed the probable maximum
loss previously assumed, resulting in a material adverse effect on the financial
condition and results of operations of the Company.
26
<PAGE> 27
The future financial results of the insurance subsidiaries could be
adversely affected by disputes with their respective reinsurers with respect to
coverage and by the solvency of such reinsurers.
RISKS REGARDING SUMMIT GLOBAL MANAGEMENT. Summit is registered as an
investment adviser in California, Florida, Kansas, Louisiana, Oregon, Virginia
and Wisconsin, as well as with the SEC. Summit must file periodic reports with
the SEC and must be available for periodic examination by the SEC. Summit is
subject to Section 206 of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, which prohibits
material misrepresentations and fraudulent practices in connection with the
rendering of investment advice, and to the general prohibitions of Section 208
of such Act. If Summit were to violate the Investment Advisers Act prohibitions,
it would risk criminal prosecution, SEC injunctive actions and the imposition of
sanctions ranging from censure to revocation of registration in an
administrative hearing.
The investment adviser business is highly competitive. There are several
thousand investment advisers registered in the states in which Summit does
business, many of which are larger and have greater financial resources than
Summit. There can be no assurance that Summit will be able to compete
effectively in the markets that it serves.
GLOBAL INVESTMENT VOLATILITY. As a result of global diversification,
investment decisions already made and which may be made in the future,
particularly with regard to GEC, the Company's revenues may be adversely
affected by economic, political and governmental conditions in countries where
it maintains investments or operations, such as volatile interest rates or
inflation, the imposition of exchange controls which could restrict the
Company's ability to withdraw funds, political instability and fluctuations in
currency exchange rates.
FLUCTUATIONS IN HISTORICAL OPERATING RESULTS, P & C RESERVES. The Company's
operating results over the past five years have been volatile. During the past
several years, the levels of the reserves for the Company's insurance
subsidiaries have been very volatile. As a result of its claims experience and
the level of existing reserves with respect to its P & C insurance business, CIC
has had to significantly increase these reserves in a number of the past several
years.
There can be no assurance that significant increases with respect to the
reserves for the P & C business will not be necessary in the future, that the
level of reserves for the Company's insurance subsidiaries will not be volatile
in the future, or that any such increases or volatility will not have an adverse
effect on the Company's operating results and financial condition.
RENEWALS. Insurance policy renewals have historically accounted for a
significant portion of the Company's net revenues; however, there can be no
assurance that the Company will be able to sustain historic renewal rates for
its products in the future. Risks related to the Company's recent change in
business strategies could also cause fluctuations in operating results and could
make comparisons with historic operating results and balances difficult or not
meaningful.
COMPETITION. There are several hundred P & C insurers licensed in
California, many of which are larger and have greater financial resources than
CIC, and Sequoia; offer more diversified types of insurance coverage; have
greater financial resources and have greater distribution capabilities than the
insurance companies of the group. The presence of these competitors or
competitive developments in the future could adversely affect the Company's
business and results of operations.
A.M. BEST RATINGS. A.M. Best ("Best") has assigned Sequoia a rating of B++
(Very Good) and APL has had a Best rating of B+ (Very Good) since 1983. In early
1998, CIC was upgraded from a B- (Adequate) to a B+ (Very Good) by Best.
Physicians and PRO are currently rated, and have been for a number of years,
NR-3 (rating procedure inapplicable). Best's ratings reflect the assessment of
A.M. Best and Company of the insurer's financial condition, as well as the
expertise and experience of management. Therefore, Best ratings are important to
policyholders. Best ratings are subject to review and change over time. Failure
to maintain or improve their Best ratings could have a material adverse effect
on the ability of the insurance companies to write new insurance policies, as
well as potentially reduce their ability to maintain or increase market share.
Management believes that many potential customers will not insure with an
insurer that carries a Best rating of less than B+, and that customers who do so
will demand lower rate structures. There can be no assurance that any of the
insurance companies' ratings will be maintained or increased, and a downgrade
would likely adversely affect the Company's business and results of operations.
27
<PAGE> 28
CYCLICAL NATURE OF THE P&C INDUSTRY. The P & C insurance industry has been
highly cyclical, and the industry has been in a cyclical downturn over the last
several years due primarily to competitive pressures on pricing, which has
resulted in lower profitability. Pricing is a function of many factors,
including the capacity of the P&C industry as a whole to write business, an
individual company's policyholders' surplus and returns on the investment
portfolio. The level of surplus in the industry varies with returns on invested
capital and regulatory barriers to withdrawal of surplus. Increases in surplus
have generally been accompanied by increased price competition among P & C
insurers. The cyclical trends in the industry and the industry's profitability
can also be affected significantly by volatile and unpredictable developments,
including natural disasters, fluctuations in interest rates, and other changes
in the investment environment which affect market prices of insurance companies'
investments and the income from those investments. Inflationary pressures affect
the size of losses and judicial decisions affect insurers' liabilities. These
trends may adversely affect the Company's business, financial condition and
results of operations.
INSURANCE COMPANY CAPITAL AND SURPLUS TESTING. In the past few years, the
NAIC has developed risk-based capital ("RBC") measurements for both property and
casualty and life and health insurers. The measures provide the various state
regulators with varying levels of authority based on the adequacy of an
insurer's RBC. The insurance companies' RBC results are reported annually in
their statutory Annual Statements to the insurance departments. Failure to meet
one or more RBC level may result in state regulators requiring the insurance
company to submit a business plan demonstrating attainment of the required RBC
level. This may entail the addition of capital, a restructuring of assets and
liabilities, or changes in operations. At or below certain lower RBC levels,
state regulators may supervise the operation of the insurance company and/or
require the liquidation of the insurance company. Failing to meet RBC levels
could adversely affect the Company's business, financial condition and results
of operations.
INTEGRATION OF CERTAIN OPERATIONS: THE MERGER. CIG and Physicians completed
the Merger with the expectation that the Merger would result in certain benefits
for the combined company. Achieving the anticipated benefits of the Merger will
depend in part upon whether certain of the two companies' business operations
can be integrated in an efficient and effective manner. There can be no
assurance that this will occur or that cost savings in operations will be
achieved. The successful combination of the two companies will require, among
other things, integration of the companies' respective product offerings,
medical management of health care claims and management information systems
enhancements. The difficulties of such integration may be increased by the
necessity of coordinating geographically separated organizations. The
integration of certain operations following the Merger will require the
dedication of management resources which may temporarily distract attention from
the day-to-day business of the combined companies. There can be no assurance
that integration will be accomplished smoothly or successfully. Failure to
effectively accomplish the integration of the two companies' operations could
have an adverse effect on the Company's results of operations and financial
condition following the Merger.
RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH FAILURE TO MANAGE GROWTH. The Company's growth
internally and through its numerous acquisitions has placed, and further
expansion would continue to place, significant strain on its limited personnel,
management and other resources. The Company's ability to manage any future
growth may require it to attract, train, motivate and manage new employees
successfully, to integrate new employees effectively into its operations and to
continue to improve its operational, financial, management and information
systems and controls. The failure to manage any further growth effectively could
have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition
and results of operations.
FAILURE TO QUALIFY FOR EXEMPTION UNDER INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT. The Company
at all times intends to conduct its business so as not to become regulated as an
investment company under the Investment Company Act. However, if the company
fails to qualify for exemption from registration as an investment company, its
ability to use leverage would be substantially reduced, and it would be subject
to significant additional disclosure obligations and restrictions on its
operational activities.
YEAR 2000 CONVERSION EFFORTS. As described in Management's Discussion and
Analysis, the Company has undertaken a comprehensive program designed to ensure
that necessary replacement, remediation, testing and implementation efforts are
completed in a timely fashion to make its computer and other electronic systems
year 2000 compliant. The cost of such efforts could increase significantly
beyond that currently estimated due to factors such as the successful
identification of all aspects of systems that require remediation or
replacement, the extent of testing required, and the success of third parties
with whom the Company regularly deals with. Moreover, if necessary remediation,
replacement, testing and implementation efforts cannot be completed before the
year 2000, resulting system failures could have a material adverse impact on the
Company's ability to conduct its business, and consequently on its financial
position and results of operations. In addition, there can be no assurance that
a failure to timely effect year 2000 compliance by a third party with whom the
Company regularly deals would not have an adverse effect on the Company's
systems and operations.
POSSIBLE PRICE VOLATILITY OF PICO COMMON STOCK. The trading price of PICO
common stock has historically been, and is expected to be, subject to
fluctuations. The market price of PICO common stock may be significantly
impacted by quarterly variations in financial performance, shortfalls in revenue
or earnings from levels forecast by securities analysts, changes in estimates by
such analysts, product introductions by the Company or its competitors,
announcements of extraordinary events such as acquisitions or litigation or
28
<PAGE> 29
general economic conditions. Statements or changes in opinions, ratings, or
earnings estimates made by brokerage firms or industry analysts relating to the
markets in which the Company does business or relating to the Company
specifically could result in an immediate and adverse effect on the market price
of PICO common stock. In addition, in recent years the stock market has
experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations. These fluctuations have had a
substantial effect on the market prices for many companies, often unrelated to
the operating performance of the specific companies. There can be no assurances
that the market price of PICO common stock will not decline below the levels
prevailing on any particular date, including, but not limited to, the date of
the proposed business combination with GEC and the proposed one-for-five shares
reverse stock split, valued on an equivalent shares basis. Securities class
action lawsuits are often brought against companies following periods of
volatility in the market price of their securities. Any such litigation against
the Company could result in substantial costs and a diversion of resources and
management attention.
CERTAIN ANTI-TAKEOVER FEATURES. The PICO Articles and by-laws contain
certain provisions that could deter or prevent certain takeover attempts. In
addition, PICO has adopted a rights plan which may also deter or prevent certain
takeover attempts.
NATURE OF BUSINESS: GEC. There are risks inherent in the nature of GEC's
investments. Investment in companies which management regards as undervalued
involves significant risk that even a combination of careful evaluation,
experience and knowledge may not eliminate. Potential investors must rely on the
ability of GEC's management and board of directors to identify and take
advantage of business opportunities, provide advisory services, facilitate
financings and make investments in appropriate businesses.
GEC's ability to achieve an acceptable rate of return on any particular
investment is subject to a number of factors which are beyond its control,
including increased competition and loss of market share, quality of management,
cyclical or uneven financial results, technological obsolescence, foreign
currency risks and regulatory delays. There is no assurance that GEC's existing
or future investments will achieve acceptable rates of return or that GEC will
realize the value of the funds invested; accordingly, these investments may have
to be written down or sold at their then-prevailing market values.
Investments in both private and public companies may prove illiquid or
realizable only at a discount. Investments in private companies are not as
marketable as investments in public companies. Investments in public companies
are subject to prices determined in the public markets and, therefore, values
can vary dramatically. In particular, the ability of the public markets to
absorb a large block of shares offered for sale can affect GEC's ability to
dispose of an investment in a public company.
FOREIGN INVESTMENTS AND OPERATIONS. As a result of the global
diversification of GEC's investment portfolio, GEC's and, in turn, the Company's
revenues may be adversely affected by economic, political and governmental
conditions in countries where it maintains investments or operations, such as
volatile interest rates or inflation, the imposition of exchange controls which
could restrict GEC's ability to withdraw funds, political instability and the
currency risks discussed above.
WATER RIGHTS PORTFOLIO. Water rights and the transferability of these rights
to other uses and places of use are governed by the laws concerning water rights
in the states of Arizona, Colorado and Nevada. The volumes of water actually
derived from these rights may vary considerably based upon physical availability
and may be further limited by applicable legal restrictions. As a result, the
amounts of acre-feet noted do not in every case represent a reliable, firm
annual yield of water, but in some cases describe the face amount of the water
right claims or management's best estimate of such entitlement. Legal
impediments exist to the sale or transfer of some of these water rights, which
may affect their commercial value.
ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS. The Company's and GEC's operations in the United
States are subject to federal, state, municipal and local regulation under
environmental laws and regulations concerning, among other things, emissions to
the air, discharges to waters, the generation, handling, storage,
transportation, treatment and disposal of waste, hazardous substances and other
materials and soil and ground water contamination. A risk of environmental
liability is inherent in the real estate ownership, operation or control and
other commercial activities of GEC with respect to current and future
operations.
In the agreements of purchase and sale with respect to the acquisitions of
land and water rights made in the western United States by GEC and its
subsidiaries, the vendors have provided representations and warranties and/or
indemnities in relation to certain environmental liabilities. These provisions
are subject to certain qualifications, thresholds and monetary limits. While
there can be no assurance that GEC and its subsidiaries will be able to recover
the amount of any environmental liability from the vendors pursuant to these
provisions, management of GEC believes that these provisions provide a
reasonable protection for GEC and its subsidiaries against environmental
liabilities.
The foregoing factors, individually or in the aggregate, could materially
adversely affect the Company's operating results and could make comparison of
historic operating results and balances difficult or not meaningful.
29
<PAGE> 30
PART II: OTHER INFORMATION
Item 4: Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders:
None.
Item 6: Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K:
(a) Exhibits:
See Exhibit Index.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Form Date Filed Description
- --------- ----------------- -----------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
8-K October 9, 1998 Announcement of conversion of PC Quote subordinated
convertible debenture, working capital loan and accrued
interest into PC Quote 5% Convertible Preferred Stock.
8-K October 9, 1998 Joint announcement by GEC and PICO of the September
18, 1998 filing with the SEC of their Joint Proxy Statement
in connection with their proposed business combination.
</TABLE>
30
<PAGE> 31
PICO HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
PICO HOLDINGS, INC.
Dated: November 12, 1998 By: /s/ Gary W. Burchfield
--------------------------------------------
Gary W. Burchfield
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
31
<PAGE> 32
EXHIBITS INDEX
--------------
EXHIBIT NUMBER DESCRIPTION
- -------------- -----------
+ 2.2 Agreement and Plan of Reorganization, dated as of May 1, 1996
among PICO, Citation Holdings, Inc., and Physicians and
amendment thereto dated August 14, 1996 and related Merger
Agreement.
+++++ 2.3 Second Amendment to Agreement and Plan of Reorganization
dated November 12, 1996.
# 2.4 Agreement and Debenture, dated November 14, 1996 and November
27, 1996, respectively, by and between Physicians and PC
Quote, Inc.
## 2.5 Purchase and Sale Agreement by, between and among Nevada Land
and Resource Company, LLC, GEC, Western Water Company and
Western Land Joint Venture dated April 9, 1997.
+++++ 3.1 Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of PICO.
+ 3.2.2 Amended and Restated Bylaws of PICO.
++++ 4.2 First Amendment to Rights Agreement dated April 30, 1996.
+++++ 4.3 Second Amendment to Rights Agreement dated November 20, 1996.
-* 10.7 Key Officer Performance Recognition Plan.
* 10.8 Flexible Benefit Plan.
-* 10.9 Amended and Restated 1983 Employee Stock Option Plan.
-**** 10.10 Salary Reduction Profit Sharing Plan as amended and restated
effective January 1, 1994 and Amendments Nos. 1 and 2 thereto
dated March 13, 1995 and March 15, 1995, respectively.
-* 10.11 Employee Stock Ownership Plan and Trust Agreement.
-*** 10.11.1 Amended Employee Stock Ownership Plan and Trust Agreement.
-***** 10.11.2 Amendment to Employee Stock Ownership Plan dated October 1,
1992.
-**** 10.11.3 Amendment to Employee Stock Ownership Plan dated March 15,
1995.
* 10.16 Office Lease between CIC and North Block Partnership dated
July, 1990.
*** 10.16.1 Amendments Nos. 1 and 2 to Office Lease between CIC and North
Block Partnership dated January 6, 1992 and February 5, 1992,
respectively.
**** 10.16.2 Amendments Nos. 3 and 4 to Office Lease between CIC and North
Block Partnership dated December 6, 1993 and October 4, 1994,
respectively.
-* 10.22 1991 Employee Stock Option Plan.
-***** 10.23 PICO Severance Plan for Certain Executive Officers, Senior
Management and Key Employees of the Company and its
Subsidiaries, including form of agreement.
-# 10.55 Consulting Agreements, effective January 1, 1997, regarding
retention of Ronald Langley and John R. Hart as consultants
by Physicians and GEC.
++ 10.57 PICO 1995 Stock Option Plan.
-+++ 10.58 Key Employee Severance Agreement and Amendment No. 1 thereto,
each made as of November 1, 1992, between PICO and Richard H.
Sharpe and Schedule A identifying other substantially
identical Key Employee Severance Agreements between PICO and
certain of the executive officers of PICO.
+++ 10.59 Agreement for Purchase and Sale of Shares, dated May 9, 1996,
among Physicians, GPG and GEC.
++ 10.60 Agreement for Purchase and Sale of Certain Assets, dated July
14, 1995 between Physicians, PRO and Mutual Assurance, Inc.
++ 10.61 Stock Purchase Agreement dated March 7, 1995 between Sydney
Reinsurance Corporation and Physicians.
++ 10.62 Letter Agreement, dated September 5, 1995 between Physicians,
Christopher Ondaatje and the South East Asia Plantation
Corporation Limited.
++++ 10.63 Amendment No. 1 to Agreement for Purchase and Sale of Certain
Assets, dated July 30, 1996 between Physicians, PRO and
Mutual Assurance, Inc.
+++++ 16.1 Letter regarding change in Certifying Accountant from
Deloitte & Touche LLP, independent auditors.
# 21. Subsidiaries of PICO.
27. Financial Data Schedule.
### 99. Announcement of PICO's consideration of proposed combination
with GEC through a Plan of Arrangement.
#### 99. Announcement of GEC's independent committee of directors
favorable response to the proposed Plan of Arrangement.
Disclosure of share exchange ratio.
##### 99. Announcement of conversion of PC Quote, Inc. subordinated
convertible debenture, working capital loan and accumulated
interest into PC Quote, Inc. convertible preferred stock.
+#### 99. Announcement by GEC and PICO of filing on September 18, 1998
with the SEC their Joint Proxy Statement in connection with
their proposed business combination.
- -------------
* Incorporated by reference to exhibit of same number filed
with Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 33-36383).
*** Incorporated by reference to exhibit of same number filed
with 1992 Form 10-K.
**** Incorporated by reference to exhibit of same number filed
with 1994 Form 10-K.
32
<PAGE> 33
***** Incorporated by reference to exhibit bearing the same number
filed with Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No.
33-64328).
+ Filed as Appendix to the prospectus in Part I of Registration
Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-06671).
++ Incorporated by reference to exhibit filed with Physicians'
Registration Statement No. 33-99352 on Form S-1 filed with
the SEC on November 4, 1995
+++ Incorporated by reference to exhibit filed with Registration
Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-06671).
++++ Incorporated by reference to exhibit filed with Amendment No.
1 to Registration Statement No. 333-06671 on Form S-4.
+++++ Incorporated by reference to exhibit of same number filed
with Form 8-K dated December 4, 1996.
# Incorporated by reference to exhibit of same number filed
with Form 10-K dated April 15, 1997.
## Incorporated by reference to exhibit of same number filed
with Form 10-K/A dated April 30, 1997.
### Incorporated by reference to exhibit of same number filed
with Form 8-K dated May 20, 1998.
#### Incorporated by reference to exhibit of same number filed
with Form 8-K dated July 21, 1998.
##### Incorporated by reference to exhibit of same number filed
with Form 8-K dated October 9, 1998.
+#### Incorporated by reference to exhibit of same number filed
with Form 8-K dated October 9, 1998.
- Executive Compensation Plans and Agreements.
33
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 7
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET AND CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME OF PICO
HOLDINGS, INC. AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
<CURRENCY> U.S. DOLLARS
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 9-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> DEC-31-1998
<PERIOD-END> SEP-30-1998
<EXCHANGE-RATE> 1
<DEBT-HELD-FOR-SALE> 37,026
<DEBT-CARRYING-VALUE> 0
<DEBT-MARKET-VALUE> 0
<EQUITIES> 67,533
<MORTGAGE> 0
<REAL-ESTATE> 2,089
<TOTAL-INVEST> 131,769
<CASH> 70,959
<RECOVER-REINSURE> 3,850
<DEFERRED-ACQUISITION> 5,438
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 405,942
<POLICY-LOSSES> 169,473
<UNEARNED-PREMIUMS> 30,343
<POLICY-OTHER> 0
<POLICY-HOLDER-FUNDS> 0
<NOTES-PAYABLE> 0
0
0
<COMMON> 33
<OTHER-SE> 108,395
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 405,942
26,398
<INVESTMENT-INCOME> 7,382
<INVESTMENT-GAINS> 2,509
<OTHER-INCOME> 3,280
<BENEFITS> 19,398
<UNDERWRITING-AMORTIZATION> 8,164
<UNDERWRITING-OTHER> 10,795
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