<PAGE> 1
AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON JULY 3, 1996
REGISTRATION NO. 333-06249
================================================================================
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
------------------
AMENDMENT NO. 1
FORM S-1
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
HPR LIMITED
(EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER)
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
CAYMAN ISLANDS 6719 N.A.
(STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION (PRIMARY STANDARD INDUSTRIAL (I.R.S. EMPLOYER
OF INCORPORATION) CLASSIFICATION CODE NUMBER) IDENTIFICATION NO.)
</TABLE>
------------------
P.O. BOX 309
UGLAND HOUSE
SOUTH CHURCH STREET
GRAND CAYMAN, CAYMAN ISLANDS, BRITISH WEST INDIES
(809) 949-8066
(ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE, OF
REGISTRANT'S PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICES)
------------------
THOMAS CLARK
DIRECTOR
HPR LIMITED
C/O CT CORPORATION SYSTEM
1633 BROADWAY
NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10019
(212) 664-1666
(NAME, ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE,
OF AGENT FOR SERVICE)
------------------
COPIES TO:
EDWARD M. DESEAR, ESQ. C. THOMAS KUNZ, ESQ.
ORRICK, HERRINGTON & SUTCLIFFE CLIFFORD W. LOSH, ESQ.
666 FIFTH AVENUE SKADDEN, ARPS, SLATE, MEAGHER & FLOM
NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10103 919 THIRD AVENUE
NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10022
------------------
APPROXIMATE DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROPOSED SALE TO THE PUBLIC: As
soon as practicable after the effective date of this Registration Statement.
If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be
offered on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the
Securities Act of 1933, check the following box. / /
If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an
offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, please check the
following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the
earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. / /
If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule
462(c) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the
Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective
registration statement for the same offering. / /
If delivery of the prospectus is expected to be made pursuant to Rule
434, please check the following box. / /
------------------
THE REGISTRANT HEREBY AMENDS THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON SUCH DATE
OR DATES AS MAY BE NECESSARY TO DELAY ITS EFFECTIVE DATE UNTIL THE REGISTRANT
SHALL FILE A FURTHER AMENDMENT THAT SPECIFICALLY STATES THAT THIS REGISTRATION
STATEMENT SHALL THEREAFTER BECOME EFFECTIVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 8(a) OF
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 OR UNTIL THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT SHALL BECOME
EFFECTIVE ON SUCH DATE AS THE COMMISSION, ACTING PURSUANT TO SAID SECTION 8(a),
MAY DETERMINE.
================================================================================
<PAGE> 2
HPR LIMITED
CROSS REFERENCE SHEET
Cross-reference sheet furnished pursuant to Item 501(b) of Regulation
S-K showing location in the Prospectus of information required by the items of
Form S-1.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ITEM IN FORM S-1 LOCATION IN PROSPECTUS
---------------- ----------------------
<S> <C>
1. Forepart of the Registration Statement and Outside Cover
Page of Prospectus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Outside Front Cover Page
2. Inside Front and Outside Back Cover Pages of Prospectus . Inside Front and Outside Back Cover Pages; Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions
3. Summary Information, Risk Factors and Ratio of Earnings
to Fixed Charges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Prospectus Summary; Risk Factors
4. Use of Proceeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Use of Proceeds
5. Determination of Offering Price . . . . . . . . . . . . Underwriting
6. Dilution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Not Applicable
7. Selling Security Holders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Not Applicable
8. Plan of Distribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Outside Front Cover Page; Underwriting
9. Description of Securities to be Registered . . . . . . . Description of the Notes; Certain Additional Terms of
the Indenture
10. Interests of Named Experts and Counsel . . . . . . . . . Not Applicable
11. Information with Respect to the Registrant . . . . . . . Prospectus Summary; Risk Factors; The Company; Use of
Proceeds; Capitalization of the Company; Reinsurance
Activity of the Company; Management
12. Disclosure of Commission Position on
Indemnification for Securities Act
Liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Not Applicable
</TABLE>
<PAGE> 3
Information contained herein is subject to completion or amendment. A
registration statement relating to these securities has been filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission. These securities may not be sold nor may
offers to buy be accepted prior to the time the registration statement becomes
effective. This prospectus shall not constitute an offer to sell or the
solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of these securities
in any State in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior
to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such State.
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION
PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS DATED JULY __, 1996
PROSPECTUS
$_______________
HPR LIMITED
FLOATING RATE NOTES DUE 1998
The Floating Rate Notes Due 1998 (the "Notes") will mature on January 31,
1998. Interest on the Notes is payable monthly on the first day of each month,
commencing on September 2, 1996. The Notes will be redeemable in whole or in
part on a pro rata basis after July 31, 1997 at a redemption price equal to the
unpaid principal amount of the Notes plus interest accrued to the date of
redemption. See "Description of the Notes."
PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS SHOULD CONSIDER, AMONG OTHER CONSIDERATIONS, THE
INFORMATION SET FORTH IN THE SECTION ENTITLED "RISK FACTORS" ON PAGES _____.
-----------------
THE NOTES REPRESENT OBLIGATIONS OF THE COMPANY ONLY AND DO NOT REPRESENT
OBLIGATIONS OF THE CEDING INSURER OR ANY OF ITS AFFILIATES.
THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION, NOR HAS
THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES
COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF
THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE
CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
=======================================================================================================
PRICE TO UNDERWRITING PROCEEDS TO
PUBLIC(1) DISCOUNT(2) COMPANY(3)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Per Note . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ $ $
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ $ $
=======================================================================================================
</TABLE>
(1) Plus accrued interest, if any, from , 1996.
(2) The Company and the Ceding Insurer have agreed to indemnify the
Underwriter against certain liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933,
as amended. See "Underwriting."
(3) Before deducting expenses, estimated at $ .
-----------------
The Notes are offered by the Underwriter, subject to prior sale, when, as
and if issued to and accepted by them, subject to approval of certain legal
matters by counsel for the Underwriter and certain other conditions. The
Underwriter reserves the right to withdraw, cancel or modify such offer and to
reject orders in whole or in part. It is expected that the delivery of the
Notes will be made in fully registered certificated form on or about
, 1996.
-----------------
MERRILL LYNCH & CO.
-----------------
The date of this Prospectus is July , 1996.
<PAGE> 4
NO PERSON IS AUTHORIZED IN CONNECTION WITH THE OFFERING MADE HEREBY TO
GIVE ANY INFORMATION OR TO MAKE ANY REPRESENTATION OTHER THAN AS CONTAINED IN
THIS PROSPECTUS AND, IF GIVEN OR MADE, SUCH INFORMATION OR REPRESENTATION MUST
NOT BE RELIED UPON AS HAVING BEEN AUTHORIZED BY THE COMPANY OR BY THE
UNDERWRITER. THIS PROSPECTUS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR A
SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY ANY SECURITY OTHER THAN THE NOTES OFFERED
HEREBY, NOR DOES IT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL, OR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER
TO BUY, ANY OF THE SECURITIES OFFERED HEREBY TO ANY PERSON IN ANY JURISDICTION
IN WHICH IT IS UNLAWFUL TO MAKE SUCH AN OFFER OR SOLICITATION TO SUCH PERSON.
Until 90 days after the date of this Prospectus, all dealers effecting
transactions in the Notes, whether or not participating in this distribution,
may be required to deliver a Prospectus. This delivery requirement is in
addition to the obligation of dealers to deliver a Prospectus when acting as
underwriters or with respect to their unsold allotments or subscriptions.
Upon receipt of a request by an investor who has received an electronic
Prospectus from the Underwriter or a request by such investor's representative
within the period during which there is an obligation to deliver a Prospectus,
the Company or such Underwriter will promptly deliver, or cause to be
delivered, without charge, a paper copy of the Prospectus.
The Company does not intend to furnish Noteholders with annual reports
containing audited financial statements or quarterly reports containing
unaudited interim financial information for the first three fiscal quarters of
each fiscal year of the Company.
-------------
IN CONNECTION WITH THE OFFERING, THE UNDERWRITER MAY OVER-ALLOT OR EFFECT
TRANSACTIONS WHICH STABILIZE OR MAINTAIN THE MARKET PRICE OF THE NOTES AT A
LEVEL ABOVE THAT WHICH MIGHT OTHERWISE PREVAIL IN THE OPEN MARKET. SUCH
STABILIZING, IF COMMENCED, MAY BE DISCONTINUED AT ANY TIME.
------------
FOR NORTH CAROLINA INVESTORS: THE COMMISSIONER OF INSURANCE FOR THE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THIS OFFERING, NOR HAS
THE COMMISSIONER PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS.
2
<PAGE> 5
AVAILABLE INFORMATION
Upon the offering of the Notes, the Company will be subject to the
informational requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended
(the "Exchange Act"), and in accordance therewith will be required to file
periodic reports and other information with the Securities and Exchange
Commission (the "Commission"). Such information can be inspected without
charge at the public reference facilities maintained by the Commission at Room
1024, Judiciary Plaza, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549, or at
its Regional Offices located at Suite 1400, Citicorp Center, 500 West Madison
Street, Chicago, Illinois 60661 and at Seven World Trade Center, 13th Floor,
New York, New York 10048, and copies of such material can be obtained from the
Public Reference Section of the Commission, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20549, at prescribed rates.
The Company has filed with the Commission a Registration Statement on
Form S-1 (herein, together with all amendments thereto, called the
"Registration Statement") under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the
"Securities Act"), with respect to the Notes. This Prospectus, which is part
of the Registration Statement, does not contain all of the information set
forth in the Registration Statement and the exhibits and financial schedules
thereto, to which reference is hereby made. Statements contained in this
Prospectus as to the contents of any contract or other document are summaries
which are not necessarily complete and in each instance reference is made to
the copy of such contract or other document filed as an exhibit to the
Registration Statement, each such statement herein being qualified in all
respects by such reference. The Registration Statement, including the exhibits
thereto, may be inspected and copies thereof can be obtained as described in
the preceding paragraph. Such material may also be accessed electronically at
the Commission's site on the World Wide Web located at http://www.sec.gov.
ENFORCEABILITY OF CIVIL LIABILITIES UNDER
UNITED STATES FEDERAL SECURITIES LAWS
The Company is organized under the laws of the Cayman Islands. In
addition, all of the directors and officers of the Company, as well as all of
the experts named herein, reside outside the United States, and certain of the
assets of the Company and all or a substantial portion of the assets of the
directors, officers and such experts are located outside the United States. As
a result, it may be difficult for investors to effect service of process within
the United States upon such persons or to realize against them in courts of the
United States upon judgments of courts of the United States predicated upon
civil liabilities under the United States federal securities laws.
The Company has been advised by its Cayman Islands counsel, Maples and
Calder, that there is doubt as to whether the courts of the Cayman Islands
would enforce (i) judgments of United States courts obtained in actions against
such persons or the Company predicated upon the civil liability provisions of
the United States federal securities laws or (ii) original actions brought in
the Cayman Islands against such persons or the Company predicated solely upon
United States federal securities laws. There is no treaty in effect between
the United States and the Cayman Islands providing for such enforcement, and
there are grounds upon which Cayman Islands courts may not enforce judgments of
United States courts. Certain remedies available under the laws of United
States jurisdictions, including certain remedies under the United States
federal securities laws, would not be allowed in Cayman Islands courts as
contrary to public policy.
3
<PAGE> 6
SUMMARY OF TERMS
The following summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the
detailed information appearing elsewhere in this Prospectus. Certain
capitalized terms used herein are defined elsewhere in this Prospectus and
certain insurance terms are defined under "Certain Defined Terms."
Issuer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HPR Limited (the "Company"), a
company organized under the laws
of the Cayman Islands.
Securities Offered . . . . . . . . . . $_______ principal amount of
Floating Rate Notes due 1998 (the
"Notes").
Interest Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . One-month LIBOR (calculated as
described herein) plus ____% per
annum (the "Interest Rate").
LIBOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A rate per annum equal to the
London Interbank Offered Rate for
one-month Eurodollar deposits
determined by the Calculation
Agent as described herein
("LIBOR").
Maturity Date . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 31, 1998 (the "Maturity
Date").
Interest Payment Dates . . . . . . . . The first day of each month or, if
such day is not a business day,
the next succeeding business day
(each, an "Interest Payment
Date"), commencing on September 2,
1996. Interest in respect of an
Interest Payment Date will accrue
from and including the prior
Interest Payment Date (or August
1, 1996 in the case of the first
Interest Payment Date) to but
excluding such Interest Payment
Date (each, an "Interest Accrual
Period"). Interest on the Notes
will be calculated on the basis of
the actual number of days elapsed
and a 360-day year.
Optional Redemption . . . . . . . . . . The Notes may be redeemed in
whole, or in part on a pro rata
basis, at the option of the
Company on any Interest Payment
Date and on July 31, 1997 (the
"Optional Redemption Date") at a
redemption price equal to the
unpaid principal amount of the
Notes plus interest accrued to the
date of redemption. The Company
has agreed that it will redeem the
Notes on July 31, 1997 to the
extent it has received a
distribution of Excess Funds from
the Regulation 114 Trust. See
"Reinsurance Activity of the
4
<PAGE> 7
Company - The Regulation 114 Trust
Agreement and the Regulation 114
Trust."
Collateral for Notes . . . . . . . . . The Notes will be secured pursuant
to the Indenture dated as of
_____________, 1996 (the
"Indenture") between the Company
and _________, as trustee for the
holders of the Notes (the
"Indenture Trustee"). Under the
Indenture the Company has assigned
and pledged to the Indenture
Trustee as security for the
payment of the principal of and
interest on the Notes (i) the
Company's interest (after giving
effect to any application of the
Permitted Investments in the
Regulation 114 Trust to pay to the
Ceding Insurer any Ultimate Net
Losses in excess of the Trigger
Amount under the Reinsurance
Agreement) under the Regulation
114 Trust, the Permitted
Investments therein and the
proceeds thereof and (ii) its
rights in, to and under the
Reinsurance Agreement.
Investment of Assets . . . . . . . . . The Company will direct the
Regulation 114 Trustee to invest
the principal portion of its
assets, which will initially
consist of the net proceeds of
sale of the Notes, in Permitted
Investments. The Permitted
Investments will be held by
__________ (the "Regulation 114
Trustee"), as trustee of a trust
established under Regulation 114
of the New York Insurance Law (the
"Regulation 114 Trust"). The
principal portion of the Permitted
Investments will be available,
first, to satisfy any obligations
of the Company to the Ceding
Insurer under the Reinsurance
Agreement, and, second, to make
payments under the Indenture in
respect of the principal of the
Notes. Investment earnings on the
Permitted Investments will be
available to make payments of the
Net Swap Payment under the
Interest Rate Swap and to make
payments under the Indenture in
respect of interest on the Notes.
The Regulation 114 Trust has been
established for the benefit of the
Ceding Insurer and is not for the
benefit of the Noteholders and the
Notes will not be secured by a
security interest in the Permitted
Investments, except to the extent
of the interest of the Company
therein. All Permitted
Investments will mature on or
prior to the immediately
succeeding Interest Payment Date.
5
<PAGE> 8
Sources of Funds for Payment
of Principal; Effective Subordination
of the Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Company's only source of funds
for payment of principal of the
Notes will be the amount of
Permitted Investments available
therefor. Although the payment of
the principal of and interest on
the Notes is secured by
substantially all of the assets of
the Company pursuant to the
Indenture, the Notes are
effectively subordinated to the
obligations of the Company to
________ (the "Ceding Insurer")
under the Reinsurance Agreement.
Because the obligations of the
Company under the Reinsurance
Agreement are a prior claim on the
Permitted Investments held in the
Regulation 114 Trust, to the
extent that there are Ultimate Net
Losses in excess of the Trigger
Amount under the Reinsurance
Agreement, the amount of Permitted
Investments available to provide
for payment of the principal of
the Notes is not expected to be
sufficient to provide for full
payment thereof.
Sources of Funds for
Payment of Interest . . . . . . . . . The Company's sources of funds for
payments of interest on the Notes
will be its net investment
earnings on the Permitted
Investments (plus any Net Swap
Receipts and minus any Net Swap
Payments) and the Premiums
received under the Reinsurance
Agreement. It is anticipated that
the investment earnings on the
Permitted Investments will be less
than the amounts payable by the
Company in respect of interest on
the Notes. Accordingly, in the
event of the failure of the Ceding
Insurer to pay the Premiums under
the Reinsurance Agreement, the
Company would likely be unable to
make full payment of interest on
the Notes.
Any failure of the Swap
Counterparty to pay any Net Swap
Receipts under the Interest Rate
Swap would also likely cause a
shortfall of interest on the Notes.
Interest Rate Swap . . . . . . . . . . On the date of the initial
issuance of the Notes (the
"Closing Date"), the Company will
enter into one or more interest
rate swap agreements
(collectively, the "Interest Rate
Swap") with ______ (the
6
<PAGE> 9
"Swap Counterparty"). Under the
Interest Rate Swap, on each
Interest Payment Date the Swap
Counterparty will be obligated to
pay to the Indenture Trustee on
behalf of the Company interest at
the applicable Interest Rate for
the related Interest Accrual
Period on the principal amount of
the Permitted Investments. In
exchange for such payment the
Company will pay to the Swap
Counterparty the investment
earnings on the Permitted
Investments due on such Interest
Payment Date. Such payments will
be made on a net basis. With
respect to each Interest Payment
Date, the net amount, if any,
payable by the Company to the Swap
Counterparty is referred to herein
as the "Net Swap Payment", and the
net amount, if any, payable by the
Swap Counterparty to the Company
is referred to herein as the "Net
Swap Receipt".
Reinsurance Agreement . . . . . . . . . The Company will engage in the
reinsurance business by entering
into the Reinsurance Agreement
with the Ceding Insurer, pursuant
to which the Company will provide
certain catastrophe excess of loss
reinsurance (see "Certain Defined
Terms" for a definition of
"catastrophe excess of loss
reinsurance" and of certain other
reinsurance terms) in respect of
Ultimate Net Losses in excess of
the Trigger Amount arising in the
Covered States due to the
occurrence of a single Hurricane
during the Reinsurance Period.
The coverage provided by the
Company under the Reinsurance
Agreement is for the $___________
(less the Retained Share), layer of
risk in excess of the
$_____________ of liability for
covered Losses (the "Trigger
Amount").
The Subject Business covers the
risk of Hurricane in the Covered
States (see "Certain Defined
Terms").
The period covered by the
Reinsurance Agreement will be the
period from and
7
<PAGE> 10
including August 1, 1996 to and
including July 31, 1997 (the
"Reinsurance Period"). The
monthly premium payable to the
Company under the Reinsurance
Agreement (the "Premium") will be
due on each Interest Payment Date
in an amount equal to one-twelfth
of the product of ___% and
$___________, except for possibly
the August 1, 1997 Interest
payment date, where the Premium
due will be in a different amount
as described in "Reinsurance
Activity of the Company --
Calculations Period"
Under the Reinsurance Agreement,
the Company will be obligated to
indemnify the Ceding Insurer for
all Ultimate Net Losses (less the
Retained Share and less any
amounts previously paid under the
Reinsurance Agreement) caused by a
single Hurricane during the
Reinsurance Period in the
Covered States for which the
Ceding Insurer has liability under
the Subject Business; provided
that (i) the Company shall have no
liability for Covered Losses of
the Ceding Insurer due to a
Hurricane except to the extent
that the Ultimate Net Losses for
such Hurricane exceeds the Trigger
Amount and (ii) the liability of
the Company is limited to
$__________ (the "Maximum
Recovery") of the first
$___________ of such Covered
Losses in excess of the Trigger
Amount. The "Retained Share" of
the Ceding Insurer of Ultimate Net
Loss in excess of the Trigger
Amount shall be 5% of such Covered
Loss. If there is more than one
Hurricane that results in Ultimate
Net Losses in excess of the
Trigger Amount, the Ceding Insurer
is entitled to make a claim under
the Reinsurance Agreement only in
respect of one such Hurricane
selected by the Ceding Insurer in
its sole discretion.
The Company (i) will redeem the
Notes on the Optional Redemption
Date if (A) there are no Covered
Losses giving rise to liability
under the Reinsurance Agreement by
the Optional Redemption Date or
(B) the Ceding Insurer does not
elect to extend the Claims Period
under the Reinsurance Agreement,
or (ii) will redeem all or a
portion of the Notes on the
Maturity Date to the extent of the
amount distributed to the Company
8
<PAGE> 11
from the Regulation 114 Trust on
the Maturity Date.
Claims by the Ceding Insurer
under the Reinsurance Agreement
will be evaluated by an independent
qualified claims administrator
engaged by the Company (the "Claims
Administrator") and the amount of
Ultimate Net Losses on the Maturity
Date will be certified by an
independent qualified loss reserve
specialist engaged by the Company
(the "Independent Loss Reserve
Specialist"). Neither the Claims
Administrator nor the Independent
Loss Reserve Specialist is
obligated in any way to make
payments under the Notes or the
Reinsurance Agreement.
Covered States . . . . . . . . . . . . Covered Losses will arise only out
of property damage caused by a
single Hurricane in one or more of
Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware,
District of Columbia, Florida,
Georgia, Louisiana, Maine,
Massachusetts, Maryland,
Mississippi, New Hampshire, New
Jersey, New York, North Carolina,
Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South
Carolina, Texas, Vermont and
Virginia.
The Indenture Trustee . . . . . . . . . [ ], as indenture
trustee (the "Indenture Trustee").
Administrator . . . . . . . . . . . . . [ ] (the "Administrator") will
act as the administrator on behalf
of the Company to perform certain
of the administrative obligations
of the Company under the
Reinsurance Agreement and the
Indenture. The Administrator will
not be obligated in any way to
make payments under the Notes or
the Reinsurance Agreement.
Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Notes will be issued in fully
registered certificated form.
Restrictions on Transfer . . . . . . . The Notes are not being offered
in, and may not be acquired in or
transferred into, the States of
_________, _________, ________ or
________, or to persons resident
in those States. The Indenture
Trustee will not register the
transfer of any Note unless, at
the time registration of transfer
is requested, the Indenture
Trustee is provided
9
<PAGE> 12
with a certificate of the proposed
transferee in the form provided in
the Indenture to the effect that
the proposed transfer is not to
occur in or into any of such
States and the proposed transferee
is not a resident of any of such
States.
Certain U.S. Federal Income
Tax Consequences . . . . . . . . . . The Company was formed and intends
to operate in such a manner that
it believes would not cause it to
be treated as engaged in a trade
or business within the United
States. The Company has received
an opinion from Skadden, Arps,
Slate, Meagher & Flom that,
although the matter is not free
from doubt due to a lack of
relevant authority and the highly
factual nature of the analysis,
the Company would not be deemed to
be so engaged. The Company will
not seek a ruling from the U.S.
Internal Revenue Service on this
issue and the IRS may assert a
contrary position. If the Company
were found to be engaged in a
trade or business within the
United States, the Company would
be subject to U.S. income tax (at
a rate up to 35%), and the 30%
branch profits tax, on its income,
resulting in an effective U.S.
federal income tax rate of up to
54.5%, and such taxes would
substantially reduce any potential
return to the Noteholders on their
respective investments. Income
with respect to the Notes will be
fully taxable to Noteholders who
are U.S. persons (as determined
for U.S. federal income tax
purposes). Moreover, due to an
absence of specific authority with
respect to the characterization of
the Notes and the Company for U.S.
federal income tax purposes, the
amount, timing and character of
income, gain, or loss recognized
with respect to a Note could be
different from that described
herein. DUE TO AN ABSENCE OF
APPLICABLE AUTHORITY AND TO THE
HIGHLY FACTUAL NATURE OF THE
REQUIRED ANALYSES THAT COULD
AFFECT THE TAXATION OF THE COMPANY
AND THE NOTEHOLDERS, EACH
NOTEHOLDER SHOULD CONSULT ITS TAX
ADVISORS REGARDING THE TAX
CONSEQUENCES TO IT OF THE
PURCHASE, OWNERSHIP AND
DISPOSITION OF NOTES. See "Risk
Factors -- United
10
<PAGE> 13
States Federal Income Tax Risks"
and "Certain Income Tax
Considerations".
ERISA Considerations . . . . . . . . . [To Come]
Risk Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . Prospective investors should
consider carefully the information
set forth under the caption "Risk
Factors," and all other
information set forth in this
Prospectus, before making any
investment in the Notes.
11
<PAGE> 14
RISK FACTORS
RISK OF LOSS OF INVESTMENT
Ownership of the Notes involves a high degree of risk because the Notes
are effectively subordinated to the obligations of the Company under the
Reinsurance Agreement. The principal of the Permitted Investments in the
Regulation 114 Trust which is payable at the maturity of such Permitted
Investments will be the primary source of funds available to the Company to pay
the principal of the Notes. The amounts available in the Regulation 114 Trust
are intended to secure the obligations of the Company to the Ceding Insurer
under the Reinsurance Agreement and are available, first, to pay any amounts
owed by the Company under the Reinsurance Agreement. Accordingly, the Notes
are speculative and investors bear the risk that they could lose all or part of
the principal of and the interest on the Notes if the Ceding Insurer incurs
Covered Losses with respect to the Subject Business in excess of the Trigger
Amount. See "Reinsurance Activity of the Company -- Certain Terms of the
Reinsurance Agreement" and "Description of the Notes." The future occurrence
of a Hurricane during the Reinsurance Period which causes Covered Losses with
respect to the Subject Business in excess of the Trigger Amount is inherently
unpredictable and accordingly such an event may occur which may produce Covered
Losses to the Ceding Insurer on the Subject Business in excess of the Trigger
Amount.
LIMITED LIQUIDITY
There is currently no secondary market for the Notes. The Underwriter
intends to make a market in the Notes, but is not obligated to do so. There is
no assurance that a secondary market will develop or, if it does develop, that
it will provide Noteholders with liquidity of investment or that it will
continue until the Notes are paid in full. The Notes are not being offered in,
and may not be acquired in or transferred into, the States of _________,
_________, _________ or _________ or to persons resident in such States. The
Indenture Trustee will not register the transfer of any Note unless, at the
time registration of transfer is requested, the Indenture Trustee is provided
with a certificate of the proposed transferee the form provided in the
Indenture to the effect that the proposed transfer is not to occur in or into
any of such States and that the proposed transferee is not a resident of any
such States.
RELIANCE ON CEDING INSURER AND SWAP COUNTERPARTY
The ability of the Company to pay interest on the Notes is, in part,
dependent on the payment by the Ceding Insurer of the Premium payable by the
Ceding Insurer to the Company under the Reinsurance Agreement and may, in part,
be dependent on the payment by the Swap Counterparty of any Net Swap Receipt
due to the Company under the Interest Rate Swap. Because the Company's sources
for payment of the interest on the Notes are (i) the interest earnings on the
Permitted Investments in the Regulation 114 Trust (plus any Net Swap Receipts
and less any Net Swap Payments) and (ii) the Premiums paid pursuant to the
Reinsurance Agreement, and because it is anticipated that the interest earnings
on the Permitted Investments may be less than the interest payable on the
Notes, any failure of the Ceding Insurer to pay the Premium (or the Swap
Counterparty to pay any Net Swap Receipts), whether due to the
creditworthiness of the Ceding Insurer or the Swap Counterparty or for
any other reason, would likely result in the Company not having sufficient
funds to pay the full amount of interest on the Notes. In the event that the
Ceding Insurer fails to pay any Premium when due under the Reinsurance
Agreement, the Company shall be entitled to terminate the Reinsurance Agreement
and redeem the Notes and the assets in the Regulation 114 Trust will be
distributed to the Company for payment to holders of the Notes. See "Certain
Terms of the Indenture - Mandatory Redemption."
INTEREST RATE SWAP CONSIDERATIONS
Since the Swap Counterparty makes payments under the Interest Rate Swap at
one-month LIBOR less ___% and the Company makes payments under the Interest
Rate Swap based on investment earnings on the Permitted Investments in the
Regulation 114 Trust for the related Interest Accrual Period, it is possible
that the amount owing to the Company for any Interest Accrual Period could
exceed the amount owing to the Swap Counterparty for the related Interest
Accrual Period and that a Net Swap Receipt will be owing by the Swap
12
<PAGE> 15
Counterparty to the Company. Any failure of the Swap Counterparty to pay the
Net Swap Receipt would likely result in the Company not having sufficient funds
to pay the full amount of interest on the Notes. See "Certain Terms of the
Indenture -- Interest Rate Swap."
ABSENCE OF OPERATING HISTORY OF COMPANY;
NO PRIOR EXPERIENCE FOR MANAGEMENT
The Company is a recently formed Cayman Islands corporation the sole
business purpose of which is to become licensed as an insurer under the laws of
the Cayman Islands and to enter into the Reinsurance Agreement. The Company
has no operating history, and the officers and directors of the Company have no
prior experience in the property catastrophe reinsurance business.
UNPREDICTABILITY OF RISK
Under the Reinsurance Agreement, the Company will be obligated to
indemnify the Ceding Insurer for the Ceding Insurer's Ultimate Net Loss on the
Subject Business up to the Maximum Recovery, but only to the extent that such
Ultimate Net Loss exceeds the Trigger Amount. The Subject Business consists of
the Ceding Insurer's residential and personal property (excluding automobile)
insurance policies covering properties located in the Covered States. The
Company's liability under the Reinsurance Agreement is for a single
Hurricane within the Reinsurance Period that results in Ultimate Net Loss in
excess of the Trigger Amount. If there is more than one Hurricane that results
in Ultimate Net Losses in excess of the Trigger Amount, the Ceding Insurer is
entitled to make a claim under the Reinsurance Agreement only in respect of one
such Hurricane selected by the Ceding Insurer in its sole discretion.
Consequently, the Company is exposed to the occurrence and severity of
Hurricanes occurring in the Covered States during the Reinsurance Period. No
prediction can be made as to whether a Hurricane that occurs in the Covered
States during the Reinsurance Period will result in a level of Ultimate Net
Loss that will exceed the Trigger Amount and therefore result in the Company
incurring a liability under the Reinsurance Agreement. The Notes are
effectively subordinated to the obligations of the Company under the
Reinsurance Agreement. Any obligations of the Company to make a payment to the
Ceding Insurer under the Reinsurance Agreement will result in the Noteholders
incurring a loss on their Notes.
REGULATION
The Company will be a licensed Cayman Islands reinsurance company. As
such, the Company will be subject to regulation and supervision in the Cayman
Islands. The applicable Cayman Islands statutes and regulations generally are
designed to protect insurers and ceding insurance companies rather than holders
of debt of the insurance company. Among other things, such statutes and
regulations require an insurance company to maintain minimum levels of capital
and surplus; may (but do not currently) impose restrictions on the amount and
type of investments it may hold; may (but do not currently) prescribe solvency
standards that it must meet; require approval of transfers of ownership of its
capital shares; and provide for the performance of certain periodic
examinations of the insurance company and its financial condition.
The Company will not be registered or licensed as an insurance company in
any jurisdiction in the United States. The Ceding Insurer is located in the
United States. The insurance laws of each state in the United States regulate
the sale of insurance and reinsurance within their jurisdiction by alien
reinsurers, such as the Company. The Company will conduct its business through
its offices in the Cayman Islands and will not maintain an office, and its
personnel will not solicit, advertise, settle claims or conduct other insurance
activities, in the United States. Accordingly, the Company does not believe it
will be in violation of insurance laws of any jurisdiction in the United
States. There can be no assurance, however, that inquiries or challenges to
the Company's insurance activities will not be raised in the future. See
"Reinsurance Activity of the Company -- Regulation".
Recently, the insurance and reinsurance regulatory framework has been
subject to increased scrutiny in the United States and various states within
the United States. In the past, there have been Congressional and other
initiatives in the United States regarding increased supervision and regulation
of the insurance
13
<PAGE> 16
industry, including proposals to supervise and regulate alien reinsurers. It
is not possible to predict the future impact, if any, of changing law or
regulation on the operations of the Company.
UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX RISKS
The Company was formed and intends to operate in such a manner that it
believes would not cause it to be treated as engaged in a trade or business
within the United States. The Company has received an opinion of Skadden,
Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom that, although the matter is not free from doubt
due to a lack of relevant authority and the highly factual nature of the
analysis, the Company would not be deemed to be so engaged. On this basis, the
Company does not expect to be required to pay United States income tax with
respect to its income. There can be no assurance, however, that the U.S.
Internal Revenue Service (the "IRS") will not contend, and that a court would
not ultimately hold, that the Company is engaged in a trade or business within
the United States. If the Company were deemed to be so engaged, it would,
among other things, be subject to U.S. federal income tax, as well as the
branch profits tax, on its income which is treated as effectively connected
with the conduct of that trade or business. The maximum federal tax rates
currently are 35% for a corporation's effectively connected income and 30% for
the branch profits tax, resulting in an effective maximum U.S. federal income
tax rate of 54.5%. The branch profits tax is imposed each year on a
corporation's effectively connected earnings and profits (with certain
adjustments) deemed repatriated out of the U.S. If imposed, such taxes would
substantially reduce any potential return to the Noteholders on their
respective investments. In addition, if the Company were treated as being
engaged in a trade or business within the United States, all or a portion of
the interest on the Notes would be U.S. source income, which could adversely
affect certain Noteholders' foreign tax credit positions, depending on their
respective individual circumstances.
In addition, as described more fully below, there are a number of other
uncertainties relating to the U.S. federal income taxation of the Company and
Noteholders, which, depending on the ultimate resolution of such uncertainties,
could have adverse consequences to a Noteholder who is a U.S. person. See
"Certain Income Tax Considerations."
SERVICE OF PROCESS AND ENFORCEMENT OF JUDGMENTS
The Company is a Cayman Islands company and all its officers and
directors, as well as all of the experts named herein, are residents of various
jurisdictions outside the United States. Certain of the assets of the Company
and all or a substantial portion of the assets of such officers and directors
and of the Company are or may be located in jurisdictions outside the United
States. Although the Company has irrevocably agreed that it may be served with
process in New York, New York with respect to actions based on violations of
the United States federal securities laws relating to offers and sales of the
Notes made hereby, it could be difficult for investors to effect service of
process within the United States on directors and officers of the Company or to
recover against the Company or such directors and officers on judgments of
United States courts predicated upon civil liabilities under the United States
federal securities laws.
The Company has been advised by its Cayman Islands counsel, Maples and
Calder, that there is doubt as to whether the courts of the Cayman Islands
would enforce (i) judgments of United States courts obtained in actions against
such persons or the Company predicated upon the civil liability provisions of
the United States federal securities laws or (ii) original actions brought in
the Cayman Islands against such persons or the Company predicated solely upon
United States federal securities laws. There is no treaty in effect between
the United States and the Cayman Islands providing for such enforcement, and
there are grounds upon which Cayman Islands courts may not enforce judgments of
United States courts. Certain remedies available under the laws of United
States jurisdictions, including certain remedies under the United States
federal securities laws, would not be allowed in Cayman Islands courts as
contrary to public policy.
CLAIMS SETTLEMENTS BY CEDING INSURER
The Company will be a reinsurance company which, under the Reinsurance
Agreement, agrees to indemnify the Ceding Insurer for Covered Losses on the
Subject Business. Pursuant to the Reinsurance Agreement, All loss settlements
made by the Ceding Insurer, provided they are within the conditions of the
original Policies and within the terms of the Reinsurance Agreement, shall be
unconditionally binding upon the Company.
14
<PAGE> 17
Although the Company, through the Claims Administrator, will endeavor
to monitor the claims settlement practices of the Ceding Insurer and the
Company believes that the Ceding Insurer will settle such claims in good faith,
the Company is generally bound to accept the claims settlements agreed to by
the Ceding Insurer, and such settlements may be for amounts which could be
greater than the amounts that would be agreed to if the Company were to settle
such claims directly.
EFFECTIVE SUBORDINATION OF THE NOTES UPON EVENTS OF DEFAULT
Notwithstanding that the Indenture Trustee and the holders of the Notes
have the right upon the occurrence of an Event of Default under the Indenture
to declare the principal of the Notes to be immediately due and payable and to
exercise certain remedial proceedings, so long as the Reinsurance Agreement is
in effect, the payment of the Notes and the exercise of such remedies will
effectively be subordinated to the rights of the Ceding Insurer under the
Reinsurance Agreement. Neither the Indenture Trustee nor the holder of any
Note will have access to the Permitted Investments or other assets held by the
Regulation 114 Trustee (i) until termination of the Reinsurance Agreement, (ii)
except to the extent of interest earnings on such Permitted Investments, or
(iii) except to the extent there are Excess Funds available in the Regulation
114 Trust.
15
<PAGE> 18
THE COMPANY
HPR Limited, a Cayman Islands corporation (the "Company"), was formed on
May 3, 1996, and will be licensed as a reinsurance company under the laws of
the Cayman Islands. The sole purpose of the Company will be to engage in
property catastrophe reinsurance under the Reinsurance Agreement solely with
the Ceding Insurer. The Company is not, and does not intend to be, a licensed
insurance or reinsurance company in any State of the United States. So long as
the Notes are outstanding the Company will not engage in any insurance or
reinsurance activities, or any other business activities, other than those
contemplated by the Reinsurance Agreement.
The Company's initial share capital of $120,000 was provided by [name of
company]. [Name of company] transferred the shares initially acquired from the
Company to a charitable trust unaffiliated with the Ceding Insurer of which the
trustee is Midland Bank Trust Corporation (Cayman) Limited. The officers and
directors of the Company are non-U.S. citizens who are independent of, and not
related to, the Ceding Insurer. See "Management."
On the Closing Date, the Company will be a registered reinsurance company
under the laws of the Cayman Islands. The Company will not be registered or
licensed as an insurance or reinsurance company in any other jurisdiction. See
"Reinsurance Activity of the Company -- Regulation."
THE CEDING INSURER
The Ceding Insurer is a [insurance company] formed in [date]. The Ceding
Insurer currently has approximately [number] policyholders.
The Ceding Insurer and its various property and casualty subsidiaries
provide personal lines insurance, which includes Automobile, Homeowners,
Dwelling, Tenant Homeowners, Condominium Owners, Pleasure Boat and Inland
Marine Floater insurance, to its policyholders. In addition, through its
various wholly-owned subsidiaries and affiliates, the Ceding Insurer offers
insurance and financial service products. The Ceding Insurer is the _______
largest private passenger automobile and the ______ largest homeowner insurer
in the United States. The Ceding Insurer's claims-paying ability has been
rated "___" by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. and "___" by Standard & Poor's
Corporation. The Ceding Insurer is headquartered in ____________________ and
employs approximately ______________ people.
USE OF PROCEEDS
The net proceeds from the sale of the Notes will be paid to the Company
and deposited by the Company with the Regulation 114 Trustee and invested in
Permitted Investments for disposition in accordance with the Regulation 114
Trust Agreement. See "Reinsurance Activity of the Company -- The Regulation
114 Trust Agreement and the Regulation 114 Trust."
16
<PAGE> 19
CAPITALIZATION OF THE COMPANY
The following table illustrates the capitalization of the Company as of
the Closing Date, giving effect to the issuance of the Notes on such date.
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Dollars in thousands
Notes $
Shareholders' equity:
Ordinary Shares ($.__ par value, ___________ shares authorized,
_______________ shares issued and outstanding)
Additional paid-in capital
----------
Total shareholders' equity $
----------
Total capitalization $
==========
</TABLE>
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
Proceeds from the sale of the Notes will be paid to the Company and
deposited by the Company with the Regulation 114 Trustee and invested in
Permitted Investments. See "Use of Proceeds."
EXPENSES
The principal expense of the Company will consist of interest payments due
on the Notes. It is expected that substantially all of the remaining expenses
of the Company will consist of amounts payable for audit expenses, legal
expenses and fees of the Indenture Trustee, the Administrative Agent, the
Claims Administrator and other expenses related to the Notes, including Net
Swap Payments if any. It is anticipated that, so long as there are not any
Ultimate Net Losses in excess of the Trigger Amount under the Reinsurance
Agreement, (i) interest earnings on the Permitted Investments, (plus any Net
Swap Receipts and minus any Net Swap Payments) (ii) scheduled payments of
Premium under the Reinsurance Agreement and (iii) the amount available at the
maturity of the Permitted Investments upon termination of the Regulation 114
Trust will provide sufficient funds to make timely payment of all such
expenses, and to pay principal of and interest on the Notes when due.
CAPITAL RESOURCES AND LIQUIDITY
The Company's primary sources of funds with respect to the Notes (in
addition to the amount available at the maturity of the Permitted Investments
upon termination of the Regulation 114 Trust) will be payments of Premium under
the Reinsurance Agreement, interest earnings on the Permitted Investments and
Net Swap Receipts. It is anticipated that, so long as there are not any
Ultimate Net Losses in excess of the Trigger Amount under the Reinsurance
Agreement, the Company will have sufficient liquidity and capital resources to
pay all amounts due on the Notes and all of its other expenses. The Company
will not have any significant source of funds (in addition to the amount
available at the maturity of the Permitted Investments upon termination of the
Regulation 114 Trust) for payment of principal of and interest on the Notes
other than the Premium received under the Reinsurance Agreement and the
interest earnings on the Permitted Investments and Net Swap Receipts.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The Company's results of operations will depend principally on whether or
not there are any Ultimate Net Losses in excess of the Trigger Amount under
the Reinsurance Agreement and on the amount of Premium paid under the
Reinsurance Agreement, the amount of interest earnings on the Permitted
Investments and the amount of any Net Swap Receipts and the amount of its
expenses, including interest payments on the Notes, and its operating expenses.
17
<PAGE> 20
EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES
Because the Company has had no operating history, no historical or pro
forma ratio of earnings to fixed charges has been included in this Prospectus.
SUBJECT BUSINESS
The "Subject Business" is a subset of the Ceding Insurer's overall
insurance portfolio and is comprised of Policies in the following lines of
business: Dwelling, Homeowners, Condominium Owners, Pleasure Boat, Tenant
Homeowners and Inland Marine Floater in the Covered States. Each of the
Polices that comprise the Subject Business has exposure to loss from various
perils. However, the Reinsurance Agreement will only cover Covered Losses in
respect of the Subject Business that arise from the peril of a Hurricane. The
Company is able to determine the cause of Loss from the information reported
by the Ceding Insurer and thus determine whether the Loss falls within the
coverage provided under the Reinsurance Agreement.
POLICIES IN FORCE
The Policies comprising the Subject Business in the Covered States which
will be subject to the Reinsurance Agreement will be the Policies in force as of
August 31, 1996 (the "Cut Off Date"), including any of such policies rewritten
by the Ceding Insurer due to refinancing or divorce by the insured. Except
as set forth in the immediately succeeding sentence, no Policies entered into
by the Ceding Insurer after the Cut Off Date will be subject to the Reinsurance
Agreement. Policies in effect on the Cut Off Date which are renewed by the
Policyholder during the Reinsurance Period will be subject to the Reinsurance
Agreement. In connection with any such renewal, the terms of such Policy may
be changed in certain ways, including increasing the amount of the total
coverage or charging the amount of the deductible. The Ceding Insurer may not
substitute any new Policies under the Reinsurance Agreement for Policies in
force as of the Cut Off Date which lapse or are terminated during the
Reinsurance Period.
GENERAL INFORMATION
The Ceding Insurer is one of the largest property and casualty insurers in
the United States in terms of written premium. The Ceding Insurer writes only
personal lines property and casualty insurance on a direct basis, with a
minimal amount of reinsurance written on a pool basis. [Brief discussion of
recent results of operations]
While the Ceding Insurer's business includes a variety of insurance
products, the Reinsurance Agreement covers only Dwelling, Homeowners,
Condominium Owners, Pleasure Boat, Tenant Homeowners and Inland Marine Floater.
The following discussion focuses primarily on Homeowners, which is the Ceding
Insurer's second largest line of business (__ percent). However, some of the
catastrophe management strategies discussed below are being implemented for the
other lines of business as well.
18
<PAGE> 21
UNDERWRITING PROCESS
Underwriting information on a particular dwelling is obtained from the
applicant as well as outside sources, including a property loss database and
property inspection services. The property loss database can be used by an
underwriter to obtain information on prior losses reported by other insurance
companies and is used as a supplement to the applicant's claims history with
the Ceding Insurer.
For higher value dwellings (single story dwellings in excess of $250,000
and multi-story risks in excess of $150,000), property inspection services
provide pictures and diagrams of the dwelling, which aid in determining the
desirability of the risk, the condition of the dwelling, the replacement cost
and the proper coverage amount. Replacement cost of the dwelling is developed
using on-line cost evaluation software, which is based on construction cost
data. Property insurance underwriters have authority to order additional
investigation as needed to fully evaluate a particular risk.
UNDERWRITING MANAGEMENT
The pricing goal of the Ceding Insurer is to offer its policyholders the
lowest possible rates while assuring its financial strength. The Ceding
Insurer's pricing strategy is to set cost-based rates with policyholders paying
premiums commensurate with the risk they represent.
The Ceding Insurer's underwriting program ensures, through an interface
with the claims system, that property business is monitored constantly based on
claims experience. Underwriters review business that has sustained a certain
level of losses to determine if underwriting action is needed and, if so, the
appropriate action to take. Claims adjusters, while on site to investigate
claims, also look for situations of inadequate coverage and underwriting
hazards, and refer these cases to an underwriter for review. To ensure that
premiums are commensurate with the exposure insured, the Ceding Insurer
emphasizes insurance to value, so that policies are written with adequate
limits which are automatically updated annually for increases in construction
costs.
The Ceding Insurer has undertaken various steps to limit its exposure to
catastrophes, including Hurricanes, both in the Covered States and throughout
the United States. For example, the Ceding Insurer has ceased marketing
Homeowners insurance in certain catastrophe-prone areas, including certain
parts of Florida and California. Other steps, described below, include:
(i) implementation of a new Homeowners program, as described below;
(ii) increased use of residual market and state funds;
(iii) discontinuance of mobile home coverage in all locations; and
(iv) introduction of higher minimum deductibles.
Implementation of New Homeowners Program
In 1993, in an effort to better control dwelling losses, the Ceding
Insurer developed and began implementing a new program for its Homeowners line
of business. Under the old program, dwellings meeting certain eligibility
requirements could purchase an endorsement which provided payment of all
dwelling replacement costs, regardless of the limit of liability for dwelling
coverage. Approximately 50 percent of the Ceding Insurer's Homeowners policies
included this endorsement.
Under the new program, two types of contract (preferred and standard) are
offered:
THE PREFERRED CONTRACT. The Preferred Contract is offered only to
dwellings built since 1950 with a replacement cost of at least $70,000 in
areas with certain fire protection classification (ISO Protection Class
1-8). The terms of the Preferred Contract include an additional 25
percent of the dwelling coverage limit, with the option of purchasing an
additional 50 percent for additional premium. Contents coverage is
offered in an amount equal to 75 percent of the dwelling coverage limit.
The Preferred Contract is available in California, Florida or Hawaii, or
in the coastal counties of Alabama, Connecticut, Georgia, Louisiana,
Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island,
South Carolina, and Virginia.
STANDARD CONTRACT. The Standard Contract limits replacement cost
coverage to the dwelling coverage limit of liability, with the option of
purchasing an additional 25 percent or 50 percent for
19
<PAGE> 22
additional premium. Contents coverage is offered in an amount equal to 50
percent of the dwelling coverage limit. The Standard Contract can be
endorsed for additional premium to provide most, but not all, of the
limits of the Preferred Contract.
The new program has been approved in Washington, D.C. and every state
except North Carolina and Texas, which use a contract promulgated by the
respective state insurance department. North Carolina has approved a program
similar to the Ceding Insurer's new program effective November 1, 1996. Texas
does not allow guaranteed replacement cost coverage, so dwelling replacement
cost is limited to the policy limit of liability.
As of August 1, 1996, the Ceding Insurer's new program will have been
fully implemented throughout the Covered States (other than North Carolina and
Texas) except for Connecticut, Georgia and New York. In those states, the
prior program remains in effect.
Under both the Standard and the Preferred Contracts, most policies include
an endorsement which annually revises the dwelling limit of liability to
reflect any change in the construction cost index. Additional premium is
charged based on the increase in the limit of liability.
Increase Use of Residual Markets and State Funds
Florida Windstorm Underwriting Association. The Ceding Insurer excludes
wind and hail coverage for all new Homeowners business in seven coastal Florida
counties (______, _______, _______, ______, _______, _______ and ______). Wind
and hail coverage is obtained by the policyholder from the Florida Windstorm
Underwriting Association ("FWUA"). As of June 11, 1996, wind and hail coverage
had been excluded on ____ policies, reducing the Ceding Insurer's dwelling
coverage exposure by $___ million, and total exposure by $___ million. The
Ceding Insurer is expected to reduce such wind and hail exposure an additional
$___ million in dwelling coverage ($___ million in total exposure) by August 1,
1996. In addition, wind and hail coverage is excluded on what the Ceding
Insurer deems to be high value dwellings in other counties eligible for the
FWUA.
Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund. The Ceding Insurer participates in
the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund, and will recover a maximum of $____
million of its losses in the event of a Hurricane. This amount is excluded
from the calculation of the Trigger Amount under the Reinsurance Agreement.
Texas Catastrophe Property Insurance Association. As of March 31, 1996,
the Ceding Insurer has excluded wind and hail coverage on over ____ Texas
coastal Homeowners and Dwelling fire policies, reducing its dwelling coverage
exposure by approximately $___ million and total exposure by approximately
$____ million. Wind and hail coverage is obtained by the policyholder from the
Texas Catastrophe Property Insurance Association ("TCPIA"), which provides
windstorm coverage on a direct basis in these counties. For risks in all
coastal counties where wind and hail coverage is not excluded, a 1 percent
deductible applies for wind and hail losses.
Discontinuance of Mobile Home Coverage in all Locations.
Hurricane-caused losses to mobile homes are not included in the Subject
Business. As of March 31, 1996, the Ceding Insurer has fewer than _____ mobile
home policies in force. The Ceding Insurer is in the process of non-renewing
all mobile home business, with the last mobile home policies expected to be off
the books by the end of 1997.
Introduction of Higher Minimum Deductibles
The Ceding Insurer has implemented a minimum $1,000 wind/hail deductible,
which would apply in the event of a Hurricane, in certain high risk areas,
including the southern coastal counties of Florida, and the coastal areas of
Alabama, Louisiana, Maryland and Mississippi and Texas. Similar action is
planned for other states with high wind exposures.
CLAIMS MANAGEMENT
The Ceding Insurer's claims are settled using, to the extent possible,
staff claims adjusters. In addition to the Ceding Insurer's regional offices,
twelve claims branch offices are located throughout the country, with
additional claims personnel working from their homes as required. The Ceding
Insurer utilizes an automated processing system to record claims activities.
This computer network, which
20
<PAGE> 23
links the Home Office and the field offices, supports nearly 4 million claims
transactions daily, including loss details, payments, reserve adjustments,
appraisal appointments and file status changes. Claims adjusters use laptop
computers, CD ROM technology and cellular phones to improve efficiency, settle
claims quickly and minimize loss adjustment expenses.
In [ ], the Ceding Insurer created a Catastrophe (CAT) Operations
group to facilitate the rapid deployment of field adjusters, supplies and
equipment when needed. Potential Hurricanes are monitored through the
Internet, on-line weather products and satellite technology in order to provide
advance information for planning purposes. Geographic information systems
technology is used to locate policyholders' dwellings using latitude and
longitude in the event street signs and other identifying markers are missing,
and is also used to predict magnitude of damage so that claims resources can be
deployed more efficiently.
In the event of a catastrophe, resources are pulled from all areas to
establish CAT sites and become operational within 24 hours. Cross training,
resource sharing and in-place agreements with independent adjusting firms allow
the Ceding Insurer to increase its field adjuster staff in a short period of
time and equip that staff with the technology to determine coverage, estimate
damage and authorize emergency repairs to prevent further damage to the insured
dwelling and contents. A claims replacement service coordinates replacement of
the policyholders' personal property and reduces claims payments. Further, the
Ceding Insurer has implemented an alliance with an independent property
restoration company, which provides contractors and suppliers to work with
claims adjusters in restoring policyholders' property losses.
To control legal expenses, the Ceding Insurer has established 12 Staff
Counsel Offices throughout the country. The use of salaried attorneys and
support staff has proved a cost effective alternative to outside counsel in
locations where suit volume is high. By focusing exclusively on the Ceding
Insurer's business, attorneys assigned to these offices develop expertise in
handling the type of litigation typically directed at the Ceding Insurer and
its policyholders.
HISTORICAL EXPERIENCE REGARDING LOSSES FROM
HURRICANES IN THE COVERED STATES
The Hurricane loss information set forth below is either historical
information or information based on historical information and is presented
solely for illustrative purposes. It is not a prediction of the range of
possible losses that may occur in the future. A Hurricane of a larger force
than those shown below, or a Hurricane of similar force that has a different
path (e.g., one that travels over a more populated area or an area with higher
value dwellings), could produce a larger amount of losses than those shown
below. No assurance can be given that there will not be a Hurricane of
sufficient force in the Covered States such that the Ceding Insurer will have a
claim for Ultimate Net Losses under the Reinsurance Agreement.
21
<PAGE> 24
CEDING INSURER LARGEST HURRICANE CLAIMS IN THE COVERED STATES (1900-1995)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Company
Illustrative Claims Illustrative(4)
Date of Actual Claim Based on Policies In Shares of
Hurricane Landfall Amount ("ACA")(1) ACA in 1996 Dollars(2) Force as of 3/31/96(3) Total Claims
- --------- -------- ----------------- ---------------------- ---------------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
</TABLE>
1 - Actual Claim Amount ("ACA") represents actual claims by Ceding Insurer
policyholders for losses incurred directly as a result of the specified
Hurricane. ACA has been increased by 2% for Pleasure Boat and Inland
Marine Floaters combined, and by another 2% for loss adjustment expenses.
2 - ACA in 1996 dollars represents the Actual Claim Amount restated in constant
1996 dollar terms by applying an inflation or claim cost index (selected
index is [ ]%/year) based on the Boeckh Index of construction cost (US
Dept. of Commerce).
3 - Illustrative Claims Based on Policies In Force as of 3/31/96 is the
estimate of claims that would result had the specified Hurricane occurred
on 3/31/96, given the Ceding Insurer's exposure under policies in force at
that time. The estimation process is based upon computer simulations
performed by an independent consultant to the Ceding Insurer. Although the
Ceding Insurer believes such information reasonably reflects aggregate
claims that would have resulted from the respective storm characteristics,
it is nonetheless for illustrative purposes only and no representation can
be made as to its accuracy.
4 - Company Illustrative Share of Total Claims is an estimate of the Company's
share of the Ceding Insurer's Illustrative Claims Based on Policies In
Force as of 3/31/96 assuming that the Reinsurance Agreement had been in
effect at such time. Because this estimation relies on computer
simulations performed by the Ceding Insurer's independent consultant, it is
for illustrative purposes only and no representation can be made as to its
accuracy.
INDUSTRY LARGEST HURRICANE CLAIMS
IN THE COVERED STATES (1900-1995)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Estimated Estimated Industry Company
Saffir Simpson Estimated Industry Claims Based on Illustrative
Date of ("S.S.") Industry Claims in Industry Policies In Share of Total
Hurricane Landfall Classification(1) Claims(2) 1996 Dollars(3) Force as of 12/31/95(4) Industry Claims(5)
- --------- -------- ----------------- ---------- --------------- ------------------------ ------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
</TABLE>
1 - Saffir Simpson ("S.S.") Classification is a 0 to 5 scale (named after
Herbert Saffir) used to describe wind disaster potentials. The higher the
scale, the higher the loss potential.
2 - Estimated Industry Claims is information derived from the Insurance
Information Institute.
3 - Estimated Industry Claims in 1996 Dollars are Estimated Industry Claims
restated in constant 1996 dollars by applying an inflation or claim cost
index based on Construction Cost Index and the Boeckh Index of
construction cost (US Dept. of Commerce).
4 - Estimated Industry Claims Based on Industry Policies In Force as of
12/31/95 are estimates of total industry claims that would result had the
specific Hurricane occurred on 12/31/95 given estimates of industry-wide
policies in force at that time. The estimation process is based upon
computer simulations performed by an independent consultant to the Ceding
Insurer. Although the Ceding Insurer believes such information reasonably
reflects aggregate claims that would result from the respective storm
characteristics, it is nonetheless for illustration purposes only and no
representations can be made as to its accuracy.
5 - Company Illustrative Share of Total Industry Claims is the proportion of
estimated claims that is an estimate of the Company's share of the
Estimated Industry Claims based on Policies in force on 3/31/96 assuming
that the Reinsurance Agreement had been in effect at that time. Because
this estimation relies on computer simulations performed by the Ceding
Insurer's independent consultant, it is for illustrative purposes only and
no representation can be made as to its accuracy.
22
<PAGE> 25
CEDING INSURER POLICIES IN FORCE
POLICY EXPOSURES IN THE COVERED STATES(1)
($BILLION)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
As of [ ] As of [ ]
--------------------------------------- -------------------------------------
% of Total % of Total
Line of Policy Policy Line of Policy Policy
Insurance Amounts(2) Amounts Insurance(2) Amounts(2) Amounts
--------- ------- ------- ------------ ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Homeowners $ % Homeowners $ %
Condominium % Condominium %
Owners Owners
Tenant Tenant
Homeowners Homeowners
Dwelling Dwelling
%
Total 100.0% 100%
</TABLE>
1 - Ceding Insurer Exposure In Force in the Covered States represents the
Ceding Insurer's total exposure to Hurricane loss in the Covered States
based upon its policies in force for the respective periods..
2 - Total Amounts have been increased by 2% for Pleasure Boat and Inland
Marine Floater combined, and by another 2% of the adjusted amount for loss
adjustment expenses.
23
<PAGE> 26
CEDING INSURER POLICIES IN FORCE
IN THE COVERED STATES(1)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
As of [ ] As of [ ] As of [ ]
---------------------------- ----------------------------- ----------------------------
Covered States Amount % of Total Amount % of Total Amount % of Total
- ---------------- ---------- -------------- ---------- --------------- ----------- --------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Northeast
- ---------
Connecticut
Maine
Massachusetts
New Hampshire
New York
Rhode Island
Vermont
Mid-Atlantic
- ------------
Delaware
District of
Columbia
Maryland
New Jersey
Pennsylvania
Virginia
Southeast
- ---------
Florida
Georgia
North Carolina
South Carolina
Gulf
- ----
Alabama
Louisiana
Mississippi
Texas
</TABLE>
1 - Ceding Insurer Policies In Force in the Covered States represents the
Ceding Insurer's total exposure to Hurricane loss in the Covered States
based upon its policies in force for the respective periods.
HURRICANE FREQUENCIES
IN THE COVERED STATES FOR 1900 - 1995(1)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Hurricanes Per Year Frequency of Occurrence for 1900 - 1995
- ------------------- ---------------------------------------
<S> <C>
0
1
2
3
4
More Than 4
Largest Number in Any Single Year
</TABLE>
1 - Hurricane Frequencies In The Covered States For 1900 - 1995 include only
those Hurricanes which made landfall in the Covered States in the time
period from 1900 to 1995. During that same time period, an additional [2]
Hurricanes made landfall outside the Covered States, both in the State of
Hawaii.
24
<PAGE> 27
HURRICANE FREQUENCIES IN THE
COVERED STATES FOR 1900 - 1995 S.S. CATEGORY(1)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
S.S. Category
-----------------------------------------
Covered States 1 2 3 4 5 Total Hurricanes
- -------------------------- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- --------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Northeast
- ---------
Connecticut
Maine
Massachusetts
New Hampshire
New York
Rhode Island
Vermont
Mid-Atlantic
- ------------
Delaware
District of Columbia
Maryland
New Jersey
Pennsylvania
Virginia
Southeast
- ---------
Florida
Georgia
North Carolina
South Carolina
Gulf
- ----
Alabama
Louisiana
Mississippi
Texas
- ----------------------
Total
</TABLE>
1 - For the purpose of this table, each Hurricane landfall is a separate
event, i.e. a Hurricane that makes two landfalls is counted as two
events. Hurricane Andrew, for example, made landfall in both Florida
and Louisiana, and accordingly is included in the Total Hurricanes
occurring in each state.
25
<PAGE> 28
HURRICANES AND INSURANCE
General
A Hurricane is a tropical cyclone forming over open ocean with sustained
surface wind speeds of 74 miles per hour or higher. The term "sustained wind
speed" refers to the wind averaged over a one minute period. The speed of
shorter period gusts or lulls may be considerably higher or lower than the
sustained wind. Surface wind speed is defined as the wind at 33 feet above
ground.
Hurricanes are a phenomenon of specific regions because certain climatic
conditions are necessary in order for a Hurricane to form and maintain itself.
Two primary conditions are essential: specific minimum water temperature and
the relative absence of vertical shear winds. Water temperatures must exceed
80o fahrenheit and be distributed over a large reservoir of water having a
minimum depth of approximately 200 feet. There must be a relative absence of
vertical shear winds which are winds that change appreciably in either
magnitude or direction over this large region of warm water. The above
conditions are typically found in the North Atlantic between the 10 and 40
degree latitudes in the late summer and early fall. In addition to these
primary conditions other conditions must be present before a Hurricane can form.
In the general circulation of the atmosphere, the warm and moist air of
the tropics pushes up to meet the cooler air masses of the temperate zones.
Due to the rotation of the earth, the cooler air will tend to flow with an
east-to-west bias in the northern hemisphere, whereas the warmer air tends to
flow with a west-to-east bias. When the air masses collide, the warm moist air
can be pushed vertically upward and will then lose heat through evaporation.
While losing heat, this air becomes lighter and so continues to rise, losing
even more heat through evaporation.
These rising warm air currents create a depression in the form of a drop
in air pressure. The warm air of the surrounding region as well as the cooler
air will then rush in to fill this depression because air always flows from a
higher pressure region to a lower pressure area. The pressures do not simply
equalize, but rather because of the inward spiraling motion of the colliding
air fronts, an eddy current develops.
Within the central core, or eye, of a Hurricane, there is relative calm.
The spiraling air fronts do not penetrate the core as a result of conservation
of angular momentum. Instead, a band of strong winds and heavy precipitation
(called the radius of maximum winds) develops outside the eye at the eyewall.
The wind flow in the earth's boundary layer, that is the layer near the
surface, is turbulent, with constant fluctuations about the mean wind speed.
Shorter period fluctuations, typically of 10 seconds or less duration, are
called gusts. The wind flow within tropical storms is typified by gusty winds.
Due to the turbulence generated by flow over and around obstacles, the winds
over land and especially in urban areas may be gustier than over the open
ocean. There is evidence that gust factors in Hurricanes are somewhat higher
than in other intense wind storms.
In addition to the warm water temperature and absence of vertical shear
winds, several other factors have been identified which may help to shape the
particular characteristics of Hurricane activity, including west African
rainfall, El Nino, quasi-biennial oscillation, sea level pressure anomaly and
zonal wind anomaly.
Certain recent research has suggested a link between rainfall in portions
of western Africa, including the Sahel, and the frequency of intense (Category
3,4 and 5) Hurricanes which approach or cross the U.S. east coast. While the
physical mechanism for this linkage is still under investigation, the large
majority of "Hurricane free" years since 1960 have been associated with drier
than normal conditions in these African regions. By contrast, the 1940's and
1950's, a period of intense storm activity along the east coast, were periods
of much higher than normal precipitation in these African regions. There have
been signs that rainfall in western Africa is gradually reverting to a wetter
regime. If so, and to the extent this theory is correct, it is possible that
intense Hurricanes may once again become more frequent along the east coast.
Measuring Hurricane Intensity
The strength of a Hurricane can be represented in several ways. One
measure of strength is the central pressure, or more precisely, the peripheral
pressure, which is the difference between the barometric pressure in the
central eye and the pressure immediately outside the Hurricane. The maximum
wind speed of a Hurricane depends almost entirely on the difference between the
central and peripheral pressures. The larger this pressure
26
<PAGE> 29
differential, the larger the potential for damage. Since the peripheral
pressure does not change significantly, a larger pressure differential implies
a lower central pressure.
The severity of a Hurricane is often measured by the Saffir-Simpson index,
developed by Herbert Saffir in 1971. This index ranges from zero to five, with
five being the most severe.
A category 3 Hurricane has winds of 111 to 130 mph or storm surge 9 to 12
feet above normal. Since 1900, there have been 47 category 3 storms. This
includes Hurricane Carol, which made landfall in the northeastern United States
in August 1954. Carol caused $[ ] billion in industry residential property
claims (in 1996 dollars), making it the [ ] costliest hurricane on the
Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States. A hurricane of this magnitude
causes damage to shrubs and trees, blowing foliage off the trees and some large
trees are blown down. Practically all poorly constructed signs are blown down.
There is some roofing material damage, some window and door damage, some
structural damage to small residences and utility buildings. There may be
serious flooding at the coast with many smaller structures near the coast
destroyed. Larger structures are damaged by battering of floating debris.
Terrain continuously lower than 5 feet may be flooded inland 8 miles or more.
Evacuation of low-lying residences within several blocks of the shoreline may
be required.
A category 4 storm has winds of 131-155 mph or storm surge 13 to 18 feet
above normal. Since 1900, there have been 20 category 4 Hurricanes. Hurricane
Andrew, the most destructive U.S. hurricane hit southern Florida in August 1992
and cause $[ ] billion in residential property claims (in 1996 dollars).
While generally listed as a category 4 storm, it was on the borderline of
category 5. Other category 4 storms and their damage to residential property
in 1996 dollars include Hugo (1989, $[ ] billion), Betsy (1965, $[ ]
billion) and Hazel (1954, $[ ] billion). In a category 4 Hurricane, shrubs
and trees are blown down, as are all signs. There is extensive roofing
material damage, extensive window and door damage, complete failure of roof
structures on many small residences. Storm surge of that height means that
terrain continuously lower than 10 feet may be flooded inland as far as 6
miles. Major damage occurs to lower floors of structures near the shore due to
flooding and battering action, and there is major erosion of beach areas.
Massive evacuation of all residences within 500 yards of the shoreline may be
required and of single-story residences on low ground within 2 miles of the
shoreline. Hurricane Hugo provided evidence of how far inland Hurricane-force
winds can reach. Cities as far from the coast as Charlotte, North Carolina
(approximately 200 miles) sustained major damage from Hugo's winds.
A category 5 storm would have winds greater than 155 mph or storm surge at
heights greater than 18 feet above normal. Since 1900, there have been two
category 5 Hurricanes, an unnamed hurricane in 1935 and Hurricane Camille in
1969. At this level, shrubs and trees are down, roofing damage is
considerable, and all signs are down. Very severe and extensive window and
door damage will occur. Complete failure of roof structures on many residences
and industrial buildings will occur. There will be extensive glass failures,
some complete building failures, and small buildings overturned and blown over
or away. Storm surge would cause major damage to lower floors of all
structures located less than 15 feet above sea level and within 500 yards of
the shoreline, and extensive flooding inland. Massive evacuation of
residential areas situated on low ground within 5 to 10 miles of the shoreline
may be required.
27
<PAGE> 30
REINSURANCE ACTIVITY OF THE COMPANY
THE REINSURANCE AGREEMENT
The following summary of the terms of the Reinsurance Agreement is
qualified in its entirety by reference to the Reinsurance Agreement, a form of
which has been filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement of which this
Prospectus is a part.
General
Pursuant to the Reinsurance Agreement, the Company will be obligated to
indemnify the Ceding Insurer for all Ultimate Net Losses caused by a single
Hurricane during the Reinsurance Period in the Covered States for which the
Ceding Insurer has liability under the Subject Business, provided that (i) the
Company shall have no liability for Covered Losses of the Ceding Insurer due to
a Hurricane except to the extent that the aggregate of such Covered Losses for
such Hurricane exceed the Trigger Amount, and (ii) the liability of the Company
is limited to $___________ of the first $___________ of such Covered Losses in
excess of the Trigger Amount. The Company's obligations relate solely to the
occurrence of a single Hurricane where the Ceding Insurer's Ultimate Net Losses
due to such Hurricane exceed the Trigger Amount. By way of example, the
Company would have no liability under the Reinsurance Agreement if two or more
Hurricanes occurred during the Reinsurance Period and the Ultimate Net Losses
of the Ceding Insurer for any single one of such Hurricanes were less than
$_____________ notwithstanding that the aggregate of such Ultimate Net Losses
was in excess of $_____________. In addition, if two or more Hurricanes
occurred during the Reinsurance Period and the Covered Losses of the Ceding
Insurer for each of such Hurricanes was in excess of $_____________, the
Company's obligations under the Reinsurance Agreement would extend to only one
of such Hurricanes. In the latter example, the Ceding Insurer would have the
right to select which of such Hurricanes would be the subject of its claims
against the Company under the Reinsurance Agreement.
Reinsurance Period
The Reinsurance Agreement shall be in effect from 12:01 a.m. (New York
City time), August 1, 1996 and shall remain continuously in effect until 11:59
p.m. (New York City time), July 31, 1997. If the Reinsurance Agreement shall
terminate while a covered Hurricane is in progress, subject to certain
conditions, the Company shall be liable for its proportion of the entire loss
or damage caused by such Hurricane whether prior to or after termination.
"Policies" Defined
The term "Policies" means all policies, binders, or contracts of insurance
or other evidences of liability under policies issued by the Ceding Insurer as
Dwelling, Homeowners, Condominium Owners, Pleasure Boat, Tenant Homeowners and
Inland Marine Floater business. The Policies comprising the Subject Business
in the Covered States which will be subject to the Reinsurance Agreement will
be the Policies in force on the Cut Off Date. Except as set forth in the
immediately succeeding sentence, policies entered into by the Ceding Insurer
after the Cut Off Date will not be subject to the Reinsurance Agreement.
Policies in effect on the Cut Off Date which are renewed by the Policyholder
during the Reinsurance Period will be subject to the Reinsurance Agreement. In
connection with any such renewal, the terms of such Policy may be changed in
certain ways, including increasing or decreasing the amount of the total
coverage and increasing or decreasing the deductible. Policies in force on the
Cut Off Date which lapse or are terminated during the Reinsurance Period may
not be substituted under the Reinsurance Agreement by the Ceding Insurer.
Covered States
The Covered States are: Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, District of
Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland,
Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania,
Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Vermont and Virginia.
28
<PAGE> 31
Retention and Limit
The Reinsurance Agreement is a claims made policy for a single
Hurricane that results in liability in excess of the Trigger Amount and which
occurs during the Reinsurance Period. If there is more than one Hurricane that
results in Ultimate Net Losses in excess of the Trigger Amount, the Ceding
Insurer is entitled to make a claim under the Reinsurance Agreement only in
respect of one such Hurricane selected by the Ceding Insurer in its sole
discretion. No claim shall be made upon the Company unless and until the Ceding
Insurer has provided the Company with a proof of loss claim notifying the
Company of the Ceding Insurer's claim under the Reinsurance Agreement. Loss
claims will be evaluated on behalf of the Company by the Claims Administrator.
The total amount recoverable from the Company under the Reinsurance Agreement
shall not exceed $___________ (the "Maximum Recovery").
Net Retained Lines
The Ceding Insurer may carry reinsurance in addition to the reinsurance
provided pursuant to the Reinsurance Agreement. Any recoveries under such
reinsurance shall be disregarded for the purpose of determining whether the
Trigger Amount under the Reinsurance Agreement has been reached and shall inure
to the sole benefit of the Ceding Insurer. Recoveries by the Ceding Insurer
from the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund shall also be disregarded for the
purpose of determining whether the Trigger Amount under the Reinsurance
Agreement has been reached and shall inure to the sole benefit of the Ceding
Insurer.
Other Liabilities Excluded
The Reinsurance Agreement does not cover any liability of the Ceding
Insurer other than in respect of its direct underwriting. Any other liability
of the Ceding Insurer, including liabilities for reinsurance assumed, is
excluded from the protection of the Reinsurance Agreement and cannot be taken
into account in determining whether the Trigger Amount has been reached.
Losses
Notice of any Covered Loss likely to involve coverage under the
Reinsurance Agreement is required to be given by the Ceding Insurer to the
Company during the Claims Period. All loss settlements made by the Ceding
Insurer, provided they are within the conditions of the original Policies and
within the terms of the Reinsurance Agreement, shall be unconditionally binding
upon the Company.
The validity of any claim or payment made under the Reinsurance Agreement
(other than loss settlements) may be contested by either party.
Regulation 114 Trust
The Company is required to establish the Regulation 114 Trust. The
Company is required to deposit into the Regulation 114 Trust on the Closing
Date an amount equal to the Maximum Recovery. See "The Regulation 114 Trust
Agreement and the Regulation 114 Trust."
Commutation
At the expiration of the Reinsurance Agreement, or any Calculation Period,
the Company and the Ceding Insurer shall settle all claims and obligations
under the Reinsurance Agreement by the Company paying its proportional shares
and the Ceding Insurer accepting such payment in the amount of the Ceding
Company's Ultimate Net Losses (less the Retained Share and less any amounts
previously paid under the Reinsurance Agreement), in excess of the Trigger
Amount as certified by the Independent Loss Reserve Specialist.
Premium
The Premium to the Company for the term of the Reinsurance Agreement shall
equal ____% of the Maximum Recovery from the Company payable in 12 equal
monthly installments, due on or before the first business day of the month
beginning September 2, 1996, plus the amount of $_________ payable on the
Closing Date.
29
<PAGE> 32
Claims
The Ceding Insurer may present claims under the Reinsurance Agreement for
claims actually paid by the Ceding Insurer in respect of Covered Losses only
once per month during the Reinsurance Period and any Calculation Period. In
addition, the Ceding Insurer may present only one claim under the Reinsurance
Agreement for reserves established in respect of Covered Losses, which claim
will be presented on the Redemption Date or the Maturity Date, as the case may
be.
Calculation Period
The Ceding Insurer may extend the time for presentation of proof of loss
claims (the "Claims Period") for a period of up to six months beginning on
August 1, 1997 (the "Calculation Period"), at the Ceding Insurer's discretion,
by the payment of additional Premium to the Company. However, any Hurricane
must still commence prior to August 1, 1997 in order for the losses arising out
of such Hurricane to be covered under the Reinsurance Agreement.
If the Ceding Insurer extends the Claims Period for a term of less than
six months, then the amount of Ultimate Net Losses (in excess of the Trigger
Amount) for which the Company is liable upon commutation of the Reinsurance
Agreement shall be calculated on the basis of claims actually paid by the
Ceding Insurer for Covered Losses under the Subject Business during the
Reinsurance Period, but will not take account of any loss reserves established
by the Ceding Insurer.
If the Ceding Insurer extends the Claims Period until the Maturity Date,
then the Calculation of Ultimate Net Losses (in excess of the Trigger Amount)
for which the Company is liable upon commutation of the Reinsurance Agreement
shall be calculated as set forth in the definition of "Ultimate Net Loss". See
"Certain Defined Terms".
Currency
All amounts due to either party under the Reinsurance Agreement shall be
payable in United States currency.
Federal Excise Tax
The Ceding Insurer has agreed to pay the Federal Excise Tax on the Premium
payable under the Reinsurance Agreement to the extent such premium is subject
to Federal Excise Tax.
Access to Ceding Insurer's Records
The Company or its designated representatives shall have free access at
any reasonable time to all records of the Ceding Insurer which pertain in any
way to the Reinsurance Agreement.
Arbitration
Any dispute arising out of the Reinsurance Agreement shall be submitted to
the decision of a board of arbitration composed of two arbitrators and an
umpire, meeting in _________________________________ unless otherwise agreed.
THE REGULATION 114 TRUST AGREEMENT AND
THE REGULATION 114 TRUST
The following summary of the terms of the Regulation 114 Trust Agreement
is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Regulation 114 Trust
Agreement, which has been filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement of
which this Prospectus is a part.
30
<PAGE> 33
The Regulation 114 Trust Agreement is dated __________, 1996 and is among
the Company, as grantor thereunder (in such capacity, the "Grantor"), the
Ceding Insurer, as beneficiary thereunder (in such capacity, the
"Beneficiary"), and as trustee (in such capacity, the "Regulation 114
Trustee").
Pursuant to the Regulation 114 Trust Agreement, the Regulation 114 Trustee
has established a trust account for the benefit of the Beneficiary (the "Trust
Account"). The Company deposited $________ with the Regulation 114 Trustee for
deposit into the Trust Account. The purpose of the Regulation 114 Trust is to
provide security for the obligations of the Company to the Ceding Insurer under
the Reinsurance Agreement.
The funds credited to the Trust Account are required to be invested and
reinvested by the Regulation 114 Trustee in Permitted Investments. The Grantor
shall direct the Regulation 114 Trustee from time to time as to the specific
Permitted Investments to acquire. All Permitted Investments are required to
mature on or prior to the next succeeding Interest Payment Date.
The funds from time to time on deposit in the Trust Account are required
to at least equal the Trust Account Required Amount. The "Trust Account
Required Amount" at any time shall be equal to ____% of the then Maximum
Recovery from the Company under the Reinsurance Agreement. The Maximum
Recovery from the Company under the Reinsurance Agreement is initially
$___________. The Maximum Recovery from the Company shall be (i) reduced by
the amount of any claim paid by the Company to the Ceding Insurer under the
Reinsurance Agreement and (ii) reduced to $0 upon any termination of the
Reinsurance Agreement by reason of the failure of the Ceding Insurer to pay
the Premium due to the Company thereunder or otherwise in accordance with the
terms of the Reinsurance Agreement.
On each Interest Payment Date the Regulation 114 Trustee will transfer to
the Company from amounts available in the Regulation 114 Trust Account an
amount equal to the interest earnings on the Permitted Investments for such
month to make payments of the Net Swap Payment under the Interest Rate Swap and
to make payments under the Indenture in respect of Interest on the Notes;
provided that the Regulation 114 Trustee shall not make any such transfer in
the event that after giving effect thereto the amount remaining on deposit in
the Regulation 114 Trust Account would be less than the Trust Account
Required Amount.
In addition, the Grantor may on any Interest Payment Date or on the
Optional Redemption Date request that the Regulation 114 Trustee remit Excess
Funds to or at the direction of the Grantor. "Excess Funds" on any Interest
Payment Date or the Optional Redemption Date, shall mean the excess, if any, of
the funds on deposit in the Regulation 114 Trust Account (after giving effect
to the transfer described in the immediately preceding paragraph) over the
Trust Account Required Amount.
Upon termination of the Regulation 114 Trust, the Regulation 114 Trustee
shall transfer to the Company for deposit with the Indenture Trustee for the
benefit of the Noteholders all of the funds remaining to the credit of the
Regulation 114 Trust Account.
The Regulation 114 Trust Agreement permits the Beneficiary to withdraw
Permitted Investments from the Regulation 114 Trust Account upon notice by the
Beneficiary to the Trustee. Withdrawals may be made by the Beneficiary solely
to pay or reimburse the Beneficiary for the payment of the Company's
obligations to the Beneficiary under the Reinsurance Agreement.
ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT
[TO COME]
CLAIMS ADMINISTRATOR
[TO COME]
INDEPENDENT LOSS RESERVE SPECIALIST
[TO COME]
31
<PAGE> 34
CAYMAN ISLANDS INSURANCE REGULATIONS
The Company is registered as an unrestricted Class B insurer in the Cayman
Islands and accordingly is subject to the provisions of the Insurance Law (1995
Revision) and Regulations issued pursuant thereto (together, the "Insurance
Law"). The Insurance Law provides that no person shall carry on insurance
business (as defined in the Insurance Law) in or from within the Cayman Islands
unless licensed under the Insurance Law by the Governor in Council of the
Cayman Islands (the "Governor"). The Governor, in determining whether to grant
registration, has broad discretion to act as he thinks fit in the public
interest. The Governor is required by the Insurance Law to satisfy himself
that the grant of a license will not be against the public interest and may
grant a license subject to such conditions as appear to him necessary or
desirable.
The Insurance Law imposes on insurers licensed in the Cayman Islands
minimum net worth standards and auditing and reporting requirements and grants
to the Governor and the Inspector of Financial Services powers to supervise,
investigate and intervene in the affairs of insurers. Significant aspects of
the Cayman Islands insurance regulatory framework under the Insurance Law
include:
Net Worth Requirements. The net worth requirements are as follows:
i) A net worth of at least U.S.$120,000 is required where general
business only is written;
ii) A net worth of U.S.$240,000 is required if long-term business
only is written;
iii) A net worth of U.S.$360,000 is required if general and long-term
business is written.
These figures are minimums and a greater net worth may be required
depending on the nature of a business plan. The required minimum net worth
must be maintained at all times. The Company will write only general business
(i.e. the Reinsurance Agreement).
The initial net worth must usually be in cash although a mix of cash,
other assets, guarantees or letters of credit may be acceptable.
Shareholders, Directors and Officers. Full details of the shareholders
(including ultimate beneficial ownership), directors and officers must be
supplied to the Financial Services Supervision Department of the Cayman
Islands. Any changes therein must be notified to the Financial Services
Supervision Department of the Cayman Islands.
Type of Business. Full disclosure must be made to the Financial Services
Supervision Department of the Cayman Islands of the nature of and the manner in
which the business is to be written, and any changes therein must be notified
in advance to and be approved by the authorities. With very limited exceptions
no domestic business in the Cayman Islands may be written by the holder of a
class "B" license.
Records. Full and proper records of the business of an insurer (including
the license itself) must be maintained at a designated office in the Cayman
Islands. Approval may be obtained for these records to be held outside the
Cayman Islands but, as a matter of policy, such approval is not granted. In
the case of the Company, such records will be kept at the offices of Midland
Trust Corporation (Cayman) Limited.
Insurance Manager. A licensed insurance manager must be appointed at
whose offices the records referred to in the preceding paragraph will normally
be held. Insurance management services for the Company will be provided by
Midland Trust Corporation (Cayman) Limited (the "Administrator") pursuant to
the Administration Agreement. The Administration Agreement provides that the
Administrator will be entitled to receive the following fees: (i)
U.S.$___________ per annum, [payable quarterly in advance,] to cover
administration of the Company, and (ii) U.S.$________ per annum [, payable
quarterly in advance,] for providing the directors of the Company. The
Administrator and its directors, officers and employees will be indemnified by
the Company against any liabilities, actions, proceedings, claims, demands,
costs or expenses whatsoever which they may incur in connection with services
performed pursuant to such management agreement, except as a result of the
negligence, willful default, dishonesty or fraud of the Administrator or any of
its directors, officers or employees.
32
<PAGE> 35
Auditors. Auditors (who should maintain an office in the Cayman Islands)
must be appointed and the financial statements of the insurer audited annually
by such auditors. The auditors of the Company will be KPMG Peat Marwick, Grand
Cayman.
Representative in the Cayman Islands. A principal representative resident
in the Cayman Islands and authorized to accept service of process and documents
on behalf of the Company in the Cayman Islands must be appointed. Such
principal representative is Maples and Calder, attorneys-at-law, the Company's
Cayman Islands legal counsel.
Fees. An initial license fee of U.S.$5,488.00 is payable in respect of a
class B license. A similar fee is payable in January of each year thereafter.
Annual Certificate of Compliance. After issue of the license, the annual
audited accounts need not be filed with the Financial Services Supervision
Department of the Cayman Islands although they can be called for and it is
usual therefore to file them. However, the auditors must file a written
statement that the accounts have been prepared in accordance with stated
generally accepted accounting principles (in the case of the Company, those of
the United States) and indicate whether or not their certificate is
unqualified. In addition, the auditors or a licensed insurance manager or
other approved person must sign and file an annual compliance certificate to
the effect that the insurer has carried on business only in accordance with the
information set out in the license application and that any changes in the
nature of the business have been notified to and have been approved by the
Financial Services Supervision Department of the Cayman Islands.
Investments. The Cayman Islands authorities have the power to prescribe
that investments of a specified class require the prior approval of the
Financial Services Supervision Department of the Cayman Islands and that any
investments of such class already made be realized within a specified period.
Although no absolute assurance on this can be given for the future, this power
has never been exercised to date.
Ratios and Margins. The Financial Services Supervision Department of the
Cayman Islands has the power by regulation to prescribe, establish and vary
"capital and liquidity margins and ratios". None have been formally prescribed
(apart from the net worth requirements described above) at present. However, a
license holder is expected to conduct its business in a prudent manner and to
act accordingly.
Exemptions. The Financial Services Supervision Department of the Cayman
Islands has a general power to exempt "any person or class of persons or
business or class of business from any provision of the Law".
The foregoing requirements are intended to be only a summary of certain of
the requirements of the Insurance Law and do not summarize, and are not
intended to summarize, all the requirements to which the Company will be
subject under the Insurance Law.
There are not any exchange controls in the Cayman Islands.
INVESTMENTS
[TO COME]
MANAGEMENT
The table below sets forth the names and titles of the persons who are the
directors and officers of the Company. Because the Company's only activity
will be the performance of its obligations under the Reinsurance Agreement and
the Administrator will be obligated to perform such obligations, it is expected
that the directors and officers of the Company will not participate in the
management of the operations of the Company. The directors and officers of the
Company are all employees of the Administrator. None of such persons will be
compensated by the Company or beneficially own any shares of the Company. The
Company has no salaried employees.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name Position
---- --------
<S> <C>
Thomas Clark Director and [ ]
</TABLE>
33
<PAGE> 36
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Anthony B. Stelling Director and [ ]
Nicholas Clements Director and [ ]
</TABLE>
Thomas Clark - Assistant Director Client Services of the Administrator
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.), Associate of the Chartered Insurance
Institute, London (A.C.I.I.), 22 years experience in the insurance field;
5 years with the Guardian Royal Exchange Group in England, 2 years with
Barclays Insurance Services Company (broking subsidiary of Barclays Bank
plc) and 15 years in Cayman with Insurance Managers, the last 11 with
Midland Bank Trust Corporation (Cayman) Limited. A member of the
Executive Committee of the Cayman Insurance Manager's Association since
1991; currently its Secretary.
Anthony B. Stelling - Director of the Administrator
Associate of the Chartered Insurance Institute, London (A.C.I.I.) 31 years
experience in the insurance field; 14 years with the International
Departments of the Prudential Assurance Company Limited in London and
overseas, 1 year with an A.I.G. subsidiary in Belgium and the last 16
years in Cayman - 4 of them as the Manager of another Cayman Islands
Insurance Manager. Executive Director of Midland Bank Trust Corporation
(Cayman) Limited since it started. A founding member of the Executive
Committee of the Cayman Insurance Manager's Association; Vice Chairman
1986-88 and Chairman 1988-90; retired from the Executive Committee 1991.
Nicholas Clements - Assistant Manager Insurance Services of the
Administrator
Bachelor of Science (Economics), Member of the Institute of Chartered
Accountants in England and Wales. 8 1/2 years working for various firms
of Chartered Accountants in England, New Zealand and the Cayman Islands.
Last 2 1/2 years working for Midland Bank Trust Corporation (Cayman)
Limited managing captive insurance companies.
DESCRIPTION OF THE NOTES
GENERAL
The Notes will be issued pursuant to the terms of the Indenture, a form of
which has been filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement of which this
Prospectus is a part. The following summary describes certain terms of the
Notes and the Indenture. The summary does not purport to be complete and is
subject to, and is qualified in its entirety by reference to, all the
provisions of the Notes and the Indenture. [ ], a ________ banking
corporation, will be the Indenture Trustee.
The Notes will initially be represented by one or more Notes, in each case
registered in the name of the initial holder thereof. The Notes will be
available for purchase in denominations of and integral multiples of $_________
in excess thereof in certificated form only.
PAYMENTS OF INTEREST
Interest on the outstanding principal amount of the Notes will accrue at a
per annum rate of one-month LIBOR less __% from and including the first day of
each month (in the case of the month in which the Notes are issued, from and
including the Closing Date to and including the last day of such month (each,
an "Interest Accrual Period"). Interest will be payable on the first day of
each month (each, an "Interest Payment Date"), commencing on September 2, 1996.
Interest will be calculated on the basis of the actual number of days elapsed
and a 360-day year.
"LIBOR" for each Interest Period will be determined by the Calculation
Agent as follows:
(i) On the second London Banking Day prior to the Interest Reset Date for
such Interest Period (a "LIBOR Determination Date"), the Calculation Agent
shall determine the arithmetic mean of the offered rates
34
<PAGE> 37
for deposits in U.S. dollars for the period of one month, commencing on such
Interest Reset Date, which appear on the Reuters Screen LIBO Page at
approximately 11:00 a.m., London time, on such LIBOR Determinate Date. For
purposes of calculating LIBOR, "London Banking Day" means any business day on
which dealings in deposits in United States dollars are transacted in the
London interbank market and "Reuters Screen LIBO Page" means the display
designated as page "LIBO" on the Reuters Monitor Money Rates Service (or such
other page as may replace the LIBO page on that service for the purpose of
displaying London interbank offered rates of major banks). If at least two
such offered rates appear on the Reuters Screen LIBO Page, "LIBOR" for such
Interest Reset Period will be the arithmetic mean of such offered rates as
determined by the Calculation Agent.
(ii) If fewer than two offered rates appear on the Reuters Screen LIBO
Page on such LIBOR Determination Date, the Calculation Agent will request the
principal London offices of each of four major banks in the London interbank
market selected by such Calculation Agent to provide such Calculation Agent
with its offered quotations for deposits in U.S. dollars for one month,
commencing on such Interest Reset Date, to prime banks in the London interbank
market at approximately 11:00 a.m., London time, on such LIBOR Determination
Date and in a principal amount equal to an amount of not less than $1,000,000
that is representative of a single transaction in such market at such time. If
at least two such quotations are provided, "LIBOR" for such Interest Reset
Period will be the arithmetic mean of such quotations. If fewer than two such
quotations are provided, "LIBOR" for such Interest Reset Period will be the
arithmetic mean of rates quoted by three major banks in The City of New York
selected by the Calculation Agent at approximately 11:00 a.m., New York City
time, on such LIBOR Determination Date for loans in U.S. dollars to leading
European banks, for one month, commencing on such Interest Reset Date, and in a
principal amount equal to an amount of not less than $1,000,000 that is
representative of a single transaction in such market at such time; provided,
however, that if the banks selected as aforesaid by such Calculation Agent are
not quoting rates as mentioned in this sentence, "LIBOR" for such Interest
Period will be the same as LIBOR for the immediately preceding Interest Period.
The "Calculation Agent" shall be ___________.
The "Interest Recent Date" shall be the first day of each Interest Period.
INTEREST RATE SWAP
[To Come]
PAYMENTS OF PRINCIPAL
Principal of the Notes will be due on January 31, 1998.
OPTIONAL REDEMPTION
The Notes are redeemable at the option of the Company in whole or in part,
on a pro rata basis, on the Optional Redemption Date at a redemption price
equal to the principal amount of the Notes together with interest accrued
thereon to the date of redemption. The Company has agreed that it will redeem
the Notes on the Optional Redemption Date or on any Interest Payment Date to
the extent it has received a distribution of Excess Funds from the Regulation
114 Trust.
CERTAIN TERMS OF THE INDENTURE
MODIFICATION OF INDENTURE
The Company and the Indenture Trustee may, with the consent of the holders
of a majority of the outstanding Notes, execute a supplemental indenture to add
provisions to, change in any manner or eliminate any provisions of, the
Indenture, or modify (except as provided below) in any manner the rights of the
Noteholders.
35
<PAGE> 38
Without the consent of the holder of each outstanding Note affected
thereby, however, no supplemental indenture will: (i) change the due date of
any installment of principal of or interest on any Note or reduce the principal
amount thereof or the interest rate specified thereon or change any place of
payment where or the coin or currency in which any Note or any interest thereon
is payable; (ii) impair the right to institute suit for the enforcement of
certain provisions of the Indenture regarding payment; (iii) reduce the
percentage of the aggregate amount of the outstanding Notes, the consent of the
holders of which is required for any such supplemental indenture or the consent
of the holders of which is required for any waiver of compliance with certain
provisions of the Indenture or of certain defaults thereunder and their
consequences as provided for in the Indenture; (iv) modify or alter the
provisions of the Indenture regarding the voting of Notes held by the Company
or an affiliate thereof; (v) decrease the percentage of the aggregate principal
amount of Notes required to amend the sections of the Indenture which specify
the applicable percentage of aggregate principal amount of the Notes necessary
to amend the Indenture or certain other related agreements; or (vi) permit the
creation of any lien (other than the Regulation 114 Trust) ranking prior to or
on a parity with the lien of the Indenture with respect to any of the assets of
the Company or, except as otherwise permitted or contemplated in the Indenture,
terminate the lien of the Indenture on any such collateral or deprive the
holder of any Note of the security afforded by the lien of the Indenture.
The Company and the Indenture Trustee may also enter into supplemental
indentures, without obtaining the consent of the Noteholders, for the purpose
of, among other things, adding any provisions to or changing in any manner or
eliminating any of the provisions of the Indenture or of modifying in any
manner the rights of the Noteholders; provided that such action will not
materially and adversely affect the interest of any Noteholder.
EVENTS OF DEFAULT; RIGHTS UPON EVENT OF DEFAULT
"Events of Default" under the Indenture will consist of: (i) a default for
five days or more in the payment of any interest on any Note; (ii) a default in
the payment of the principal of any Note when the same becomes due and payable;
(iii) a default in the observance or performance of any covenant or agreement
of the Company made in the Indenture and the continuation of any such default
for a period of 60 days after notice thereof is given to the Company by the
Indenture Trustee or to the Company and the Indenture Trustee by the holders of
at least 25% in principal amount of Notes then outstanding; (iv) any
representation or warranty made by the Company in the Indenture or in any
certificate delivered pursuant thereto or in connection therewith having been
incorrect in a material respect as of the time made, and such breach not having
been cured within 60 days after notice thereof is given to the Company by the
Indenture Trustee or to the Company and the Indenture Trustee by the holders of
at least 25% in principal amount of the Notes then outstanding; (v) certain
events of bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership or liquidation of the Company;
(vi) any payment is required to be made by the Company to the Ceding Insurer
under the Reinsurance Agreement; or (vii) the incurrence by the Company of any
liability, other than pursuant to the Reinsurance Agreement, in excess of
$______, and such liability remaining unsatisfied for ___ days or more.
If an Event of Default should occur and be continuing, the Trustee or
holders of a majority in principal amount of Notes then outstanding may declare
the principal of the Notes to be immediately due and payable. Any such
declaration may, under certain circumstances, be rescinded by the holders of a
majority in principal amount of Notes then outstanding.
If the Notes are due and payable following an Event of Default, subject to
the "No Petition" agreement described below, the Indenture Trustee may
institute proceedings to collect amounts due or foreclose on Company property
or exercise remedies as a secured party.
Subject to the provisions of the Indenture relating to the duties of the
Indenture Trustee, if an Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the
Indenture Trustee will be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights or
powers under the Indenture at the request or direction of any of the holders of
Notes, if the Indenture Trustee reasonably believes it will not be adequately
indemnified against the costs, expenses and liabilities which might be incurred
by it in complying with such request. Subject to the provisions for
indemnification and certain limitations contained in the Indenture, the holders
of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding Notes will have the right
to direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding or any remedy
available to the Indenture Trustee, and the holders of a majority in principal
amount of Notes then outstanding may, in certain cases, waive any default with
respect thereto, except a default in the payment of principal or
36
<PAGE> 39
interest or a default in respect of a covenant or provision of the Indenture
that cannot be modified without the waiver or consent of all the holders of
outstanding Notes.
No holder of a Note will have the right to institute any proceeding with
respect to the Indenture unless (i) such holder previously has given to the
Indenture Trustee written notice of a continuing Event of Default, (ii) the
holders of not less than 25% in principal amount of the outstanding Notes have
made written request to the Indenture Trustee to institute such proceeding in
its own name as Indenture Trustee, (iii) such holder or holders have offered
the Indenture Trustee reasonable indemnity, (iv) the Indenture Trustee has for
60 days failed to institute such proceeding and (v) no direction inconsistent
with such written request has been given to the Indenture Trustee during such
60-day period by the holders of a majority in principal amount of outstanding
Notes.
Neither the Indenture Trustee in its individual capacity, nor any of its
owners, beneficiaries, agents, officers, directors, employees, affiliates,
successors or assigns will, in the absence of an express agreement to the
contrary, be personally liable for the payment of the principal of or interest
on the Notes or for the agreements of the Company contained in the Indenture.
Notwithstanding that the Indenture Trustee and the holders of the Notes
have the right upon the occurrence of an Event of Default under the Indenture
to declare the principal of the Notes to be immediately due and payable and to
exercise certain remedial proceedings, so long as the Reinsurance Agreement is
in effect, the payment of the Notes and the exercise of such remedies will
effectively be subordinated to the rights of the Ceding Insurer under the
Reinsurance Agreement. Neither the Indenture Trustee nor the holder of any
Note will have access to the Permitted Investments or other assets held by the
Regulation 114 Trustee (i) until termination of the Reinsurance Agreement, (ii)
except to the extent of interest earnings on such Permitted Investments, or
(iii) except to the extent there are Excess Funds available in the Regulation
114 Trust.
MANDATORY REDEMPTION
In the event that the Ceding Insurer shall fail to pay any Premium when
due under the Reinsurance Agreement, the Company shall call the Notes for
redemption at a redemption price equal to the unpaid principal amount of the
Notes plus interest accrued to the date of redemption and the Regulation 114
Trust shall thereupon be liquidated and the assets held therein shall be
distributed to the Company for payment to holders of the Notes.
CERTAIN COVENANTS
The Indenture will provide that the Company may not consolidate with or
merge into any other entity.
The Company will not, among other things, (i) except as expressly
permitted by the Indenture, the Reinsurance Agreement or certain related
documents with respect to the Company (collectively, the "Related Documents"),
sell, transfer, exchange or otherwise dispose of any of the assets of the
Company, (ii) dissolve or liquidate in whole or in part, (iii) permit the
validity or effectiveness of the Indenture to be impaired or permit any person
to be released from any covenants or obligations with respect to the Notes
under the Indenture except as may be expressly permitted thereby, or (iv)
except as contemplated by the Regulation 114 Trust, permit any lien, charge,
excise, claim, security interest, mortgage or other encumbrance to be created
on or extend to or otherwise arise upon or burden the assets of the Company or
any part thereof, or any interest therein or the proceeds thereof.
The Company may not engage in any activity other than as specified under
"The Company" herein. The Company will not incur, assume or guarantee any
indebtedness other than indebtedness incurred pursuant to the Notes and the
Indenture or otherwise in accordance with the Related Documents.
NO PETITION
By its acquisition of a Note, each holder agrees that neither it nor
the Indenture Trustee on its behalf may commence, or join with any other holder
in the commencement of, a bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency or similar
proceeding under any federal, state or foreign law until the expiration of one
year and one day from the termination of the Reinsurance Agreement.
37
<PAGE> 40
LIST OF NOTEHOLDERS
Three or more holders of the Notes or one or more holders of the Notes
evidencing not less than 25% of the aggregate outstanding principal balance of
the Notes may, by written request to the Indenture Trustee, obtain access to
the list of all Noteholders maintained by the Indenture Trustee for the purpose
of communicating with other Noteholders with respect to their rights under the
Indenture or under the Notes. The Indenture Trustee may elect not to afford
the requesting Noteholders access to the list of Noteholders if it agrees to
mail the desired communication or proxy, on behalf of and at the expense of the
requesting Noteholders, to all Noteholders.
ANNUAL COMPLIANCE STATEMENT
The Company will be required to file annually with the Indenture Trustee a
written statement as to the fulfillment of its obligations under the Indenture.
INDENTURE TRUSTEE'S ANNUAL REPORT
The Indenture Trustee will be required to mail each year to all
Noteholders a brief report relating to its eligibility and qualification to
continue as Indenture Trustee under the Indenture, any amounts advanced by it
under the Indenture, the amount, interest rate and maturity date of certain
indebtedness owing by the Company to the Indenture Trustee in its individual
capacity, the property and funds physically held by the Indenture Trustee as
such and any action taken by it that materially affects the Notes and that has
not been previously reported.
SATISFACTION AND DISCHARGE OF INDENTURE
The Indenture will be discharged with respect to the collateral securing
the Notes upon the delivery to the Indenture Trustee for cancellation of all
the Notes or, with certain limitations, upon deposit with the Indenture Trustee
of funds sufficient for the payment in full of all the Notes.
THE INDENTURE TRUSTEE
The Indenture Trustee will be _________, a ____________ banking
corporation. The Indenture Trustee may resign at any time, in which event the
Company will be obligated to appoint a successor trustee. The Company may also
remove the Indenture Trustee if the Indenture Trustee ceases to be eligible to
continue as such under the Indenture or if the Indenture Trustee becomes
insolvent. In such circumstances, the Company will be obligated to appoint a
successor trustee. Any resignation or removal of the Indenture Trustee and
appointment of a successor trustee does not become effective until acceptance
of the appointment by the successor trustee.
DEFINITIVE NOTES
The Notes will be issued in fully registered, certificated form to
Noteholders or their respective nominees.
TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS
The Notes are not being offered in, any may not be acquired in or
transferred into, the States of _________, _________, _________ or _________,
or to persons resident in those States. The Indenture Trustee will not
register the transfer of any Note unless, at the time registration of transfer
is requested, the Indenture Trustee is provided with a certificate of the
proposed transferee in the form provided in the Indenture to the effect that
the proposed transfer is not to occur in or into any of such States and the
proposed transferee is not a resident of any of such States.
38
<PAGE> 41
CERTAIN INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS
The following is a summary of certain United States income tax
consequences relating to the taxation of the Company and of U.S. persons and
non-U.S. persons who own Notes and the Cayman Islands taxation of the Company
and of persons not resident in the Cayman Islands for exchange control purposes
that own Notes. This summary is based on current law, which is subject to
change, possibly retroactively, or to differing interpretations. This summary
is general in nature and does not purport to deal with all aspects of U.S.
federal income taxation that may be relevant to the Noteholders in light of
their personal investment circumstances nor, except for certain limited
discussions of particular topics, to certain types of holders who may be
subject to special treatment under certain income tax laws (e.g., financial
institutions, broker-dealers, life insurance companies and tax-exempt
organizations). There can be no assurance that the United States tax
consequences of an investment in Notes to an investor will be favorable or that
such consequences will be as described herein. Subsequent changes or
developments in the law or administrative actions may have an adverse effect on
one or more of the tax consequences sought by the Company. [Moreover, the
Company retains the right to alter the conduct of its affairs in such a manner
as to subject its business to United States federal and/or state taxation.] The
discussion does not address the Cayman Islands taxation of investors in Notes
that are resident in the Cayman Islands or the taxation of investors in the
Notes by any jurisdiction other than the United States or the Cayman Islands,
and such tax consequences may be significantly different from the tax
consequences discussed herein.
EACH PROSPECTIVE INVESTOR SHOULD CONSULT WITH ITS TAX ADVISORS AS TO THE
UNITED STATES FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL, FOREIGN AND ANY OTHER TAX CONSEQUENCES TO
IT OF THE PURCHASE, OWNERSHIP AND DISPOSITION OF NOTES.
CAYMAN ISLANDS TAXATION
TAXATION OF THE COMPANY
Based on the advice of Maples and Calder, Cayman Islands counsel to the
Company ("Special Cayman Islands Tax Counsel") under current Cayman Islands
law, there is no Cayman Islands income or corporate tax, withholding tax,
capital gains tax or capital transfer tax payable by the Company with respect
to its income.
TAXATION OF THE NOTEHOLDERS
Special Cayman Islands Tax Counsel has advised the Company that there are
no Cayman Islands withholding or other taxes on interest, principal or other
amounts paid by the Company under the Notes.
The Company has obtained an undertaking under the Tax Concessions Law
(Revised) of the Cayman Islands:
(i) that no law which is subsequently enacted in the Cayman Islands
imposing any tax to be levied on profits or income or gains or
appreciation shall apply to the Company or its operations; and
(ii) that any such tax and any tax in the nature of estate duty or
inheritance tax shall not be payable on the shares, debentures
or other obligations of the Company.
This undertaking is for a period of twenty years from ____________________,
1996.
U.S. TAXATION
This information is directed to prospective purchasers of Notes who
are citizens or residents of the United States, including domestic corporations
and partnerships, and who hold the Notes as "capital assets" within the meaning
of Section 1221 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code").
Potential purchasers of Notes should be aware that the tax characterization of
a number of significant aspects of the Company's activities are uncertain due
to an absence of applicable authority and to the highly factual nature of the
required analyses. Accordingly, each Noteholder should consult its tax
advisors regarding the preparation of any item on a tax return, even where the
anticipated tax treatment has been discussed herein.
39
<PAGE> 42
TAXATION OF THE COMPANY
Consequences of Being Engaged in a U.S. Trade or Business. The Company
was formed and intends to operate in a manner that it believes would not cause
it to be treated as engaged in a trade or business within the United States.
In this regard, the Company has received the opinion of Skadden, Arps, Slate,
Meagher & Flom, special United States tax counsel to the Company ("Special U.S.
Tax Counsel"), which opinion is based on certain representations regarding the
Offering and the transactions related thereto by the Company, the Underwriter
and the Ceding Insurer, that, although the matter is not free from doubt, the
Company would not be deemed to be so engaged. Noteholders should understand
that the determination of whether a person is so engaged is based on a highly
factual analysis, there is no direct guidance as to which activities constitute
being engaged in a trade or business within the United States, and it is
unclear how a court would construe the existing indirect authorities. The
opinion of Special U.S. Tax Counsel is not binding on the IRS, no ruling will
be sought from the IRS regarding this, or any other, aspect of the issuance of
the Notes, and, accordingly, there can be no assurances that the IRS will not
contend, and that a court will not ultimately hold, that the Company is engaged
in a trade or business within the United States. A foreign corporation deemed
to be so engaged would be subject to U.S. federal income tax, as well as the
branch profits tax, on its income which is treated as effectively connected
with the conduct of that trade or business. Such income tax, if imposed, would
be based on effectively connected income computed in a manner generally
analogous to that applied to the income of a domestic corporation, except that
a foreign corporation would be entitled to deductions and credits for a taxable
year only if the return for that year is filed timely (which, based on current
intentions, the Company will likely not have done). The maximum federal tax
rates currently are 35% for a corporation's effectively connected income and
30% for the branch profits tax, resulting in an effective maximum U.S. federal
income tax rate of 54.5%. The branch profits tax is imposed each year on a
corporation's effectively connected earnings and profits (with certain
adjustments) deemed repatriated out of the U.S., which, in the Company's case,
would be all of its net profits.
Withholding on "FDAP" Items; Insurance Excise Tax. Foreign corporations
not engaged in a trade or business within the United States are nonetheless
subject to U.S. federal income tax on certain "fixed or determinable annual or
periodic gains, profits and income" derived from sources within the United
States as enumerated in Section 881(a) of the Code (such as dividends and, in
certain circumstances, certain interest on investments). The Company does not
currently anticipate having any such gains, profits or income. The Premiums
received under the Reinsurance Agreement will, however, be subject to a 1%
United States excise tax.
TAXATION OF NOTEHOLDERS
CLASSIFICATION OF THE NOTES. There are no authorities that directly
address the characterization of an instrument like the Notes for U.S. federal
income tax purposes. Although the matter is not free from doubt, the Company
intends to treat the Notes as equity interests for U.S. federal income tax
purposes, and this summary assumes such treatment, except as otherwise
indicated. Subject to the passive foreign investment company, controlled
foreign corporation and related party insurance income rules, all of which are
discussed below:
(i) INTEREST PAYMENTS AND DISPOSITIONS. A Noteholder that is (A) a
citizen or resident of the United States, (B) a domestic corporation or (C)
otherwise subject to U.S. federal income taxation on a net basis in respect of
a Note (a "U.S. Noteholder") will be required to include in income (with no
dividends received deduction available to corporate U.S. Noteholders) interest
payments as dividends to the extent of the current or accumulated earnings and
profits of the Company, as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Interest payments on the Notes, to the extent they exceed the current or
accumulated earnings and profits of the Company, will not be dividends for U.S.
federal income tax purposes and will generally reduce the U.S. Noteholder's tax
basis in the Notes (and, to the extent they exceed a U.S. Noteholder's basis
would generate capital gain).
No gain or loss will be recognized by a U.S. Noteholder until the sale or
other taxable disposition of a Note. Any such gain or loss, including the
redemption of the Notes for an amount less than their principal amounts,
generally will be capital gain or loss, except possibly to the extent
attributable to accrued Interest. Some or all of any gain recognized by a U.S.
Noteholder owning at least 10% of the Notes, either directly or indirectly
under certain constructive ownership rules, may be treated as ordinary income.
40
<PAGE> 43
(ii) CLASSIFICATION OF THE COMPANY AS A PASSIVE FOREIGN INVESTMENT
COMPANY. The Company may be a passive foreign investment company ("PFIC").
The adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences to U.S. Noteholders,
described below under "Failure to Make the QEF Election," can generally be
avoided by the making of a qualified electing fund election ("QEF Election")
for the first taxable year in which the Note is acquired by a U.S. Noteholder.
QEF Election. The Company will comply with certain reporting requirements
and provide to U.S. Noteholders the information required to enable them to make
a QEF Election. A U.S. Noteholder who makes such an election with the timely
filing of the federal income tax return for the taxable year in which the Notes
were acquired (an "Electing Noteholder") would be required to include in income
the Noteholder's proportionate share of the Company's ordinary earnings and net
capital gains, if any, regardless of whether such amounts are actually
distributed. This amount should generally be the same as the amount of cash
paid to a Noteholder as Interest, except to the extent the Company has
deductions for U.S. federal income tax purposes that result from the deduction
of non-cash items such as would be the case, for example, if the Company
elected to amortize all or a portion of the placement fees, legal, audit,
trustee fees and expenses incurred in connection with the formation of the
Company. To the extent of such excess, an Electing Noteholder may recognize
capital gain upon redemption of its Notes.
An Electing Noteholder's tax basis in the Notes represented by the Note
will be (i) increased to reflect any earnings of the Company taxed to such
Noteholder on account of the QEF Election and (ii) decreased to reflect any
distributions by the Company in respect of such Notes. Any gain or loss on the
sale or other disposition of Notes will be capital gain or loss, and will be
long-term capital gain or loss if the Electing Noteholder has held the Note for
at least 12 months.
Because the Company intends to make current distributions in amounts not
less than all ordinary earnings, Electing Noteholders generally will be subject
to the same amount of federal income tax to which they would be subject if they
did not make the QEF Election, except with respect to the non-cash deductions
discussed above. Importantly, Electing Noteholders will avoid the adverse
federal income tax consequences of PFIC status, discussed in the following
paragraph, if they make the QEF election for the 1996 taxable year.
ACCORDINGLY, EACH U.S. NOTEHOLDER SHOULD CONSIDER MAKING THE QEF ELECTION FOR
1996.
Failure to Make the QEF Election. Each U.S. Noteholder who fails to make
the QEF Election (a "Non-electing Noteholder") may be subject to adverse
federal income tax consequences. In particular, any gain recognized on the
sale or other disposition of Notes would be recharacterized as ordinary income
and would further be treated as having been recognized pro rata over such
Noteholder's entire holding period. In addition, the amount of gain treated as
having been recognized in prior taxable years would be subject to tax at the
highest tax rate in effect for such years, with interest thereon calculated by
reference to the interest rate generally applicable to underpayments with
respect to tax liabilities from such prior taxable years. In addition, a
transfer by gift or a pledge of the Notes could cause the Non-electing
Noteholder to recognize taxable income, and no step-up in tax basis to the fair
market value at such time would be available upon the death of any individual
U.S. Noteholder. These and other adverse consequences under the PFIC rules,
however, can be avoided by the making of a timely QEF Election.
CLASSIFICATION OF THE COMPANY AS A CONTROLLED FOREIGN CORPORATION. Under
the attribution rules of the Code, the Company may be a "controlled foreign
corporation" ("CFC") for U.S. federal income tax purposes. A CFC is a foreign
corporation of which "United States shareholders" collectively own more than
50% (more than 25% for certain insurance companies) of the total combined
voting power or total value of the corporation's stock for an uninterrupted
period of 30 days or more during any tax year. A "United States shareholder"
is generally any U.S. person who owns (directly, indirectly or through the
operation of certain broad constructive ownership rules) 10% or more of the
total combined voting power of the foreign corporation. Under the rules
relating to CFCs, any U.S. Noteholder that has a 10% or greater pro rata
interest in the Notes would be required to include in income on a current basis
its pro rata share of undistributed earnings, if any, of the Company. Because
Electing Noteholders will be required to include currently such amounts of
income in any event, classification of the Company as a CFC is not likely to
have a material adverse effect on Electing Noteholders. Any Non-electing
Noteholder who might, directly, indirectly or through attribution, acquire 10%
or more of the Notes should consider the possible application of the CFC rules
and consult its tax advisor with respect thereto.
41
<PAGE> 44
RELATED PERSON INSURANCE INCOME RULES. Certain special provisions of the
Code will apply to the Company and the Noteholders if both (i) 25% or more of
the value or voting power of the Company's equity (as determined for U.S.
income tax purposes) is, as is anticipated, held (directly or indirectly
through foreign entities) by United States persons, and (ii)(A) the Company has
gross related person insurance income ("RPII") greater than or equal to 20% of
its gross insurance income and (B) 20% or more of either the voting power or
the value of the Company's equity is owned directly or indirectly through
foreign entities by persons (directly or indirectly) insured or reinsured by
the Company or persons related to such insurers or reinsurers. RPII is income
(investment income and premium income) from the direct or indirect insurance or
reinsurance of any United States person who holds equity of the Company
(directly or indirectly through foreign entities) or a person related to such a
United States holder of equity of the Company. While there can be no
assurance, the Company does not anticipate that it will become subject to the
RPII provisions. Moreover, although there is no authority as to how
Noteholders would calculate their allocable share of the RPII, the Company
believes that a Noteholder generally should not be required to include any more
RPII annually than the aggregate amount of Interest accrued as of the end of
such year, because the Noteholders are not entitled to any additional income.
OTHER. Interest paid with respect to the Notes by the Company to U.S.
corporate Noteholders will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction
provided by section 243 of the Code. The Interest will be non-U.S. source
income for purposes of the Code, unless the Company is determined to be engaged
in a trade or business within the United States, in which case the Interest
will be treated as arising from sources within the United States.
ALTERNATE CHARACTERIZATION. As indicated above, there is no authority
addressing the U.S. income tax characterization of an instrument like the
Notes. Accordingly, characterizations other than that described above are
possible. If the Notes were not treated as equity interests in the Company,
they would most likely be treated as contingent indebtedness. In that case, a
U.S. Noteholder would generally include in income, as taxable interest,
payments of Interest on a Note at the time such payments are accrued or
received in accordance with the U.S. Noteholder's regular method of tax
accounting. [May need disclosure regarding new Final Contingent Debt
regulations if issuance is delayed past August 10.]
INFORMATION REPORTING AND BACK-UP WITHHOLDING. Regardless of whether the
Notes are characterized as indebtedness or equity, information reporting to the
IRS by paying agents and custodians located in the United States will be
required with respect to payments on the Notes to U.S. persons. Thus, a holder
of Notes may be subject to backup withholding at the rate of 31% with respect
to amounts paid by such persons, unless such holder (i) is a corporation or
comes within certain other exempt categories and, when required, demonstrates
this fact, or (ii) provides a taxpayer identification number, certifies as to
no loss of exemption from backup withholding and otherwise complies with
applicable requirements of the backup withholding rules. The backup
withholding tax is not an additional tax and may be credited against a holder's
regular Federal income tax liability.
TAXATION OF NON-U.S. NOTEHOLDERS. A Noteholder that is not a U.S.
Noteholder will not be subject to U.S. income or withholding tax on income or
gain from the Notes, assuming that the Company is not determined to be engaged
in a trade or business within the United States. Nonresident alien individuals
will not be subject to U.S. estate tax with respect to the Notes.
PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS SHOULD CONSULT THEIR TAX ADVISORS CONCERNING THE UNITED
STATES FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL AND NON-U.S. TAX CONSEQUENCES OF OWNING THE NOTES.
42
<PAGE> 45
ERISA CONSIDERATIONS
[TO COME]
UNDERWRITING
Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in an underwriting agreement
(the "Underwriting Agreement") between the Company and Merrill Lynch, Pierce,
Fenner & Smith Incorporated (the "Underwriter"), the Company has agreed to sell
to the Underwriter, and the Underwriter has agreed to purchase from the
Company, the Notes.
In the Underwriting Agreement, the Underwriter has agreed, subject to the
terms and conditions set forth therein, to purchase all the Notes if any of the
Notes are purchased.
The Underwriter has advised the Company that the Underwriter proposes
initially to offer the Notes to the public at the initial public offering price
set forth on the cover page of this Prospectus and to certain dealers at such
price less a concession not in excess of ___% of the principal amount of the
Note. The Underwriter may allow, and such dealers may re-allow, a discount not
in excess of ___% of the principal amount of the Note on sales to certain other
dealers. After the initial public offering, the public offering price,
concession and discount may be changed.
Pursuant to the Underwriting Agreement and an Indemnity Agreement between
the Ceding Insurer and the Underwriter, the Company and the Ceding Insurer,
respectively, have agreed to indemnify the Underwriter against certain
liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, or to contribute
to payments the Underwriter may be required to make in respect thereof.
EXPERTS
The consolidated financial statements of the Company (including financial
statement schedules incorporated by reference) appearing in this Prospectus and
the Registration Statement have been audited by [ ], independent auditors, to
the extent indicated on their reports thereon also appearing elsewhere herein
and in the Registration Statement or incorporated by reference. Such
consolidated financial statements have been included herein or incorporated by
reference in reliance upon such reports given upon the authority of such firm
as experts in accounting and auditing.
LEGAL MATTERS
Certain legal matters in connection with the Notes will be passed upon for
the Company by Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe, New York, New York and by
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, New York, New York, each of whom will
rely as to Cayman Islands law upon the opinion of Maples and Calder, George
Town, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, British West Indies. Certain legal matters
will be passed upon for the Underwriter by Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher &
Flom, New York, New York. Certain Cayman Islands tax matters have been passed
upon by Maples and Calder. The description of United States tax laws will be
passed upon by Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, New York, New York.
43
<PAGE> 46
CERTAIN DEFINED TERMS
Alien reinsurer A reinsurance company that is
organized under the laws of a non-U.S.
jurisdiction.
Catastrophe excess of loss reinsurance A form of excess of loss reinsurance
that, subject to a specified limit,
indemnifies the ceding company for the
amount of loss in excess of a
specified retention with respect to an
accumulation of losses resulting from
a catastrophic event or a series of
catastrophic events. For purposes of
the Reinsurance Agreement, the
Catastrophe excess of loss reinsurance
provided thereunder is provided on a
single loss, single occurrence basis.
Cede; Cedent; Ceding company When a party reinsures its liability
with another, it "cedes" business and
is referred to as the "cedent" or
"ceding company."
Claim adjustment expenses See "Loss Adjustment Expenses".
Commutation The negotiated as agreed final
settlement of all rights, duties, and
obligations of the parties in a
reinsurance agreement.
Covered Losses The amount of all Losses paid or
payable to or on behalf of the
policyholders of the Ceding Insurer
for which the Ceding Insurer is liable
under the Policies included in the
Subject Business.
Excess of loss reinsurance A generic term describing reinsurance
that indemnifies the reinsured against
all or a specified portion of losses
on underlying insurance policies in
excess of a specified amount, which is
called a "level" or "retention." Also
known as non-proportional reinsurance,
excess of loss reinsurance is written
in layers. A reinsurer or group of
reinsurers accepts a band of coverage
up to a specified amount. The total
coverage purchased by the cedent is
referred to as a "program" and will
typically be placed with predetermined
reinsurers in prenegotiated layers.
Any liability exceeding the outer
limit of the program reverts to the
ceding company, which also bears the
credit risk of a reinsurer's
insolvency.
Generally accepted accounting Accounting principles as set forth in
principles ("GAAP") opinions of the Accounting
Principles Board of the American
Institute of Certified Public
Accountants and/or statements of the
Financial Accounting Standards Board
and/or their respective successors and
which are applicable in the
circumstances as of the date in
question.
Hurricane A storm or storm system that has been
declared by the National Hurricane
Center of the National Weather Service
to be a Hurricane. The duration of
the Hurricane includes the time
period:
(i) Beginning at the time a hurricane
"watch" or "warning" is issued
by the National Hurricane Center
of the National Weather Service;
44
<PAGE> 47
(ii) continuing for the time period
during which the hurricane
conditions exist; and
(iii) ending 72 hours following the
cancellation of the last "watch"
or "warning" condition issued by
the National Hurricane Center,
of the National Weather Service.
Incurred but not reported (IBNR) Reserves for estimated losses that
have been incurred by insurers and
reinsurers but not yet reported to the
insurer or reinsurer including unknown
future developments on losses which
are known to the insurer or reinsurer.
Layer The interval between the retention or
attachment point and the maximum limit
of indemnity for which a reinsurer is
responsible.
Loss Claims paid and losses for which loss
reserves have been established,
including reserves established for
incurred but not reported losses,
under the Policies comprising the
Subject Business.
Loss Occurrence The sum of all individual losses
caused by the peril of Windstorm
during a Hurricane, including ensuing
damage to the interior of a building,
or to property inside a building
caused by rain, snow, sleet, hail,
sand, or dust if the direct force of
the windstorm first damages the
building, causing an opening through
which rain, snow, sleet, hail, sand,
or dust enters and causes damage, and
occurs during the term of the
Reinsurance Agreement.
Loss adjustment expenses The expenses of settling losses,
including legal and other fees, and
the portion of general expenses
allocated to loss settlement costs.
Loss reserves Liabilities established by insurers
and reinsurers to reflect the
estimated cost of loss payments and
the related expenses that the insurer
or reinsurer will ultimately be
required to pay in respect of
insurance or reinsurance it has
written. Reserves are established for
losses and for loss adjustment
expenses.
Permitted Investments [To Come]
Reinsurance An arrangement in which an insurance
company, the reinsurer, agrees to
indemnify another insurance or
reinsurance company, the ceding
company, against all or a portion of
the insurance or reinsurance risks
underwritten by the ceding company
under one or more policies.
Reinsurance can provide a ceding
company with several benefits,
including a reduction in net liability
on individual risks and catastrophe
protection from large or multiple
losses. Reinsurance also provides a
ceding company with additional
underwriting capacity by permitting it
to accept larger risks and write more
business than would be possible
without a concomitant increase in
capital and surplus, and facilitates
the maintenance of acceptable
financial ratios by the ceding
company. Reinsurance does not legally
45
<PAGE> 48
discharge the primary insurer from its
liability with respect to its
obligations to the insured.
Retained Share The pro rata retention by the Ceding
Insurer of 5% of liability for Covered
Losses under the Subject Business in
excess of the Trigger Amount.
Retention The amount or portion of risk that an
insurer retains for its own account.
Losses in excess of the retention
level are paid by the reinsurer. In
proportional treaties, the retention
may be a percentage of the original
policy's limit. In excess of loss
business, the retention is a dollar
amount of loss, a loss ratio or a
percentage.
Ultimate Net Loss The amount of all Covered Losses, paid
or payable by the Ceding Insurer,
including incurred but not reported
losses, for which the Ceding Insurer
is liable under the Policies included
in the Subject Business, subject to
factors for Pleasure Boat and Inland
Marine Floater business and allocated
loss adjustment expenses as determined
below. Allocated loss adjustment
expenses shall include (i) expenses of
litigation, (ii) salaries and other
recompensation of the Ceding Insurer's
employees, other than Company
officers, specifically diverted from
their normal duties, in connection
with the handling of such loss,
prorated in accordance with the time
spent thereon, and (iii) all other
loss expenses of the Ceding Insurer
(excluding salaries of regular
employees, internal office expenses of
employees not specifically diverted
from their normal duties, and all
normal overhead expenses) but salvages
and all recoveries are to be first
deducted from such losses to arrive at
the amount of liability, if any,
attaching under the Reinsurance
Agreement.
"Ultimate Net Loss" shall be
determined by:
Step 1 - Calculating all Covered
Losses, paid or payable, including
incurred but not reported losses for
which the Ceding Insurer is liable
under Dwelling, Homeowners,
Condominium Owners and Tenant
Homeowners Policies included in the
Subject Business; and
Step 2 - Increasing the amount
calculated in accordance with Step 1
by 2% for Pleasure Boat and Inland
Marine Floater Policies; and
Step 3 - Increasing the amount
calculated in accordance with Step 2
by 2% for all allocated loss
adjustment expenses as defined in (i),
(ii), and (iii) above.
Underwriting The insurer's or reinsurer's process
of reviewing applications submitted
for insurance coverage, deciding
whether to accept all or part of the
coverage requested and determining the
applicable premiums.
Underwriting expenses The aggregate of policy acquisition
costs, including commissions, and the
portion of administrative, general and
other expenses attributable to
underwriting operations.
46
<PAGE> 49
Windstorm Wind, wind gusts, hail, rain,
tornadoes or cyclones caused by,
resulting from or occurring during a
Hurricane which results in direct
physical loss or damage to property.
47
<PAGE> 50
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF THE COMPANY
[TO COME]
48
<PAGE> 51
========================================================
NO DEALER, SALESPERSON OR OTHER PERSON HAS BEEN
AUTHORIZED TO GIVE ANY INFORMATION OR TO MAKE ANY
REPRESENTATION NOT CONTAINED IN THIS PROSPECTUS IN
CONNECTION WITH THE OFFERING COVERED HEREBY. IF
GIVEN OR MADE, SUCH INFORMATION OR REPRESENTATION
MUST NOT BE RELIED UPON AS HAVING BEEN AUTHORIZED BY
THE COMPANY OR THE UNDERWRITERS. THIS PROSPECTUS
DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OR SOLICITATION BY ANYONE
IN ANY STATE IN WHICH SUCH OFFER OR SOLICITATION IS NOT
AUTHORIZED OR IN WHICH THE PERSON MAKING SUCH OFFER OR
SOLICITATION IS NOT QUALIFIED TO DO SO OR TO ANYONE TO
WHOM IT IS UNLAWFUL TO MAKE SUCH OFFER OR SOLICITATION.
NEITHER THE DELIVERY OF THIS PROSPECTUS, NOR ANY SALE MADE
HEREUNDER SHALL, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE, CREATE ANY
IMPLICATIONS THAT THERE HAS BEEN NO CHANGE IN THE AFFAIRS
OF THE COMPANY SINCE THE DATE HEREOF OR THAT THE INFORMATION
CONTAINED HEREIN IS CORRECT AS OF ANY TIME SUBSEQUENT TO
ITS DATE.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Summary of Terms ..................................... 4
Risk Factors ......................................... 12
The Company .......................................... 16
The Ceding Insurer.................................... 16
Use of Proceeds....................................... 17
Capitalization of the Company......................... 17
Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition................................. 17
Subject Business...................................... 18
Hurricanes and Insurance.............................. 26
Reinsurance Activity of the Company................... 28
Management............................................ 33
Description of the Notes.............................. 34
Certain Terms of the Indenture........................ 35
Certain Income Tax Considerations..................... 38
ERISA Considerations.................................. 43
Underwriting.......................................... 43
Experts............................................... 43
Legal Matters......................................... 43
Certain Defined Terms................................. 44
Index to Financial Statements......................... 48
</TABLE>
Until 1996, (90 days after the date of this
Prospectus), all dealers effecting transactions in the Notes,
whether or not participating in this distribution, may be
required to deliver a Prospectus. This is in addition to the
obligation of dealers to deliver a Prospectus when acting as
underwriters and with respect to their unsold allotments or
subscriptions.
========================================================
========================================================
HPR LIMITED
$
FLOATING RATE NOTES
-----------------------------
PROSPECTUS
-----------------------------
MERRILL LYNCH & CO.
------------ , 1996
========================================================
<PAGE> 52
PART II
INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
ITEM 13. OTHER EXPENSES OF ISSUANCE AND DISTRIBUTION
The following table sets forth the various expenses in connection with the
sale and distribution of the securities being registered which will be paid
solely by the Registrant. All the amounts shown are estimates, except the
Commission registration fee:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
SEC Registration Fee . . . . . . . . . . . $ 345
Trustee Fees and Expenses . . . . . . . . *
Printing and Engraving Expenses . . . . . *
Legal Fees and Expenses . . . . . . . . . *
Accounting Fees and Expenses . . . . . . . *
Blue Sky Fees and Expenses . . . . . . . . *
Miscellaneous Expenses . . . . . . . . . . *
--------------
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 345
==============
</TABLE>
- ---------------
* To be filed by Amendment
ITEM 14. INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
Cayman Islands law does not specifically limit the extent to which a
company's articles of association may provide for the indemnification of
officers and directors, except to the extent that such provision may be held by
the Cayman Islands courts to be contrary to public policy (e.g., for purporting
to provide indemnification against the consequences of committing a crime). In
addition, an officer or director may not be able to enforce indemnification for
his own dishonesty, fraud or wilful neglect or default.
Article 123 of the Articles of Association of the Registrant, filed as
Exhibit 3.1 to this Registration Statement, contains provisions providing for
the indemnification by the Registrant of an officer, director or trustee of the
Registrant for all actions, proceedings, claims, costs, charges, losses,
damages and expenses which they incur or sustain by reason of any act done or
omitted in or about the execution of their duty in their respective offices or
trusts, except such (if any) as they shall incur or sustain by or through their
own wilful neglect or default, respectively.
ITEM 15. RECENT SALES OF UNREGISTERED SECURITIES
Not Applicable.
ITEM 16. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a) Exhibits
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Exhibit No. Description
----------- -----------
<S> <C>
1.1 Form of Underwriting Agreement.*
3.1 Articles of Association.*
</TABLE>
II-1
<PAGE> 53
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
3.2 By-Laws.*
4.1 Form of Indenture.*
4.2 Form of Note (included in Exhibit 4.1).*
4.3 Form of Reinsurance Agreement*
4.4 Form of Administration Agreement*
4.5 Form of Claims Administration Agreement*
4.6 Form of Regulation 114 Trust Agreement*
5.1 Opinion of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe as to the legality
of the Notes.*
8.1 Opinion of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom as to certain
U.S. federal tax matters.*
8.2 Opinion of Maples and Calder as to certain Cayman Islands tax
matters (included in Exhibit 5.1).*
23.1 Consent of [Name of accountants].*
23.2 Consent of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe (included in
Exhibit 8.1).*
23.3 Consent of Maples and Calder (included in Exhibit 8.2).*
23.4 Consent of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom (included in
Exhibit 8.1)
25 Statement of Eligibility under the Trust Indenture Act of
1939 of the Trustee (bound separately).*
</TABLE>
- ---------------------
* To be filed by amendment.
ITEM 17. UNDERTAKINGS
1. The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes to provide to the
Underwriter at the closing specified in the Underwriting Agreement Notes in
such denominations and registered in such names as required by the Underwriter
to permit prompt delivery to each purchaser.
2. Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the
Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons
of the Registrant pursuant to its By-Laws, the Underwriting Agreement or
otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that, in the opinion of the
Commission, such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the
Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for
indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the
Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling
person of the Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or
proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in
connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless in
the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling
precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether
such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the
Securities Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
3. The Registrant hereby undertakes that:
II-2
<PAGE> 54
a. For purposes of determining any liability under the Securities
Act, the information omitted from the form of prospectus filed as part of
this Registration Statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in a
form of prospectus filed by the Registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(1) or
(4) or 497(h) under the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of the
Registration Statement as of the time it was declared effective.
b. For the purpose of determining any liability under the
Securities Act, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of
prospectus shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to
the securities offered therein, and this offering of such securities at
that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
II-3
<PAGE> 55
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the
Registrant has duly caused this amendment to the Registration Statement to be
signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in George
Town, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, British West Indies on July 3, 1996.
HPR Limited
By:/s/ Thomas Clark
---------------------------------
Name: Thomas Clark
Title: Director
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
amendment to the Registration Statement has been signed by the following
persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Signature Title Date
--------- ----- ----
<S> <C> <C>
* Director and Chief Executive Officer July 3, 1996
- --------------------------------
Anthony B. Stelling
* Director and Chief Financial July 3, 1996
- -------------------------------- Officer and Treasurer
Nicholas Clements
/s/ Thomas Clark
- -------------------------------- Director July 3, 1996
Thomas Clark
</TABLE>
AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE
/s/ Ruth K. Lavelle
- ---------------------------------
Name: Puglisi & Associates
As the duly authorized representative
of HPR Limited in the United States
Date: July 3, 1996
II-4
<PAGE> 56
EXHIBIT INDEX
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Exhibit No. Description Page
----------- ----------- ----
<S> <C> <C>
1.1 Form of Underwriting Agreement.*
3.1 Articles of Association.*
3.2 By-Laws.*
4.1 Form of Indenture.*
4.2 Form of Note (included in Exhibit 4.1).*
4.3 Form of Reinsurance Agreement*
4.4 Form of Administration Agreement*
4.5 Form of Claims Administration Agreement*
4.6 Form of Regulation 114 Trust Agreement*
5.1 Opinion of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe
as to the legality of the Notes.*
8.1 Opinion of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher
& Flom as to certain U.S. federal tax matters.*
8.2 Opinion of Maples and Calder as to
certain Cayman Islands tax matters
(included in Exhibit 5.1).*
23.1 Consent of [Name of accountants].*
23.2 Consent of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe
(included in Exhibit 8.1).*
23.3 Consent of Maples and Calder (included in Exhibit 8.2).*
23.4 Consent of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher
& Flom (included in Exhibit 8.1)
25 Statement of Eligibility under the
Trust Indenture Act of 1939 of the
Trustee (bound separately).*
</TABLE>
- ---------------------
* To be filed by amendment.
II-5
