<PAGE>
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington D.C. 20549
FORM 8-K/A
Current Report
Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): January 2, 1998
ACE LIMITED
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Cayman Islands 1-11778 Not Applicable
- ------------------------------ -------------- ---------------------
(State or other jurisdiction (Commission (I.R.S. Employer
of incorporation) File Number) Identification No.)
The ACE Building
30 Woodbourne Avenue
Hamilton, Bermuda HM 08
- ------------------------------------------- ------------------------
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (441) 295-5200
Not Applicable
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Former name or former address, if changed since last report)
<PAGE>
On January 2, 1998, ACE Limited completed the acquisition of Westchester
Specialty Group, Inc. (WSG). This current report on Form 8-K/A contains audited
financial statements of WSG and unaudited pro forma financial information of
ACE Limited not previously filed in accordance with the rules and regulations of
the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Item 7 Financial Statements and Exhibits
(a) Financial Statements of Westchester Specialty Group, Inc.
See Exhibit 1
(b) Pro Forma Financial Information
See Exhibit 2
(c) None
2
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
Dated: March 3, 1998 ACE LIMITED
By: /s/ Christopher Z. Marshall
---------------------------
Christopher Z. Marshall
Chief Financial Officer
<PAGE>
Exhibit 1
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
1997 Annual Report
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Table of Contents
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Page
----
<S> <C>
Independent Auditors' Report 1
Consolidated Financial Statements:
Consolidated Balance Sheets 2
Consolidated Statements of Operations 3
Consolidated Statements of Shareholder's Equity 4
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows 5
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements:
Basis of Consolidation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies 6
Investments and Investment Income 10
Income Taxes 13
Unpaid Losses and Loss Expenses 15
Reinsurance 18
Salvage and Subrogation 20
Pensions 20
Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions 22
Related Party Transactions 23
Statutory Information 24
Shareholder's Equity 24
Fair Value of Financial Instruments 25
Leases 25
Long-Term Obligations 26
Contingent Liabilities 26
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
Independent Auditors' Report
The Board of Directors and Shareholder
Westchester Specialty Group, Inc.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Westchester
Specialty Group, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the
related consolidated statements of operations, shareholder's equity, and cash
flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 1997.
These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated
financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present
fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Westchester
Specialty Group, Inc. and subsidiaries at December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the
results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the
three-year period ended December 31, 1997, in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles.
January 12, 1998
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
December 31, 1997 and 1996
(In millions, except share data)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Assets 1997 1996
------ ------ ------
<S> <C> <C>
Investments:
Fixed maturities, at fair value (amortized cost: $394
in 1997 and $398 in 1996) $ 405 $ 402
Short-term investments, at amortized cost which
approximates fair value 749 695
------ ------
Total investments 1,154 1,097
Cash 1 4
Accrued investment income 5 7
Receivables:
Premiums 16 20
Other - 6
Reinsurance recoverables 631 688
Prepaid reinsurance premiums 40 56
Deferred policy acquisition costs 9 7
Current income taxes 39 -
Deferred income taxes 76 73
Equipment and leasehold improvements 6 5
Due from affiliates - 1
Other assets 9 9
------ ------
Total assets $1,986 $1,973
====== ======
Liabilities and Shareholder's Equity
------------------------------------
Liabilities:
Unpaid losses and loss expenses $1,451 $1,380
Unearned premiums 88 113
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 46 41
------ ------
Total liabilities 1,585 1,534
------ ------
Shareholder's equity:
Common stock and additional paid-in capital (includes $1
par value common stock, 1,000 shares authorized,
issued and outstanding) 415 365
Retained (deficit) earnings (21) 71
Net unrealized gains on investment securities 7 3
------ ------
Total shareholder's equity 401 439
------ ------
Total liabilities and shareholder's equity $1,986 $1,973
====== ======
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
-2-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Operations
Years ended December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995
(In millions)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------ ----- ------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Revenues:
Net premiums earned $ 96 $ 142 $ 167
Net investment income 64 61 56
Net realized investment gains - - 7
----- ----- -----
Total revenues 160 203 230
----- ----- -----
Losses and expenses:
Losses and loss expenses 270 121 205
Underwriting, acquisition, and other insurance expenses 32 42 50
Interest expense - 3 5
Other expenses - 1 1
----- ----- -----
Total losses and expenses 302 167 261
----- ----- -----
(Loss) earnings from operations before income taxes (142) 36 (31)
Income tax (benefit) provision (50) 13 (19)
----- ----- -----
Net (loss) earnings $ (92) $ 23 $ (12)
===== ===== =====
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
-3-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Shareholder's Equity
Years ended December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995
(In millions)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------ ------ ------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Common stock and additional paid-in capital:
Balance at beginning of year $ 365 $ 318 $ 293
Capital contributions 50 47 25
----- ----- -----
Balance at end of year 415 365 318
----- ----- -----
Retained (deficit) earnings:
Balance at beginning of year 71 48 60
Net (loss) earnings (92) 23 (12)
----- ----- -----
Balance at end of year (21) 71 48
----- ----- -----
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities:
Balance at beginning of year 3 (1) (52)
Change in unrealized gains 7 5 51
Change in deferred income taxes (3) (1) -
----- ----- -----
Balance at end of year 7 3 (1)
----- ----- -----
Total shareholder's equity $ 401 $ 439 $ 365
===== ===== =====
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
-4-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Years ended December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995
(In millions)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------ ------ ------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net (loss) earnings $ (92) $ 23 $ (12)
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) earnings to cash
(used in) provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 2 1 12
Net realized investment gains - - (7)
Changes in:
Unpaid losses and loss expenses, net of reinsurance
recoverable 119 (66) 37
Unearned premiums, net of prepaid reinsurance (9) (17) (15)
Other liabilities 5 (5) 5
Underwriting assets 16 6 22
Deferred policy acquisition costs (2) 5 2
Interest expense - 3 5
Payments for interest expense - (3) (5)
Income taxes (benefits) (50) 13 (19)
Receipts for income taxes 5 6 -
Other - 3 -
------ ------ ------
Total adjustments 86 (54) 37
------ ------ ------
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities (6) (31) 25
------ ------ ------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Cash used for the purchase of fixed maturity and equity securities (40) (399) (191)
Proceeds from the sale or maturity of fixed maturities and
equity securities 44 91 1,100
Net change in short-term investments (54) 353 (955)
Net change in unsettled securities - 2 (2)
Receipts for notes receivable 6 - -
Purchase of fixed assets (3) (2) -
------ ------ ------
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities (47) 45 (48)
------ ------ ------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Capital contribution 50 45 25
Cash used for repayment of debt - (60) (15)
------ ------ ------
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 50 (15) 10
------ ------ ------
Net decrease in cash (3) (1) (13)
Cash at beginning of year 4 5 18
------ ------ ------
Cash at end of year $ 1 $ 4 $ 5
====== ====== ======
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
-5-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995
(1) Basis of Consolidation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
---------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) Basis of Consolidation
----------------------
Westchester Specialty Group, Inc. including its subsidiaries (the
"Company"), is a wholly owned subsidiary of Talegen Holdings, Inc.
(Talegen). Talegen is a wholly owned subsidiary of Xerox Financial
Services, Inc. (XFSI), which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Xerox
Corporation (Xerox). In January 1993, Xerox announced its strategic
decision to disengage from its insurance and other financial services
businesses which include Talegen and the Company in order to focus on its
core document processing business. In connection with this strategy, during
1992 and 1993, Talegen completed a major recapitalization and restructuring
of its business operations into seven stand-alone insurance operating
groups (one of which is the Company) each with an independent holding
company that, in turn, owns one or more insurance companies.
In line with its disengagement process, on January 2, 1998, Talegen sold
the Company to a subsidiary of ACE Limited for $338 million in cash.
The Company's insurance subsidiaries are Westchester Fire Insurance
Company, Westchester Surplus Lines Insurance Company, and Industrial
Underwriters Insurance Company. The Company's insurance subsidiaries write
property and casualty insurance, primarily within the commercial specialty
lines market. These subsidiaries specialize in providing property,
umbrella, and excess casualty coverages. Premiums are written on a
nationwide basis mainly through a network of domestic wholesale brokers.
The Company's noninsurance subsidiaries are Westchester Specialty Insurance
Services, Inc. and Industrial Excess and Surplus Insurance Brokers.
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company
and all of its subsidiaries. All material intercompany transactions have
been eliminated in consolidation.
(b) Investments
-----------
Fixed maturities and equity securities are classified as available-for-sale
securities and reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses on
investment securities, net of tax, charged or credited as a separate
component of shareholder's equity.
Fair values for fixed maturity securities are based on quoted market prices
or dealer quotations. Where quoted market prices or dealer quotations are
not available, as is the case for certain mortgage and other asset-backed
securities, fair values are measured utilizing quoted market prices for
similar securities or by using discounted cash flow methods. Amortized cost
for fixed maturities is historical cost adjusted for the amortization of
premiums and discounts, which are amortized using the effective interest
method over the estimated remaining term of the securities, adjusted for
anticipated prepayments.
(Continued)
-6-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Short-term investments are classified as available-for-sale securities and
are carried at amortized cost which approximates fair value due to the
short-term maturity of these investments.
Realized investment gains and losses on the sale of investments are
determined on a specific identification basis. A provision for unrealized
investment losses is made in the consolidated statements of operations only
when the decline in the fair value of debt and equity securities is other
than temporary. Investment income is recorded when earned.
(c) Premiums
--------
Premiums are generally earned on a pro rata basis over the period in which
the coverages are provided. Premiums earned include estimates of certain
premiums due, including audits and adjustments on retrospectively rated
policies. Unearned premiums represent the portion of premiums written that
are applicable to the unexpired terms of policies in force. Prepaid
reinsurance premiums represent the unexpired portion of premiums ceded to
reinsurers.
(d) Policy Acquisition Costs
------------------------
Policy acquisition costs are comprised primarily of commissions, premium
taxes, and that portion of internal expenses which vary with and are
related to the acquisition of new and renewal insurance policies. These
costs are deferred by major product group and amortized over the life of
the policy in proportion to the premium revenue recognized. Deferred policy
acquisition costs in excess of recoverable amounts, including investment
income, are charged to expense. Acquisition costs include $19 million, $26
million, and $32 million of deferred policy acquisition costs which were
amortized during 1997, 1996, and 1995, respectively.
(e) Losses and Loss Expenses
------------------------
Losses and loss expenses are charged to expense as incurred. The reserves
for unpaid losses and loss expenses are determined on the basis of claim
adjusters' evaluations and other estimates, including those for incurred
but not reported (IBNR) losses and for future salvage and subrogation
recoveries. Overall reserve levels are impacted primarily by the types and
amounts of insurance coverage written, trends developing from newly
reported claims, and claims which have been paid and closed. The Company
continually monitors the gross and net loss and loss expense reserves of
its insurance subsidiaries relating to business written in both the current
and prior years and Talegen management reviews these reserves on a periodic
basis. Adjustments are made to reserves in the period they can be
reasonably estimated to reflect evolving changes in loss development
patterns and various other factors, such as social and economic trends and
judicial interpretation of legal liability.
(Continued)
-7-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(f) Reinsurance
-----------
Reinsurance recoverables include the balances due from insurance and
reinsurance companies for paid losses and loss expenses and estimates of
the portion of unpaid losses and loss expenses that will be recovered from
insurers and reinsurers, determined in a manner consistent with the
liabilities associated with the reinsured policies. The reserve for
uncollectible reinsurance is determined based upon a review of the
financial condition of the insurers and reinsurers and an assessment of
other available information.
(g) Pension, Postretirement, and Postemployment Benefits
----------------------------------------------------
The cost of pension, postretirement, and postemployment benefits is
recognized in the consolidated financial statements during the active
working careers of employees.
(h) Income Taxes
------------
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax
consequences attributable to temporary differences between the carried
amounts in the consolidated financial statements and the tax bases of the
Company's assets and liabilities. Such temporary differences are primarily
due to the tax basis discount on unpaid losses, adjustment for unearned
premiums, uncollectible reinsurance, and tax benefits of net operating loss
carryforwards. Additionally, the effect on deferred tax assets and
liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period
that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance against deferred
tax assets is recorded if it is more likely than not that all or some
portion of the benefits related to deferred tax assets will not be
realized.
(i) Use of Estimates
----------------
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make
estimates and assumptions that affect the reported financial statement
balances as well as the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities.
Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Similar to most companies with property and casualty insurance operations,
the reserve for unpaid losses and loss expenses, the reserve for
uncollectible reinsurance and deferred policy acquisition costs, although
supported by actuarial science and other supporting data, are ultimately
based on management's reasoned expectations of future events. In addition,
the Company's realization of deferred income tax assets is dependent on the
generation of sufficient future taxable income. It is reasonably possible
that expectations associated with these accounts can change in the near
term (i.e., one year) and that the effect of those changes could be
material to the consolidated financial statements.
(Continued)
-8-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(j) Equipment and Leasehold Improvements
------------------------------------
Equipment and leasehold improvements are carried at cost and are shown net
of accumulated depreciation and amortization. Equipment and capitalized
software are depreciated on a straight-line basis over three-to-five years
and three years, respectively. Capital improvements to leased property are
amortized over the life of the improvement or the life of the lease,
whichever is shorter. Accumulated depreciation and amortization on
equipment and leasehold improvements was $6 million at both December 31,
1997 and 1996.
(k) Reclassifications
-----------------
Certain reclassifications, which were not material, have been made to the
1996 and 1995 consolidated financial statements to conform with the 1997
presentation.
(Continued)
-9-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(2) Investments and Investment Income
---------------------------------
The components of the investment portfolio at December 31 follow:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Gross Gross
unrealized unrealized Estimated
Amortized investment investment fair
1997 cost gains losses value
---- ---- ----- ------ -----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(in millions)
Fixed maturities:
U.S. Government and government
agencies and authorities $ 67 $ 2 $ - $ 69
States, municipalities, and
political subdivisions 10 - - 10
Foreign governments 4 1 - 5
All other corporate fixed maturities 151 3 - 154
Mortgage and other asset-backed
securities 162 5 - 167
------ ----- ---- ---------
Total fixed maturities 394 11 - 405
Short-term investments 749 - - 749
------ ------ ---- ---------
Total investments
available-for-sale $ 1,143 $ 11 $ - $ 1,154
====== ====== ==== =========
Gross Gross
unrealized unrealized Estimated
Amortized investment investment fair
1996 cost gains losses value
---- ---- ----- ------ -----
(in millions)
Fixed maturities:
U.S. Government and
government agencies
and authorities $ 75 $ 1 $ - $ 76
States, municipalities, and
political subdivisions 10 - - 10
Foreign governments 5 - - 5
All other corporate fixed
maturities 157 2 (1) 158
Mortgage and other asset-
backed securities 151 2 - 153
------ ------ ---- ---------
Total fixed maturities 398 5 (1) 402
Short-term investments 695 - - 695
------ ------ ---- ---------
Total investments
available-for-sale $ 1,093 $ 5 $ (1) $ 1,097
====== ====== ==== =========
</TABLE>
(Continued)
-10-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The pre-tax increase in unrealized investment gains (losses) for fixed
maturities for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995 amounted to $7
million, $5 million, and $51 million, respectively.
At December 31, 1997, approximately 46% of the Company's total investments
available-for-sale were comprised of U.S. Treasury securities and other
securities issued by U.S. Government agencies and authorities.
During 1997, the Company made certain investments in mortgage and other asset-
backed securities. Included in mortgage-backed securities as of December 31,
1997 are $90 million of collateral mortgage obligations (CMOs) and $45 million
of pass-through securities issued by GNMA, FNMA, or FHLMC. Approximately 78% of
the Company's CMO holdings are fully collateralized by GNMA, FNMA, or FHLMC
securities at December 31, 1997. The Company generally purchases CMOs that are
protected against prepayment risk through purchasing planned amortization class
securities. The Company does not purchase residual interests in mortgage-backed
securities. The Company generally purchases asset-backed securities whose
underlying collateral experiences stable prepayment characteristics. Virtually
all of these securities are rated Aaa by Moody's Investor's Service.
Securities carried at a market value of $32 million and $26 million at December
31, 1997 and 1996, respectively, were deposited by the Company with governmental
authorities or designated custodian banks as required by statutory regulations
affecting insurance companies.
The amortized cost and estimated fair value of the Company's fixed maturities at
December 31, 1997 by contractual maturity follow:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Amortized Estimated
cost fair value
--------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
(in millions)
Contractual maturity:
Within one year $ 1 $ 1
After one year but within five 101 102
After five years but within ten 94 97
After ten years 36 38
Mortgage and other asset-backed securities 162 167
---- ----
Total fixed maturities $394 $405
==== ====
</TABLE>
-11-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may
have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment
penalties. Changing interest rates, tax considerations, and other factors may
result in portfolio sales prior to maturity.
The components of net investment income for each of the three years ended
December 31 follow:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
(in millions)
Interest on fixed maturities $ 28 $ 44 $ 47
Dividends on equity securities -- -- 1
Interest on short-term and all other investments 39 20 11
Investment expenses (3) (3) (3)
---- ---- ----
Net investment income $ 64 $ 61 $ 56
==== ==== ====
</TABLE>
The components of pretax net realized investment gains for each of the three
years ended December 31 follow:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
(in millions)
Fixed maturities:
Gross investment gains $ -- $ -- $ 12
Gross investment losses -- -- (10)
Common stocks:
Gross investment gains -- -- 7
Gross investment losses -- -- (2)
---- ---- ----
Net realized investment gains $ -- $ -- $ 7
==== ==== ====
</TABLE>
(Continued)
-12-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(3) Income Taxes
------------
Talegen and the Company are included in the Xerox consolidated federal
income tax return. Accordingly, Xerox and Talegen and, in turn, Talegen and
the Company and its subsidiaries entered into a tax sharing agreement
effective in 1983, which provides that the Company will pay or be
reimbursed by Xerox for the tax liabilities or benefits generated by the
Company. The right to reimbursement for tax benefits does not expire due to
any statutory period of limitation under the Internal Revenue Code. The
agreement generally provides that subsidiaries shall compute their tax
liability on a separate return basis and any benefit on the basis of actual
benefits utilized in offsetting the liabilities of Talegen Holdings and its
subsidiaries. Income taxes reflected in the consolidated statements of
operations are the Company's share of the Xerox consolidated tax provision.
The components of the Federal income tax provision for each of the three
years ended December 31 follow:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------ ------ ------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
(in millions)
Current (benefit) expense $ (44) $ 1 $ (7)
Deferred (benefit) expense (6) 12 (12)
----- ----- -----
Federal income tax provision $ (50) $ 13 $ (19)
===== ==== =====
</TABLE>
A reconciliation of the U.S. Federal statutory income tax rate to the
effective income tax rate for each of the three years ended December 31
follow:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------- ------ -------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
U.S. Federal statutory income tax rate (35.0)% 35.0% (35.0)%
Tax-exempt income (0.1) (0.2) (3.1)
Deduction for dividends received -- -- (0.4)
Change in estimate of tax liability -- -- (22.5)
Other, net (0.1) 0.2 (0.3)
----- ----- -----
Effective income tax rate (35.2)% 35.0% (61.3)%
===== ===== =====
</TABLE>
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates
expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which temporary
differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred
tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in
earnings in the period which includes the enactment date. In 1995,
resolution of significant tax issues resulted in a credit to earnings of $4
million.
(Continued)
-13-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant
portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities at
December 31 follow:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996
----- -----
<S> <C> <C>
(in millions)
Deferred tax assets:
Tax basis discount on unpaid losses
and loss expenses $ 60 $ 53
Adjustment for unearned premiums 3 4
Uncollectible reinsurance 3 3
Net operating loss carryforward 13 13
Other 7 6
----- -----
Total deferred tax assets 86 79
----- -----
Deferred tax liabilities:
Deferred policy acquisition costs 3 3
Other 7 3
----- -----
Total deferred tax liabilities 10 6
----- -----
Net deferred tax assets $ 76 $ 73
===== =====
</TABLE>
During 1997, a reserve strengthening action resulted in an increase in the
tax basis discount on unpaid losses and loss expenses. During 1996, the
Company utilized $5 million of its net operating loss carryforward. The tax
benefit resulting from net operating loss carryforwards of $13 million at
December 31, 1995, resulted primarily from a $12 million net operating loss
carryforward allocated to the Company during 1995 pursuant to the tax-
sharing agreement.
Under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, deferred income
tax assets and liabilities are recognized for differences between the
financial statement carrying amounts and the tax bases of assets and
liabilities which will result in future deductible or taxable amounts and
for net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Realization of tax
benefits of deductible temporary differences and operating loss and tax
credit carryforwards depends on having sufficient taxable income within the
carryback and carryforward periods. Sources of taxable income that may
allow for the realization of tax benefits include (1) taxable income in the
current year or prior years that is available through carryback, (2) future
taxable income that will result from the reversal of existing taxable
temporary differences, and (3) future taxable income generated by future
operations. The Company believes it could realize its net deferred tax
asset through the carryback of future tax losses to prior years or the
generation of future taxable income, and it is more likely than not that
the tax benefits of the deferred tax assets will be realized. Accordingly,
no valuation allowance relating to deferred tax assets has been
established.
(Continued)
-14-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(4) Unpaid Losses and Loss Expenses
-------------------------------
Activity related to unpaid losses and loss expenses for each of the three
years ended December 31 follow:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
(in millions)
Gross unpaid losses and loss expenses at beginning of year $1,380 $1,423 $ 1,235
Less reinsurance recoverables on unpaid losses and loss expenses 659 636 485
------ ---- -----
Net balance at beginning of year 721 787 750
------ ---- -----
Incurred losses and loss expenses related to:
Current accident year losses 70 121 143
Prior accident year losses 200 - 62
------ ---- -----
Total incurred losses and loss expenses 270 121 205
------ ---- -----
Paid losses and loss expenses related to:
Current accident year losses 16 27 22
Prior accident year losses 135 160 146
------ ---- -----
Total paid losses and loss expenses 151 187 168
------ ---- -----
Net balance at end of year 840 721 787
Plus reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses and loss expenses 611 659 636
------ ---- -----
Gross unpaid losses and loss expenses at end of year $1,451 $1,380 $ 1,423
====== ====== =======
Ceded incurred losses and loss expenses - Ridge
Reinsurance Limited (Ridge Re) $ - $ - $ 107
Ceded incurred losses and loss expenses - other reinsurers 18 112 116
------ ---- -----
Total ceded incurred losses and loss expenses $ 18 $ 112 $ 223
====== ==== =====
</TABLE>
During each of the years ended December 31, 1997 and 1995, the Company
increased reserves for prior periods. No net total reserve strengthening
for prior periods occurred in 1996; however, certain categories of reserves
were strengthened, while redundancies were recognized in other reserve
categories. The reserve strengthening which took place during 1997 and 1995
and the reclassifications that occurred during 1996 were primarily the
result of improved information and methodological advances that are used to
produce estimates of liabilities associated with certain exposures that
have proved difficult to determine for the Company, and for the industry as
a whole. Specifically, reserves were increased to make provision for latent
liabilities, uncollectible reinsurance associated with latent liabilities,
and construction defects exposure. Net reserves for prior accident years
were increased by $200 million during 1997, and by $62 million in 1995.
Making up this net change of $262 million were increases of $119 million
for latent liabilities, $117 million for construction defects exposures,
and $45 million for uncollectible reinsurance, while experience in other
reserve categories during this period resulted in an addition in net
reserves of $88 million. Offsetting these increases were $107 million of
reinsurance recoverables from Ridge Re. Each of these exposures and the
increases recorded in 1997 and 1995 and the movements between reserve
categories which occurred in 1996 are more fully discussed in the
paragraphs below.
(Continued)
-15-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Construction defect ("CD") is a term used by the industry to refer to any
third-party claim where property damage occurs or is alleged to have
occurred as a result of the insured's work; work performed on the insured's
behalf; or product failure in condominiums, townhouses, single family
homes, or commercial buildings involving one or more policy periods,
excluding environmental exposures. Although claims involving CD have been
experienced by the Company and the insurance industry historically,
beginning in the late 1980's insurers who had written general contractors'
or subcontractors' policies in California began to experience a growing
number of CD cases, with claims spread over several accident years. With
increased emphasis on evaluating and understanding CD exposure, substantial
effort was undertaken to segregate data and develop methodology to provide
better estimates of ultimate losses associated with the exposure. The
efforts led to a net reserve increase during 1995 of $12 million.
Refinement of costing methods and estimation of the impact of recent court
decisions and legislation resulted in the Company increasing its net
reserves for CD exposure in 1996 by $24 million. During 1997, net reserves
for CD were increased by another $81 million. The Company's net reserves
for CD amounted to $94 million, $23 million, and $17 million at December
31, 1997, 1996, and 1995, respectively.
Latent liabilities include reserves for environmental, asbestos, and other
types of latent exposures, such as those associated with breast implants,
chemical exposure, tobacco products, and other exposures which can result
in insurance claims that were not contemplated when policies were
originally written. The estimation of ultimate losses arising from
environmental, asbestos, and other latent exposures (together referred to
as latent liabilities) has presented a particular challenge to the Company,
and to the insurance industry, because traditional actuarial methods are
inadequate for such estimation. The problem of estimating reserves for
environmental and asbestos exposures resulted in the development of methods
which incorporate new sources of data with the historical experience that
provides the basis for traditional reserving methods.
Total reserves for asbestos, environmental, and other latent exposures as
of December 31, 1997 and 1996 are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996
------------ ----------
Gross Net Gross Net
----- ----- ----- ---
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Latent exposure reserves(1):
Asbestos $ 67 $ 38 $ 67 $37
Environmental 106 70 55 46
Other latent exposures 95 16 59 6
---- ----- ----- ---
Total $268 $ 124 $ 181 $89
==== ===== ===== ===
</TABLE>
(1) Included are case, incurred but not reported (IBNR), and allocated loss
adjustment expense reserves. Gross latent exposure reserves do not
include amounts that are fully reinsured with current and former
affiliated companies due to the lack of historical data. Net latent
exposure reserves have not been reduced for recoverables from Ridge Re
because the Ridge Re contract is an aggregate excess of loss contract
covering all lines of business. Additionally, the net reserves
presented exclude reserves for uncollectible reinsurance. See
discussion of Ridge Re and the reserve for uncollectible reinsurance in
note 5 to these financial statements.
(Continued)
-16-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Prior to 1995, the Company established case and IBNR reserves for latent
exposure claims that had been reported. The IBNR reserves were established
primarily to cover adverse development on known claims. Case reserves were
and continue to be determined by a specialized claim and legal staff.
Building on methodologies first published by the Casualty Actuarial Society
in the third quarter of 1994, the Company and Talegen completed the first
phase of a project to develop and implement methods to provide estimates of
ultimate losses for asbestos and environmental exposures. This resulted in
a model which, in turn, was the basis for increasing reserves in 1995 for
latent liabilities by $80 million on a net basis, excluding $64 million of
reinsurance recoverables due from Ridge Re. During 1996, the model was
further refined and tested, and the amount and quality of data used in
modeling was significantly enhanced. In 1997, substantial reserve work by
independent outside actuaries provided for improved calibration of the
Company's model and provided confirmation of model estimates. Based on
these refinements, the Company increased net reserves for latent exposures
by $39 million in order to position reserves higher into the range of their
actuarial estimates.
As discussed in note 5, uncollectible reinsurance reserves are established
by the Company to the extent that its evaluation of the ability or
willingness of reinsurers to indemnify ceded exposure pursuant to
reinsurance agreements indicates that the Company will not receive full
recovery of ceded balances. In general, latent liability claims present a
need to establish this reserve both because of their inherent complexity
and attendant issues and because these exposures arise under insurance
policies that, in many cases, were written during the 1970's and early
1980's, when the Company utilized a larger number of reinsurers and
applicable reinsurance programs included reinsurers which subsequently
encountered financial difficulties. As reserves for latent liability
exposure were increased, the Company also increased reserves for
uncollectible reinsurance receivables. Net uncollectible reinsurance
expense incurred for prior and current accident years amounted to $43
million, $1 million, and $4 million for the years ended December 31, 1997,
1996, and 1995, respectively.
Finally, as reserve actions were undertaken with respect to construction
defects, latent liability, and uncollectible reinsurance exposures,
reserves for all other lines continued to be evaluated and various
movements in this segment were undertaken. From 1997 back through 1995 the
Company recorded aggregate strengthening in net reserves for all other
lines totaling $88 million, excluding $40 million of reinsurance
recoverables due from Ridge Re. These actions were taken primarily in the
umbrella line of business.
(Continued)
-17-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(5) Reinsurance
-----------
The Company reinsures, in the ordinary course of business, certain risks
with other insurance and reinsurance companies. These arrangements provide
the means for greater diversification of business and serve to limit the
net loss potential on unusually severe or frequent losses. With respect to
potential property, business interruption, and nonvoluntary assessment
losses arising out of catastrophes, the Company's insurance subsidiaries
purchase individual catastrophe reinsurance. Talegen supplements this
coverage through the purchase of excess of loss reinsurance which provided
$80 million of additional aggregate protection to the Company's insurance
subsidiaries and insurance companies owned by Talegen's other subsidiaries.
The ceding of insurance does not discharge the original insurer from its
primary liability to its policyholders; however, the reinsuring company
which accepts the risk assumes an obligation to the original insurer. The
ceding insurer retains a contingent liability with respect to reinsurance
ceded to the extent that any reinsuring company might not be able to meet
its obligations.
The components of the Company's net premiums written and net premiums
earned for each of the three years ended December 31 follow:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
----- ------ ------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
(in millions)
Premiums written:
Direct $ 195 $ 258 $ 289
Assumed from other companies, pools,
or associations 1 -- --
Ceded to other companies, pools, or
associations (109) (133) (137)
----- ----- -----
Net premiums written $ 87 $ 125 $ 152
===== ===== =====
Premiums earned:
Direct $ 220 $ 274 $ 309
Ceded to other companies, pools, or
associations (124) (132) (142)
----- ----- -----
Net premiums earned $ 96 $ 142 $ 167
===== ===== =====
The components of the Company's reinsurance recoverables at December 31 follow:
1997 1996
----- -----
(in millions)
Reinsurance receivables on paid losses and loss
expenses $ 20 $ 29
Reinsurance recoverables on unpaid losses and
loss expenses 611 659
----- -----
Total reinsurance recoverables $ 631 $ 688
===== =====
(Continued)
</TABLE>
-18-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Reinsurance recoverables reflected above are net of a reserve for
uncollectible reinsurance of $84 million and $37 million at December 31,
1997 and 1996, respectively.
The Company made significant use of reinsurance during the 1970s and 1980s,
and accordingly, has current and future reinsurance recoverables due from
several hundred reinsurers. Since that time, the Company has increased the
portion of business retained while reducing the number of reinsurers used.
During both 1997 and 1996, the Company ceded 94% of total ceded premiums
written (excluding reinsurance ceded to pools and associations) to
approximately 30 reinsurers. As of December 31, 1997, General Reinsurance
Corporation, Kemper Reinsurance Corporation and NAC Reinsurance
Corporation, the three largest unaffiliated reinsurers of the Company,
accounted for approximately 12%, 8%, and 7%, respectively, of total net
reinsurance recoverables. The reinsurance recoverable from Ridge Re as of
December 31, 1997 and 1996 was $127.5 million. At December 31, 1997, the
Company does not believe it has a significant concentration of credit risk
with any other individual reinsurer.
The Company actively monitors and evaluates the financial condition of its
reinsurers and prepares estimates of the uncollectible amounts due from
troubled reinsurers. The evaluation focuses on financial and other
available data such as whether or not the reinsurer is in rehabilitation or
in liquidation proceedings and produces an estimate of the amount that will
ultimately be collected from these troubled reinsurers. In addition to the
reinsurers' ability to pay claims, from time to time disputes arise over
claim amounts and reinsurance coverage. The Company pursues its remedies
in these cases and generally recognizes the impact of developments in these
situations as the disputes are resolved. Management believes the
reinsurance recoverables, net of the reserve for uncollectible reinsurance,
are valid and collectible.
Effective December 31, 1992, Ridge Re, a special purpose Bermuda reinsurer
which is a wholly owned subsidiary of XFSI, has provided aggregate excess
of loss reinsurance to the Company's insurance subsidiaries. Under the
terms of the reinsurance coverage, which is guaranteed by XFSI and is
subject to stated limits, Ridge Re will reimburse the Company's insurance
subsidiaries for 85% of any and all ultimate net losses in excess of the
retention amount. Coverage is provided for unfavorable development on all
incurred losses and allocated loss expenses and uncollectible reinsurance
for losses occurring on accident years 1992 and prior, net of all salvage,
subrogation, and other recoverables. The corresponding premium amount of
$51 million, which is being provided by XFSI and is guaranteed by Xerox,
was ceded by the Company's insurance subsidiaries to Ridge Re in 1992, as
consideration for the risk assumed by Ridge Re.
The contract coverage for the Company's insurance subsidiaries at December
31, 1997 totals $127.5 million, which is net of 15% coinsurance.
Cumulative unpaid losses and loss expenses of $127.5 million have been
ceded to Ridge Re as of December 31, 1997, and the Company's insurance
subsidiaries have received letters of credit from Ridge Re for the $127.5
million reinsurance recoverable. The insurance subsidiaries have no
remaining coverage under the Ridge Re contract.
(Continued)
-19-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
In connection with the Talegen restructuring (see note 1), the Company's
insurance subsidiaries entered into assumption and reinsurance arrangements
with Affiliate(s) (current and former affiliates then owned, indirectly,
by Talegen) to transfer certain books of business that were not consistent
with the Company's ongoing operating strategy. In addition to the
reinsurance arrangements, certain of these reinsured insurance policies
also have been novated to Affiliates that reinsured these policies, and
additional reinsured policies continue to be novated as claims are
reported. The novation process was approved by insurance regulatory
authorities of each state. For policies affected by this ongoing novation
process, the Affiliate assumes all rights and obligations under the
insurance policies and is substituted for the Company's insurance
subsidiaries who originally issued the policies. The Affiliate becomes
directly liable to the insured. As of December 31, 1997, Affiliates had
assumed, through the reinsurance arrangements, approximately $88 million of
gross reserves stemming from policies originally issued by the Company's
insurance subsidiaries, of which approximately $78 million pertained to
novated policies. In the event that an assuming Affiliate fails to meet its
obligations on novated policies due to its insolvency or otherwise,
policyholders under such policies could seek judicial relief to have the
novations invalidated. Management believes that these types of actions
would not have any merit; however, there can be no certainty that a court
would enforce a policy novation against a challenge by a policyholder even
if the appropriate novation procedures under state law have been satisfied.
A judicial determination that a policy novation was invalid could result in
the Company's insurance subsidiaries retaining the direct obligation to the
policyholder for the subject policy. The Company's insurance subsidiaries
would retain the right and be entitled to collect the amount of any future
payments it incurs under such a policy from the Affiliate through the
reinsurance arrangement.
(6) Salvage and Subrogation
-----------------------
Estimates of salvage and subrogation recoveries on unpaid losses and loss
expenses of $9 million have been recorded as a reduction to unpaid losses
and loss expenses at both December 31, 1997 and 1996.
(7) Pensions
--------
Talegen sponsors one principal noncontributory defined benefit pension plan
(the "Plan") which covers employees of the Company who meet eligibility
requirements. Effective July 1, 1993, the Plan was amended with the effect
of limiting the accrual of further benefits to its participants under the
terms of the Plan. Contributions are made to the Plan in an amount
deductible and in accordance with funding standards established by the
Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. During 1996,
contributions were made to bring the Plan to a fully funded status.
Therefore, no additional contributions were made to the Plan during 1997.
(Continued)
-20-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The following table summarizes the Plan's funded status and the amounts
recognized in Talegen's consolidated financial statements as of December
31:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------ ------ ------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
(in millions)
Actuarial present value of benefit obligations:
Vested $ 84 $ 83 $ 76
Nonvested 4 3 7
----- ----- -----
Accumulated benefit obligation(1) 88 86 83
Effect of projected future compensation levels -- -- --
----- ----- -----
Projected benefit obligation 88 86 83
Fair value of plan assets, primarily listed stocks,
and government securities 102 94 69
----- ----- -----
Projected benefit obligation (less than)
in excess of plan assets (14) (8) 14
Unrecognized net gain (loss) 4 (8) (9)
----- ----- -----
(Prepaid) accrued pension expense(2) (10) (16) 5
Adjustment required to recognize minimum
pension liability -- -- 7
----- ----- -----
Net (asset) liability recognized in
consolidated balance sheets(3) $ (10) $ (16) $ 12
----- ----- -----
Assumptions used in the accounting were:
Discount rates 7.25% 7.25% 7.25%
Rates of increase in compensation levels -- -- 5.50%
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets 8.50% 8.50% 8.50%
Net periodic pension cost included the following
components:
(in millions)
Interest cost on projected benefit
obligation $ 6 $ 6 $ 6
Actual return on plan assets (18) (11) (14)
Net amortization and deferrals 10 6 9
----- ----- -----
Net periodic defined benefit pension
(benefit) cost(4) $ (2) $ 1 $ 1
===== ===== =====
</TABLE>
(1) The accumulated benefit obligation of the Company was $4 million as
of December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995, respectively.
(2) The (prepaid) accrued pension expense of the Company as of December
31, 1997, 1996, and 1995 was $(0.7) million, $(0.8) million, and $0.4
million, respectively.
(Continued)
-21-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(3) The net asset recognized in the Company's consolidated balance sheets
as of December 31, 1997 and 1996 was $0.7 million and $0.8 million,
respectively.
(4) The Company's share of this (benefit) expense for the years ended
December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995 was $(0.1) million, $0.1 million,
and $0.1 million, respectively.
Talegen also sponsors a defined contribution pension plan (Savings Plan)
covering substantially all employees of Talegen and its subsidiaries. The
Savings Plan provides for a basic contribution equal to 3% of an employee's
compensation, a matching contribution based on participants' contributions,
and a discretionary performance-related basic and/or matching contribution
made at the discretion of the Company. Certain employees also have the
opportunity to participate in a nonqualified arrangement that permits
contributions that would otherwise be limited under the qualified plan by
IRS regulations. Total Savings Plan expenses incurred by the Company for
the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995 were $0.6 million, $0.8
million, and $1.2 million, respectively.
(8) Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions
-------------------------------------------
Talegen provides certain medical and life insurance benefits for retirees
of the Company. Retiree medical benefits are provided to those employees
who had reached age 50 by January 1, 1994 and who ultimately retired with
at least 15 years of service.
A reconciliation of the funded status of Talegen's postretirement medical
and life plans as of December 31 follow:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996
---------------- -----------------
(in millions) Medical Life Medical Life
------- ---- ------- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Accumulated postretirement
benefit obligation:
Retirees $ 16 $ 8 $ 18 $ 11
Fully eligible active participants 2 - 3 1
Other active participants 2 1 3 1
----- ----- ----- -----
Total/(1)/ 20 9 24 13
Deferred actuarial gain (loss) 6 (1) 14 (1)
Initial liability (13) (3) (19) (5)
----- ----- ----- -----
Accrued cost recognized in
consolidated balance sheets/(2)/ $ 13 $ 5 $ 19 $ 7
===== ===== ===== =====
</TABLE>
/(1)/ At December 31, 1997 and 1996, combined accumulated postretirement
benefit medical and life obligations pertaining to the Company were
$1.9 million and $1.6 million, respectively.
/(2)/ The combined accrued medical and life costs recognized in the
Company's consolidated balance sheet amounted to $1.2 million at
both December 31, 1997 and 1996.
(Continued)
-22-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The medical inflation assumptions are 9.9% and 9.0% for participants under
age 65 and over age 65, respectively, and both decline to 5.0% in the year
2008 and thereafter. A one percentage point increase in the medical
inflation assumptions would not have a material impact on the service and
interest cost and the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation.
The discount rate used to determine the funded status as of December 31,
1997 and 1996 was 7.25%.
The components of Talegen's postretirement medical and life benefit cost
for each of the three years ended December 31 follow:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
-------------- ------------- --------------
Medical Life Medical Life Medical Life
-------- ---- ------- ---- -------- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(in millions)
Interest cost $ 2 $ 1 $ 2 $ 1 $ 2 $ 1
Amortization of initial liability 2 - 1 - - -
Other (1) - - - (1) -
---- ---- ----- ---- ---- ----
Total/(1)/ $ 3 $ 1 $ 3 $ 1 $ 1 $ 1
==== ==== ===== ==== ==== ====
</TABLE>
/(1)/ For the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995, combined
postretirement medical and life benefit expenses amounted to $0.2
million, $0.1 million, and $0.2 million, respectively.
(9) Related Party Transactions
--------------------------
The Company receives data processing, claims settlement, and other services
from affiliates and Talegen under various service agreements. For 1997
(through February), 1996, and 1995, the Company received data processing
services from an affiliate. Effective March 1, 1997, the Company entered
into an information technology services agreement with Andersen Consulting,
LLP, which outsourced services previously provided by the Affiliate. See
note 14 for further discussion. During 1997, 1996, and 1995, the Company
received claims settlement and other reinsurance services from affiliates,
which were sold by XFSI during October 1997. Fees incurred for services
from affiliates under these agreements for the years ended December 31,
1997, 1996, and 1995 were approximately $6 million, $11 million, and $11
million, respectively.
Reinsurance assumed and ceded with affiliates at December 31 follow:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997
------------------------
Reinsurance Reinsurance
assumed ceded
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
(in millions)
Unpaid losses and loss expenses $ 9 $ 4
1996
------------------------
Reinsurance Reinsurance
assumed ceded
----------- -----------
(in millions)
Premiums earned $ -- $ 5
Unpaid losses and loss expenses 93 17
</TABLE>
(Continued)
-23-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The above tables exclude amounts ceded to Ridge Re, a wholly owned
subsidiary of XFSI, which are discussed in note 5 above. The Company has
reinsurance agreements in effect with current and former affiliates, which
include other Talegen-owned insurance operating groups and an insurance
operating group formerly owned by XFSI. During 1997, Talegen sold two of
these operating groups and XFSI sold its insurance operating group. The
1997 balances shown in the above table reflect the sale of these former
affiliates.
(10) Statutory Information
---------------------
The Company's insurance subsidiaries are restricted by insurance laws as to
the amount of dividends they may pay without the prior approval of
regulatory authorities. The amount available for the payment of dividends
to the Company without prior regulatory approval amounted to $2 million at
December 31, 1997.
Generally accepted accounting principles differ in certain respects from
the statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by insurance
regulatory authorities for the Company's insurance subsidiaries.
"Prescribed" statutory accounting practices include state laws,
regulations, and general administrative rules, as well as a variety of
publications of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).
"Permitted" statutory accounting practices encompass all accounting
practices that are not prescribed; such practices differ from state-to-
state, may differ from company-to-company within a state and may change in
the future. Furthermore, the NAIC has a project to codify statutory
accounting practices, the result of which is expected to constitute the
only source of prescribed statutory accounting practices. Accordingly,
that project will likely change the definitions of what comprises
prescribed versus permitted statutory accounting practices, and may result
in changes to the accounting policies that insurance enterprises use to
prepare their statutory financial statements. The effect on statutory
policyholders' surplus of permitted practices is not significant.
Combined statutory net (loss) income of the Company's insurance
subsidiaries amounted to $(99) million, $43 million, and $(20) million for
the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995, respectively. Combined
statutory policyholders' surplus of the insurance subsidiaries amounted to
$289 million and $343 million at December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively.
The principal differences between statutory policyholders' surplus and
shareholder's equity determined in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles, are deferred Federal income taxes, certain
reinsurance recoverables, and deferred policy acquisition costs, which are
not generally considered assets for statutory purposes, as well as the
shareholder's equity of the Company's noninsurance subsidiaries.
(11) Shareholder's Equity
--------------------
Cash capital contributions received from Talegen amounted to $50 million in
1997. A $45 million cash and a $2 million noncash capital contribution
were received in 1996. Dividend payments totaling $452,000 and $390,000
were made in 1997 and 1996, respectively.
(Continued)
-24-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(12) Fair Value of Financial Instruments
-----------------------------------
SFAS No. 107, Disclosures About Fair Value of Financial Instruments,
defines the fair value of a financial instrument as the amount at which the
instrument could be exchanged in a current transaction between willing
parties.
The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company's financial
instruments at December 31 follow:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996
---------------- ----------------
Carrying Fair Carrying Fair
amount value amount value
-------- ------ -------- ------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(in millions)
Investments $1,154 $1,154 $1,097 $1,097
</TABLE>
The fair values of investments are based on quoted market prices or dealer
quotes at the reporting date for those or similar investments.
See notes 2 and 5 regarding concentrations of investments and reinsurance
recoverables, respectively.
(13) Leases
------
The Company leases certain land, buildings, and equipment under operating
leases which expire through 2002. The net rental expense under operating
leases for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995 was $2
million, $3 million, and $3 million, respectively.
Future unaccrued minimum lease payments required under operating leases
which have initial or remaining noncancelable lease terms in excess of one
year at December 31, 1997 are summarized below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(In millions)
<S> <C>
1998 $ 3
1999 2
2000 2
2001 2
2002 -
---
Total future minimum lease payments 9
Less minimum sublease rentals 3
Net future minimum lease payments $ 6
===
</TABLE>
(Continued)
-25-
<PAGE>
WESTCHESTER SPECIALTY GROUP, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The minimum lease payments shown in the preceding table do not include
possible future rental adjustments based on inflation. Additionally, the
Company is contingently liable for future lease payments with respect to
leases that were entered into in 1984 between the Company and certain of
the Company's affiliates and a former affiliate in conjunction with sale
leaseback transactions. Future potential unaccrued minimum payments under
these leases at December 31, 1997 total $36 million through 2009 when the
leases terminate. It is anticipated that the Company will not be required
to make future payments under these leases as the leased properties are
subleased by certain of the Company's affiliates. The Company's
performance under these leases has been guaranteed by Talegen. The
property sales were financed in part by purchase money notes that were sold
to Talegen during 1997 for carried value which amounted to $5 million.
(14) Long-term Obligations
---------------------
During 1997, the Company entered into an information technology services
agreement with Andersen Consulting, LLP effective March 1, 1997 (the
"Agreement"). The Agreement has an initial term of five years, and an
automatic renewal provision which allows for the extension of the initial
term by additional periods of one year each, unless terminated by either
party at least 180 days prior to the scheduled expiration date of the
initial or any renewal term. Under the Agreement, the Company pays minimum
charges for application, infrastructure, and mainframe services with
adjustments based on actual activity. The Company's purchases under the
Agreement totaled $4 million in 1997.
As of December 31, 1997, future unaccrued minimum payments required under
the Agreement are summarized below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(in millions)
<S> <C>
1998 $ 4
1999 3
2000 3
2001 3
---
$13
===
</TABLE>
The estimated minimum payments shown in the preceding table do not include
possible future adjustments based on inflation. The Company may terminate
the Agreement at any time upon 90 days' notice and payment of an early
termination fee. The early termination fee, which decreases over the
initial term of the Agreement, was $2 million at December 31, 1997.
(15) Contingent Liabilities
----------------------
The Company is a party to various lawsuits and arbitration matters which
have arisen during the ordinary course of business. Management believes
the outcome of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the
Company's liquidity or financial position.
-26-
<PAGE>
Exhibit 2
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF ACE
On January 2, 1998, ACE Limited (the "Company" or "ACE") completed the
acquisition of Westchester Specialty Group, Inc. ("WSG"), through a
newly-created U.S. holding company, ACE US Holdings, Inc. WSG, through its
insurance subsidiaries, provides specialty commercial property and umbrella
liability coverages in the U.S. Under the terms of a Stock Purchase Agreement,
dated September 18, 1997, between ACE and Talegen Holdings, Inc. ("Talegen")
(the "Stock Purchase Agreement"), the Company purchased all of the outstanding
capital stock of WSG for aggregate cash consideration of $338 million. The
Company financed the transaction with $250 million of bank debt and the
remainder with available cash.
The following unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated statements of
operations for the twelve months ended September 30, 1997 and for the three
months ended December 31, 1997 present operating results of ACE as if the
Amalgamation had occurred on October 1, 1996. The unaudited pro forma condensed
consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 1997 gives effect to the
Amalgamation as if it had occurred on December 31, 1997.
The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial statements should
be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of ACE,
included in the Company's 1997 Annual Report on Form 10K, the unaudited
consolidated financial statements of ACE included in the Company's December 31,
1997 Form 10Q and the audited consolidated financial statements of WSG for the
year ended December 31, 1997 filed with this report. The unaudited pro forma
condensed consolidated financial information is not intended to be indicative of
the consolidated results of operations or financial position of ACE that would
have been reported if the acquisition had occurred at the dates indicated or of
the consolidated results of future operations or of future financial position.
The Amalgamation has been accounted for as a purchase in accordance with
GAAP. Under purchase accounting, the total purchase price is allocated to the
acquired assets and liabilities based on their fair values.
<PAGE>
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
At December 31, 1997
=============================================================================
(In thousands of U.S. dollars)
Pro forma
Pro forma combined for
ACE WSG Adjustments Notes WSG Acquisition
=============================================================================
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Total investments and cash $4,444,978 $1,155,196 ($343,000) (1)
(250,000) (2)
(205,800) (3) 5,301,374
Insurance and Reinisurance balances receivable
(including reinsurance recoveries) 133,779 647,299 - 781,078
Other assets 224,783 184,214 136,800 (3)
18,914 (4) 564,711
Goodwill 195,397 - - (5) 195,397
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total assets $4,998,937 $1,986,709 ($143,086) $6,842,560
==========================================================================
Unpaid losses and loss expenses $1,858,055 $1,451,337 - $3,309,392
Unearned premiums 369,206 88,101 - 457,307
Bank debt - - 250,000 (2) 250,000
Other liabilities 153,124 45,837 8,348 (4) 207,309
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total liabilities 2,380,385 1,585,275 258,348 4,224,008
==========================================================================
Total shareholders' equity 2,618,552 401,434 (69,000) (3)
10,566 (4)
(343,000) (6) 2,618,552
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $4,998,937 $1,986,709 ($143,086) $6,842,560
==========================================================================
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
(1) Under the terms of the Stock Purchase Agreement, ACE paid a total purchase
price of $338 million. ACE also incurred direct transaction expenses of $5
million.
(2) As part of the financing of the acquisition, ACE borrowed $250 million
under a $250 million seven year Amortizing Term Loan facility. The interest
rate on this term loan is LIBOR plus an applicable spread.
(3) Prior to the closing of the transaction, WSG paid a dividend of $69 million
and made a loan to Talegen in the amount of $150 million. Also prior to the
closing, Talegen paid $13.2 million to WSG in settlement of certain
deferred tax receivables under a tax sharing arrangement between WSG,
Talegen and other Xerox group companies.
(4) To adjust assets acquired and liabilities assumed to fair value and record
related deferred tax effects.
(5) Under purchase accounting, the total purchase price is allocated to the
acquired assets and liabilities assumed based on their fair values. Any
differences between the cost of the transaction and the fair value of WSG
net assets acquired would be recorded as goodwill. Based on the purchase
price paid, no goodwill resulted from this transaction.
(6) To eliminate WSG's shareholder's equity.
<PAGE>
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended December 31, 1997
====================================================================
(In thousands of US dollars) Pro forma
Pro forma combined for
ACE WSG Adjustments Notes WSG Acquisition
====================================================================
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net Premiums Written $126,977 $17,881 $144,858
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Premiums Earned 167,821 23,481 191,302
Net Investment income 58,413 16,697 (3,812) (1) 71,298
Loss and loss expenses (109,161) (17,059) (126,220)
Acquisition costs and administrative expenses (31,749) (10,757) (42,506)
Interest expense - - (3,938) (2) (3,938)
Income Tax - (4,328) 2,240 (3) (2,088)
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Income excluding net realized gains 85,324 8,034 (5,510) 87,848
Net realized gains on investments 27,492 - 27,492
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Income $112,816 $8,034 $(5,510) $115,340
====================================================================
Basic Earnings per share, excluding realized gains $1.56 $1.60
========== ==========
Basic earnings per share $2.06 $2.10
========== ==========
Weighted average shares outstanding - Basic 54,883,826 54,883,826
========== ==========
Diluted earning per share
excluding realized gains $1.52 $1.56
========== ==========
Diluted earnings per share $2.01 $2.05
========== ==========
Weighted average shares 56,226,820 56,226,820
outstanding - Diluted ========== ==========
</TABLE>
(1) To eliminate the estimated investment income on the cash portion of the
purchase cost funded by ACE (based on a yield of 5.8% which approximates
the yield on the ACE portfolio for the fiscal year ended September 30,
1997) and the cash dividend and loan to Talegen prior to the closing of
the transaction (based on a yield of 4.5% which approximates the yield on
the WSG portfolio for the year ended September 30, 1997).
(2) Interest on the $250 million term loan has been calculated at a rate of
6.3%.
(3) The estimated income tax saving is based on the estimated reduction in net
income before tax as a result of the decrease in WSG's investment income
and the interest expense on the bank debt.
<PAGE>
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended September 30, 1997
====================================================================
(In thousands of US dollars) Pro forma
Pro forma combined for
ACE WSG (1) Adjustments Notes WSG Acquisition
====================================================================
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net Premiums Written $639,744 $88,567 $728,311
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Premiums Earned 644,838 104,291 749,129
Net investment income 237,823 63,250 (15,249) (2) 285,824
Losses and loss expenses (435,941) (282,315) (718,256)
Acquisition costs and administrative expenses (113,348) (33,679) (147,027)
Interest expense - - (15,750) (3) (15,750)
Income tax - 51,900 8,962 (4) 60,862
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Income excluding net realized gains 333,372 (96,553) (22,037) 214,782
Net realized gains on investments 127,982 448 128,430
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Income $461,354 ($96,105) ($22,037) $343,212
====================================================================
Basic earnings per share, excluding realized gains $5.89 $3.79
========== ==========
Basic earnings per share $8.15 $6.06
========== ==========
Weighted average shares outstanding - Basic 56,606,877 56,606,877
========== ==========
Diluted earnings per share, excluding realized gains $5.80 $3.74
========== ==========
Diluted earnings per share $8.02 $5.97
========== ==========
Weighted average shares outstanding - Diluted 57,493,671 57,493,671
========== ==========
</TABLE>
(1) The WSG consolidated statement of operations has been compiled to reflect
its results of operations for the twelve months ended September 30, 1997.
(2) To eliminate the estimated investment income on the cash portion of the
purchase cost funded by ACE (based on a yield of 5.8% which approximates
the yield on the ACE portfolio for the fiscal year ended September 30,
1997) and the cash dividend and loan to Talegen prior to the closing of
the transaction (based on a yield of 4.5% which approximates the yield on
the WSG portfolio for the year ended September 30, 1997).
(3) Interest on the $250 million term loan has been calculated at a rate of
6.3%.
(4) The estimated income tax saving is based on the estimated reduction in net
income before tax as a result of the decrease in WSG's investment income
and the interest expense on the bank debt.
